The end of September and beginning of October have been marked by a process of rebuilding in the Halifax region and across the Maritimes. Maritimers have a long history of resilience in the face of mother nature, and this time is no exception. While some work continues in the clean up, there are still so many ways to enjoy October in Halifax, and we are as excited as ever to welcome you this fall.
1. Attend an immersive city-wide art festival: Nocturne
GREAT FOR FAMILIES
Every fall Nocturne brings art and energy to the streets of Kjipuktuk for a free, city-wide nighttime art festival. From October 13-15, experience jaw-dropping installations, immersive experiences, and incredible live performances throughout the city, as the festival celebrates its 15th anniversary.
October 13-15 | Kjipuktuk
2. Savour local flavours at a pop-up dinner
Taste your way through one-of-a-kind, seasonal prix-fixe menus crafted by talented local chefs. Whether you choose to dine with a date, friends, family, or alone, be prepared for an experience to remember.
Here are some pop-up dinners to check out:
Hopscotch Dinner Club Pop-Up Dinners
Prelude; A Pop-Up Restaurant
3. Geek out at Hal-Con, the largest sci-fi convention in Atlantic Canada
Dust off your wigs and dig out your dice, Hal-Con is back bigger and better than ever! With a jam-packed schedule of panels, Q&As, workshops, a costume contest, and a dedicated gaming floor, there's truly something for everyone to experience at the biggest, geekiest sci-fi convention in Atlantic Canada.
October 28-30 | Halifax Convention Centre
4. Enjoy peak fall foliage
Fall brings crisp air and vibrant pops of red and yellow to Halifax. Catch the best views of the leaves and landscapes up close on a hike in the region, or climb aboard a Fall Colours Cruise along the Northwest Arm to marvel from afar.
See the fall colours on your own:
10 Must-Do Halifax Hikes
5 Places to Experience Stunning Fall Colours in Halifax
See the fall colours on a tour:
Fall Colours Cruise | Weekends, October 8-23
McNabs Island Fall Foliage Tour | Sunday, October 16
5. Get a taste of fresh fall flavours at a local farmers' market
GREAT FOR FAMILIES
Hot apple cider, fresh seasonal treats, and bountiful produce – savour Halifax's fall flavours with a trip to a farmers' market or local retailer.
Did you know: Nova Scotia has the highest number of farmers' markets per capita in Canada. Learn more about Nova Scotia Farmers' markets here.
6. Dare to be scared at the Bluenose Ghosts Festival
GREAT FOR FAMILIES
Beware! The Bluenose Ghosts Festival at Alderney Landing is back for the month of October. With a haunted mansion, an escape room, spiritual readings, rides, and a haunted selfie park, there are plenty of ways to be spooked.
October 7-9, 13-16, 20-31 | Alderney Landing
7. Celebrate all things vegan at Halifax VegFest
From gourmet food and drink to beauty and clothing, celebrate all things plant-based at Halifax VegFest. With over 50 vendors, VegFest has something for everyone - vegans and omnivores alike!
Sunday, October 23 | Lighthouse Arts Centre
8. Get your paranormal fix
Halifax has plenty of ghostly lore, and many locals have their own haunting stories of paranormal activity. Satisfy your hankering for the haunted with a ghost tour this October.
Check out these haunted tours:
Halifax Citadel Ghost Tours: Brave the Halifax Citadel at night on a candlelit journey into the haunted history of the fort that recounts many a ghost story and chilling tales of the unexplained.
Thu-Sat through October | Learn more
Ghost Ship Cruise: Board the Harbour Queen under a night sky for an evening of unusual tales and haunting stories of Halifax’s past. From legends of lost shipwrecks to the ghostly lore of Georges Island, this is a harbour cruise unlike any other.
October 22, 23, 29, 30 | Learn more
Halifax Ghost Walk: Tour the haunted streets of Halifax on North America's oldest ghost walk.
Tours run evenings through October | Learn more
9. Take a u-pick day trip for the perfect pumpkin or autumn apple
GREAT FOR FAMILIES
Nothing says autumn like a trip to a pumpkin patch or an apple orchard. Venture out to one of the many u-pick farms in the Annapolis Valley for a day of classic fall fun.
5 Places to Go Apple Picking Near Halifax
Where to Pick the Perfect Pumpkin Around Halifax
10. Show your local love at a Halifax Mooseheads game
GREAT FOR FAMILIES
There's nothing like a good ol' hockey game! The Halifax Mooseheads are back in action for the season, so grab the kids and catch a home game this fall.
Note: While we have made every effort to ensure that the information listed here is accurate and up-to-date, dates and times of events are subject to change. Make sure to check the relevant event websites or social media channels before attending.
#DiscoverHalifax
