Halifax is gearing up for an exciting January, filled with vibrant festivals, crafty experiences, outdoor adventure, and more. Start the year off with some local fun and make the most of the month with our list of 10 things to do in Halifax this January.
1. Get your sports fix
Cheer on the Halifax Mooseheads and the Halifax Thunderbirds at a thrilling game that will have you on the edge of your seat.
The East Coast IceJam kicks off this month, inviting all to see over 60 elite teams in the U15 Major, U16AAA, and U18 Major levels battle it out on the ice. This is the largest Elite-Level hockey tournament in Eastern Canada, showcasing Atlantic Canada’s players to teams and scouts all over Canada. Tickets are $35, allowing you access to all games all weekend, and can be purchased at the door.
East Coast IceJam | January 8-12 | Greenfoot Energy Centre
Halifax Mooseheads Home Games | January 9, 11, 23, 24, 26 | Scotiabank Centre
Halifax Thunderbirds Home Games | January 18, 31 | Scotiabank Centre
2. Dive into Halifax's live music scene during Open Waters Festival
Kick off the new year with some incredible new live music at Open Waters Festival. Celebrate the flow of new and improvised music from a variety of genres across a number of charming Halifax venues during this week-long festival. Grab a festival pass for access to all shows, or purchase tickets for individual concerts.
Open Waters Festival | January 8-12 | Multiple locations
3. Unleash your inner artist at a paint night
Looking for a fun excuse to get out this month? Try your hand at painting your partner, your pet, miniature figurines, or learn the brushstrokes of Lorne Reid’s iconic folk art in a guided session. Whether you plan to go with your pals, a fun date, or are planning some quality time for yourself, these sessions are the perfect way to kick back and get creative, no matter what your skill level is.
Paint Your Partner | January 15 | Moxy Halifax Downtown
Miniature Paint Night | January 15 | Board Room Game Café
Paint Your Pet | January 19 | Propeller Bedford Taproom
Painting & Pints: Lorne Reid – Tulips and Clouds | January 24 | Art Gallery of Nova Scotia
4. Step into a prehistoric adventure at a brand-new exhibit
Experience the age of dinosaurs like never before at the Discovery Centre’s upcoming exhibit, Dinosaur Explorer. Get up close to life-like animatronic dinosaurs, marvel at incredible fossil displays, and uncover how these ancient creatures thrived in their world. Gather the kids and get ready for a prehistoric parade through the centre on January 19, where you can show off your best dinosaur attire and have a roaring-good time. With immersive exhibits, hands-on activities, and a chance to walk among giants, you can expect a visit to this exhibit full of discovery, fun, and fascination for all ages.
Dinosaur Explorer | January 18 – April 27 | Discovery Centre
5. Immerse yourself in the art of mixology at the Halifax Cocktail Festival
Known for its innovative cocktail culture, Halifax is setting the stage for a day of expertly crafted drinks at the Halifax Cocktail Festival. Sample creations from the city’s top mixologists while savouring gourmet bites from some of Halifax’s most beloved eateries. Your ticket includes 10 cocktail tastings, two food tokens, and a take-home glass.
Additional drink and food tickets are available for those who want to savour even more. There’s only one more session to attend, so get your tickets before it’s too late.
Halifax Cocktail Festival | January 18 | Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel
6. Take part in one of Scotland's most celebrated traditions
Transport yourself to Scotland for a night of feasting and entertainment as you celebrate the national poet of Scotland, Robbie Burns. Sit down to a traditional roast beef dinner with authentic Scottish fare, including cock-a-leekie soup and haggis. After enjoying your feast, jump into some fun Scottish traditions, including the Toast to Lassies, the Selkirk Grace, and the Ode to the Haggis. With delicious eats, incredible entertainment, and high spirits, this is an evening you won’t want to miss out on. This event sells out fast, so grab your tickets before it’s too late.
Robbie Burns Night | January 25 | Musquodoboit Valley Bicentennial Theatre
7. Dive into nostalgia at the inaugural Retro Film Festo
For the first time, Carbon Arc Cinema is hosting a retro film festival, shining a spotlight on four beloved and/or hard-to-find homegrown films, including New Waterford Girl, Touch & Go, Poor Boy’s Game, and Love That Boy. Each day of the festival, Carbon Arc will screen one of the highlighted films and follow with a Q&A session with a number of creatives, writers, and directors who brought the film to life. It’s a rare opportunity to see these films on the big screen, and even rarer to sit in the company of the brilliant minds behind them. Whether or not you’re a film buff, you’ll be in for a special show at this inaugural festival. Stay tuned for tickets to go on sale soon.
Nova Scotia Retro Film Festo | January 30 – February 2 | Carbon Arc Cinema
8. Go skating at the Emera Oval
Whether you choose to bring your family, friends, or a date, skating at the Emera Oval is the perfect winter activity for everyone to enjoy. If you don’t own skates, don’t worry – free rentals are onsite with inclusive sizing options – bring a piece government-issued photo ID and you’ll be on the ice in no time.
Public Skating | All throughout January | Emera Oval
9. Raise a glass (or shell) to Nova Scotia's seafood and craft beverage scene
Get familiar with the local flavours of Halifax and indulge in an evening of perfect pairings at Sip n’ Shuck. Savour Nova Scotia’s world-renowned oysters and seafood, and sample local award-winning wines, beers, spirits, ciders, and craft beverages.
Sip n’ Shuck | January 31 | The Westin Hotel
10. Celebrate the winter season at the Downtown Dartmouth Ice Festival
Downtown Dartmouth will transform into a magical winter wonderland as the streets fill with whimsical ice sculptures from January 31 to February 2. Grab your friends or pack up the kids and head out to the Ice Festival Street Party to enjoy tons of live music, family-friendly games, and other fun activities. Local businesses of all kinds will be offering in-store specials so it’s the perfect time to explore all that Downtown Dartmouth has to offer.
East Coast Credit Union Ice Festival – Downtown Dartmouth | January 31 – February 2 | Downtown Dartmouth
Chase away the chill on a winter adventure
When the cold coastal breeze has you yearning for warmth, there’s nothing better than retreating to a cozy café or restaurant that feels like home. These spots aren’t just a place to refuel – they’re havens of comfort, where hearty soups, buttery pastries, and steaming lattes welcome you in from the brisk weather. After a day exploring Halifax’s windswept trails and rugged coastlines, settle in to savour the kind of soul-warming dishes that chase away the chill of the Atlantic air. And if the adventure calls for a picnic by the sea, these local eateries can pack up the comfort for you to take along.
