Cue the winter festivals, holiday spirit, and cozy vibes. We've rounded up 10 ways to get out in Halifax and make it a December to remember.
1. Take holiday shopping to the next level
Spring Garden Road will transform into a Hallmark movie scene as the street closes for pedestrian access only to enjoy an evening of festive holiday shopping. You can expect to find festive photo ops, holiday trees lining the street, free hot chocolate stations, and a holiday crafters market in Park Lane Mall. There will be tons of incredible holiday promotions to take advantage of, and parking will be free at most surrounding locations. Holiday shopping has never been easier.
Shopping Under the Stars | December 1 | Spring Garden Road
2. Catch a Thunderbirds game
The Halifax Thunderbirds are kicking off the National Lacrosse League season with a home opener on December 1 at the Scotiabank Centre. If you’ve never been to a Thunderbirds game, get ready for intense, fast-paced plays that will have you on the edge of your seat.
Halifax Thunderbirds Home Games | December 1, 29 | Scotiabank Centre
3. Toast the coast at Halifax's newest wine festival
Get ready to sip, savour, and learn about wine at the inaugural Halifax International Wine Fest. Grab your friends and get tickets to a tasting session where you’ll be able to sample from a selection of over 200 wines from near and far, including a selection of premium non-alcoholic wines.
Halifax International Wine Fest | December 2 | Pavilion 22
4. Check off your holiday shopping list at a festive market
There’s no shortage of holiday markets in Halifax this month. Get in the holiday spirit at a traditional German-style market, browse through a themed market in the heart of Halifax, or go beyond the city and experience a rustic artisan market. With so many to choose from, there’s a market for everyone to enjoy.
Christkindlmarket | December 1-3 | Alderney Landing
Christmas at the Barn | December 2 | Hubbards Barn Farmers’ Market
Vintage Christmas Show | December 2-3 | Light House Arts Centre
Annual Christmas Market | December 9 | Lindsay Lake Farms
5. Catch a live holiday show
From live theatre to drag shows to symphony concerts, there’s tons of festive live entertainment to enjoy in Halifax this month, no matter what interests you.
Dickens’ A Christmas Carol | November 30 – December 30 | Neptune Theatre
The Nutcracker | December 8-17 | Rebecca Cohn Auditorium
HoliGay Spectacular | December 15 | Garrison Brewing Company
6. Mix science with the holidays at a winter carnival
Looking for something the kids will love? Make your way to the Discovery Centre for an evening of holiday magic and scientific wonder during the Winter Carnival. Get competitive with carnival games and enjoy science activities while getting the chance to meet the Grinch and Rudolph. With face painting, balloon twisting, and festive treats to snack on, there’s something here for the whole family to enjoy.
Winter Carnival | December 15 | Discovery Centre
7. Sweeten up the holidays with treats from a local bakery
Every meal deserves to finish on a sweet note, especially during the holidays. No time for baking this season? No problem! Hang up your apron and head out to a local bakery for desserts that will please any crowd.
8. Mix history with the holidays at the Halifax Citadel
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly experience or something just for adults, look no further than the Halifax Citadel for fun holiday events. Tour the Citadel by candlelight to see how British army soldiers celebrated the holidays and learn about the mysterious haunted tales that took place behind the fort walls.
If you’re looking for an elevated experience, go behind the scenes and savour three Halifax Citadel-aged spirits crafted by award-winning Compass Distillers, plus their perfect-for-the-holidays spiced rum, paired with artisanal cheese, crackers, and sweet treats.
Raise Your Holiday Spirits | December 8, 9, 15, 16 | Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
Citadel by Candlelight Holiday Tour | December 2, 8, 9, 15, 16 | Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
9. Eat, drink, and be merry with an outdoor dining experience
There’s something special to be said about an outdoor dining experience during the chilly months. Dine under the stars in a globe or cozy up by a fire at an outdoor lounge for the dreamiest winter outing, perfect for any occasion with your friends, family, or a date.
Birch & Anchor | 367 Bedford Hwy
The Bicycle Thief | 1475 Lower Water St
Shuck Seafood + Raw Bar | 5120 Salter St
Agricola Street Brasserie | 2540 Agricola St
Stone’s Throw Patio | 1919 Upper Water St
10. Ring in the new year with a celebration to remember
Step into 2024 with an iconic New Year’s Eve celebration to remember. Get dazzled for a music-filled cocktail party at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel, or be dazzled by a night of shimmering lights at Glow Gardens. However you choose to celebrate, you’ll be in for an evening to remember.
Home For The Holidays | December 30 | Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel
New Year’s Eve Party | December 31 | Halifax Exhibition Centre
