Father Christmas Festival - Enchanted Villages

We recently attended the Father Christmas Festival in Mahone Bay. This is a yearly event that covered two weeks, November 25 to December 4. First, we walked to Suttles & Seawinds where there were festive decorations inside and out, vendors of delectable gourmet products, and the Enchanted Villages.

Upon entering this enchanted world, we were greeted by a gnome who knew my kids names and was quite the conversationalist!

Search among the moss for shy woodland creatures.

For our viewing pleasure, a vast array of quaint villages. The detail and craftsmanship is wonderful.

Many Father Christmas figures were present. This one is lovingly watching over five sleeping little ones.

This one is my favourite - St. Nicholasburg - white lights, drapey fabrics, glitz - absolutely stunning!

If you haven't been to this event, it should definitely be on your "to do" list. Go here for more information. There really is a lot happening. I hope to see you there next year!

Nasty Storm

Today, a really nasty rainstorm blew through here. It started through the night and continued into today...all day. Lots of rain and high winds, coupled with an unusually high tide at 6am this morning, all that water had nowhere to go but inland. Here are some photos of the force of Mother Nature.

These are of the Save Easy parking lot in Mahone Bay. Almost half is under water from the harbour.

There a lot of flooded properties.

The park next to the harbour is totally under water.

These were taken at the marina/gov't wharf. Most of the parking lot and the floating dock are flooded.

These are showing the water is level with the main wharf. The water is coming over the sides.

There are photos here of how Mahone Bay looks on a sunny day - quite a difference!

This parking lot is at the other end of town.

The water normally wouldn't be past the bushes.

The road flooding. Do you see the No Parking sign? lol!

 This road that is parallel to the Martins River was badly flooded.

These final photos are from the Western Shore area. Lots of waves crashing onto the rocks.

A wharf almost underwater.

The immense power of the ocean spewing rocks and debris onto the highway.

The Scarecrows are Coming!

The quiet little town of Mahone Bay was invaded this weekend by  a multitude of scarecrows. Rock stars, fishermen, bank robbers, politicians, and witches - all were in attendance.

This motley crew were by the roadside to greet visitors to the town. Aren't the oxen great?

While across the street the Phantom of the Opera played on.

Gracious ladies having mid afternoon tea with a little gossip.

Pirates!

A friend helping a friend.

Oh no! Bank robbers!

And many other unique visitors:

There is also live music, a graveyard tour, antique fair, and activities for the kids. Some outdoor activities didn't happen this year due to heavy rain most all weekend but it's lots of fun for everyone. Here is more info about it .

More scarecrow photos next time. I have lots.

The Calm Before the Storm

Last month I took photos of a passing hurricane. Thankfully it didn't score a direct hit; that usually doesn't happen here. These were taken when the storm was just beginning to hit.

The Coastguard was present in Mahone Bay harbour, as watercraft moved in to be safe from the approaching storm.

These are as seen from the wharf marina.

It was a very gray day. Notice the famous three churches in the background.

A luxurious yacht also came in out of the storm.

 The waves are getting bigger and bigger at Westhavers beach.

Our weather this summer was disappointing; a lot of rain and downright cold days. The autumn days, though have been great, so far, with lots of sun and warm temperatures.

Next time, we're going to the scarecrow festival.