If you know Halifax, you know there are hundreds of reasons to visit. If you’re looking for an excuse to plan a trip, we’ve made it easy with a list of 10 fantastic reasons to experience Halifax this year.
1. Hockey Canada Rivalry Series: Team Canada vs Team USA
Hockey Canada, in partnership with USA Hockey, has announced the return of the Rivalry Series between Canada’s National Women’s Team and the United States for the 2024-25 season, including two exciting stops in Atlantic Canada. Set to take place at the Scotiabank Centre, it promises to be a sold-out event full of energy!
2. One-of-a-Kind Halifax Accommodations
The Halifax region invites you to discover a variety of new and unexpected places to stay.
Experience a day at Lindsay Lake Farm, surrounded by bison, or indulge in luxury eco-glamping in geodesic domes at Nalu Retreat. Looking for more options? Consider staying above a distillery in Halifax’s North End or at The Marmalade Motel, an oceanfront getaway featuring modern bohemian decor. Explore our diverse range of unique accommodations and find the perfect spot for your next visit to Halifax.
3. Halifax Tides FC
Halifax’s first professional women’s soccer club is set to make history with its inaugural season in the National League, kicking off in April 2025!
With a mission to inspire future generations, foster an environment where dreams have no limits, and serve as a beacon of hope, the Halifax Tides FC aim to unlock limitless potential. Fans can expect top-tier soccer action, making every game a must-see event.
4. Waterfront Cunard District Eateries
A fresh addition to the Halifax Waterfront, the Cunard District offers new amenities and public spaces near Bishop’s Landing.
This vibrant area is already home to five brand-new restaurants—Tribute, Matadora, Crème, ASIA, and Water Polo—and is set to expand even further, with more eateries on the way. As Halifax’s food scene continues to thrive, the Cunard District will surely be a must-visit destination for food lovers.
5. On-the-Water Adventure Experiences
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), sea and river kayaking, surfing, and jet skiing are exciting ways to experience Halifax from the water. With its vast coastline, lakes, and rivers, the Halifax Region is a playground for adventure seekers eager to explore the outdoors in a unique way. A variety of local providers are ready to offer these thrilling experiences.
6. Celebrated Rural Festivals
Discover the vibrant rural celebrations surrounding Halifax, including the SeaLight SkyLight Festival, Halifax County Exhibition, Nova Scotia Forest Festival, and Peggy’s Cove Area Festival of the Arts. Each event offers a unique experience showcasing the scenic region’s charm.
Explore our full list of festivals and make your next visit special by immersing yourself in these unique celebrations
7. Live Music & Entertainment at the Garrison Grounds
The Garrison Grounds, situated in Downtown Halifax right behind the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, is a spacious outdoor venue that has evolved into a vibrant hub for music and entertainment festivals. The Garrison Grounds hosts an impressive array of events from the East Coast Kite Festival and The Great Outdoors Comedy Festival to SHINDIG Festival and Magnetic World.
In 2025, expect an abundance of live music, making it a must-visit attraction for the year.
8. Explore Halifax’s Military Past and Present
Halifax boasts a rich military legacy that visitors can immerse themselves in, whether by travelling back to the 1800s at attractions such as the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site and the historic naval vessel HMCS Sackville or experiencing it firsthand at events like Fleet Week.
9. 2SLGBTQIA+ Offerings
With the highest number of Rainbow Registered businesses in Canada, Halifax stands out as a vibrant hub for 2SLGBTQIA+-friendly offerings. The recent opening of two new 2SLGBTQIA+ bars further solidifies its reputation. Recognized by National Geographic’s Out in the World guide as a top LGBTQIA+ global destination, Halifax is celebrated as a must-visit for LGBTQIA+ travellers and allies, known for its welcoming atmosphere and inclusive environment.
10. The Canadian Curling Trials for the 2026 Milan Olympics
Taking place at Halifax’s Scotiabank Centre, the Canadian Curling Trials will determine the four-player women’s and men’s teams representing Canada (pending qualification) for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, Italy. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the best of Canadian curling right here in Halifax!
BONUS: 30th Anniversary of the Halifax ComedyFest
With stages set up across the city featuring more than 30 comedians from North America, the Halifax ComedyFest promises to be the funniest four days of the year! Shows range from the free Laugh at Lunch event at the Halifax Central Library to the hilarious pub shows and laughter-filled galas.
BONUS: 45th Anniversary of the FIN Atlantic Film Festival
The FIN Atlantic Film Festival is a marquee event that unites individuals with a shared passion for film. Showcasing the best in local and international cinema, along with special events like industry panels and glamorous galas, the festival celebrates its legacy as one of Atlantic Canada’s premier cultural events.
