This year the City of Fredericton celebrates its 175th year of incorporation; however, the history of Fredericton starts well before it went by that name. This territory belongs to the Wolastoqiyik people, whose territory expands from the Bay of Fundy in the south to the St. Lawrence River in the north. It is home to vast layers of history and peoples including the Wolastoqiyik, the Acadians and the British.
In 1785, Fredericton was named New Brunswick's capital by the British and was founded as a city on March 30, 1848. Since then, it has grown to weave a rich tapestry of cultures, makers and thinkers.
From August 9 to 20, the city has a variety of events planned to celebrate the 175+ Anniversary, which represents our heritage, history and culture. Continue reading to catch a sneak peek of some of the planned events.
Indigenous Cultural Evening
Join us at the Beaverbrook Art Gallery for an evening celebrating the Wolastoqiyik People of the Beautiful & Bountiful River; Celebrating 175+ years of community and focusing on the Wolastoqey history, language and culture. The evening will include hands-on indigenous art workshops for kids and families, Indigenous storytelling, language workshop, guided tours of the gallery and more. The event will conclude with a screening of a Wabanaki Documentary: Wabanaki Modern.
Indigenous Cultural Evening
East Coast Emo Silent Night
On Friday, August 11, from 8pm to 12am, join headlining DJ Sarah (East Coast Emo Night) and two talented Fredericton DJs for a night of electrifying beats. Get ready for an incredible Blink-182 cover band opening the show, setting the perfect tone for a captivating silent disco experience. Don't miss this unforgettable evening of emo-inspired music and high-energy vibes.
East Coast Emo Silent Night
Downtown Blues Band Music Event
Witness the streets of Fredericton come alive as the Downtown Blues Band and friends take to the stage in Carleton Street on Saturday, August 12. This free event can be attended by anyone looking to groove to the soulful rhythms and embrace the welcoming energy of the city! Taking place from 3 to 7pm, prepare for a day full of fun, topped off with a corn boil and local craft beer garden.
Downtown Blues Band Music Event
Alex Bailey Swing Band
Want to groove and dance with your community? Join the Alex Bailey Swing Band and a group of exceptionally talented local musicians for an event called Swinging Through Time! It doesn't matter if you're new to swing dancing or have some prior experience, join in the fun on Saturday, August 19 from 7 to 9pm on Carleton Street.
Alex Bailey Swing Band
Fredericton Folk concert with Mike and Josh Bravener
Join Mike Bravener and his son Josh, award-winning musicians, as they share songs and stories from their childhoods and much-loved New Brunswick Folk Songs. Mark your calendars for Friday, August 18, from 5 to 7 pm in Phoenix Square. Don’t miss this evening of folk music and heartwarming stories. Best of all, admission is free!
Fredericton Folk Concert
Tannery 175+ Concerts
Between Friday, August 18 and Saturday, August 19, enjoy two days of free, live music in Downtown Fredericton at the Tannery! From family-friendly shows in the afternoon to licensed 19+ evening shows at The Cap, there’s something for every music-lover.
Tannery 175+ ConcertsThis year, many annual events perfectly coincide with the anniversary celebrations, so don’t miss out! Craving live music? Spend your lunch hour listening to beautiful music in the Summer Music Series in Christ Church Cathedral every Friday at 12:10pm, experience the annual New Brunswick Summer Music Festival, a two-week celebration of Canada's finest classical musicians, join the Business Fredericton North Summer Concert Series for an opportunity to explore different music genres and keep the rhythm up, or witness the RCMP Musical Ride.
If you want to immerse yourself in the culture of the region, celebrate Acadian heritage and joie de vivre at the annual Acadian Day or delight your palate at the Indigenous culinary festival that is A Taste of the Atlantic!
Bring your friends and family to the Freddy Beach Fan Fest from Saturday, August 19 to Sunday, August 20 for a chance to enjoy art, pop culture, video games and having fun!
Our local attractions have incorporated the theme of Fredericton’s 175+ anniversary! Whether it's exploring vibrant markets, indulging in captivating summer theatre performances, or embarking on themed walks such as Adult Literacy Fredericton Story Walk, Guided Heritage Walking Tours or Wednesday Walk, you can engage in your beloved summer traditions while joyfully commemorating the rich history of the city.
The 175+ anniversary of the city is a once-in-a-lifetime occasion, so make sure you bring your friends and family and enjoy the festivities! From cultural events, to live music and tasty gastronomy, the city shines brighter than ever during the celebrations. For a full list of the 175+ activities, click here.
For more information on what to see and do in the Fredericton Capital Region visit our website for more inspiration!