Weather spoils Canada Day events in Halifax

Canada is marking its 157th birthday, but the weather is resulting in the cancellations and postponement of multiple events in the Halifax area.

Now in its second year, the municipality is hosting Kana’ta: Canada Day on July 1.

According to the event’s website, “this re-envisioned format for Canada Day offers a variety of new and refreshed cultural, musical and family-oriented events to enjoy.”

1. Museums

There will be free admission at the Halifax Citadel National Historic site from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The site’s newest exhibit, Fortress Halifax — A City Shaped by Conflict, aims to offer a detailed and inclusive history of the city.

The 78th Highlanders will perform mini pipe and drum concerts as well as special drills and demonstrations between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Canada Day cake will be served starting at 11 a.m.

The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 will also be free from 9: 30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. There are activities throughout the day, including a citizenship ceremony at 10 a.m., participatory art from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and performances from noon to 3:30 p.m. 

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic at 1675 Lower Water Street will open its doors with free admission from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

2. Parades

In downtown Halifax, the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo Canada Day Parade has been cancelled due to weather. There were more than 25 groups and floats scheduled to participate this year.

Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo bands performances will be held at 1655 Lower Water Street from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

In Lower Sackville, a parade starts at 9 a.m. on Sackville Drive and is expected to continue until 10:30 a.m. 

3. Mawio’mi on the waterfront cancelled 

The gathering featuring Mi’kmaw music and a culture demonstration has been cancelled due to weather. The day was set to begin with a blessing from elders, followed by performances and games for kids.

4. Bedford Days and Patriots Days in Sackville

Events in Dewolf Park in Bedford start at 9 a.m. with a pancake breakfast. There will be bouncy castles and activities for kids. There will also be live music from 11:30 until 1 p.m. and then again starting at 8 p.m.

As part of the multi-day Patriot Days in Lower Sackville, there will be a Teddy Bear Picnic at the Sackville Arena at 1 p.m. 

5. Fireworks postponed 

Due to weather, fireworks on the Halifax waterfront have been rescheduled to Friday, July 5, from 10 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. The Lower Sackville fireworks display has also been postponed until July 7 at 10 p.m.

The Bedford fireworks display at DeWolf Park is scheduled for 10 p.m. A decision based on the weather forecast is expected this afternoon. 

Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency said anyone looking to set off their own fireworks must check with burning restrictions guidelines (updated at 2 p.m. daily) for the latest guidance. Fireworks are not allowed if a burn ban is in place.

MORE TOP STORIES