Canso Islands National Historic Site

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Canso Islands National Historic Site

Parks Canada's official page for Canso Islands and Grassy Island Fort National Historic Sit

Cette page est aussi disponible en français à http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lieu-historique-national-des-%C3%8Eles-Canso/504337666254313

One of the early European fishing ports in North America, Canso grew to be a thriving community of fishermen and merchants from New England. Now you can discover the fascinating story of the people who lived here more than 200 years ago, before it became a casua

lty of the Anglo-French rivalry for North America. Free boat service to the island is available from the Visitor Centre on the mainland.

03/20/2026

A new season is just around the corner 🌱

As spring settles in, we’re preparing to welcome visitors once again. It’s the perfect time to start planning your next visit.⚓🛥

01/12/2026

📣 Students, youths, and young adults, stop scrolling and keep reading below! 👇

Are you searching for a fun and unique summer job?🤔

We’re hiring an Outreach Assistant!

As an Outreach Assistant, you will bring Parks Canada’s stories to life by delivering fun and educational programs, connecting with audiences at virtual and in-person events, and represent Parks Canada across Cape Breton Island and Canso.

Your dream summer job is just a click away. Apply before the deadline of February 15! ⏳📅

For more information on the position and how to apply, visit the link below. 🦫

https://emploisfp-psjobs.cfp-psc.gc.ca/psrs-srfp/applicant/page1800?poster=2389254

12/10/2025

📢 Big news for Parks Canada administered places in Nova Scotia! 📢

Today marks a historic step forward! The Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia and Parks Canada have signed the Toqi'maliaptmu'k Arrangement – meaning “we will look after it together.”

This significant milestone in co-management strengthens the relationship between the Mi’kmaq and Parks Canada, ensuring the stewardship of these lands honours Mi’kmaw ancestors, traditions, and responsibilities. Together, we are walking the path of reconciliation, respect, and shared decision-making.

🌿Honouring the past, protecting the future – together🌿

For more information, visit: http://parks.canada.ca/toqimaliaptmuk-arrangement

***********************

📢 Meski’k aknutmaqn ukjit Amalitasikl Kana’ta iknmuetasikl etekl ta’n No’pa Sko’sa! 📢
Kiskuk ewi’kek na sa’qewey elteskmk nikantuk! Ta’n Mi’kma’q ta’n No’pa Sko’sa aqq Amalitasikl Kana’ta na ketloqo ewi’kmi’tisnek ta’n Toqi-maliaptmu’k Kiskaja’tasik - teluek “ kinu toqi-anko’tesnu.”

Ta’n nuta’q tepteskasik na toqi-maliaptasik melkiknewa’toq ta’n tela’matultimk mekwaye’k Mi’kma’q aqq Amalitasikl Kana’ta, kejitmk ta’n lukwaqn ukjit ula maqmikewel kepmite’tmaji Mi’kmawe’k Kniskamijinaq, telo’ltimk, aqq maliaptmkl. Toqita’mk, kinu na elleketa’yk ta’n awti na apiksiktuaqn , kepmite’taqn, aqq naskwa’tmk telite’tmk-eltmk.

🌿Kepmite’tmk sa’qewey, kelpitmk ta’n elmi’knik- toqpultimk🌿

11/11/2025

On November 11, Canada observes Remembrance Day to pay tribute to the generations of members of the armed forces who served, and their families, so that the values they fought for continue to live on in all Canadians.

Today, we give thanks to those who have answered the call of duty and honour the memory of all those who have contributed to military efforts at home and overseas. We invite you to reflect on their stories of courage, resilience and strength by learning more about the brave people whose service has shaped Canada’s history.

Get started here: https://parks.canada.ca/culture/designation

📸Credit: LAC

09/30/2025

NDTR + Orange Shirt Day

Today, on and National Day for , we remember the lives affected by the ongoing legacy of residential schools and honour the children who never returned home, Survivors, their families and their communities.

By wearing orange today, we are all reminded that “Every Child Matters” and honour the children who were lost in the residential school system and the Survivors from whom we continue to learn. Join us in listening to the voices of First Nations, Inuit and Métis to better understand the intergenerational impacts of residential schools.

Begin your learning journey: https://parks.canada.ca/culture/designation/pensionnat-residential

09/05/2025

The season flew by! ⏳👋 Thank you to everyone who stopped by this summer!

Canso Islands National Historic Site is closed until July 2026. ☀️Our Facebook will remain active for direct messages and site inquiries.

08/29/2025

The Canada Strong Pass Initiative is ending soon — free entry is available until September 2.

Regular fees return on September 3, and you’ll also be able to purchase the to help you plan your next adventures!

https://parks.canada.ca/voyage-travel/conseils-tips/choisis-canada-choose/admission-camping

08/21/2025

⚠ Due to inclement weather, the boat service at Canso Islands National Historic Site will be cancelled from Friday, August 22 to Sunday, August 24, 2025. ⚠

The Canso Islands National Historic Site Visitor Centre will remain open during this time. We look forward to welcoming you!

Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. Please check back for updates.

08/14/2025

🚤 See Canso from the water 🌊

While Grassy Island remains closed due to provincial fire restrictions, you can still set sail on a free 50-minute boat tour with Captain Jared. Hear the 300-year history of the Grassy Island settlement, cruise past Squid Cove, and take in stunning views of Canso Harbour through the Tickle Channel.

This week, the Canso Regatta brings even more excitement. This Sunday, August 17, at 1:00 p.m. a spectacular boat parade of 45–50 vessels will be carrying memorial wreaths from the Seaman’s Memorial Service out to sea.

For more information about Canso Regatta events, visit: https://cansoregatta.ca

📍 Departures from the Interpretive Centre. Don’t miss your chance to experience Canso’s history and community spirit from the water!

The boat service operates from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, weather permitting and on a first-come, first-served basis. Please call in advance to ensure boats services are available the day of your visit: 902-366-3136.

08/08/2025

Hey! 👋 Looking for something to do? Canso Island National Historic Site is still open, as are all National Historic Sites in Cape Breton and Canso.

🏰 Take a trip to the largest historical reconstruction site in North America at Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site

📡 Experience the beginnings of modern wireless communication at Marconi National Historic Site

📞 Learn about the groundbreaking inventions of Alexander Graham Bell and his life with Mabel at Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site

🛥️ Watch boats pass through the historic canal locks and learn about the fascinating history at St. Peters Canal National Historic Site

🐟 Discover rich maritime traditions and culture at Canso Islands National Historic Site

Now’s the perfect time to plan your visit!

Pssst…. 👀

Don’t forget! All Parks Canada administered places offer free admission until September 2, 2025.

Address

1465 Union Street
Canso, NS
B0H1H0

Telephone

+19023663136

Website

http://www.parkscanada.gc.ca/cansoislands

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