What’s open and closed in Halifax on Canada Day

CITYnews halifax / By Rachel Morgan

July 1 hits on a Tuesday this year which makes for a strange lead up with some businesses offering a four-day weekend and others returning to work Monday just to be off the next day.

Here is a look at what is open and closed across the municipality on Tuesday July 1, so you can make the most of your holiday.

Food and retail

Most major grocery chains will be closed on Tuesday or may be operating on reduced hours. Smaller grocery chains and convenience stores may still be open. All NSLC liquor stores will be closed.

Major retail chains will be closed for shopping as well as malls. Some smaller local stores may be open. A list of local shops that remain open can be found on the Discover Halifax website.

Most restaurants and cafes will remain open; however, they may be operating on different hours. It is important to call ahead to make sure of holiday hours and to check if reservations are required.

Government and institutions

All federal and provincial government offices are closed on Tuesday as well as Service Canada locations and Canada Post.

Municipal government services also remain closed. The 311 Contact Centre will be closed but urgent calls can still be reported.

All banks and credit unions will be closed.

Transportation

The Woodside Ferry service will be closed on July 1. The Alderney Ferry will be open and operating on a holiday schedule. The Alderney Ferry will be free for riders but the municipality asks that a donation is made to the local food bank.

Halifax Transit will also be operational but will run on a Sunday schedule with reduced service.

Activities

All public libraries will be closed on Canada Day as well as most indoor recreational activities. If you’re looking for something fun to do with the family however, museums remain open.

While indoor pools will be closed, the Bedford and Cole Harbour outdoor pools will begin their season on July 1. Supervised beaches will also be open.

Celebrations

Of course there are many opportunities to express national pride on Tuesday. Halifax’ feature event is KANA’TA: Canada Day 2025, a re-envisioned celebration.

The celebration was developed in close collaboration with Indigenous communities to offer “programming that honours the traditions of the Mi’kmaw Nation and celebrates pan-Indigenous communities that call the municipality home,” the municipal website states.

The event features culturally appropriate music performances and dances, along with a drumming celebration, Indigenous market, and fireworks display.