What's on This August in Downtown Halifax

August is a great month to enjoy some of Halifax's favourite annual festivals. Here are a few to check out:

To August 4: Buskers

The Buskers are back for the long weekend from July 30-August 4. This annual crowd-pleaser attracts thousands to Downtown Halifax to take in all the free fun. See all the performers slated to perform here. 

August 1-4: Natal Day 2025 Celebrations

Don't miss the celebrations for Natal Day taking place across the Halifax-Dartmouth area from August 1-4. Don't miss all the exciting, free events including the Halifax-Dartmouth Natal Day Harbour Fireworks on Saturday, August 2. 

August 14-16: Halifax Seaport Cider & Beerfest & Fizzfest

Enjoy 300 craft beer, ciders and fizzy drinks during 3 epic days in the Halifax Seaport area at the Halifax Seaport Cider & Beerfest & Fizzfest. Tickets are on sale now. 

August 14-16: Halifax Salsa & Bachata Festival 

Haliente's Halifax Salsa & Bachata Festival is back for another year. Celebrate a weekend filled with Afro-Latin music and dances - no experience required! Learn more here. 

August is filled with other "can't miss" events from markets to sporting events. Be sure to mark your calendars with these fun events:

August 5, 12, 19 & 26: St. Matthew's Summer Sounds@Barrington

Enjoy music every Tuesday from 12:15 to 1 pm at St. Matthew's United Church's Summer Sounds@Barrington. This free music series, is a great way to enjoy live music during your lunch break. 

August 9: Art of Disability Festival 

The 12th Annual Art of Disability Festival is taking place on August 10 at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21. This event highlights the creative talents of persons with disabilities in the Nova Scotia community. Free admission. Learn more here. 

August 1, 8, 15 & 22: Georges Island Family Fun Days

Set sail for Georges Island for Family Fun Days with Parks Canada this summer! Explore this historic landmark in the middle of the Halifax Harbour with the whole family and take part in special games, a treasure hunt, and more. Book your trip with Ambassatours today.

August 11-17: Halifax Fashion Week

Halifax Fashion Week is taking place at locations around Halifax including Queen's Marque and the Light House Arts Centre. Don't miss this celebration of Halifax's local fashion scene. 

August 14-15: Grou Tyme Festival 

Two days of Acadian pride, music, and celebration! The Grou Tyme Festival is back with outdoor shows, family fun, and a warm, welcoming vibe. This August 14th and 15th, celebrate Acadian culture for free in Halifax!

August 22-23: Vibrancy Music Festival

Halifax’s premier electronic festival returns for 2 NIGHTS IN THE FORT at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. Vibrancy Festival showcases underground electronic music that has captivated the city of Halifax. This year will be no different with legendary acts responsible for decades of music evolution next to some of the scenes most in demand up & comers.

August 26: Vance Joy at Scotiabank Centre

Multi-Platinum global superstar Vance Joy has announced plans for a wide-ranging North American summer headline tour kicking off with two shows in Atlantic Canada. He will perform on Tuesday, August 26 at the Scotiabank Centre in Halifax 

Y2K R&B Lab Day Party 
August 2

Expect smooth R&B anthems, pure nostalgia, and a dance floor that won’t quit. Whether you’re reliving the era or catching the vibe for the first time, it’s all about good music, good energy, and good people. Maxwell's Courtyard, August 2. 

From Day 2 Dusk Festival
August 16 & 17

A weekend of live music is set to take over downtown Halifax at Maxwell’s Courtyard on August 16 & 17. Supported by Garrison Brewing, the event will feature two shows each day: daytime performances from big-name headliners and captivating dusk sets to kick off the evening. 

Dockside Drops Local Music Fest
August 15

Dockside Drops guarantees an afternoon and night packed entirely with the best local music Halifax has to offer showcasing a diverse line up of artists across several genres. Experience Halifax’s vibrant local music culture on the Halifax Waterfront on August 15. 

August 2: International Beer Day

August 5: Half Moon Run at Lighthouse Arts Centre

August 9: TEDxArgyle St

August 15: National Acadian Day

August 15: Rhythm & Soul Streetfest

August 19: Soft Serve Ice Cream Day - check out our list of frozen treats to try in Downtown Halifax

Have you ever heard the term, "dog days of summer"? Some say they refer to those hot, humid days in the middle of August when people start to long for the cooler days of fall.

Or they could refer to the fact that August is a great time to take your favourite furry companion with you to explore Downtown Halifax. 

From restaurant patios and retail stores to the Halifax Waterfront, check out all the dog-friendly places in Downtown Halifax.

And of course, August is a great month to visit a patio, and did you know that Downtown Halifax has over 80 patios?

From sidewalk cafes to rooftop terraces and waterfront beer gardens, Downtown Halifax really is the patio capital of the region. 

Find your perfect patio with our list of Downtown patios here. 

And looking for a patio for a specific occasion? Check out, "There's a Patio for That"