12 Things to do in Halifax this Fall

Halifax is an amazing city to visit year round, but once the temperatures start dropping as Fall sets in throughout Nova Scotia, it's time to consider new activities! Many of the city's best offerings remain available year round, but here are some of our favorite things to do in and around Halifax during Fall season. ​​

Things To Do in Halifax this Fall

1 - Fall Corn Mazes around Halifax

A great way to take advantage of the cooler temperature outside on a sunny day is to go discover one of the corn mazes! A few of the popular options for Haligonians and visitors alike are Noggins Corner Farm Market (exit 11 on Highway 101) and Captain Cob's Crazy Corn Maze and Family Fun Farm located at Masstown Market near Truro. For a scary, screeching-filled time check out Bloodfields at Truro's River Breeze Farm (if you don't feel like running away from zombies then you might prefer to consider their daytime family-friendly events). ​

2 - Take a stroll in one of Halifax's many outdoor parks or beyond in Fall

Take in the fall foliage in local Halifax parks (such as Frog Pond Lake,  a trail offering a view of the fall colours through its 1.4 km, 30 mins walk) to popular hiking destinations provincially, such as Cape Split, Taylor Head Park or the gorgeous Skyline Trail in Cape Breton. Lace up those sneakers, grab a bottle of water and a camera to capture the stunning sights while you take a first row seat to experience this great Canadian province's Fall. ​

Halifax Public Gardens during the Fall

3 - Take in Halifax's Fall colors by kayak

With temperatures typically still above freezing during September and October, it's a great time to head out on the water to catch the beautiful show of fall colours from a different viewpoint - if you're lucky you might even catch the reflection on the water! You can do a tour in Halifax Harbour or head out to breathtaking spots such as Lunenbourg Harbour, Kejimkujik or Cape Breton for an escape from the city during the fall season.

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4 - "Haunted" Fall time Attractions around Halifax

It's the season of ghosts and ghouls, gravestones and frightened  screams. There's no escaping it, so why not head out and check out  a haunted attraction such as the Haunted Hollows of Hammonds Plains. Located a short drive from downtown Halifax, this activity costs 12$/person and is a great way to celebrate fall time during the month of October. ​

5 - Fall Ghost Walk on Citadel Hill

Speaking of suspense filled adventures, why not consider booking a ghost walk this fall? Check out the ones at Citadel Hill (offered by Tattle Tours) if you're in Halifax. There are also some fall time ghost walks offered at different locations in Nova Scotia, including the Fortress of Louisbourg and Annapolis Royal. Book a ghost walk today for a great spooky, story-filled experience! ​

Sunflower Maze located outside of Halifax in Nova Scotia, Canada

6 - Explore Downtown Halifax this Fall

With the weather being a much better temperature (neither the extreme hot of summer or cold of the winter), the Fall months offer a great opportunity to head down to the waterfront, Spring Garden Road or even take the ferry over to Downtown Dartmouth for a stroll, a bit of shopping (or window shopping for budget friendlier experience) or to try some of the new restaurants in the area! ​

7 - Take in the Fall colours while biking around Halifax

While Cale Breton's Celtic Shores Coastal Trail and Cabot Trail are without a doubt provincial favorites come Fall time, there are many great biking trails around the Halifax area that will offer up beautiful views of what the season has to offer. ​

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8 - Halifax Seaport Farmer's Market's Fall Delicacies

This year-round market located downtown Halifax maintains its spot on our list of things to do for the Fall. The fresh local produce and seafood, along with the many food vendors offering a variety of cuisine from around the world makes this spot, also recognized as North America's Oldest Farm Market, a must! ​

Pumpkins anyone?

9 - Slurp your way through the Halifax Oyster Festival

​Traditionally taking place at the end of September, this event is a slirpin' good time time! There are 3 different sessions taking place throughout the weekend on the Halifax waterfront, offering all-you-can-eat raw oysters. This internationally recognized festival hosts 2 500 people yearly and is a great opportunity to enjoy delicious oysters while trying some local brews, ciders, wines and spirits!

10 - Then Sip on some wine at Festival of Wines

Also taking place towards the end of September, this event is most renowned for its 4 Grand Tasting sessions, taking place Friday and Saturday, afternoon and evening. Featuring an impressive variety of  wines divided into their originating countries, along with mouthwatering nibbles to accompany the wine while you sip your way through the session. Make sure to drink responsibly, and arrange for a DD, taxi or to stay downtown after the event!

11 - Take in some free outdoor art at Halifax's Nocturne

This yearly event takes place on a Saturday evening from 6pm to midnight in mid-October (Next event: October 13, 2018). Dress warmly and comfortably as you will be wondering through the streets of Halifax taking in the wide variety this event has to offer.  Past experiences have included acrobatics in a church, a Ferris wheel on top of Citadel Hill and  a karaoke on the ferry ride between Halifax and Dartmouth. Whatever you do, make sure to check out the online guide to ensure you don't miss out on your favorite displays! ​

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 12 - Mahone Bay Scarecrow Festival

Even though this is not in Halifax, this festival is so amazing that we just had to include it. During the month of October, the picturesque town of Mahone Bay (known for its iconic 3 churches by the water)boards 100's of scarecrows demonstrating impressive creativity, attention to detail - and sometimes quite amusing scenes. The combination of this festival along with the Instagram-worthy views of the fall colours in the area are why this festival just had to be included on our list! ​

Halifax Public Gardens in the Fall, in Nova Scotia, Canada

On a final note, we'd  like to mention that there are many other noteworthy Nova Scotia fall festivals,  including the Annapolis Valley Pumpkin People Festival in Kentville (celebrated in October), the Starlight Festival in SouthWest Nova Scotia and the very popular Celtic Colours International Festival in Cape Breton. 

As you can see, the activities, events and fall colors viewings opportunities are endless  around Halifax. Grab a friend and head out to explore the beauty that is Fall in Nova Scotia!

Recommended Reading:
-https://www.thedimetravelers.com/blogs/how-to-spend-one-day-in-halifax-according-to-your-interests