It's August in Downtown Halifax!
The sun is shining, the skies are blue, and although August may be Sun Safety Awareness Month, just grab your hat and sunscreen because you won't want to miss out on all the fun happening Downtown this month.
To help you keep track, here's a quick rundown of all the exciting events and notable days to look forward to this August.
Did you know that August 1 is Emancipation Day in Canada? It marks the day that the Slavery Abolition Act came into effect across the the British Empire. Learn more about this historic day here.
For a full list of events happening this month, visit our online Events Calendar.
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Annual Favourites
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August is a great month to enjoy some of Halifax's favourite annual festivals. Here are a few to check out:
To August 5: Buskers
The Buskers are back for the long weekend from July 31-August 5. 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 2-5: Natal Day 2024 Celebrations
Don't miss the celebrations for Natal Day taking place across the Halifax-Dartmouth area from August 2-5. Don't miss all the exciting, free events including the Halifax-Dartmouth Natal Day Harbour Fireworks on Saturday, August 3.
August 8-10: 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 15-18: 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.
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Can't Miss Events
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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 10: 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 12, 19 & 26: 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 15-17: 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 16: Grou Tyme Festival
Celebrate National Acadian Day on the Halifax Waterfront at the Grou Tyme Festival. This one-day festival will feature performances, workshops, and more.
August 21-25: Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour
The Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour returns to the Halifax Waterfront this August. Watch 32 teams from around the world compete for gold and enjoy activities, events and more. Tickets on sale now.
August 23: Billy Idol at Scotiabank Centre
Billy Idol brings his Rebel Yell 2024 Tour to the Scotiabank Centre on August 23. Don't miss this 80's idol perform some of his greatest hits!
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Other Notable Events and Days in August
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To August 11: Paris 2024 Olympics
August 2: International Beer Day
August 2-3: PUP at Light House Arts Centre
August 15: National Acadian Day
August 19: Soft Serve Ice Cream Day - check out our list of frozen treats to try in Downtown Halifax
Starting August 28: Paris 2024 Paralympics
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Dog Days of Summer
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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.
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Patio Days & Nights
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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"
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Wondering what else to do this summer in Downtown Halifax? Check out our list of 110 Things To Do Downtown This Summer.
Plan ahead for parking before your Downtown Adventure. Make your parking plan here.