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July in Halifax is when summer finds its rhythm, bringing a steady beat of festivals and events to every corner of the region. From heritage celebrations and colourful festivals to oceanside escapes and music that moves, we’ve rounded up 10 ways to make the most of July in Halifax.
Great for families
1. Celebrate culture, community, and connection this Canada Day
Gear up for a Canada Day celebration like no other. Halifax will be alive with energy and community spirit to celebrate Canada’s 158th birthday. Check out events, cultural showcases, family-friendly activities, and, of course, fireworks.
Canada Day in Halifax is more than a celebration – it’s an invitation to reflect upon the shared stories that shape this land, honour the beauty, diversity, and resilience of our communities, and acknowledge the deep and ongoing heritage of the Mi’kmaq people who have lived on this ancestral and unceded territory, Mi’kma’ki, for millennia. With free admission to Halifax’s musuems and galleries on Canada Day, deepen your understanding of Mi’kmaw and Indigenous culture and explore the unique perspectives and experiences of Indigenous artists from across Turtle Island through personal stories, artifacts, and artwork at these local exhibits.
Great for families
2. Connect with the community at a neighbourhood event
From open-air markets to kid-approved festivals, July brings a load of fun ways to get in touch with Halifax’s local communities.
Kiwanis Mother Goose Festival | July 5 | Ferry Terminal Park
North by Night Market | July 11 | 2037 Gottingen St
Gottingen Street Festival | July 12 | Gottingen Street
Sackville Sunset Market | July 12 | Acadia Park
Great for families
3. Immerse yourself in colour at the Halifax Mural Festival
From July 5-13, both well-established and emerging artists will bring colour to iconic public spaces throughout the city during the Halifax Mural Festival. Get ready for pop-up parties, live music, and tons of art during this week-long festival. Be sure to make your way to Quinpool Road for Big Reveal Day on July 12 to see larger-than-life murals unveiled at this family-friendly neighbourhood celebration. Enjoy live music and family-friendly activations, and take advantage of special deals and promotions from local businesses. The festival caps off with a Wrap Party on July 13 at The Maxwell’s Plum to celebrate the incredible works of art created over the week. Whether you’re an avid art lover or just looking for a fun way to experience the city, this is one event you won’t want to miss.
Halifax Mural Festival | July 5-13 | Multiple locations
Great for families
4. Check out a dreamy seaside play at the largest and longest-running outdoor theatre festival in Atlantic Canada
What’s better than seaside live entertainment? Grab your friends and family and make your way to see whimsical plays among the towering trees in Point Pleasant Park. Robin Hood and As You Like It are on feature this month, perfect for all ages to enjoy. Tickets are pay-what-you-can, or you can reserve a premium seat for extra. If you don’t feel like bringing your own chairs or blankets, you can rent some for a small fee.
Shakespeare By The Sea | July 5 – August 31 | Point Pleasant Park
5. Get lost in the coastal landscapes of Peggy's Cove during an iconic art festival
Take a cruisy coastal drive out to Peggy’s Cove for a day of scenic views and incredible art, where coastal landscapes meet canvases during the Peggy’s Cove Area Festival of the Arts.
From July 11-13, Paint Peggy’s Cove takes centre stage as artists from several provinces bring their brushes, oils, watercolours, pastels, and pencils, and set up on the rocks, wharfs, and park areas to create new works inspired by the charming fishing village right before your eyes. Fall in love with a painting? Once the artist completes their masterpiece, you’ll have the chance to purchase it onsite.
If you’re looking for a fun road trip, embark on a self-guided Studio Tour around St. Margaret’s Bay, happening from July 18-20. With 45 locations showcasing 70 artists, there’s no shortage of stops to make. Explore quaint communities, coves and harbours, and witness the artistic process at work through demonstrations and displays.
Feeling hungry along the way? Grab a bite at a nearby eatery such as Rhubarb Restaurant, Tom’s Lobster Shack, Margaret’s, Hunky Dory, White Sails Bakery, or Labour Day Picnic Café, and savour the local flavours of the Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region.
Peggy’s Cove Area Festival of the Arts | July 9-20 | Multiple locations
Great for families
6. Check out a cultural festival
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.
LatinFax | July 12 | Foundation Wharf
Afrifest | July 17-20 | Sackville Landing
Nova Multifest | July 25-27 | Alderney Landing
Great for families
7. Cruise out to a beach
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, this selection of local favourites offers some of the best beaches in the Halifax region.
Local Tip: 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.
Great for families
8. Fly as high as you can at the East Coast Kite Festival
Gather the kids and head out for a thrilling day of kite flying at the East Coast Kite Festival. Purchase a kite online or onsite and get ready to soar sky-high. Don’t feel like flying a kite? No problem – sit back and watch dozens of kites dance in the sky. With food trucks, face painting, bouncy castles, and more, this free event makes for the ultimate family outing.
East Coast Kite Festival | July 12-13 | Garrison Grounds
Great for families
9. Feel Halifax's rhythm and energy at an iconic music festival
Gear up for two iconic music festivals happening at exciting venues this month.
The TD Halifax Jazz Festival kicks off first, with a lineup including St. Vincent, Iron & Wine, The Decemberists, and Big Boi, to name a few. Free behind-the-scenes Jazz Labs and shows will be available in the daytime before the stages erupt with energy at night. There are tons of ways to enjoy this festival, no matter your age or music preference.
Trunk 7 Music Festival also happens this month, bringing names such as The Stanfields, Classified, and Jenn Grant to the stage for two days of stellar tunes and high spirits in Porters Lake.
TD Halifax Jazz Festival | July 15-20 | Multiple locations
Trunk 7 Music Festival | July 18-19 | Porters Lake Superstore
Great for families
10. Paint the town rainbow during Halifax Pride
The Halifax Pride Festival is bringing vibrant energy to the city from July 17-27. Celebrate the 2SLGBTQIA+ community with a range of events spanning from live music to dance parties, family-friendly events, and so much more. With tons of fun events happening around the city, including dog walks and wild hikes, family BBQs and swim sessions, workshops and workouts, and a parade on July 19, Halifax Pride will be a festival you won’t want to miss.
Halifax Pride Festival | July 17-27 | Multiple locations
Halifax Pride Festival Parade | July 19 | Downtown Halifax
