While the arrival of spring is celebrated all around the world, it seems that after a cold, windy winter, Maritimers really get into the spirit of welcoming warmer weather. So pull on your spring jacket (yes, it is still required, let's not get ahead of ourselves here), and check out these five great reasons to love spring in Halifax.
1. Patio season is so close you can almost taste the summer cocktails!
When the patios officially start to close up for the season in October, you can feel the collective sigh of the city, as Haligonians begin to mentally prepare for the arrival of winter.
That’s why when the activity starts in earnest around Downtown Halifax to resurrect the patios, there are suddenly more smiles along the streets. No matter what the calendar may say, spring is here when the patios are built!
» Take a walk along the waterfront or down Argyle Street for dozens of great patios. Start by checking out these 10 New Downtown Halifax Patios Everyone Should Experience This Summer.
1567 Grafton St, Halifax
2. The Halifax Public Gardens are blooming with life
The Halifax Public Gardens are a Halifax gem, nestled right in the middle of the city. During the first months of spring, the gardens come to life. All the flowers and plants wake up after the winter, and you begin to see blooming flowerbeds and bushes throughout.
» LOCAL TIP: Uncommon Grounds and Sugah! are both located inside the Public Gardens, so you can grab a coffee and an ice cream – perfect for an afternoon stroll.
3. It's a great time to surf
When people think of surfing, Halifax might not always be top of mind – but it should be! With our proximity to some AMAZING beaches, many locals often head for the surf.
If you’re new to the sport, the spring and summer offer small to medium waves, making it the ideal time to learn.
» Want to learn to surf? East Coast Surf School, located at Lawrencetown Beach on the Eastern Shore, offers both lessons and rentals! Learn more.
4. Bicycles are back
Sure, the hardiest of cyclists don’t let winter slow them down, but for us fair weather souls, spring is the best time to get back out on the roads and trails.
Don’t own a bike but still looking to explore? The Bike Pedaler offers rentals in Downtown Dartmouth, and I Heart Bikes has you covered on the Halifax Waterfront with options to join a guided cycling tour, or to rent a bike and set out of your own.
» Looking for some ideas on where to head out? This list has five great ideas. You can also find out Where to Rent Bicycles in the Halifax Region.
5. It's a great time to take a tour
Whether you’re a local hosting guests from away, or a first-time visitor looking to learn more about the city, there’s a plethora of tours that start resume their seasonal operations in the spring.
