Francophone Discoveries Communities

Nova Scotia

Features

According to the 2021 census, the Acadian and Francophone communities total 98,940 people who can speak French. Twelve Acadian and Francophone communities are located in the province’s southwestern, central and northeastern regions. With Acadian roots dating back to the 17th century, Nova Scotia is known for its art, vibrant and modern culture, and fishing industry.

Organization representing the Francophone population

Founded in 1968, the Fédération acadienne de la Nouvelle-Écosse is a non-profit organization with a mission to promote the growth and overall development of the Acadian and Francophone communities of Nova Scotia. It is the official voice of the Acadian and Francophone populations of Nova Scotia, coordinates co‑operation and partnerships among its member organizations, and offers programs and services that meet their needs.

Logo Fédération culturelle acadienne de la Nouvelle-Écosse

Immigration

Led by the Fédération acadienne de la Nouvelle-Écosse, the project for Francophone immigration in Nova Scotia began in 2003. It stems from the Strategic Plan to Foster Immigration to Francophone Minority Communities produced by the Citizenship and Immigration Canada Steering Committee. Immigration francophone Nouvelle-Écosse aims to increase and retain the number of French-speaking newcomers who settle in Nova Scotia, as well as to promote their integration into the province.

The Conseil de développement économique de la Nouvelle-Écosse (CDÉNÉ), for its part, offers economic immigration services to support the labour market integration of French-speaking immigrants.

Tourism

Come discover Nova Scotia with or without a car, as cycling, hiking, sailing or canoeing are equally effective for exploring the province’s many treasures. Head out to Grand-Pré National Historic Site, visit the diverse attractions in Halifax and Sydney, or check out rug hooking in Chéticamp. Love music and seafood? The Acadian festivals in Chezzetcook, Petit-de-Grat, Clare and Pomquet, the Festival Savalette in Torbé and the Wedgeport Tuna Tournament are the events for you. Experience Acadia by joining us on August 15th to celebrate National Acadian Day in Truro or on the South Shore. The warm hospitality of our communities will make you feel right at home.

For further details, consult Salut Canada.

Education

The Conseil scolaire acadien provincial (CSAP), consisting of 22 French-language schools, is Nova Scotia’s only Francophone school board.

Université Saint-Anne offers college and university programs as well as training for immigrants across its various campuses.