Spring into a new season with fresh inspiration, local happenings, and a touch of springtime charm. Make the most of the month with our list of 10 things to do in Halifax this April.
Eat your weight in burgers during the Halifax Burger Bash
One of Halifax’s most iconic food festivals is back this month: the Halifax Burger Bash.
From April 3-12, eat your way through Halifax as you indulge in burgers from over 150 restaurants. The lineup features creations of all kinds, from classic to experimental burgers. If you’re planning to try a few burgers, pick up a Burger Bash passport at a participating restaurant – get out to at least three locations and have your server stamp or initial your passport for a chance to win $1000 in Garrison Brewing Co. gift cards.
Halifax Burger Bash | April 3-12 | Multiple locations
Explore the science of brewing while enjoying Nova Scotia’s finest beers
If you’re interested in getting hands-on while sampling craft beer, grab tickets to the Science of Beer, where you’ll discover the science behind a good brew, meet masters in the local craft brewing community, and sample brews from across Nova Scotia. Plus, at this adults-only event, you’ll have full access to explore the Discovery Centre after dark.
Science of Beer | April 5 | Discovery Centre
Browse unique local goods at a pop-up market
Halifax is home to an array of incredibly talented artisans of all kinds. Whether you’re looking to shop for festive goods or prefer to browse all kinds of specialty items, there’s a themed pop-up market waiting for you to explore this month.
Hello Spring! | April 5 | Halifax Brewery Market
NSCAD Spring Maker’s Market | April 5 | NSCAD Port Campus
Halifax Vintage Paper Show | April 5 | Halifax Forum
Early Easter Market | April 5-6 | Cole Harbour Place
Cross Cultural Market | April 6 | Halifax Brewery Market
Spring Market at the LCC | April 6 | Lawrencetown Community Centre
Halifax Record Fair | April 19 | Halifax Forum
Haligonian Vendor Market | April 27 | Halifax Brewery Market
Explore the rich cultural history of the Shubenacadie Canal
The Shubenacadie Canal is a vital artery in the heart of Nova Scotia, carrying the province’s rich history through its waterways. From its deep significance to the Mi’kmaq people to its role in the industrial era, it has long been a passage of connection. Today, thousands turn to its waters and trails to immerse themselves in nature and community. Although its function has evolved, its lifeblood of connection endures.
As the temperatures rise and the light lingers a little longer, get out and explore the scenic hiking trails, paddling routes, and historical sites that offer a glimpse into the past.
Get festive at an Easter event
From Easter egg hunts to hands-on workshops, hop over to a festive Easter event this month.
Ukrainian Easter Egg Workshop | April 5 | Halifax Shambhala Centre
Annual Easter Egg Hunt | April 13 | Steele Wheels
Easter Centrepiece Workshop | April 17 | Props Floral Design
Annual Easter Egg Hunt | April 19-20 | Hatfield Farms
Watercolours on Tap: Easter Edition | April 20 | The Oxford Taproom
Catch a thrilling show at the Scotiabank Centre
The Scotiabank Centre is hosting some incredible entertainment this month – grab tickets before it’s too late.
Nelly with Ja Rule & Special Guests | April 11 | Scotiabank Centre
Stars on Ice | April 25 | Scotiabank Centre
Chicago The Musical | April 28-29 | Scotiabank Centre
Check out a new business
Halifax is blooming with new businesses, from charming boutiques to highly anticipated eateries. Take some time to check them out – you just may discover your new favourite spot.
El Este Taqueria | 1646 Barrington St | Now open
Fireside Meadery | 11 East Petpeswick Rd | Now open
Dejean’s European Bakery | 1312 Queen St | Now open
Stitch & Knit Dartmouth | 85A Portland St | Opening April 5
Tsukimi Food Co. | 2193 Gottingen St | Opening April 8
Cahier | 2698 Agricola St | Opening April 19
Darty Brewing Co. | 35 Portland St | Opening soon
Casa di Stefano | 111 Cobequid Rd | Opening soon
Enjoy some of the best professional Queer theatre in Canada
OutFest is back bigger than ever this month, presenting some of the best professional work from local, regional, and national artists. From contemporary dance to plays, standup comedy, and more, this year’s festival brings an eclectic lineup of performances for all to enjoy. While most shows are better suited for a mature audience, kids will love the Youth Queer-prov Comedy Show as they shout suggestions to performers over an evening of hilarity, fun, and belly laughs.
Outfest | April 21-27 | Multiple locations
Get lost in a page-turning literary festival
Calling all bookworms! Readers, writers, storytellers, and booksellers are gathering in intimate spaces during Spring ForeWord, a four-day literary festival. Listen to late-evening stories, conversations, and book readings by award-winning authors. Spring ForeWord comes to a close with Independent Bookstore Day where you can expect giveaways, discounts, and other fun surprises.
Not every kid loves to read – but every kid loves to laugh. That’s the idea behind Funny Pages, Canada’s only festival dedicated to books that bring the giggles. Designed to get kids laughing and loving literature, this unique event uses humour to help young readers discover the joy of books, and maybe even inspire a few future writers along the way.
On Thursday, April 24, the library will host Little Funny Pages – a special edition of the festival tailored for preschoolers and younger elementary students. On Friday, April 25, some of Canada’s funniest authors will take the stage at the Halifax Central Library to entertain and inspire hundreds of elementary students.
Funny Pages | April 24-25 | Halifax Central Library
Spring ForeWord | April 25-28 | Multiple locations
Cheer on the Halifax Tides at their inaugural season kickoff game
Halifax’s first professional women’s soccer club is set to make history with its inaugural season in the National League, kicking off the first home game on April 26.
With a mission to inspire future generations, foster an environment where dreams have no limits, and serve as a beacon of hope, the Halifax Tides FC aim to unlock limitless potential. Fans can expect top-tier soccer action, making every game a must-see event.
Halifax Tides FC vs Calgary Wild FC | April 26 | Wanderers Grounds
