Fun and Historical Facts about Halifax

Joining us in Halifax for the conference? Here are some facts about the city and the surrounding area. Some are fun. Some are historical. All are interesting. Learn more about our host city and use these facts to help plan and enrich your upcoming visit. 

What’s in a Name?

To the Mi’kmaq (meeg-mah), the Indigenous people of Mi’kma’ki (meeg-maw-gi), a territory that encompasses Nova Scotia and others, Halifax harbour has long been known as Kjipuktuk (jeh-book-dook), meaning “Great Harbour.” You can deepen your understanding of Mi'kmaw and Indigenous culture by exploring the many exhibits in the city.

Deepest Natural Harbour

Halifax has the second-largest natural harbour in the world (after Sydney, Australia). It’s deep, ice-free year-round and plays a big role in Halifax's importance as a port.

Black History Lives in Halifax

Our $10 bill bears the image of Viola Desmond, a Black Nova Scotian who grew up in the North End of Halifax, who was arrested on November 8, 1946, for refusing to leave a whites-only section of the Roseland Theatre in New Glasgow, N.S. Nova Scotia boasts the largest indigenous Black community in Canada, and you can discover centuries of Black culture and heritage in Halifax.

Explosion that Shook the World

In 1917, Halifax was the site of the largest human-made explosion before the atomic bomb — the Halifax Explosion. Two ships (one carrying explosives) collided in the harbour, killing around 2,000 people and destroying much of the city.

Citadel Hill Ghosts

The Halifax Citadel, a historic fortress downtown, is said to be haunted. Ghost tours are popular — and some people claim to have heard footsteps, seen shadows and felt chills in the tunnels.

Titanic Connection

Halifax played a big role in the aftermath of the Titanic disaster. Many of the bodies recovered were brought to Halifax, and you can visit the Fairview Lawn Cemetery, where over 100 victims are buried.

Famous for Donairs

Halifax’s official food is the donair — a spiced beef wrap with, tomatoes, onions and sweet garlic sauce. It's a late-night staple and uniquely Nova Scotian.

There’s a Ferry Older than Canada

The Halifax–Dartmouth ferry has been operating since 1752, making it the oldest saltwater ferry service in North America — and it still runs today as part of the public transit system.

One of the Most Walkable Waterfronts in Canada

The Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk stretches over 4 km, making it one of the longest continuous boardwalks in the country. It runs from Pier 21 to Casino, N.S. You can walk it all while watching ships and ferries or grabbing local eats.

Student City

Halifax has more universities per capita than almost any other city in Canada, including Dalhousie, Saint Mary’s, and the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design. This gives it a young, vibrant energy (especially during the school year).

A Literary Haven

Halifax has produced or inspired a lot of Canadian writers — including Alistair MacLeod and George Elliott Clarke. It also has a lively indie bookstore scene.

You’re Never Far from the Ocean

No matter where you are in Halifax, you’re never more than about 30 minutes from the ocean. The city’s culture and lifestyle are deeply tied to the sea.

Home of the Oldest Continuously Operating Farmers’ Market in North America

The Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market was established in 1750 — just a year after the city itself was founded.

The Weather Is Wild

You can experience all four seasons in a single day. Halifax weather is famously unpredictable — locals joke about wearing shorts and a parka in the same afternoon.

Point Pleasant Park Is on Leased Land — from the British

Point Pleasant Park, a huge, forested park on the southern tip of Halifax, is technically leased from the British government for a symbolic fee of one shilling per year.

Old Town Clock Is a Fixture

The Old Town Clock on Citadel Hill has been ticking since 1803. Commissioned by Prince Edward (Queen Victoria’s father), it’s one of Halifax’s most iconic landmarks — and supposedly meant to keep soldiers punctual!

Founded as a Military Settlement

Halifax was founded in 1749 as a British military stronghold to counter the French presence in Louisbourg. Its layout was designed for defence — which is why the streets slope steeply from Citadel Hill down to the harbour.

Halifax Was Once Home to Pirates

After being expelled from the Caribbean, privateers and pirates occasionally roamed the Halifax coast. Some local folklore claims buried treasure is hidden along Nova Scotia’s shorelines.