Submitted by Barbara Gebuhr
The Albert County Tourism Association – Fundy Tourism (ACTA-FT) held its Annual General Meeting on April 20, 2026, where a new executive was elected. Kate Broyles of The Maplegrove Inn 1854 will serve as President, Anna-Marie Weir of Roads to Sea as Vice-President, and Michelle Harvey-Larsen continues in her role as Treasurer.
The Executive and Board of Directors continue a long-standing tradition of dedicating significant volunteer time and effort to support tourism in Fundy Albert, with a focus on advocacy, education, and regional promotion.
The Albert County Tourism Association – Fundy Tourism (ACTA-FT) held its Annual General Meeting on April 20, 2026, where a new executive was elected. Kate Broyles of The Maplegrove Inn 1854 will serve as President, Anna-Marie Weir of Roads to Sea as Vice-President, and Michelle Harvey-Larsen continues in her role as Treasurer.
The Executive and Board of Directors continue a long-standing tradition of dedicating significant volunteer time and effort to support tourism in Fundy Albert, with a focus on advocacy, education, and regional promotion.
Image of new Fundy Tourism Executive, Michelle Harvey-Larsen (L), Kate Broyles (M), and Anna-Marie Weir (R) Looking ahead, summer 2026 is shaping up to be another strong season for tourism. With fluctuating fuel prices, many travellers are expected to stay closer to home, choosing to explore their own “backyard” and discover the very places that draw visitors from afar. At the same time, interest from international travellers—particularly from Europe and the United States—remains strong. Summer 2025 saw an increase of 20–40% in visitation for many local operators, a trend that is expected to continue.
Visitors frequently remark on the friendliness of local residents. Whether it’s offering directions, sharing recommendations, or simply stopping for a chat, these genuine interactions leave a lasting impression. Alongside our stunning scenery, it is this welcoming spirit that visitors remember most. Each of us plays a role in making Fundy Albert truly “Friendly by Nature.”
Be sure to look for the 2026 Locator Map, available in late May, and enjoy the arrival of spring—along with hummingbirds and early-season visitors.
A New Partnership: The Barn Quilt Trail Project
The concept of a Barn Quilt Trail in Albert County began through a collaboration between the CCRC and Wendy Keats, who proposed an innovative marketing strategy aimed to attract visitors, particularly during the shoulder seasons. The idea centred on creating a trail of painted quilt designs displayed on barns and buildings along main roads of Fundy Albert, creating a unique cultural and visual experience.
Initial funding was provided to the Albert County Historical Society (Albert County Museum) to support development of the project. While early efforts laid important groundwork, the initiative was not completed at that time.
Momentum has since been renewed through a partnership between the Museum’s Quilt Committee, its Board of Directors, and ACTA-FT. This renewed effort coincides with a major milestone—the 50th anniversary of the Museum’s Quilt Show and Sale, taking place this summer.
Building on previous research, the group hosted a hands-on workshop on November 1 at the museum. Led by Lorette Cole of “Spruce It Up” Quilt Shop in Port Elgin, the session welcomed 21 participants, many of whom expressed interest in contributing their completed barn quilts to the trail. In addition, several local residents and businesses already display barn quilts, providing a strong foundation for the project’s growth.
The initiative also draws inspiration from a successful barn quilt trail in Kings County, which is connected to the broader Canadian Trail network. The Town of Hampton is currently revitalizing its trail as a tourism attraction. ACTA-FT is working with project lead Hannah Kindred to explore opportunities to link the Albert County trail with the Kings County route and, ultimately, the national network.
In 2026, the Albert County Barn Quilt Trail will be featured on the regional Locator Map. The trail is expected to appeal to a niche tourism market, similar to those who travel to visit covered bridges, while also attracting those with an interest in traditional quilting and folk art.
Be sure to check the 2026 Locator Map for a list of barn quilt locations and plan your visit.
Visitors frequently remark on the friendliness of local residents. Whether it’s offering directions, sharing recommendations, or simply stopping for a chat, these genuine interactions leave a lasting impression. Alongside our stunning scenery, it is this welcoming spirit that visitors remember most. Each of us plays a role in making Fundy Albert truly “Friendly by Nature.”
Be sure to look for the 2026 Locator Map, available in late May, and enjoy the arrival of spring—along with hummingbirds and early-season visitors.
A New Partnership: The Barn Quilt Trail Project
The concept of a Barn Quilt Trail in Albert County began through a collaboration between the CCRC and Wendy Keats, who proposed an innovative marketing strategy aimed to attract visitors, particularly during the shoulder seasons. The idea centred on creating a trail of painted quilt designs displayed on barns and buildings along main roads of Fundy Albert, creating a unique cultural and visual experience.
Initial funding was provided to the Albert County Historical Society (Albert County Museum) to support development of the project. While early efforts laid important groundwork, the initiative was not completed at that time.
Momentum has since been renewed through a partnership between the Museum’s Quilt Committee, its Board of Directors, and ACTA-FT. This renewed effort coincides with a major milestone—the 50th anniversary of the Museum’s Quilt Show and Sale, taking place this summer.
Building on previous research, the group hosted a hands-on workshop on November 1 at the museum. Led by Lorette Cole of “Spruce It Up” Quilt Shop in Port Elgin, the session welcomed 21 participants, many of whom expressed interest in contributing their completed barn quilts to the trail. In addition, several local residents and businesses already display barn quilts, providing a strong foundation for the project’s growth.
The initiative also draws inspiration from a successful barn quilt trail in Kings County, which is connected to the broader Canadian Trail network. The Town of Hampton is currently revitalizing its trail as a tourism attraction. ACTA-FT is working with project lead Hannah Kindred to explore opportunities to link the Albert County trail with the Kings County route and, ultimately, the national network.
In 2026, the Albert County Barn Quilt Trail will be featured on the regional Locator Map. The trail is expected to appeal to a niche tourism market, similar to those who travel to visit covered bridges, while also attracting those with an interest in traditional quilting and folk art.
Be sure to check the 2026 Locator Map for a list of barn quilt locations and plan your visit.
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