Live music and dancing are a large piece of Newfoundland culture that you do not want to miss out on when visiting the beautiful East Coast Canada island. Visitors can find live performance venues everywhere, from popular pubs on George Street St. John’s to performances in old homes in rural communities. While travelling in Vana the adventure van this Summer I was lucky to spend some time at Saltbox Restaurant and Bar in the small community of Benoit’s Cove, an approximate 20 min. drive from Corner Brook. Also on site is the Everoutdoor Adventures offering activities such as sea kayaking and boat tours in the Bay of Islands. 

Not only was the food and drink delicious, the staff and owners were very welcoming and friendly. Furthermore, this past Summer Saltbox collaborated with local musician Dave Mchugh to host “Saltwater Sessions” - a live music performance on the Wednesday evenings. The covered outdoor patio overlooking the ocean and the Bay of Islands was the perfect place to relax with some great tunes and a cold drink on a hot calm Summer evening. Musician Dave Mchugh captivated the audience with his fun upbeat energy and comical storytelling about living with mom. It was a treat to hear unique renditions of traditional NL folk songs in addition to original music. By the end of the night the dance floor (patio) was blocked and after multiple encore performances the party finally got shut down haha! It was a night for the books in Benoits Cove NL Canada!! I highly recommend a visit to Saltbox and Everoutdoor Adventures when visiting the Bay of Islands.