Canada Day 2025: Your guide to what’s happening in the Halifax area

Canada Day is just around the corner, and if you’re in the Halifax region, there’s plenty to do and see on July 1, 2025. To help you plan your day, here’s a breakdown of what’s open, what’s closed, and what’s happening across the city.

Entertainment:
The Halifax Regional Municipality is pulling out all the stops to celebrate Canada Day with a variety of events and concerts happening throughout the city. Here are some highlights:
– The Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo Parade will start at 10 a.m. from the Scotiabank Centre.
– Admission is free on Canada Day at several historical sites including the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.
– The Halifax Commons will host a Family Day from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. with activities for children.
– The Canada Day fireworks display will light up the sky from 10 to 10:30 p.m., weather permitting.

Recreation:
If you’re looking to stay active on Canada Day, you’re in luck. Many outdoor pools, beaches, and splash pads will be open for the season. Check online for pool and swim schedules. The Emera Oval will also be open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. for those looking to skate or rollerblade.

Groceries:
If you need to pick up some last-minute items for your Canada Day celebrations, Gateway Meat Market will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. However, Pete’s Frootique, Sobeys, Atlantic Superstore, Costco, and Walmart will be closed. Some drugstores may be open with limited hours.

Liquor and beer:
The NSLC will be closed on Canada Day, but local agency stores and some independent alcohol retailers may be open. Craft breweries and other alcohol producers may also be open for business.

Malls:
Several malls in the Halifax area will be closed on Canada Day, including Halifax Shopping Centre, Mic Mac Mall, Sunnyside Mall, Bedford Place Mall, and Park Lane Mall.

Halifax Public Libraries:
All branches of the Halifax Public Libraries will be closed on Canada Day.

Transit:
Halifax Transit buses and the Alderney ferry will be operating on a reduced-service holiday schedule. The Alderney Ferry will be free on Canada Day, but the Woodside ferry will not be operating.

Parking:
On-street parking will be free on Canada Day.

Waste collection:
There will be no garbage, organics, or recyclables collection on Tuesday. Collection scheduled for that day has been moved ahead to Saturday, June 28.

Banks:
All banks will be closed on Canada Day.

311 call centres:
The 311 contact centre will be closed for full service on Tuesday, but urgent calls can still be reported. Regular operations will resume on Wednesday.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy some live entertainment, get active outdoors, or simply relax and celebrate with friends and family, there’s something for everyone in Halifax this Canada Day. Plan ahead, check for any updates, and make the most of this festive holiday in the city.