Things to do this August Long Weekend in Halifax
Friday, July 31 – Monday, August 3, 2026
The first Monday in August is Natal Day, and it is jam-packed with things to do, whichever side of the harbour you are on. So, gather your friends and family and head outside for a whole bunch of fun, all weekend long.
I. Family & Kids Activities this weekend
Halifax-Dartmouth Natal Day Celebrations
The 2026 Natal Day celebrations offer a range of family-friendly activities and festivities for both young and old. Details
July 30 – August 2, 2026
Halifax-Dartmouth Natal Day Harbour Fireworks | Saturday, August 1 | 10:00 PM – 10:30 PM @ Halifax or Dartmouth Waterfront (Dartmouth Ferry Terminal Park has the best view)
ANSMA 21st Anniversary Fireworks | Sunday, August 2 | 9:30 PM @ Halifax Harbour
Natal Day Lake Banook Fireworks | Monday, August 3 | 9:30 PM – 10:00 PM @ Lake Banook on Prince Albert Road
Halifax or Dartmouth Waterfront and at Grand Parade
Free
Jurassic Quest
Embark on a journey where North America’s largest moving, roaring, and breathing dinosaurs come alive in a fully immersive walk-through experience. Discovery awaits at every turn as families dig for fossils, meet adorable baby dinos, ride life-sized giants, and let their creativity soar in our LEGO®-themed play zones. Details
July 31 – August 2, 2026
July 31 | 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
August 1 | 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
August 2 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
August 3 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Halifax Exhibition Centre, 200 Prospect Rd, Goodwood
$36.83 – $116.63
129th Pepsi Natal Day Parade
The 2026 Halifax-Dartmouth PEPSI Natal Day Parade will take place on Monday, August 3rd, starting at 10:30 am. Details
Monday, August 3, 2026 | 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Downtown Dartmouth
Free
Halifax Busker Festival
Enjoy Nova Scotia’s favourite festival on the Halifax and Dartmouth waterfronts. With stages at the Halifax Seaport, Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, Sackville Landing, and Foundation Wharf, the 40th annual Halifax Busker Festival provides locals and visitors alike with exciting and unique entertainment with six days of incredible performances.
This year’s electrifying acts include: 2025’s People’s Choice winner Pancho Libre, Hannah Cryle, Her Majesty’s Secret Circus, Jack Wise, LIFT!, MARBLE, Seb und Fritzzz, The Fire Ninja, Victor Rubilar, and Silver Elvis on the Halifax waterfront.
Beyond these incredible performers, Buskers also features the Glow Fun Land at Sands at Salter, plus a variety of vendors, food trucks, and fun!! Details
July 29 to August 3, 2026
Halifax and Dartmouth Waterfront
Free
Natal Day Undersea Adventure Family Fun Day
Join us for a FREE Family Fun Day packed with excitement, entertainment, and adventures.
Enjoy hands-on crafts and games, food and dessert vendors, and fun activities for the family. Don’t miss your chance to meet Paw Patrol Characters Marshall & Zuma! Details
Monday, August 3, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Sullivan’s Pond
Free
Canada Strong Pass – Explore Nova Scotia
Enjoy free admission to Parks Canada sites and free admission for children aged 17 and under, 50% off admission fees for youth aged 18 to 24 to provincial museums until September 7, 2026.
- Parks Canada National Parks and Historic Sites
- National Museums: Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21
- Art Gallery of Nova Scotia — Halifax
- Baile nan Gàidheal | Highland Village — Iona
- Balmoral Grist Mill — Balmoral Mills
- Black Loyalist Heritage Centre — Birchtown
- Clifton Museum Park — Windsor
- Firefighters Museum of Nova Scotia — Yarmouth
- Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic — Lunenburg
- Historic Acadian Village of Nova Scotia — Lower West Pubnico
- Maritime Museum of the Atlantic — Halifax
- Museum of Industry — Stellarton
- Museum of Natural History — Halifax
- Old Meeting House — Barrington Passage
- Ross Farm Museum — New Ross
- Sherbrooke Village — Sherbrooke
- The Dory Shop — Shelburne
- Uniacke Museum Estate Park — Mount Uniacke
Fun at Atlantic Splash Adventure
Ride and slide at Splash Adventure. Enjoy rides, slides, mini-golf, go-karts, batting cages, kids pool, carousel and more here. New this year is the Outdoor Laser Tag, and RC Car Racing Track. Details
Daily | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Atlantic Splash Adventure, 1200 Lucasville Rd, Lucasville
2026 Gate Prices (includes all rides, slides and attractions): $26.95 – $48.95
Mission: Astronaut
Blast off on a journey through astronaut training! This immersive experience invites visitors of all ages to step into the role of an astronaut and tackle real-world challenges inspired by space missions past, present, and future.
With robotics, hands-on interactives, and STEM-based challenges, Mission: Astronaut visitors discover how teamwork and innovation make life beyond Earth possible. Details
Daily | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Discovery Centre, 1215 Lower Water Street, Halifax
Regular admission is $14.50 – $17.50
Visit Hatfield Farm
Petting pens are open! Talk with the animals at The Hatfield Farm Petting Pen. Donkeys, Goats, Cows, Alpacas and more! Details
Daily | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Hatfield Farm, 1840 Hammonds Plains Road, Hammonds Plains
Petting Pen: Infants Under 1 – Free, 1 – 3 years old – $6.00, 4 years old and up $10.00
Day Trip — Natal Day Weekend
Encampment Days
Stroll around the encampment of the 84th Regiment of Foot 2nd Battalion (Royal Highland Emigrants) and enjoy the sights, smells, and sounds of black powder musketry, outdoor cooking, and life in an 18th century military camp.
Saturday afternoon from 2 pm to 3 pm, a tactical battle features 18th-century military techniques, weather permitting. Details
July 31 – August 2, 2026
Fort Anne National Historic Site, 323 St George St, Annapolis Royal
Regular admission
Fireworks at Fort Anne
Come early, lay down your blanket and settle in on the scenic grounds. Take in the wondrous open sky and watch Annapolis Royal’s magical fireworks display. Details
Sunday, August 2, 2026 | 9:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Fort Anne National Historic Site, 323 St George St, Annapolis Royal
Regular admission
Natal Day at Fort Anne
Visit Annapolis Royal for the annual Natal Day Parade starting at 1 pm.
After the parade, join us in Fort Anne’s parking lot to take a closer look at the handiwork involved in creating these colourful displays. Who will be this year’s float winners? Don’t miss the excitement! Details
Monday, August 3, 2026 | 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Fort Anne National Historic Site, 323 St George St, Annapolis Royal
Regular admission
II. Live Music
Dartmouth Summer Sunshine Series Free Concerts
The 2026 Dartmouth Sunshine Series is back with 7 weekends of programming at the Dartmouth Ferry Terminal Park. Details
Crescendo Fest | Saturday, August 1 | 7:00 PM @ Dartmouth Ferry Terminal Park
ANSMA 21st Anniversary “Freedom Festival” Natal Day Concert | Sunday, August 2 | 2:00 PM @ Dartmouth Ferry Terminal Park
Dartmouth Ferry Terminal Park
Free
Crescendo Festival Concert
Crescendo Fest is an annual festival dedicated to amplifying Black artists and their music. It is a hub that will create space for Black Music artists to engage from across Atlantic Canada. Details
July 28 – August 1, 2026
Dartmouth Ferry Terminal Park
Free and ticketed
Sullivan’s Pond Concert Series
The Downtown Dartmouth Sullivan’s Pond Concert Series are free concerts open to all, featuring talented local musical acts. Starting in July, you can attend many summer concerts at Sullivan’s Pond on the Bandshell Stage. This is a great opportunity to see Dartmouth’s local music scene for FREE! Bring your family, friends, and your lawn chair to join us for lovely afternoons full of music and fun! Details
STiCK & SLiDE | Monday, August 3 2026 | 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
MarcellSings | Monday, August 3 2026 | 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM
Ced, Marty & Dave | Monday, August 3 2026 | 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM
Anna Plaskett & The Astronauts | Monday, August 3 2026 | 3:00 PM
The Town Heroes | Monday, August 3 2026 | 6:30PM
Bandshell Stage, Sullivan’s Pond, Dartmouth
Free
The Desperado Band – Outlaw Country Classics
The Desperado Band – Thomas Matheson (guitar/vocals), William Matheson (guitar/vocals), Mike Nahirnak (pedal steel/electric guitar/vocals), PK (bass) and Matt Duncanson (drums/vocals) – are back at The Carleton to rock out some classic outlaw country tunes on Friday, July 31st. Details
Friday, July 31, 2026 | 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
The Carleton, 1685 Argyle St, Halifax
$22.80
Million Vibes with aRENYE & Yung St4k
Million Vibes is a vibrant music collective and cultural movement based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. It bridges Afrobeats, hip-hop, reggae, and R&B. Details
Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Halifax Public Gardens, 5665 Spring Garden Road, Halifax
Free
Ty Messick & Friends
One of Nova Scotia’s top songwriters and performers, Ty Messick, with friends including Pictou County singing legend Virgil Muir and some of the best players in the city – because they’re so damned good – will return to The Carleton again on Saturday, August 1st. Details
Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
The Carleton, 1685 Argyle St, Halifax
$14.25
Kathleen Edwards
Kathleen Edwards brings her signature sharp songwriting and honest storytelling to the stage, performing music from her latest album, Billionaire. Details
Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 8:00 PM
Light House Arts Centre, 1800 Argyle St 2nd Floor, Halifax
$56+
Kasador: Momma Might’ve Raised A Fool Tour
Kasador make their return to Halifax as part of the ‘Momma Might’ve Raised A Fool’ tour. Known for their high energy live show and raw authentic alt-rock sound, this is a must see show. Kasador are riding a wave of momentum fresh off the release of their latest record, a UK tour and a handful of National TV syncs with the MLB, Hockey Night in Canada, and the CBC. Details
Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 7:30 PM
Seahorse Tavern, 2037 Gottingen, Halifax
$16.58
HRM Sunday Concert Series: Zamani
Zamani Folade is a highly acclaimed, Halifax-based singer, songwriter, and producer whose music seamlessly blends R&B, Neo Soul, and Urban Jazz. Details
Sunday, August 2, 2026 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Halifax Public Gardens, 5665 Spring Garden Road, Halifax
Free
Annual ANSMA Freedom Festival
The African Nova Scotia Music Association in partnership with the Halifax-Dartmouth Natal Day program will host the ANSMA “Freedom Festival” Concert on the Dartmouth Waterfront! Details
Sunday, August 2, 2026 | 2:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Dartmouth Ferry Terminal Park on the Dartmouth Waterfront Stage
Free
Mike Cowie Booty Boppin’ Brass Band
Enjoy the show in the Halifax Public Gardens put on by Mike Cowie’s Booty Poppin’ Brass Band, a brass band in the New Orleans marching band tradition with eastern Canadian flair. Details
Monday, August 3, 2026 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Halifax Public Gardens, 5665 Spring Garden Road, Halifax
Free
III. Theatre/Performing Arts
Beauty and the Beast: The Fairy-tale Game-show Musical
Created by celebrated Nova Scotian artists Dan Bray and Garry Williams, the musical reimagines Beauty and the Beast through the chaotic world of reality game-show television, bringing a modern, comedic edge to the classic “tale as old as time.”
Starring Nova Scotian actor Seb Reade as Belle, returning for their second season at SBTS, as well as Chris George as The Beast (back for his 5th Season) the production blends heart, humour, and high-energy performance to continue the beloved tradition of fun family musicals in Point Pleasant Park! Details
July 4 – August 29, 2026
Saturday, August 1 | 7:00 PM
Cambridge Battery, 5800 Point Pleasant Dr, Halifax
Same-day “PWYC” seats available at the door; Sweet Seats are $30+hst/seat; Sweetest Seats are $50+hst/seat
Beauty and the Beast: The Fairy-tale Game-show Musical
Leading the charge is beloved Nova Scotian actor Burgandy Code, making a highly anticipated SBTS debut as the titular Julius Caesar, commanding the stage as Rome’s fate hangs in the balance.
SBTS favourites return to ignite the production, including Jade Douris-O’Hara in dual roles as Mark Antony and Portia and Patrick Jeffrey as the conflicted Brutus at the heart of one of Shakespeare’s most explosive tragedies.
Packed with tension, power struggle, and emotional intensity, Julius Caesar delivers a gripping night of theatre under the stars where every decision changes history and no one leaves unscathed. Details
July 17 – August 28, 2026
Friday, July 31 | 7:00 PM
Saturday, August 1 | 1:00 PM
Sunday, August 2 | 7:00 PM
Cambridge Battery, 5800 Point Pleasant Dr, Halifax
Same-day “PWYC” seats available at the door;Sweet Seats are $30+hst/seat; Sweetest Seats are $50+hst/seat
RENT
Based loosely on Puccini’s La Boheme , RENT ran for over 5000 performances on Broadway. The show follows a year in the life of a group of young artists living a bohemian life in New York City’s East Village, as they navigate love, poverty, and gentrification under the shadow of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Full of anthemic rock tunes, heartbreaking ballads, and lyrics that inspired a generation, RENT is a cultural phenomenon you do not want to miss. Details
July 7 – August 30, 2026
Friday, July 31 | 7:30 PM
Saturday, August 1 | 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM
Sunday, August 2 | 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM
Fountain Hall Stage at Neptune Theatre, 1593 Argyle St, Halifax
$40 – $99
IV. Sports
HFX Wanderers FC
vs. Forge FC. Details
Sunday, August 2, 2026 | 7:00 PM
Wanderers Grounds, 5819 Sackville Street, Halifax
$27 and up
Halifax Tides FC Game
vs. Ottawa Rapid FC. Details
Monday, August 3, 2026 | 3:00 PM
Wanderers Grounds, 5819 Sackville Street, Halifax
$25 and up
Harbour Hustle: One Bridge, Endless Hustle
Run, walk, or hustle your way along the harbour! Harbour Hustle is a family-friendly summer event designed for runners and aspiring runners of all ages — from 3 to 93. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just looking for a fun day outdoors, this is your chance to move and make a difference. Details
Sunday, August 2, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
All races start on the Halifax side of the Macdonald Bridge
$13.07; Youth Free
The Halifax Harbour Bridges Annual Macdonald Bridge Walk
Join thousands of Haligonians for this free, family-friendly event as we open the Macdonald Bridge to pedestrians for an afternoon of fun, celebration, and spectacular views! Details
Sunday, August 2, 2026 | 2:00 PM – 4:30 AM
Macdonald Bridge, Halifax
Free
120th Dartmouth Natal Day Road Race
The Dartmouth Natal Day Road Races have been held in Dartmouth since 1907–more than 110 years making it the second-oldest race in Canada and one of the oldest in North America.
Details
Monday, August 3, 2026 | 8:15 AM
The race will start and finish near Christ Church on Ochterloney Street and follow a 2-mile loop course around Sullivan’s Pond & Downtown Dartmouth.
$18.47 – $45.46
V. Exhibitions, Festivals & Other Events
Emancipation Day 2026
Emancipation Day is the day The Slavery Abolition Act became law in the British Empire (including Canada) and ended the practice of slavery for millions of African People and their descendants around the world. The Act became law on August 1, 1834 marking the first Emancipation Day. The Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia, partnered with African Nova Scotian Affairs would like to invite you to the Halifax Waterfront to commemorate and celebrate this historical day. Details
Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 11:00 AM
Halifax Waterfront at 1521 Lower Water Street, Halifax
Free
Family Fun Day
Set sail for Georges Island for Family Fun Days with Parks Canada this Summer! Don’t miss the chance to explore this historic hidden gem in the centre of Halifax Harbour with the whole family. Join Parks Canada for special games, a treasure hunt, guided tours of the underground tunnels and much more! Pack a picnic or pre-order a Parks Canada Perfect Picnic from Sapori Italian Street Food.
Friday, July 31, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Georges Island National Historic Site
The Ferry to Georges Island departs/returns from Cable Wharf, 1751 Lower Water Street, Halifax
Regular Admission
Welcome to Turtle Island
Celebrate the knowledge, artistry, and technologies that have always shaped Turtle Island. Tthe installation is grounded in research and authentic representation based on tribal linguistic family groups. It includes references to language, cultural practice, innovation, and spirituality. We hope this installation inspires excitement to learn more about the rich culture of the original peoples of these lands. Details
December 2025 to December 2027
Daily | 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, 1055 Marginal Road, Halifax
Adult (25-60) $19.00; Senior (60+) $15.00; Youth (17 and under) Free, courtesy of the Canada Strong Pass; Young Adult (18-24) $9.50 (50% discount courtesy of the Canada Strong Pass); Student (18-24) $6.50 (50% discount courtesy of the Canada Strong Pass); Student Rate (25+ with valid ID) $13.00; Proof of age may be requested.
The Schoolhouse Tour
Step back in time at The Schoolhouse, a landmark building long-cherished by the community of Peggy’s Cove from the time it was built in 1839 until it closed in 1958. Lovingly restored, this historic structure offers a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century student life in the quaint seaside village. Explore its unique architecture and informative displays of artifacts reflective of the Nova Scotian curriculum during its lifetime on this self-guided tour. Details
Daily, May 15 – October 12, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
The School House, 120 Peggy’s Point Road, Peggy’s Cove
Admission to The Schoolhouse Tour is free.
Guided Walking Tour
Enjoy a guided walking tour learning the fascinating history of the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. Learn more about the life of a British soldier and his family, reenacted by members of a historical reenactment group. Details
Check the daily schedule posted at the Visitor Information Centre for times
Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, 5425 Sackville St. Halifax
Tours start at the Visitor Information Centre
Free with admission
Paint the Gardens
Creativity and community come together once again as The Friends of the Public Gardens’ plein air Paint the Gardens program returns for the 2026 season. Details
Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Halifax Public Gardens, 5665 Spring Garden Road, Halifax
Registration is required for each session
Enjoy an Outdoor Adventure
The beautiful views, flowing waters, and lovely forests beckon adventurists to go hiking, paddling, surfing, rafting, rock climbing, and more. Check out the 25 Outdoor Adventures in Nova Scotia.
You may like:
- 25 Lakes For Fun Water Activities in Nova Scotia
- 21 Places for Canoeing, Kayaking and SUPing in Nova Scotia
Halifax Citadel Ghost Tour
Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, 5425 Sackville Street, Halifax
$23.29
Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
Immerse yourself in Nova Scotia’s rich maritime heritage than the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. Details
Daily | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM; Tuesday until 8:00 PM
Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, Lower Water Street, at the base of Prince Street
$6.50 – $11; Child 5 and under is Free
Alderney Landing Farmers’ Market
The Alderney Landing Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday. You can find great local produce, premade food, art, and handcrafted goods. Details
Saturdays | 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Alderney Landing, 2 Ochterloney Street, Dartmouth Waterfront
Free
Seaport Farmer’s Market
The Seaport Farmer’s Market is the oldest and largest farmers market and is a huge part of the city’s history. There are over 250 vendors from across Nova Scotia who bring local items and fresh food to the market. Details
Saturday | 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Sunday | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Pavilion 23 – 961 Marginal Road, Halifax
Free
Cole Harbour Farm Museum
The Cole Harbour Heritage Farm is a living museum that is dedicated to interpreting and preserving Cole Harbour’s agriculture past and developing an understanding of plants, farming and animals. During a visit, you can meet traditional livestock including goats, sheep, pigs, and chickens. Details
Wednesday to Sunday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Cole Harbour Farm Museum, 471 Poplar Drive Cole Harbour
Admission is by donation
We do try to make the listings as accurate as possible, but there may be typographical/oversight errors or events may be cancelled or postponed without any notice. Verify all details from concerned event Websites/officials.