The Shag Harbour UFO Interpretive Centre, nestled in the picturesque fishing village of Shag Harbour along Nova Scotia's South Shore, stands as a testament to one of Canada's most enduring mysteries: the 1967 Shag Harbour UFO Incident. This incident, which saw an unidentified object crash into the waters of Shag Harbour, has captivated the public's imagination for decades.
**A Glimpse into the Past**
On the night of October 4, 1967, residents of Shag Harbour witnessed a series of four orange lights moving silently over the harbour. These lights were attached to a large, low-flying object that hovered briefly before descending into the water. Concerned that an aircraft had crashed, local residents contacted the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Officers quickly arrived on the scene and, together with local fishermen, launched a search of the area. Although no debris was found, searchers reported a strange yellow foam on the water’s surface—a detail documented in official reports.
**The Interpretive Centre's Role**
Established in 2009, the Shag Harbour UFO Interpretive Centre serves as a hub for enthusiasts and researchers alike. The centre offers a comprehensive look into the incident through exhibits that showcase newspaper clippings, documentary footage, and related memorabilia. Visitors can also explore space-themed exhibits that delve into the broader context of unidentified aerial phenomena. The centre attracts between 1,500 and 2,500 visitors annually, with some of the original witnesses volunteering on-site and sharing their firsthand accounts directly with visitors.
**Community Engagement and Events**
Beyond its exhibits, the centre plays a pivotal role in community engagement. It hosts the annual Shag Harbour UFO XPO, a gathering that brings together researchers, authors, experiencers, and enthusiasts to explore the latest findings, stories, and theories surrounding the UAP phenomenon. The event fosters a sense of belonging and encourages open-minded discussion among attendees.
**Visitor Experience**
Visitors to the centre are greeted by a welcoming environment that blends local history, mystery, and maritime culture. The exhibits provide a detailed account of the Shag Harbour UFO incident through artifacts and documents. After touring the centre, guests can browse the on-site gift shop for unique souvenirs, books, and memorabilia. A short drive from the centre, the UFO Gazebo and picnic site offer a serene spot to reflect on the incident's location.
**Planning Your Visit**
The Shag Harbour UFO Interpretive Centre is open seasonally from June 15th to early October, coinciding with the weekend of the UFO XPO. Operating hours are Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sunday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Admission is affordable, with adults at $10.00, children aged 5-12 at $5.00, and children under 5 admitted free. Tickets can be purchased at the museum entrance.
For those interested in delving deeper into the mystery, the Shag Harbour UFO XPO 2026 is scheduled for October 2-3, 2026, in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. This event will feature noted UFO researchers presenting their latest findings, along with a motor coach tour to known UFO sites of interest.
The Shag Harbour UFO Interpretive Centre continues to be a beacon for those intrigued by the unknown, offering a unique blend of history, mystery, and community spirit.