Halifax truly shines during the holiday season, filled with sparkling lights, festive music, and the warmth of community spirit. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor exploring the city, there’s no shortage of magical events to help you celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. From dazzling light displays to heartwarming performances an unique shopping experiences; we’ve hand-picked a selection of events and activities that are sure to get you into the holiday spirit!
Holiday Events
Glow Halifax Christmas Lights Festival & Market
Step into a world of holiday magic at the Glow Halifax Christmas Lights Festival & Market. This spectacular event features dazzling light displays, interactive installations, inflatables, and games that will captivate visitors of all ages. Indulge in delicious food, enjoy live entertainment, and explore the market for unique holiday treasures.
Location: Halifax Exhibition Centre
Dates: November 20, 2024 – January 1, 2025
Evergreen Festival
Celebrate the holidays at the Evergreen Festival, a month-long outdoor celebration showcasing Nova Scotia’s best food, spirits, crafts, and art. Enjoy holiday light displays, festive programming, and local vendors across multiple locations. This event offers something for everyone, from family outings to romantic evenings.
Location: Multiple locations
Dates: November 22, 2024 – December 15, 2024
Citadel by Candlelight Holiday Tour
Take a step back in time with the Citadel by Candlelight Holiday Tour. Guided by a 78th Highlander, explore the Halifax Citadel and learn how soldiers celebrated the holidays in the 1860s. Enjoy stories of ghosts, a Victorian Father Christmas, and a magical lantern show. Hot drinks are included to keep you warm as you soak in this historic holiday experience.
Location: Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
Dates: Select Friday & Saturday evenings in November and December
Delightful Downtown
Discover the magic of the season in Downtown Halifax with Delightful Downtown, a series of vivid light installations and festive displays. Highlights include:
The mesmerizing light projection shows at Grafton Park.
A 28-foot-tall winter tree in Peace and Friendship Park.
The DELIGHTFUL Gift Box on the Halifax Waterfront.
Twinkling light poles, festive wreaths, and holiday trees along Barrington Street and beyond.
Location: Multiple locations
Dates: November 22, 2024 – January 12, 2025
NS Power Holiday Parade of Lights
One of Halifax’s most cherished holiday traditions, the NS Power Holiday Parade of Lights, returns for its 29th year. Marvel at vibrant floats, listen to festive music, and enjoy the community spirit as the parade winds through downtown Halifax. This free event is perfect for families
Location: Downtown Halifax
Date: December 8, 2024, at 5 PM
Shopping Under the Stars
Experience the magic of the holidays at Shopping Under the Stars on Spring Garden Road. This event transforms the street into a picturesque holiday movie scene, complete with festive trees, photo ops, and free hot chocolate stations. Take advantage of great deals from local retailers while soaking in the cheerful atmosphere.
Location: Spring Garden Road
Date: December 6, 2024, from 5 PM – 9 PM
Symphony Nova Scotia: The Nutcracker
A timeless holiday tradition, Symphony Nova Scotia’s The Nutcracker is a must-see performance for families and art enthusiasts. Featuring Tchaikovsky’s enchanting music, larger-than-life puppets, and spirited dancing, this classic tale brings holiday magic to life.
Location: Rebecca Cohn Auditorium (Dalhousie University Campus)
Dates: December 6, 2024 – December 15, 2024
Whether you’re strolling through vibrant light displays, enjoying the festive atmosphere of a local market, or making cherished memories at a holiday performance, there’s something special for everyone in our city.
The holiday season is also a wonderful time to reflect on the importance of home and community. If you’ve been considering buying or selling a home in Halifax, now could be the perfect opportunity to make your move. We’re here to help you find a home where you can create your own holiday traditions for years to come.
Feel free to reach out about how you can make the most of this festive season when it comes to the Halifax real estate market. From our team to you, we hope your holiday season is filled with joy!
Author: Brynn Carmody
Real Estate Assistant
Andrew Perkins Real Estate
Keller Williams Select Realty