Halifax FAQs

Find out all you need to know about visiting Halifax.

When is the best time to visit Halifax?

Mid-June to mid-September is the best time to visit Halifax with the warmest weather, most sunshine and least rain. This is also the busiest event season and best time for whale-watching excursions. Temperatures in summer (June-August) average 19°C but can range 16-22°C. Rain is relatively frequent throughout the year but more from October to May. Winter (December-March) is cold and windy with snow but not as severely cold as elsewhere in Canada. However, some restaurants and guesthouses close during the winter months. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) range from cool to mild, but are picturesque times to visit, especially for the Fall colours.

What is the time difference between the UK and Halifax?

Nova Scotia is in Atlantic Time (GMT – 4), observing Atlantic Daylight Time (+ 1 hour) March to November.

What places combine well with Halifax?

Halifax is the gateway for many visitors to the rest of Nova Scotia, convenient for Lunenberg (one hour’s drive), Kejimkujik National Park (two hours), Bay of Fundy (2.5 hours), and Cape Breton Island (four hours).

What are the main cultural events in Halifax?

June – Cold Waters Seafood Festival (Lake Charlotte)
June/July – Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo
June/July – Harbourside Ribfest (Dartmouth)
July – Halifax Jazz Festival
August – Halifax Seaport Cider and Beerfest
August to September – Halifax Fringe Festival