What to do in Halifax on New Year’s Eve

The weather in Halifax is predicted to cooperate with those looking to let loose a bit to ring in the New Year. Environment Canada forecasts a high of 8 C with a slight chance of showers during the day, reaching a low of -3 C with cloudy period overnight.

Those looking to enjoy the fireworks will be able to do so comfortably, but there are also plenty of indoor activities going on across the municipality inclusive of all ages.

Halifax Regional Municipality is hosting its annual New Year’s Eve celebration, inviting residents to Grand Parade next to Halifax City Hall from 11:00 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Entertainment features Pineo and Loeb with special guests Ashley MacIsaac, Jah’Mila, JRDN and Andre Pettipas. Aquakultre is the opening act. At midnight, there will be a fireworks display to ring in the new year.

If that event is not your thing, there are plenty of events going on around the city for all ages and interests.

Family-friendly events

• The Board Room Game Café is hosting a PJs and board game night on Dec. 31 from 5 to 11:30 p.m. Tables are available for two, four or six people. Bring your friends and family to choose from over 600 games with something for everyone. Those under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets available for purchase.
• If you plan to put your little ones to bed before midnight, consider checking out Noon Year’s Eve at Playdium Dartmouth. Happening Dec. 31 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., this free event hosts games and a wishing tree to make a wish for the new year. Fun for all ages.
• The Glow Garden is hosting its annual spectacular New Year’s celebration beginning at 4:00 p.m. on Dec. 31. Families or people of all ages can explore the lights garden, enjoy the music, and dance. A family-friendly countdown begins at 7:50 p.m. and ending with a fireworks display at 8:15 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online.
• Delightful Downtown, which is a series of light displays and art installations across the city, has a special New Year’s light projection show on the former Halifax Memorial Library building at Grafton Park. The show runs from Dec. 30 to Jan. 2 from 5 to 11:00 p.m. On New Year’s Eve the show will run until 1:00 a.m.

Adults only

• Casino Nova Scotia is bringing you back to the 50s with an Elvis concert. Pete Paquette and his band The Rockin’ Royals & The Tonettes will showcase the best of the King of Rock and Roll. This event is 19+.
• The Lower Deck is hosting two separate New Year’s Eve events. Starting at 7:00 p.m. attendees can celebrate with hors d’oeuvres while listening to Paul Lamb & Shaydid. There will be a sparkling wine celebration at midnight. On the second floor, there is a DJ dance party beginning at 9:00 p.m. Tickets for each event can be purchased online.
• Hatfield Farm is hosting the whole shebang with food, music, dancing, bonfires and even a wagon ride to Fort Clayton. Beginning at 7:00 p.m., it’s guaranteed to be a New Year’s you will not forget.

For the fitness junkie

• 2024 marks the 39th anniversary of the Brick’s New Year’s Eve 5km run. Participate virtually wherever and whenever you want between Dec. 28 and Jan. 31. Registration is online.
• The Polar Bear Club is hosting a polar bear dip on Dec. 31 from 9:45 to 11:00 a.m. at Sir Sandford Fleming Park. Participants will receive a Polar Bear Club patch as a keepsake and will be offered refreshments and a sparkling toast.

Where to see the fireworks

The municipality’s New Year’s Eve celebration is the most popular spot to view the fireworks, but other shows are taking place around the city. While consumer fireworks are permitted, the municipality is asking residents to take proper precautions and consider attending professional displays instead.

Free transit

HRM is offering free and extending public transit service on New Year’s Eve to make sure everyone makes it home safely. Over 30 bus routes are offering extended service. Alderney Ferry will have 30-minute service until 2:00 a.m. with the last trip departing from Alderney Ferry terminal at 1:30 a.m. and Halifax Ferry terminal at 1:45 a.m. Woodside Ferry will not be operating on Dec. 31.

Beginning at 6:00 p.m. Halifax Transit will not be collecting fares but will accept donations for Mother’s Against Drunk Driving.

For those using tickets on HFXGO, they do not need to be activated during free fares events.