Evergreen Festival is a 4-week-long outdoor winter celebration of Nova Scotian food, spirits, craft, art, and memorable experiences.
Local retailers, restaurants, hotels, attractions, and public spaces throughout the Halifax region will offer holiday light displays and festive programming to celebrate the season. Evergreen Festival is primarily on the Halifax waterfront, but light installations can be found all over Halifax & Dartmouth, including the Public Gardens, Peace & Friendship Park, Parade Square and Downtown Dartmouth.
Note: If the forecast calls for bad weather, most Evergreen Festival activations will be paused or cancelled. It is strongly encouraged to check out @evergreenfestns on Instagram for the latest updates before visiting.
Evergreen Market
Shop local on the Halifax waterfront at the open-air Evergreen Market. Discover a collection of cozy wooden chalets with vendors from across the province offering a variety of local food, drink, apparel, gifts, and more. The market is located on the Halifax Waterfront, at Foundation Lot South: 1549 Lower Water Street.
Market Hours:
Mon-Wed: Closed
Thu-Fri: 4pm – 9pm
Sat: 11am – 9pm
Sun: 11am – 7pm
NEW THIS YEAR: Nova Scotia Loyal Vendor Village
There’s even more to explore at Evergreen! Visit the Nova Scotia Loyal Vendor Village at the Sands at Salter (1512 Lower Water Street) to discover even more local shopping, treats, and festive fun. Meet local artisans, find your new favourite snack, and take in the interactive light installations that bring the waterfront to life.
Evergreen Express
The Evergreen Express Train, brought to you by the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront, invites you to hop on and off as you immerse yourself in the magic of the waterfront festivities. There is no cost to ride the Evergreen Express.
NEW THIS YEAR: New Ways to Ride
Option 1: North Pole to Evergreen
All aboard at the North Pole (Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel) and ride the Evergreen Express to the festival! It’s a fun and festive way to make your way to the holiday festivities.
Option 2: Evergreen to the North Pole
Ready to head back? Hop aboard at Evergreen and enjoy a ride back to the North Pole at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel.
Option 3: The Evergreen Express Sightseeing Ride
Not ready to leave the festival? You can still enjoy the ride! Take a sightseeing trip through the Salt Yard, past the Nova Scotia Loyal Vendor Village, around the boardwalk, and back to the festival. It’s the perfect way to experience the magic of the Evergreen Express without leaving the festivities behind.
Please Note: All passengers must exit the train at every stop to allow the next group of passengers to board. If you’d like to continue your journey, simply rejoin the line for your next ride.
Evergreen Express Hours:
Mon-Wed: Closed
Thu-Fri: 4pm – 9pm
Sat: 11am – 9pm
Sun: 11am – 7pm
Winter Sports Zone
Experience free winter sports activities and games, including ball hockey, curling rinks, and more! Need a break? Warm up and relax in our cozy warming stations.
Join the fun at the Evergreen Winter Sports Zone located in Foundation Lot South on the Halifax Waterfront (1549 Lower Water Street).
Winter Sports Zone Hours:
Mon-Wed: Closed
Thu-Fri: 4pm – 9pm
Sat: 11am – 9pm
Sun: 11am – 7pm
Evergreen at Queen’s Marque
Step into a world of holiday magic at Queen’s Marque this Evergreen Festival. Explore festive dining, immersive art, and unforgettable experiences that bring the season to life. From cozy winter treats to dazzling lights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Sweeten the Season at The Fog Company, sip cocktails at Bar Sofia’s Sleigh Bar, and linger over French classics at Café Lunette.
Spruce’s Evergreen Cocoa Trail
Local businesses are offering holiday hot chocolates and other festive drinks to help keep your spirits high and bellies warm as you explore the festival! Full list of participating vendors coming SOON!
Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with Spruce’s Evergreen Cocoa Trail, running November 27 – December 20, 2026. Local cafés and restaurants in downtown Halifax and Spring Garden Road area are serving up cozy, limited-edition hot chocolates and festive drinks to warm your spirits. Join in the fun with the Cocoa Trail Passport – visit participating spots and collect a sticker for every delicious cup you enjoy! Once you’ve collected five stickers, enter to win a festive prize package*. Pick up your passport at the blue and yellow Winter Welcome Kiosk in the Salt Yard area on the Halifax Waterfront, just behind the Waterfront Warehouse at 1549 Lower Water Street, or at participating businesses. Be sure to check the social media pages of participating businesses for more details on their special cocoa creations!
Proudly supported by the Dairy Farmers of Nova Scotia & Dairy Farmers of Canada.