From winter festivals to new and noteworthy exhibits, enter the new year with our list of 10 things to do in Halifax this January.
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1. Cheer on Team Canada at the IIHF World Junior Championship #ExploreNB Fan Fest
GREAT FOR FAMILIES
Celebrate the 2023 IIHF World Junior Championship at the #ExploreNB Fan Fest taking over the Halifax Convention Centre and Rogers Square, just steps away from the on-ice action at the Scotiabank Centre. Enjoy live entertainment, viewing parties on big screens, hot stoves, bouncy castles, face painters, mascots, merchandise, and more at this free family-friendly event.
#ExploreNB Fan Fest | December 26-31, January 2, 4, 5
2. Go skating at the Emera Oval
GREAT FOR FAMILIES
Whether you choose to bring your family, friends, or a date, skating at the Emera Oval is the perfect winter activity for everyone to enjoy. If you don't own skates, don't worry – free rentals are onsite with inclusive sizing options – bring a piece of government-issued photo ID and you'll be on the ice in no time.
3. Check out a new exhibit
GREAT FOR FAMILIES
There's nothing quite like a trip to a museum or art gallery on a blustery winter day. If you're interested in art, take a trip to the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia to see the newest Maud Lewis exhibition, featuring 130 works of art by the beloved and renowned folk artist, including some that have never been on view before.
If you're into the sciences, be sure to check out Body Worlds Vital, an exhibition coming to the Museum of Natural History on January 27 that offers an incredible opportunity to understand our anatomy, our health, and to gain a new appreciation for what it means to be human.
Maud Lewis | November 22 - April 23
Body Worlds Vital | January 27 - April 30
4. Celebrate the winter season at the Downtown Dartmouth Ice Festival
GREAT FOR FAMILIES
Downtown Dartmouth becomes a magical winter wonderland from January 27-29 as the streets fill with whimsical ice sculptures. Grab your friends or pack up the kids and head out to the Ice Festival Street Party on January 28 to enjoy tons of live music, family-friendly games, and other fun activities. Local businesses of all kinds will be offering in-store specials so it's the perfect time to explore all that Downtown Dartmouth has to offer.
5. Get your live music fix at the Light House Arts Centre
2023 is bringing some incredible artists to Halifax. Catch multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriter Andy Shauf with Nico Paulo on January 21 and be blown away by his delicately wistful indie-folk tunes – any live set by Shauf is always one to remember.
Sloan, the biggest band to break out of Halifax’s 1990s rock scene also returns to the city for a very anticipated hometown gig on January 28. Get ready for a night of sweet melodies and knockout hooks, heavy on the guitar and bursting with energy. You won't want to miss this show.
Andy Shauf with special guest Nico Paulo | Saturday, January 21
Sloan - Steady Tour | Saturday, January 28
6. Dine along the Nova Scotia Chowder Trail
When the chilly weather hits, nothing says cozy like a bowl of seafood chowder. From casual to upscale, discover the most unique and delicious chowders across the province with the Nova Scotia Chowder Trail – you can even collect stamps from the Chowder Trail restaurants to put in your passport and win prizes.
7. Catch a Symphony Nova Scotia performance
GREAT FOR FAMILIES
Did you know that music can help us understand how we feel? Join Symphony Nova Scotia and discover all the ways that music can express mad, sad, glad, and more. This series is a real treat for the senses, and it's the perfect experience for the whole family to enjoy.
Symphony Nova Scotia is now also offering Under-30 U-Pick Ticket Packages to those who are 30 years or younger to choose any four concerts from their entire lineup for only $99 (HST included). Save more than 60% over the regular ticket price and see incredible performances of all kinds.
Family Series: MadSadGlad | Sunday, January 15
8. Check out the Delightful Downtown Winter Light Show
GREAT FOR FAMILIES
Bundle up and take a stroll to see the stunning winter light projection show on the former Halifax Memorial Library Building at Grafton Park. Be mesmerized by the vibrant colours and animations of this massive family-friendly projection. The winter show runs every night from sunset to 11pm, so there's plenty of time to check it out.
Delightful Downtown Winter Show | December 27 - January 31
9. Chill out at the Bicycle Thief's brand-new winter lounge
Cue the après-ski vibes. The Bicycle Thief has a brand-new Taittinger Winter Lounge. Sink into a cozy couch by the fire and enjoy a menu of wintery cocktails on Friday and Saturday evenings. Whether you're looking for a chilled glass of champagne or a toasty spiked hot chocolate, you can find it all at Halifax's coolest new bar.
10. Set out on a snowshoeing adventure
While you may be familiar with Nova Scotia's scenic trails during the warmer months, you may be surprised when you see the landscape blanketed in snow. Rent a pair of snowshoes at the Emera Oval for free and stroll the trails without the struggle of sinking into the snow.
Local tip: set out on a walk along the St. Margaret's Bay Rails to Trails before settling into a cozy meal at the Train Station Bike & Bean.
Note: While we have made every effort to ensure that the information listed here is accurate and up-to-date, dates and times of events are subject to change. Make sure to check the relevant event websites or social media channels before attending.
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