10 Things To Do in Halifax This June

Catch adrenaline-fueled racing in the Halifax Harbour during ROCKWOOL Canada Sail Grand Prix.

For the first time ever, SailGP’s adrenaline-fueled racing will make its long-awaited Canada debut on June 1-2 when 10 teams from across the globe go head-to-head for glory, sailing at unbelievable speeds in the center of the Halifax Harbour for all to see. From heart-pounding races to lively street parties, SailGP is bringing the heat to Halifax and Dartmouth, and it’s going to be huge. Whether or not you’re a sailing fan, these SailGP races will have you on the edge of your seat.

SailGP | June 1-2 | Halifax Waterfront & Dartmouth Waterfront
Argyle Street Shore Party | May 31 – June 2 | Argyle Street

‘Fill yer boots’ on Nova Scotia’s scenic Eastern Shore at a culinary festival this month.

It’s no secret that the Eastern Shore’s cold, clear waters yield some of the best seafood in Canada, and even North America. Connect with the coast at Memory Lane Heritage Village’s Cold Waters Seafood Festival; whether you’re looking for contemporary dishes, simple steamed shellfish, or tried and true traditional favourites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Bring the whole family and participate in fun activities and skills demonstrations with paint-your-own-buoy sessions, dory rides, live music, and more.

The Eastern Shore Burger Fest is also happening this month for the first time ever. Quaint coastal communities are lighting up and sizzling with excitement as local eateries dish up gourmet burgers with ingredients and flavours that reflect the Eastern Shore’s wild, rugged landscapes and seascapes.

Cold Waters Seafood Festival | June 1-2 | Memory Lane Heritage Village
Eastern Shore Burger Week | June 15-23 | Multiple locations

Locals know that one of the best places to stretch out and soak up the warm weather is the Halifax Common. From a state-of-the-art outdoor aquatics facility, fields for a range of sports, public tennis courts, and ample space for leisurely strolls, dog walking, or sharing a picnic with your pals, this versatile green gem offers something for everyone.

Allow Carolina Andrade, a local Chilean-Canadian photographer and writer guide you through the Halifax Common and the surrounding neighbourhood with tips on ways to enjoy all that this area has to offer, from the Common’s expansive list of amenities to nearby local eats and more.

If live theatre is your jam, you won’t want to miss STAGES, a festival that focuses on bold and innovative new work that toes the line of what theatre can be. From full productions to family offerings and interactive pieces, STAGES highlights new performances from Atlantic Canada and beyond.

STAGES Theatre Festival | June 5-9 | Eastern Front Theatre

Did you know that cultural festivals are one of our top 10 reasons to experience Halifax this year?

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of one of these exciting family-friendly festivals. Dive into a new cuisine and sample authentic gourmet delicacies, enjoy traditional music and dance, and browse artisanal goods to take home with you. With so much to enjoy, there’s no better way to experience the diverse culture of the Halifax region.

Lebanese Cedar Festival | May 30 – June 2 | Cedar Event Centre
Halifax Greek Fest | June 6-9 | St. George’s Greek Orthodox Church & Community Centre
PHILIPPINE FIESTA! | June 22 | Garrison Grounds

Venture out to Hubbards to celebrate the longest day of the year at the first-ever annual Summer Solstice Night Market. Browse through over 50 local vendors offering goods of all kinds, from apothecary products to homewares, clothing, art, and so much more. Grab a grab a flower crown from one of the artisans, fill up on treats from a variety of food trucks, a cash bar by the award-winning Black Harbour Distillers, dance to some live tunes, enjoy tarot, psychic, and medium readings, and more.

Summer Solstice Night Market | June 20 | Hubbards Barn Market

Rooted in Scottish Gaelic tradition, Cape Breton fiddle music has a powerful rhythmic feel affected with quick snaps of the bow, rapid-fire ornaments, and forceful bowing patterns. It’s the most rhythmic Celtic fiddle style, as many of the other Celtic styles have moved away from their connections to dancing.

A number of Nova Scotian fiddlers have kept the traditional sound alive, and this summer, you’ll be able to experience it at Peggy’s Cove for the first time at The Schoolhouse, the village’s first schoolhouse, built in 1839. Hear traditional Cape Breton fiddle music as it was meant to be heard, and pick up some dance steps and Gaelic words along the way. Performances happen three times a day for 30 minutes, making it the perfect experience to tack onto your next visit to Peggy’s Cove.

The Schoolhouse Cèilidh | June 26 – October 9 | The Schoolhouse

Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore is peppered with one-of-a-kind galleries that offer eclectic art and curiosities from local artisans. These galleries have finally opened their doors for the season – cruise along the coast and stop in at these charming little spaces that tell a story beyond the incredible art found inside.

Prepare yourselves for the iconic Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo, returning to Halifax on June 28. Enjoy thrilling acts from marching bands, acrobats, dancers, pipes and drums, and much more. This show is perfect for the whole family to enjoy, and you’ll even get one free kid ticket with the purchase of one adult/senior ticket.

Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo | June 28 – July 1 | Scotiabank Centre

One of the best parts of Halifax’s location on the Atlantic Coast is the stunning beaches in the surrounding area. Nova Scotia is home to more than 13,000 kilometres of stunning coastline, packed with beaches of every kind. Whether you’re looking for a coastal adventure, planning a family beach day, or seeking a relaxing seaside retreat, we’ve put together a selection of local favourites that offers some of the best beaches in the Halifax region.

Want to experience the beach without the crowds? Take a trip to the beach during the week, or better yet, plan a morning or evening trip and enjoy the crashing waves while you watch the sun rise or set.