The end of July has once again been marked by a process of recovery in the Halifax region and across the province. Haligonians have a long history of resilience in the face of mother nature, and this time is no exception. While some work continues in the recovery from the flash floods, there are still so many ways to enjoy August in Halifax, and we are as excited as ever to welcome you this month.
1. Get your live entertainment fix at the iconic Halifax Busker Festival
Gear up for the Halifax Busker Festival as some of the best street performers and musicians from around the globe take the stage on the Halifax and Dartmouth waterfronts for 6 days of nonstop entertainment.
With a midway and carnival rides, unique vendors, and a Funland filled with family-friendly activities, the city will be buzzing with energy during this iconic festival.
Halifax Busker Festival | August 2-7 | Multiple locations
2. Celebrate Halifax's birthday during Natal Day Weekend
Natal Day Weekend is just around the corner, and there’s no better time to get festive in the city. From free concerts to family-friendly festivals and so much more, Natal Day Weekend is jam-packed with fun things to do for all crowds.
Grab a blanket and pull up a seat on the Halifax or Dartmouth waterfronts to see an epic fireworks show over the harbour on Saturday, August 5, and be sure to catch the 126th Pepsi Natal Day Parade on Monday, August 7.
Natal Day Festivities | August 4-8 | Multiple locations
3. Raise a glass at the Seaport Cider & Beerfest + Fizzfest
What’s better than an ice-cold drink on a sunny summer day?
Make your way to the Halifax Seaport for the Halifax Cider & Beerfest to sample an unlimited assortment of craft beers, premium imports, and ciders – with over 50% of offered beverages being unavailable in the NSLC or locally, this is the perfect opportunity to try something new.
This year, the festival is expanding to include a Fizzfest that will feature hard seltzers, sodas, and pre-mixed cocktails – there’s something for every palette here.
With live music, gourmet fare, and great vibes, what’s not to love about this festival?
Halifax Seaport Cider & Beerfest + Fizzfest | August 10-12 | Halifax Seaport
4. Connect with the cosmos at the SeaLight SkyLight Festival
Cruise out to the Eastern Shore for an out-of-this-world experience at the SeaLight SkyLight Festival. Enjoy live music, hands-on workshops, and learn about astronomy and our oceans during the day. As the sun falls below the horizon, get ready to be dazzled by the Perseid meteor showers and ocean bioluminescence for the dreamiest evening experience.
SeaLight SkyLight Festival | August 12 | The Deanery Project
*Weather permitting
5. Unwind at Oceanstone Resort's new hydrothermal spa
Oceanstone Resort recently opened its state-of-the-art hydrothermal spa, featuring relaxing warm pools, an arctic plunge pool, a relaxing river walk, a halotherapy hammam, an aromatherapy sauna, and more.
Take some time to visit for the 3-hour Hydrothermal Journey to experience relaxation and rejuvenation at its finest. Fall in love? Book a room at the inn or a cottage with your pals for a getaway you never knew you needed.
6. Laugh until it hurts at the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival
Prepare yourselves for the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival as legendary comedians take the stage from August 11-13. While the event is almost completely sold out, there are still limited tickets to see Anthony Jeselnik, Michael Longfellow, and Zarna Garg for a wildly hilarious night on August 12. Grab tickets now before it’s too late.
Great Outdoors Comedy Festival | August 11-13 | Garrison Grounds
7. Be part of a Nova Scotian summer tradition at the 43rd annual Clam Harbour Beach Sandcastle Competition
Make your way to the Eastern Shore on August 13 to see Clam Harbour Beach come to life with wild, whimsical sandcastles and sculptures. With over 10,000 attendees each year, it’s no question that this is one of the most iconic summer events in the Halifax region.
Clam Harbour Beach Sandcastle Competition | August 13 | Clam Harbour Beach Provincial Park
8. Get festive with the family at the Halifax County Exhibition
Looking for an event the whole family will love? Look no further than the Halifax County Exhibition, a 4-day celebration of the Musquodoboit Valley and beyond. This iconic exhibition has been a tradition for the past 184 years, featuring a kick-off parade, livestock shows and competitions, live music and magic shows, fresh flowers and vegetables, a midway filled with games and rides, and tasty treats from a variety of local food vendors.
Halifax County Exhibition | August 16-19 | Halifax County Exhibition
9. Catch Canadian classic rock legends at Rock The Harbour
Hop across the harbour and enjoy 3 days of incredible live music from some of your favourite Canadian classic rock bands, including Tom Cochrane and Kim Mitchell. Choose to grab a pass for the whole festival or grab single-day tickets and get ready to rock out to iconic, unforgettable seaside tunes.
Rock The Harbour | August 18-20 | Alderney Landing
10. Experience an exclusive pop-up dinner
Savour the summer flavours of Halifax and beyond at a pop-up dinner, making for the ultimate date night with your pals or partner.
Chef Colin Bebbington of Prelude: A Pop-Up Restaurant took a 3-month sabbatical in Italy to study traditional pasta making, and he’s opening his doors for business again at the President’s Lodge in the Atlantic School of Theology, beginning on August 10. Expect thoughtfully created, artfully plated prix-fixe tasting menus that reflect the seasons and landscapes of Nova Scotia.
If you’re seeking a more rustic experience, grab tickets to Cole Harbour Heritage Farm Museum’s farm-to-table F E A S T. Held in the central farmyard, you’ll experience the seasonal summer flavours against the backdrop of 200 years of farming heritage. This 5-course feast is sourced directly from their gardens and local farms, and thoughtfully prepared by culinary artists.
Prelude: A Pop-Up Restaurant | Reopening August 10 | Atlantic School of Theology
FEAST | August 26 | Cole Harbour Heritage Farm Museum
