The Atlantic Shore to Saugeen Shores- fiddling my way home

Maria Watson
Mar 21, 2017
2 min read

Halifax is my second home. There is so much history and traditional music in the city, which I will blog about in the near future. On this visit, we drove home through the states, going to sessions Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, ending up in Toronto to attend the annual Chris Langdan weekend. Five days in a row of fiddling!

Tuesday -Bangor

The lovely picturesque town of Bangor, Maine is an historical and cultural gem. We stayed at the newly renovated Charles Inn, across the road from Paddy Murphy's pub which has a session every Tuesday from 6-9pm.

The musicians were very welcoming, I will return in April, I had such a wonderful time.

They love Canadians at Paddy Murphy's!

The city of Bangor is beautiful--and home to the great horror writer Stephen King. His blood-red mansion and spooky iron gates attract legions of fans every year.

Wednesday -Saratoga Springs

Originally a resort community boasting luxury hotels and spas so guests could partake in the therapeutic springs of mineral waters. The town retains its charm and the community celebrates its history and architecture. The visitor centre has pamphlets so visitors can take self-guided walking tours in the town and see the gorgeous mansions and historical buildings. At the visitor center you can get a paper cup and across the street , in the park, sample (for free) some of the mineral waters the town is famous for.

Every Thursday at the Parting Glass pub, musicians gather for a session and dancing.

Thursday -Tonawanda

The Shannon pub hosts a session the first Thursday of every months. Tonawanda is a town close to the majestic Niagara Falls.

Friday and Saturday Chris Langan weekend Toronto.

Held annually at the Tranzac club in Toronto, the Chris Langan weekend is a wonderful gathering of traditional musicians. We attended a performance Friday night and after the concert participated in a session, one of two energetic sessions happening at the Tranzac club . The next day at noon, I returned to the Tranzac club and joined a session led by Cape Breton fiddler David Papazian. Later that afternoon we visited the popular Dora Keough pub for an afternoon session.