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Things to Do During Winter/Christmas Holidays in Halifax

Winter Break 2025–2026: Family-Friendly Activities in Halifax

Make this winter break unforgettable with a mix of festive lights, outdoor adventures, and indoor fun. Enjoy these family-friendly activities from December 20, 2025, to January 4, 2026.

More Fun Things to Do During Winter Break

See Holiday Lights

Discover the magic of the holiday season with these enchanting attractions and events that light up the winter nights.

  • Glow Gardens: Experience the magic of Glow Gardens. Join the Head Ringmaster on a whimsical journey through six enchanting booths — Leadership, Laughter, Teamwork, Kindness, Creativity, and Holiday Spirit — as children train to become Young Ringmasters.  Open November 20, 2025 – January 3, 2026 at Halifax Exhibition Centre. Closed on December 24 – 25, 2025.
  • Light Up The Park: Acadia Park transforms into a stunning winter wonderland as over 4,000 white lights illuminate its towering trees. November 29 – December 31, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
  • Delightful Downtown: Downtown Halifax becomes a dazzling spectacle with vivid light shows and creative installations set up at various locations. Wander through the heart of the city, enjoying these delightful sights. The Season’s Greetings Light Show runs from December 1 to 26, 2025. The Winter Light Show runs December 27 – January 18. The New Year Light Show runs December 30 – January 2.

Visit Local Attractions

Halifax offers an array of attractions perfect for entertainment, education, or inspiration. From historical landmarks to cultural treasures, these destinations provide a warm and inviting way to explore the city’s rich heritage and vibrant community.

  • Citadel Hill National Historic Site: Step back in time at Citadel Hill, where history comes alive in this iconic fortress overlooking Halifax. Explore interactive exhibits, witness live reenactments, and learn about the city’s military past.
  • Halifax Public Gardens: Escape to the lush serenity of the Halifax Public Gardens, a Victorian-era oasis in the city’s heart. Enjoy the garden’s greenhouse and seasonal exhibits.
  • Art Gallery of Nova Scotia: Discover the region’s artistic spirit at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, showcasing contemporary and historical works. Explore the inspiring Maud Lewis collection and rotating exhibits that reflect Nova Scotia’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Halifax Central Library: Marvel at the stunning architecture of the Halifax Central Library, a cultural hub that blends modern design with community engagement. Enjoy its cozy reading nooks, local art displays, and panoramic views from the rooftop.
  • Maritime Museum of the Atlantic: Dive into Halifax’s maritime heritage at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, home to exhibits on the Titanic, the Halifax Explosion, and historic vessels. This waterfront museum offers a fascinating journey through Nova Scotia’s seafaring past.
  • Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21: Experience Canada’s immigration story at Pier 21, where personal stories and interactive exhibits bring history to life.
  • Atlantic Canada Aviation Museum: Explore the skies at the Atlantic Canada Aviation Museum, showcasing aircraft, memorabilia, and exhibits celebrating aviation history. Perfect for aviation enthusiasts, this museum provides a fascinating look at Canada’s aeronautical achievements.
  • Discovery Centre: Ignite curiosity at the Discovery Centre, a hands-on science and technology museum for all ages. The Centre features interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and a state-of-the-art dome theatre.
  • Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame: Celebrate athletic achievements at the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame, highlighting local sports legends and moments. Explore interactive exhibits, memorabilia, and inspiring stories that showcase the province’s rich sporting heritage.
  • Hatfield Farm: Experience winter fun at Hatfield Farm with a delightful wagon or sleigh ride through scenic trails. Visit the petting zoo to meet friendly animals and create lasting family memories.
  • Museum of Natural History: Explore Nova Scotia’s natural wonders at the Museum of Natural History. Meet Gus the gopher tortoise, see live animals in the Nature Lab, and enjoy interactive exhibits like Netukulimk and Science on a Sphere.

Exciting Indoor Entertainment

From exciting challenges to relaxing pastimes, Halifax’s amazing attractions are sure to keep everyone entertained.

  • Putting Edge: Step into a neon wonderland at Putting Edge, a glow-in-the-dark mini-golf experience perfect for all ages. With vibrant colors, creative course designs, and an immersive atmosphere, it’s a fun and unique way to spend an afternoon or evening indoors.
  • HaliMac Axe Throwing: Unleash your inner lumberjack at HaliMac Axe Throwing, where you can test your aim and skill in a safe, exciting environment.
  • Bowlarama: Halifax’s premier bowling destination features ten-pin bowling, arcade games, and cosmic bowling nights.
  • Seven Bays Bouldering: Climb to new heights at Seven Bays Bouldering, an indoor rock climbing gym for adventurers of all skill levels.
  • The Board Room Game Café: Indulge in hours of entertainment at The Board Room Game Café, where you can choose from an extensive library of board games and tasty treats to play and enjoy with friends or family.
  • Captured Escape Rooms: Put your problem-solving skills to the test in the various themed rooms at Captured Escape Rooms. Work as a team to escape before the clock runs out in this thrilling and immersive experience.
  • Action Laser Tag: Gear up for fast-paced fun with Action Laser Tag, a private, by-appointment venue. Dive into an action-packed adventure as you navigate the arena and tag your opponents with precision.
  • Playdium: Experience endless fun at Playdium, Halifax’s ultimate indoor arcade and entertainment center. Featuring video games, virtual reality, and classic arcade favorites, it’s a haven for gamers of all ages.
  • Beyond! Indoor Play: Let your kids burn off energy at Beyond! Indoor Play, a vibrant play center with climbing structures, slides, and imaginative spaces.
  • Activate: Navigate through high-tech rooms filled with puzzles, obstacles, and exciting challenges for an interactive gaming experience that blends physical challenges with virtual elements.
  • hop! skip! jump! Indoor Play Space: Give your little ones a day to remember at hop! skip! jump! This Indoor Play Space is a colorful and creative playground designed for kids with slides, obstacle courses, and interactive play zones.

Christmas & Boxing Day

Celebrate the holidays with family-friendly traditions and festive outings this Christmas and Boxing Day, December 25 and 26.

Christmas Dinner

New Year’s Eve Activities

Ring in the New Year with exciting celebrations for all ages. Choose from family-friendly events, runs, and festive parties to welcome 2026 in style.

Live Music and Theatre

Family-Friendly Events

  • Programs at HPL: Sign up or drop in for the programs happening at various Halifax Public Library branches.
  • Santa at Mic Mac Mall: Santa will be at Mic Mac Mall from November 15 – December 23, 2025.
  • One Dickens of a Christmas: Step into a realm where age-old customs embrace the wild beauty of the Atlantic coast.
  • Wagon/Sleigh Rides: Enjoy sleigh/wagon rides at Hatfield Farm. Decemebr 23 – 24, 2025
  • Christmas Break Family Roundup: A 2+ hour adventure includes a wagon/sleigh ride to and from Fort Clayton, time in our Rubber Rodeo, a hotdog, fries and unlimited Pepsi products for lunch, followed by time on the ziplines and playgrounds. December 29 – 30, January 2 – 4.
  • Mazes & Brain Games: An engaging, family-friendly exhibition that invites visitors of all ages to lose the map and find the fun. Whether you’re navigating life-size labyrinths or outsmarting optical illusions, this immersive exhibit will keep you thinking around every corner.
  • Scotiabank Centre Noon Skates: Lace up and join us for some lunchtime fun on the ice! Monday, December 22, 2025 | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

Sports

Halifax Thunderbirds at Scotiabank Centre

  • vs. Saskatchewan Rush on Thursday, December 27, 2025 | 7:00 PM

Halifax Mooseheads at Scotiabank Centre

  • vs Newfoundland Regiment on Sunday, December 28, 2025 | 3:00 PM
  • vs Cape Breton on Tuesday, December 30, 2025 | 7:00 PM
  • vs. Moncton Wildcats on Saturday, January 3, 2026 | 7:00 PM

Outdoor Winter Adventures

Winter season in Halifax provides countless ways to enjoy including outdoor thrills, serene walks, or engaging activities.

  • Sledding and Tobogganing: Nothing beats the thrill of sledding down Halifax’s scenic slopes! Citadel Hill is a favorite spot, offering steep slides with breathtaking city views. For more adrenaline, try The Pit, a former quarry known for its speedy descent, or Flinn Park with its jumps and twists for experienced sledders. The Dartmouth Commons and Mother Hill in Clayton Park also promise fun-filled rides for all ages.
  • Skating Rinks: Skate through the season at The Emera Oval, the largest outdoor ice surface east of Quebec. Enjoy the fresh air and smooth ice under the winter sky. Other popular spots include the Zatzman Sportsplex and Halifax Forum, though availability may vary, so check ahead for updates.
  • Cross-Country Skiing: Explore Halifax’s snowy trails. The Chain of Lakes Trail, Atlantic View Trail, and Point Pleasant Park Trails offer picturesque routes for skiers of all levels. For groomed trails and updates, connect with the Scotia XC Ski Club or Cross Country NS to plan your adventure.
  • Geocaching: Use a GPS device or app to locate hidden caches throughout Halifax’s parks and trails. It’s a fun and interactive way to explore nature, get light exercise, and embark on a family-friendly adventure in the great outdoors.
  • Snowshoeing: Explore snowy trails at your own pace with snowshoeing, an easy and fun way to stay active in winter. Trails like the Frog Pond Trail and Point Pleasant Park Trails are ideal for beginners and seasoned snowshoers alike.
  • Winter Walks: Discover the serene beauty of winter with a leisurely walk through Halifax’s trails and parks. Whether you prefer the scenic Frog Pond Trail or the urban charm of Point Pleasant Park, there’s no better way to enjoy the crisp air and snowy scenery.
  • Bird Watching: Discover the charm of winter birding as you spot species like chickadees and woodpeckers. Winter birding is a rewarding way to connect with nature. Grab binoculars and spot species adapted to the cold, or participate in a Christmas Bird Count. Apps like Merlin Bird ID can help identify feathered friends visiting local parks or even your backyard feeder.

Winter Getaway

There are many places nearby 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.

Explore Nova Scotia

Nova ScotiaWinter Break

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