Nova Scotia’s Year-Round Festivities and Celebrations
Nova Scotia offers a full calendar of holidays, celebrations, and festivals that bring communities together, showcase diverse cultures, and spread joy across the province. From public holidays that mark historical moments to lively festivals celebrating art, culture, and nature, there’s always something happening. Here’s your guide to some of the key events throughout the year in Nova Scotia, complete with dates and venues!
Winter Holidays & Celebrations
New Year’s Day
January 1
Celebrated province-wide
Valentine’s Day
February 14
Various venues across Nova Scotia
Heritage Day
3rd Monday in February
Celebrated province-wide
Festival of Lights
November to January
Downtown Halifax
Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting
Late November/Early December
Various locations in Halifax
New Year’s Day marks the start of the calendar year and is a time for reflection and resolution-making. Families and friends gather to celebrate, with many Nova Scotians enjoying outdoor winter activities or dining at local restaurants.
A day of love and affection, Valentine’s Day is celebrated by couples, families, and friends. Restaurants offer special dinners, and local florists and chocolatiers provide themed gifts for this heartwarming holiday.
Heritage Day honours Nova Scotia’s rich history. Each year, a notable person, event, or place from Nova Scotia’s past is chosen as a focus, with educational programs and public celebrations highlighting the province’s heritage.
The Festival of Lights kicks off the holiday season, transforming downtown Halifax with beautiful displays, lighted storefronts, and festive activities. Visitors can enjoy Christmas carolling, shopping, and holiday markets
Halifax celebrates with a parade and an official tree-lighting ceremony that brings festive cheer to the city. Families gather for the sights and sounds, enjoying Christmas-themed floats, music, and the lighting of the holiday tree.
Spring Holidays & Celebration
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
March 17 (St. Patrick’s Day)
Halifax
Bedford Days
Typically late June
Bedford, Nova Scotia
Lebanese Cedar Festival
Typically late May/early June
Our Lady of Lebanon Maronite Catholic Church, Halifax
The annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade celebrates Irish heritage with floats, dancers, and musicians parading through downtown Halifax. It’s a lively event filled with green attire, traditional Irish music, and festivities.
Bedford Days welcomes summer with family-friendly activities like live music, a kids’ carnival, and fireworks. Held in Bedford, just outside of Halifax, this festival celebrates the community spirit with fun for all ages.
This festival highlights Lebanese culture through food, music, dance, and arts and crafts. It’s an immersive experience for anyone looking to explore the rich Lebanese heritage within the Halifax community.
Halifax Comedy Festival
April
Various venues in Halifax
The Halifax Comedy Festival brings laughter to the city with performances by local and international comedians. Known for its lively atmosphere, this festival is a must for anyone looking to enjoy a night of stand-up comedy.
Summer Holidays & Celebrations
Canada Day
July 1
Celebrated across Canada
Halifax Pride Festival
July
Downtown Halifax
Natal Day Events
1st Monday in August
Halifax and Dartmouth
Halifax Lebanese Festival
July
Olympic Community Centre, Halifax
Afrifest
August
Halifax
Clam Harbour Beach Sandcastle Competition
Mid-August
Clam Harbour Beach
Canada Day commemorates the birth of Canada, and Halifax celebrates with a pancake breakfast, a parade, concerts, and a grand fireworks display. Family-friendly events and a festive atmosphere make it a great day to enjoy the city.
Halifax Pride celebrates inclusivity with a week of events, including a vibrant parade, parties, and workshops. It’s one of Halifax’s most celebrated festivals, showcasing Nova Scotia’s commitment to diversity.
Natal Day celebrates the founding of Halifax and Dartmouth with events such as fireworks, concerts, races, and parades. Locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy the holiday and its variety of activities.
The Lebanese Festival is a delightful showcase of Lebanese food, culture, and music. Attendees can sample authentic dishes, enjoy traditional dance performances, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lebanese culture.
Afrifest celebrates African arts and culture with music, dance, art displays, and food. It’s a unique opportunity to explore African traditions and enjoy the diverse cultural tapestry of Nova Scotia.
Sand sculptors gather at Clam Harbour Beach to compete in this annual sandcastle competition, creating impressive sculptures along the shoreline. It’s a family-friendly event that draws beach lovers and artists alike.
Fall Holidays & Celebrations
Thanksgiving Day
2nd Monday in October
Celebrated province-wide
Nocturne: Art at Night
October
Downtown Halifax
Nova Scotia Forest Festival
October
Various locations
Thanksgiving in Nova Scotia is a time for families to gather and enjoy a hearty meal, often featuring locally sourced foods. It’s a celebration of gratitude, with many Nova Scotians enjoying the stunning fall foliage.
Nocturne transforms Halifax into an open-air art gallery, where artists display works and installations throughout the city. This free event showcases local talent and provides visitors a unique opportunity to explore Halifax’s creative side.
The Nova Scotia Forest Festival highlights the importance of forests in the province with activities such as guided forest walks, storytelling, and workshops. It’s an educational event celebrating Nova Scotia’s natural heritage.