89th Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival

Our 89th annual festival welcomes Doctor Geraldine Browning and Doctor Lorraine Whitman as our honorary parade marshals.  Two extraordinary change makers, elders from communities which have built the foundation of the Annapolis Valley we know today. 

Doctor Geraldine Browning is from Gibson Woods, a historical Black community located outside of Kentville. Mrs. B, as she is affectionately known by those close to her, is a founding member of Valley African Nova Scotian Development Association.  Passionate about education, and opportunity, Dr. Browning received the Order of Nova Scotia and a Doctorate of Humanities from Acadia University in 2014.  Mrs. B spent time as an educator and spent many years working as a nurse focused on kindness and giving back.  Her 89th birthday is also the week after the parade this year so be sure to give her a big Happy Birthday when you see her!

Doctor Lorraine Whitman, Grandmother White Sea Turtle, is an elder with the community of Glooscap First Nation. Elder Lorraine has a lifetime of achievement in education and healthcare. She has spent time as an elected official with Glooscap First Nation, a board member with the Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq, a Mi’kmaq representative with the Annapolis Valley School Board. Working with the Native Women’s Association of Canada Dr. Whitman has worked toward policy and legislative reform to sustain Indigenous culture. In 2022 Grandmother White Sea Turtle received a Doctorate of Humanities from Acadia University.

To view our latest press release from March 20th, 2023, click here