A group of municipal and community partners – including the Municipality of the County of Antigonish, the Town of Antigonish, St. Francis Xavier University, the Antigonish Chamber of Commerce, Destination Eastern and Northumberland Shores (DEANS), and Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation – worked together with Group ATN (GATN) and Tulle Tourism Consulting to develop a tourism strategy and brand for the region.
Hired in Spring 2022, the consultants developed a strategy focused on:
- Establishing a governance structure with representation from local stakeholders
- Expanding tourism during shoulder seasons
- Supporting growth for local tourism operators
- Increasing visitor spending and economic impact
Community input played a key role in shaping the strategy. In February 2023, engagement included one-on-one interviews, public sessions, and a community survey.
The final strategy was presented in Spring 2023 and later endorsed by County Council in Fall 2023.
In Fall 2025, a Tourism Advisory Committee was established with representatives from the Town and County of Antigonish, the Antigonish Tourism Association, StFX, the Visitor Information Centre, and Paqtnkek. These members now sit on the Antigonish Tourism Association Board and help guide the implementation of the Tourism Strategy.
In Spring 2026, a Tourism Director was hired to lead the implementation of the Tourism Strategy. The Director’s role is to enhance the visitor experience, support local businesses, and showcase the region’s natural and cultural assets – strengthening and growing Antigonish as a premier travel destination within Nova Scotia and beyond.
You can follow Tourism Antigonish through the Visit Antigonish Website and Explore Antigonish Facebook page.
The final strategy and research analysis document can be found below:
