Free Activities on the Halifax Waterfront this Summer!

The Downtown Halifax Waterfront is buzzing with free events this summer, offering something for everyone, from music and dance to markets and cultural celebrations. 🎉

Whether you're a local or visiting, it's the perfect time to explore these accessible events that don't break the bank!

This is just a glimpse of everything happening Downtown this summer. We’ll continue to update this list as more free events are announced. Stay tuned for more opportunities to enjoy the best of downtown Halifax!

Hit Up Free Tuesday Evenings at Maritime Mueseum of the Atlantic, and stay for the tunes

From 5 to 8 pm, swing by the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and enjoy free admission. Check out some cool exhibits about Nova Scotia’s seafaring past — think Titanic stories, shipwrecks, and even the Halifax Explosion. The museum also highlights the deep roots of Mi’kmaq heritage in the region, offering insight into the original stewards of these lands and waters.

While you're there, stick around for Tuesday Night Tunes, a free outdoor concert series just outside the museum. The performers change every week, so you might catch anything from folk and jazz to East Coast tunes.

The museum is open daily throughout the summer, and admission is free for youth 17 years of age and under; plus, young adults (18-24 years of age) get a discount as part of the Canada Strong Pass.

Tour the C.S.S Acadia

Step aboard the CSS Acadia at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and explore one of Canada’s most storied ships. She served in both World Wars and survived the Halifax Explosion.

Deck tours are available Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and below deck tours on Saturdays. These special tours take you deeper into the ship, including the engine room, bridge, and captain’s quarters.

Take a Pop-up Workout Class

This summer, the Halifax Waterfront is alive with energy and movement thanks to a host of pop‑up fitness classes that welcome everyone to enjoy the fresh sea air while getting active: explore here

Free Festivals Worth Checking Out

Halifax Busker Festival

Dates: July 30 – August 4
Location: Halifax & Dartmouth Waterfronts — including Halifax Seaport, Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, Sackville Landing, Foundation Wharf, and Alderney Landing
Highlights: 6 full days of world-class street performers: acrobats, fire-breathers, comedians, jugglers, musicians, magicians, and more

Wines on the Waterfront

Date & Time: Saturday, August 9 • 11 AM–4 PM
Location: Halifax Waterfront
Details: Free admission for those 19+. Wine tasting and purchase from multiple Nova Scotia wineries. Live music by Mitchell McFadgen from 11:30 AM to 2 PM.

Grou Tyme Festival 2025

Date & Time: August 14-15
Location: Halifax Waterfront
Highlights: Enjoy performances by a variety of artists on the 14th, followed by the official ceremony at Grand Parade in the morning of August 15th.

Halifax Salsa & Bachata Festival

Dates: August 14–16 (3 days)
Location: Downtown Halifax waterfront—Bedford Row, Sackville Landing (Waterfront), and adjacent venues
Highlights:
- Salsa by the Wave – Thu, Aug 14, 6:30 PM–midnight at Sackville Landing: beginner-friendly Bachata/Salsa lessons, vendor stalls, performances, DJ Bill spins salsa, bachata, kizomba
- Friday Night Street Fest – Aug 15, Rhythm & Soul Street Fest on Bedford Row & AGNS Courtyard: food vendors, Son Latino live band, dance showcases, and a 19+ block part7

Dockside Drops Music Fest

Date & Time: August 15 • 3 PM–11 PM
Location: Lower Water St., Halifax Waterfront (Container Stage)
Style: Free, all-ages showcase of 15+ local artists (hip-hop, indie, electronic)
Format: Outdoor daytime-to-night festival celebrating emerging Nova Scotia musicians; container-stage setup with multiple sets throughout the day.

Take Our Self-Guided Downtown Art Tour

All of us at Downtown Halifax Business Commission are street art enthusiasts to say the least!

New pieces have popped up on the waterfront, making it the perfect time to take our Self-Guided Downtown Art Tour!

Summer Sounds@Barrington

St. Matthew’s United Church is delighted to present free live music performances every Tuesday at lunchtime throughout August as part of their Summer Sounds@Barrington music series.

From 12:15 PM to 1:00 pm, visitors are invited to enjoy a variety of musical acts in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. This weekly event runs from August 5th through August 26th, offering an excellent opportunity to take a midday break and experience local talent. Learn more here.