Celebrate Christmas in Halifax | Halifax Evergreen Festival 2025

Author: Kurt NorrisPosted on:
A Nova Scotia Christmas in Halifax

Christmas in Halifax is one of the most beautiful times of year to visit the city. From the many decorations and twinkling lights of the Halifax Evergreen Festival to popular winter activities, there is so much to explore.

So pack up your family and friends and head to the city to celebrate a true Nova Scotia Christmas with these popular upcoming events and holiday attractions. It’s the perfect way to share the season with loved ones.

Halifax Evergreen Festival 2025

The Halifax Evergreen Festival is Nova Scotia's top Christmas event. It kicks off the holiday season in November with the Halifax Christmas Tree Lighting and runs through December. Organized by Build Nova Scotia and community partners, this four-week festival transforms the city into a winter wonderland.

Visitors will find cultural attractions, shopping, food, live entertainment, and illuminated light displays scattered throughout the waterfront, downtown Halifax, the Public Gardens, Parade Square, Peace & Friendship Park, and downtown Dartmouth.

2025 Festival Dates: November 21 – December 14

7 Exciting Ways To Celebrate Christmas In Halifax

The Evergreen Bright Trails offer holiday light displays throughout the city.

1. Wander the Evergreen Bright Trail

Halifax shines during the Evergreen Festival, and the Evergreen Bright Trail is the centerpiece. From the twinkling harbourfront to glowing installations in the Public Gardens and downtown Dartmouth, the city becomes a patchwork of colour and light. Bundle up, grab a hot drink, and follow the illuminated paths for a holiday stroll that feels magical at every turn.

2. Discover Local Treasures at the Evergreen Market

Step into a holiday market straight out of a Hallmark Christmas movie. The Evergreen Market fills the Halifax waterfront with 22 chalet-style booths featuring Nova Scotia’s best artisans, makers, and food vendors. You’ll find everything from handmade ornaments and cozy knits to festive cocktails and gourmet treats. The lights, music, and bustle of shoppers create an atmosphere that’s as much about the experience as it is the holiday shopping.

  • Location: Foundation Lot South, 1549 Lower Water Street
  • Hours: Wed–Fri 4 pm – 9 pm, Sat 11 am – 9 pm, Sun 11 am – 7 pm (closed Mon–Tue)

3. Soak Up Live Music at The BG

Nothing pairs better with holiday lights than live music on the waterfront. The BG (Beer Garden) transforms into a festive gathering spot with firepits, cozy seating, and local musicians performing all weekend long. Sip a mulled wine, watch the harbour lights shimmer, and let the music carry you into the night with festive fun.

  • Hours: Fri 12 pm – 9 pm, Sat 12 pm – 9 pm, Sun 12 pm – 6 pm

4. Sip Your Way Through the Evergreen Cocoa Trail

Forget plain hot chocolate. This is Halifax’s sweetest holiday adventure. The Evergreen Cocoa Trail takes you through cafés and restaurants serving over-the-top creations like candy cane white chocolate, spiced Mexican cocoa, and toasted marshmallow topped with whipped cream. Each stop is a little festive surprise, and by the end you’ll be as full of holiday spirit as you are of cocoa.

5. Play at the Winter Sports Zone

The Evergreen Winter Sports Zone brings a playful side to the Evergreen Festival. Test your skills at ball hockey or curling, grab a bite from the food trucks, or warm up in the cozy shelters between games. It’s free, family-friendly, and the perfect way to burn off some energy before diving back into the lights and music.

  • Hours: Fri 4 pm – 9 pm, Sat 11 am – 9 pm, Sun 11 am – 7 pm

6. Ride the Evergreen Express

See the festival in motion aboard the Evergreen Express, a mini train that loops along the waterfront. It departs from the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront every hour on the hour and from Cunard Residences every half-hour, making it easy to hop on and off at spots like the Market and Queen’s Marque Courtyard. Kids love the novelty of riding a glowing Christmas train, but you’ll find plenty of adults smiling too.

  • Hours: Fri 4 pm – 9 pm, Sat 11 am – 9 pm, Sun 11 am – 7 pm

7. Unwind at the Merry & Bright Patio

When you’re ready to slow down, the Merry & Bright Patio is waiting at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront. Picture yourself by a firepit, wrapped in a blanket, sipping mulled wine or hot cocoa while thousands of lights twinkle overhead. Order the famous seafood chowder, snap a photo in the giant ornament, and toast the season in one of the most festive corners of the city.

  • Hours: Fri and Sat 4 pm – 9 pm, Sun 3 pm – 8 pm
Mom and daughter celebrating the holidays.

The Best Hotel In Halifax During The Holidays

With so many Christmas attractions and festive activities, Halifax is a fantastic weekend destination to get in the holiday spirit. Cameo Suites provides the perfect accommodation in the city for experiencing it all, whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or spending Christmas Eve in Halifax. Our cozy, budget-friendly suites are right downtown, within walking distance of the Evergreen Market, Winter Sports Zone, and the waterfront lights.

Be sure to check availability and reserve your room before we are booked up for this holiday season.