The holiday season in Nova Scotia has a special kind of magic: cozy lights, waterfront charm, and an easy mix of small-town warmth and city excitement. If you’re looking for holiday things to do in Nova Scotia this year, here’s your ultimate guide to enjoying Christmas in Halifax, from sparkling light shows to charming holiday markets and candlelight concerts.

If you want even more ideas beyond holiday activities, check out my full guide: 50 Things To Do in Nova Scotia, which is perfect for planning winter road trips and weekend adventures.

1. Experience Glow Gardens Halifax

Glow Gardens is one of those places that makes you feel like a kid again. It’s indoors (thank God), full of glowing tunnels, oversized ornaments, and twinkly lights everywhere. A proper Christmas vibe!

2. Visit Halifax Shopping Centre , MicMac & Sunnyside Mall

If you want the classic “Christmas at the mall” feeling, these two deliver. Beautiful décor, Santa photos, and the kind of background music that puts you in a festive mood without trying too hard.

3. Holiday Events at Indigo Halifax

Indigo has this calm vibe that feels like a warm hug. Expect storytimes, crafts, and little moments that feel cozy and thoughtful.

4. Catch a Christmas Movie at Cineplex Park Lane

Perfect for when you just want to relax, switch off your brain, and enjoy something heartwarming with popcorn. Solo or not, it always hits.

5. Explore Local Christmas Markets

Markets like the Evergreen Festival, Halifax Brewery Market, and the Lunenburg Christmas Craft Fair are always fun — handmade gifts, warm drinks, and the chaotic joy of December.

6. Go Skating at the Emera Oval

Bundle up, hit the ice, try not to fall (or fall stylishly). The Oval is full of energy this time of year. Check out the full skaitng schedule at the Emera Oval

7. Walk the Halifax Waterfront Lights

The lights along the waterfront always feel magical. If you’re spending Christmas alone, this walk is peaceful, grounding, and honestly a little therapeutic.

8. Holiday Show at Neptune Theatre

Neptune’s Christmas shows are always a vibe — funny, joyful, and full of that theatre warmth.

9. Candlelight: Christmas Classics

At St. Matthew’s United Church, the candlelight concerts are stunning. Strings, soft lighting, and Christmas classics that make you pause and breathe.

10. Connolly Brothers’ Christmas Lights

These two brothers on Connaught Avenue go all out every year. It’s the kind of neighbourhood tradition that makes Halifax feel like a small, happy town.

11. Visit Local Cafés with Holiday Menus

Places like Cabin Coffee, Dilly Dally, and Birdie’s Bread Co. offer seasonal drinks, pastries, and relaxing spaces to unwind. This is also a perfect quiet holiday activity when spending Christmas alone; a warm drink, a book, and a cozy corner can turn into a peaceful moment of reflection.

12. South Shore Christmas Crawl

A beautiful coastal drive with decorated towns, small shops, and that quiet Nova Scotia charm.

13. Holiday Craft Workshops

Make your own wreath or ornaments at The Hive Studio or Argyle Fine Art. A calm, hands-on way to enjoy the season.

14. Support Local at Artisan Fairs

The Seaport Market and holiday fairs across the province are perfect for unique gifts (or treating yourself).

15. Winter Photos at Public Gardens

Soft snow + winter trees + peaceful paths = beautiful photos and a lovely morning walk.

16. Parade of Lights Halifax

This one always feels nostalgic — floats, music, Santa, and the whole city outside smiling for a night.

17. Festive Dining in Halifax

Book dinner at The Bicycle Thief, Five Fishermen, or Lot Six. Cozy ambience, warm lighting, and delicious meals that make you feel spoiled.

18. Visit Peggy’s Cove in Winter

Cold, yes. Worth it? 100%. The lighthouse in winter looks like a postcard.

19. Winter Walk at Point Pleasant Park

One of the best things to do alone or with someone. Fresh air, ocean views, and space to think.

20. New Year’s Eve on the Waterfront

End the season with fireworks and music as Halifax rings in the new year.