Summer in the city: St. John's

Visit the most easterly port and oldest city in North America this summer. Its small-town sensibilities make St. John's a lively, friendly place to visit. From incomparable nightlife on George Street and funky downtown boutiques to fishing villages and wildlife tours, there's something for everyone in Newfoundland's capital. If exploring this bustling city on the Rock sounds like a great way to spend your summer vacation, read on for some of the highlights you'll find in St. John's.George Street Festival
July 28 - Aug. 2

Famed George Street, the historic cobblestone street in downtown St. John's, is the focal point of the city's nightlife. The pubs, clubs and taverns line the street, and music -- everything from top 40 hits to traditional Newfoundland songs -- spills out, turning the entire street into party central. There's no better time to experience George Street than during its annual summer festival. Five nights of live outdoor entertainment add sparkle and excitement to your evenings.

For more information:
Call Tourism St. John's: 709-576-8106

Signal Hill Tattoo
July 3 - Aug. 15
Visiting the national historic site of Signal Hill is on every visitor's to-do list. The best time to explore the site is during one of the performances of the Tattoo, when military drills, cannons, muskets, and the Fife and Drum Band recreate military life in the mid 1800s. Learn about the lives of British Infantry soldiers in Newfoundland, with the added authenticity of being right where they lived and fought. The hill can be windy, even on a sunny day, so hold on to your hat.

For more information:
Call: 709-772-5367
Surf: www.cdli.ca/Tattoo/

O'Boyle's Historic City Tour
April - November
Everyday
A different kind of city tour, Mickey Joe O'Boyle, will lead you from the Fairmont Hotel down narrow streets and lanes through St. John's, explaining the city's history and heritage along the way. You'll get to see more of St. John's than if you had toured on your own, and you definitely wouldn't learn the inside scoop on the city. Just $10 gives you a 75-minute tour. Groups of 10 or more can also book a Rum, Romance and Rebellion Tour. All tours are by reservation only.

For more information:
Call: 709-364-6845
Surf: www.boyletours.com

Nickel Independent Film Festival
July 18 - 20

The fifth year for St. John's independent film and video festival promises lots of anniversary surprises. The festival, for filmmakers by filmmakers, isn't really glitz and red carpet, but it's a great opportunity to support Newfoundland films, and to see something new, maybe even something great. Film buffs will appreciate seminars with directors, writers, actors and producers of the films, and the gala and awards ceremony on the last night is bound to be lively in the way Newfoundland celebrations always are.

For more information:
Call: 709-576-FEST (3378)
Surf: www.nickelfestival.com3rd Annual Aliant Downtown Busker Festival
August 4 - 6
You won't run out of things to see or performances to watch during the 3rd annual St. John's busker festival. Street entertainers from around the globe as well as local acts will work hard to keep you amused – they count on a donation or two from the crowd. Paying is your choice though; the entire three-day event is free of charge.

For more information:
Call: 709-726-8244
Surf: www.downtownstjohns.com

James J. O'Mara Pharmacy Museum
July - August
Long before pharmacies had cosmetic counters and grocery aisles, the local drug store was simply a place to get medicine. This Pharmacy Museum is a replica of a working apothecary, circa 1895, complete with pharmaceutical implements such as mortars and pestles, scales and cork presses. Learn about the profession of pharmacy while enjoying a trip back in time.

For more information:
Call: 709-753-5877
Surf: www.nlpb.ca/museum.html