Halifax
Halifax is the capital city of the province of Nova Scotia and the largest urban centre in Atlantic Canada. Known for its rich maritime history, bustling waterfront, and strong cultural identity, Halifax is a hub for education, government, and tourism in eastern Canada.
Quick Facts
- Province: Nova Scotia
- Population: Over 480,000 (Halifax Regional Municipality)
- Official Language: English
- Time Zone: Atlantic Time Zone (AT)
- Demonym: Haligonian
History
Founded in 1749 as a British military outpost, Halifax quickly became one of the most important naval and trade ports on the Atlantic. It played key roles in both World Wars and was the site of the 1917 Halifax Explosion — one of the largest non-nuclear explosions in history.
Halifax amalgamated with surrounding towns in 1996 to form the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM).
Economy
Key industries in Halifax include:
- Public administration and military (home to Canada’s East Coast navy)
- Education and research
- Shipping and logistics
- Tourism and hospitality
- Technology and financial services
Major Attractions
- Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
- Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
- Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk
- Pier 21 (Canadian Museum of Immigration)
- Point Pleasant Park
- Alexander Keith’s Brewery
- Peggy’s Cove (nearby)
Education
Halifax is a major university town with over 30,000 students. Institutions include:
- Dalhousie University
- Saint Mary’s University
- Mount Saint Vincent University
- NSCAD University (Nova Scotia College of Art and Design)
- Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC)
Neighborhoods
- Downtown Halifax
- North End
- South End (home to Dalhousie and Saint Mary’s)
- West End
- Dartmouth (connected by bridges and ferries)
- Bedford
- Clayton Park
Culture and Events
Halifax has a thriving arts and music scene and hosts several festivals:
- Halifax Jazz Festival
- Halifax Pop Explosion
- Atlantic Film Festival
- Nocturne: Art at Night
Transportation
Halifax Transit operates buses and ferries throughout the region. Halifax Stanfield International Airport connects the city to major destinations in North America and Europe.
Did You Know?
- Halifax has one of the world’s largest natural harbours.
- The Halifax Explosion in 1917 killed nearly 2,000 people and leveled much of the city.
- It’s home to the oldest continuously operating saltwater ferry in North America.