Celebrate Christmas in Halifax | Halifax Evergreen Festival
Christmas in Halifax is one of the most beautiful times of year to visit the city. From the colourful street lights of the Halifax Evergreen Festival to popular winter activities, there is so much to explore, with the Nova Scotia capital becoming a genuine winter wonderland, making it a great spot for celebrating the holiday season. So pack up your family and head to the city to celebrate Christmas in Halifax with these popular upcoming events and holiday attractions.
The Halifax Evergreen Festival
The Halifax Evergreen Festival is Nova Scotia’s premier Christmas celebration, reigning in the holiday season between November and December. The four-week festival organized by the Halifax Regional Municipality sees the city come to life with breathtaking light displays scattered throughout the downtown area and beyond. Meanwhile, Halifax’s iconic waterfront is converted into the Evergreen Festival, promising plenty of entertainment, shopping, and cultural attractions for guests celebrating the joy of the season.
2023 Festival Dates: November 21 to December 17
6 Exciting Ways To Celebrate Christmas In Halifax
1. Admire The Lights Along The Evergreen Bright Trail
From the Halifax Public Gardens holiday lights to the breathtakingly illuminated Halifax harbourfront, the city comes to life throughout the festival season with thousands of colourful light displays. And weaving its way through these marvellous attractions along the waterfront, downtown Dartmouth, downtown Halifax, and other public spaces is the Evergreen Bright Trail, offering a romantic evening for couples or a perfect adventure for getting the family into the holiday spirit.
2. Explore The Evergreen Village
Throughout the Evergreen Festival, the iconic Halifax waterfront is converted into a full-blown winter wonderland, with many local businesses, vendors, and activities partaking in the holiday spirit. Known as the Evergreen Village, the waterfront becomes a haven of Christmas attractions that include a Ferris Wheel, the Evergreen Stage, and the Evergreen Market, promising an exciting Christmas shopping experience.
3. Enjoy Live Music With The Evergreen Stage Series
Presented by the Halifax Jazz Festival, the Evergreen Stage Series is a festive line-up of live performances from your favourite local bands every weekend throughout the Halifax Evergreen Festival. The shows are entirely free to attend and welcome families to get cozy stageside for enjoying the holiday music, or guests can reserve seats at the Halifax Beer Garden, which sits adjacent to the stage. Shows run from 5-9 p.m. on Fridays, from 1-9 p.m. on Saturdays, and from 1-4 p.m. on Sundays throughout the festival.
4. Grab A Hot Chocolate Along The Evergreen Cocoa Trail
Nothing screams the holidays quite like a warm cup of hot chocolate. Luckily, this festive drink has become a quintessential part of the Christmas season in Halifax, with the city’s annual festival even establishing the Evergreen Cocoa Trail. Guiding guests through the Halifax Evergreen Festival’s Christmas village and winter light displays, the Cocoa Trail stops at several businesses along the way, offering diverse samplings of some of the community’s best hot chocolates. Following this path is a great way to experience all the Christmas attractions the city offers while enjoying the delicious, family-friendly treat.
5. Bring The Family To The SaltWire Holiday Parade Of Lights
While not officially a part of the Halifax Evergreen Festival, the SaltWire Holiday Parade of Lights kicks off the holiday season each year. A family favourite in Halifax, this annual parade has been one of the most anticipated holiday events in Nova Scotia since the conception of the celebration in 1995. The parade route cuts right through the heart of the city’s downtown area and is known to attract thousands of visitors from across the province. So grab your family and snag your spots early in the day to ensure you get the best views of the floats and Santa.
6. Visit The Glow Gardens
Laugh & stroll under the twinkle of a million lights at Glow Gardens “Around the World”. Enjoy a tour of China, The Netherlands, France, Mexico, The United Kingdom and India with larger-than-life illuminated installations representing some of these countries’ iconic structures. Towering exhibits, interactive activities, and glowing playgrounds will delight the whole family. Kick back at the licensed bar and enjoy a selection of beverages, food, and festive music by local performers. Shop the winter market, showcasing local artisans and boutique businesses.
The Best Hotel In Halifax During The Holidays
With so many Christmas attractions and activities in the city, Halifax is a fantastic weekend destination for getting in the holiday spirit. Cameo Suites provides the perfect accommodation in the city for experiencing it all. Located in the heart of downtown Halifax, our budget-friendly suite options promise cozy lodging within walking distance of the city’s holiday attractions and a convenient location for attending the Christmas parade.
Be sure to check availability and reserve your room before we are booked up for this holiday season.