As the sea breeze blows through the Halifax harbor, locals and visitors mix together forming a perfect picture. It has been said that Halifax is a city people buzz over, seeking out its historic waterfront. It is no wonder why. The city holds one of the world’s largest natural harbors. Halifax functions as the capital of the Nova Scotia province of Canada.
The modern port city makes sure to credit its culture and heritage for keeping the city beating with life.
Despite North America’s largely new history, Halifax holds Canada’s most visited national historic site, the Citadel Hill National Historic Site. Set on top of the city’s central and largely looming hill, the National Historic Site was used to defend the city from the nearby and encroaching Americans. Most gather here on the hour for the changing of the guard. Kilts and ostrich feather hats march in uniform fashion, posing for photos whether they like it or not.
What Ellis Island was to the USA, Pier 21 Center is to Canada. Between 1928 and 1971, one million immigrants from all around the world arrived to Canada for the first time at this point. The Center today chronicles those stories of many foreigners leaving their homes behind for a new life in Canada. Pier 21 echoes in voices, making for an interesting place to visit while in Halifax.
The city along the water pays tribute to its liquid side through its Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. The waterfront museum features exhibits of interest from its pump hand operated foghorn to its displays on the Titanic and Halifax Explosion. The CSS Acadia can also be found within the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.
Halifax is also known for its ongoing events and festivals. The Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo event doesn’t cover the city in inky, permanent marks. Rather, every July, Halifax hosts more than 2,000 performers at this event. The Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo has been invading Halifax since 1979. A more ongoing event in town plays out by the harbor. The Seaport Farmers Market sets up stalls and stands selling locally grown food and handmade arts and crafts.
Those that decide to make Halifax their home base can take day trips from the city. Nova Scotia covers in 4,750 miles of coastline. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the beaches, surfing, green forests, and whale watching to be had around Halifax.
Pubs, theaters, and comedy clubs create the missing link to the energy equation in Halifax. The life of this port city is further prevalent throughout these establishments. After a few drinks or laughs, the appreciation for Halifax may truly extend as far as its large and in charge harbor.
