What to do in and around Halifax this weekend: Dec. 27-29

CITYnews halifax / By Rachel Morgan

With Christmas winding down, but Hanukkah and Kwanza only getting started, there are plenty of winter and holiday-themed events going on in and around the city this weekend.

Family Events

With the kids out of school, it is the perfect time to try a new family-friendly activity.

• If you haven’t had the chance yet to get out and see the lights, the Halifax Public Gardens Holiday Lights are on until Jan. 1, 2025. From 6-9 p.m. those of all ages can walk through the gardens, lit up with holiday spirit.
• The Hatfield Farm is hosting it’s Christmas break family roundup on Saturday beginning at 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. This two-hour adventure features a sleigh/wagon ride, time at the Rubber Rodeo, lunch, ziplines and a playground. Tickets can be purchased online.

Markets

Itching to settle down with some local food or looking for a belated holiday gift, try stopping at one of these nearby markets.

• The Halifax Seaport Farmer’s Market is open 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays. Check out its website to find a list of food that is in season.
• The Alderney Landing Farmer’s Market is open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and the Artisan Market is open Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This unique market is celebrating its 25th year in operation. Check out its website for pop-up events.
• The Halifax Brewery Farmer’s Market is open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Check out its website for a list of unique local vendors.

Outdoor Activities

Looking to fight off the food coma? Look no further than these outdoor activities, fun for all ages.

• The Emera Oval outdoor ice rink offers a excellent space the size of three NHL rinks for skaters of all ages alike to practice their skills. Holiday skates are taking place on Saturday and Sunday at 1:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.
• Citadel Hill is not only a top tier spot for tobogganing in Halifax, but it is considered on of the best toboggan hills in Canada! Fun for the whole family, this place will be sure to create a core memory for little ones.
• Ski Wentworth in Wentworth Valley is now open with two open slopes, the Sissy Terrain Park and the bunny hill. Open Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Indoor Events

If you’re hiding from the snow and the cold, there are plenty of indoor activities to keep you engaged this break.

• Open year-round, the Discovery Centre has a limited-time exhibit on display called Worlds of the Night to learn all about what creatures come alive in the dark. Tickets can be purchased online.
• The Museum of Natural History’s Bricks by the Sea exhibit is a LEGO-filled adventure on display until Jan. 25, 2025. Fun for the whole family, tickets can be purchased online.