Top Nine Reasons Why Halifax Is Awesome

#1. The Emera Oval



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Located in the north commons, the 'oval' is open to the public seven days a week all year round. Whether you're roller blading or playing street hockey in the summer, or ice skating in the winter, all rentals and admission are FREE.


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Host to speed skating events throughout the season, the oval is the largest outdoor, artificially-refrigerated ice surface east of Quebec City. It has an ice surface equivalent to 3 NHL hockey rinks, and can accommodate up to 1500 skaters at a time.



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#2 The Halifax Citadel



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Originally built by the British military in 1749, the Halifax Citadel continues to watch over the city’s downtown core.

As a visitor you'll be able to explore the fortress, learn about the soldiers who were stationed there,  and literally touch a piece of Halifax’s military history. Don't miss the Army Museum, which showcases uniforms, weaponry and models of the fort throughout history.

 

 

Every day at noon, the cannon is still fired from atop Citadel Hill. Not just for summer tourists, the Citadel is also famous for its ghost tours and Christmas programs.  

#3. The Halifax Public Library

 

 

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Pardon me while I drool. With the official opening date of December 13th, 2014, this sleek design incorporates the feeling of inviting openness with high tech influences. Personally, I'm going to try and hide and get locked inside overnight, then read ALL THE BOOKS.

You have to check out the link for the photo gallery because, as they say, a picture is worth a thousand words.

#4. The Waterfront 

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I feel incredibly lucky to live in a city where I'm only a half hour walk away from the ocean!

Stroll along the boardwalk that stretches from Pier 21 all they way to the Historic Properties, while stopping at various vendors and delicious restaurants along the way.

With the downtown business district as a backdrop, the Halifax waterfront is home to countless world-class events each year. From Nocturne Halifax: Art at Night, to the renowned TD Halifax International Jazz Festival to international Tall Ships visits, Halifax is a vibrant event city.

#5. The People!

Yes, it's true. We are awesome. Halifax—and let's be honest—all of Nova Scotia is world renowned for its hospitality.


#6. The Halifax Public Gardens



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Recognized as a National Historic Site in 1984, the Public Gardens showcases a collection of garden artifacts such as statues, fountains, and the iconic bandstand.



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With it's lush backdrop of massive rhododendrons and pathways lined with vibrant annuals, the Public Gardens is a popular spot for Wedding and Prom pictures.

Plus, it has Uncommon Grounds, a locally owned and operated gourmet coffee shop that also serves hand paddled ice cream.


#7. The Halifax Seaport Farmers Market



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Originally created in 1750, the Seaport Farmers Market is well placed in the vibrant arts and cultural district found at the south end of the Halifax waterfront. It is the longest continually running market in North America and is home to over 250 vendors.





#8. Pier 21


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This National Historic Site was the gateway to Canada for one million immigrants between 1928 and 1971. It also served as the departure point for 500,000 Canadian Military personnel during the Second World War.


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Today, Pier 21 hosts the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier   21—Atlantic Canada’s only national museum!


#9. Neptune Theatre

The perfect way to spend an evening downtown, Neptune Theatre is the largest professional theatre company in Atlantic Canada.







With the capacity to showcase a range of plays from Chicago to Margaret's Museum, the Neptune Theatre successfully brings the flash and glamour of a Broadway musical without losing its perfectly intimate appeal.






BONUS!

Nimbus Publishing

Halifax also happens to be the home of my publisher, Nimbus Publishing—the largest English-language publisher east of Toronto.

Nimbus produces more than thirty new titles a year on a range of subjects relevant to the Atlantic Provinces— children’s picture books and fiction, literary non-fiction, social and cultural history, nature photography, current events, biography, sports, and cultural issues.


What's your favourite thing about Halifax?