Halifax 
The Winter and Christmas Holidays from school are just around the corner, which means it is time for you to start thinking about what fun activities are available to do with the family during the week or the long break. Luckily, there is a lot of fun to be had in Halifax and HRM during the winter break. So, instead of spending your holiday break being bored at home this year (all while following COVID-19 restrictions), you should spend some time outside with family and friends exploring the beautiful city.
New COVID-19 Restrictions in Nova Scotia – Christmas Gatherings & Travel Guidelines
Sledding
Who doesn’t love tobogganing? Have a fun time with the family sliding down the slopes. Citadel Hill is an obvious sledding spot and one of the most popular locations in the city for this specific reason. There are many spots to pick from and you just need to wait for a good snowfall. The Wanderer’s Grounds, on the hill’s west side has an extremely steep slide and a long landing area. The only disadvantage of sledding down Citadel Hill is that you can pick up too much speed at times.
Another popular sledding spot is The Pit, one of the best sledding spot in Halifax. It does have a steep hill, so you do pick up speed quickly all the way to the bottom of this former quarry.
You can also check out Flinn Park, located on the right side of the North West arm close to the Armdale Roundabout. This hill has a lot of jumps and twists, which makes it a great place to go for experienced sledders who are looking to catch some serious air.
The best place to sled at the Dartmouth Commons is near the gazebo. You just need to look around for a good hill to go sledding on.
The Mother Hill is located behind Mount Saint Vincent where the Mother House once stood. The hill is part of Clayton Park and provides a long sledding journey that takes you through the MSVU campus and the surrounding subdivision.
Skating Rinks
Skating is a quintessential Canadian winter activity with many skating rinks available in all cities. Emera Oval, Zatman Sportsplex, Scotiabank Centre, Halifax Forum are popular places to skate in Halifax. Sportsplex and the Forum are currently closed. The opening of these centers is dependent on Covid-19 restrictions.
The Emera Oval is the place to be all year round because it is the largest outdoor artificially refrigerated ice surface east of Quebec City. The opening dates of the Oval have not yet been determined. You should check the Halifax website to see what dates and times that the Emera Oval is open.
Cross-country skiing
Skiing is an enjoyable way to take in the winter scenery and a great activity for all ages. There are a good number of trails that you can enjoy here like the Chain of Lakes Trail, First Lake Glen Slauenwhite Trail in Sackville, Atlantic View Trail in Cole Harbour, Frog Pond Trail, Point Pleasant Park Trails, and many others. Halifax Nordic Ski Club and Cross Country NS are great resources to check out for information on groomed trails and updates.
Geocaching
Find hidden treasures and discover the many geocaches located throughout the region. This family-friendly activity uses a mobile app or a GPS device. This is also a fun way to interact with nature while getting mild exercise and explore new areas.
Snowshoeing
For easy fun winter sports try snowshoeing. This is an excellent way to exercise in winter and a great way to enjoy the trails!
Winter Walk
Winter Walks anyone? The beauty of winter can best be enjoyed by a walk. Whether you take a brisk walk or a relaxed one, what is certain is that you will have a wonderful time enjoying the open air. Pack a picnic and plan to spend an afternoon outside playing games with your loved ones.
Winter Getaway
While planning a trip in the midst of the pandemic and the restrictions might not feel worthwhile, there are many places that have large open spaces to enjoy a quiet break away from the hustle and bustle of crowds. Call and enquire before you book your stay.
Visit Attractions
The following attractions are currently open. Do keep in mind that these centres may close subject to evolving Covid-19 restrictions. Currently, these attractions are keeping reduced hours and walk-ins are not allowed. Please pre-book your visit.
Indoor Fun in Halifax: (Update: As per the new restrictions, museums and galleries are allowed to reopen, check the article and visit some attractions over the holidays.)
See Christmas Lights
- Glow Gardens– Experience a family-friendly indoor winter festival as you enjoy towering light gardens, glowing activities, delicious treats, and daily live entertainment… all under the twinkle of a million lights.
- Tunnel of Hope – Dress warmly and head down to Halifax Waterfront to stroll the 150-ft light installation that stretches along the Salter Street boardwalk.
- Evergreen Bright – Enjoy an outdoor trail of holiday lights along the waterfront and throughout downtown Halifax.
- Light Up The Park – The trees surrounding Acadia Park will be lit with over 4,000 shining white lights to create a winter wonderland. The park will remain lit for the holiday season.
Christmas Dinner
Enjoy a festive dinner with family.
Do some holiday shopping at Halifax Seaport Farmers Market
Holiday shopping can be very stressful, and it can be difficult to find unique gifts for everyone on your list. This year, shop local and buy fresh produce and your holiday gifts at one of the many farmers market in HRM. The largest and longest running farmers market is the Halifax Seaport Farmers Market. The market is open from Tuesday to Sunday every week.
Resolution Run
Come on out to our annual 5k Walk/Run and say goodbye to 2020 alongside your running buddies!! Details
December 28, 2020 – January 3, 2021
Wherever you are in Canada
$10 – $35
Watch The Great Conjunction
Go Bird Watching
Birding is a fun activity to do in winter. What are the popular winter birds that you can spot? Can you notice any winter adaptation changes in them? Grab a pair of binoculars, download a bird ID app, and try to name all the birds that you can spot. Do a Christmas Bird Count. If you don’t want to venture outside do an unofficial count of the birds that visit your bird feeder.
Children’s Activities
Keep your child engaged at home with these fun activities.
Hatfield Farm
Enjoy a wagon/sleigh ride at Hatfield Farm. Spend some time making friends with the animals at the petting zoo. The rides will not be available on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Call 902-835-5676 to know their hours of operation.
Online Concerts/Theatres
Enjoy online concerts and theatres during winter break.
Explore Canada or the World From Home
Explore Canada’s arctic, Winnipeg, National Parks, and many more places from Home. Travel to international or outer space destinations like the international space station, discover Egypt’s Heritage Sites from tombs to monasteries, or take a trip on scenic trains in Europe virtually.
