- City Guide - Fredericton
Fredericton is the capital of New Brunswick, and is home to over 120,000 people. Fredericton is the third largest city in the province – the only provincial capital that is not largest or second largest city in its province.
The area of the present-day Fredericton was first used for farming by the Mi'kmaq and Maliseet peoples - corn being the primary crop grown in the area. The first European contact was by the French in the late 17th century, and when New Brunswick became a separate colony from Nova Scotia in 1784, Ste. Anne's Point became the provincial capital due to its central location - meaning it was less prone to American attack from the sea.
Fredericton is the centre of information technology, engineering, environmental and advanced training in technology industries – and is a centre for higher education, with two universities and a variety of training colleges and institutes.
Fredericton is rich in culture and beauty – home of Odell and Wilmot parks, Killarney Lake Park and downtown’s Officers Square. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy picnics, swimming, outdoor concerts, and live theatre – all for free!
Fredericton is a true cultural treasure – with a world-class art gallery (Beaverbrook), The Playhouse, and one of the best farmers markets in Canada. Fredericton is also home to many festivals, such as; Harvest Jazz and Blues Festival , Fredrock and Acadian Day. More of a creative type? Fredericton will help you indulge your creative urges through learning with renowned instructors through our innovative edVentures program.



