Holyrood, a charming town nestled on the Avalon Peninsula in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Located in Division 1, on the picturesque Conception Bay, Holyrood is just a 30-minute drive from the bustling capital city of St. John's. The town's history is steeped in the events of King William's War, during which the village was decimated in the Avalon Peninsula Campaign.
Holyrood is renowned for its unique location at the bottom of the bay and the large cross that adorns the top of the predominant mountain, "George Cove". The town is also famous for its squid fishery and the caplin "rolling" phenomenon that occurs in late spring and early summer. This "rolling" refers to the mating ritual of the caplin, during which they beach themselves and can be picked up by hand.
The town's popular "Squid Fest" is a major draw for both locals and tourists. This several-day event features a variety of squid-themed activities, culminating in an outdoor festival filled with traditional music and merry drinking. Each year, the festival attracts thousands of visitors, adding a vibrant pulse to the town's serene atmosphere.
As of 2021, Holyrood boasts a population of 2,471, marking a slight increase from its 2016 population of 2,463. The town is part of the St. John's metropolitan area, further enhancing its appeal as a place to live and visit.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Holyrood had 2,471 residents living in 993 of its 1,089 total private dwellings. This represents a 0.3% change from its 2016 population. With a land area of 126.02 km2 (48.66 sq mi), the town had a population density of 19.6/km2 (50.8/sq mi) in 2021.
Holyrood is home to Holy Cross Elementary, which serves students from kindergarten through grade 6. After completing grade 6, students attend Roncalli Central High in Avondale, ensuring a comprehensive education for the town's younger residents.
