10 Festive Things to Do in Nova Scotia in December
If you’re looking for things to do in Nova Scotia in December, you’ll find no shortage of fun options. From holiday festivals and sparkling light displays to Christmas markets, sports games, and New Year’s Eve events, December is one of my favourite months to get out and explore.
Whether it’s taking in the holiday light displays or watching the two local hockey teams compete, there’s plenty to see and do all month long. This guide highlights some of the best things to do across the province – whether you’re embracing the holiday spirit or just looking for something fun to do on a chilly day.
10 Things Not to Miss in Nova Scotia This December
There’s so much to do in Nova Scotia this December, from tree lightings and festive parades to cozy holiday markets and New Year’s celebrations. Whether you’re planning a family outing or just looking for a way to enjoy the season, these are some of the best options across the province.
1. Celebrate the New Ross Christmas Festival
📅 Dec. 6–8
Looking for a classic small-town Christmas experience? The New Ross Christmas Festival is the place to be, with its community tree lighting, craft fairs, and steaming cups of hot chocolate to enjoy while listening to carolers.
For families, there’s plenty to do, from children’s activities to special entertainment. If you’re looking for the perfect Christmas tree, many local farms offer tree U-picks during the festival. It’s a great way to spend a day or two soaking up the holiday season.
2. Experience the Season of Father Christmas
📅 Nov. 29 – Dec. 24
Mahone Bay’s Season of Father Christmas is a great reason to visit this coastal town in December. In addition to the festive decorations and twinkling lights, there are Father Christmas figures scattered throughout the town. Each has its own character, so it’s fun to spot them as you wander.
Be sure to check out the “Christmas at Hogwarts” Harry Potter display for something a little extra magical this year. You can also join in the fun at the Reindeer Fun Run, a nighttime event that’s great for all ages. While you’re there, grab a latte or eggnog from a local cafe and explore the shops to find something unique for someone on your list.
3. Catch a Holiday Parade
Nothing says holiday magic like a parade of lights, and there are plenty happening across Nova Scotia in December. Now in its 29th year, the Nova Scotia Power Parade of Lights in Halifax is a highlight. Held a few weeks later than usual this year, it will light up the streets of downtown Halifax on December 8, with plenty of spectacular floats, lots of entertainment and Santa himself.
If you can’t make it to Halifax, don’t worry—there are parades happening in communities across the province, including Bridgewater and Musquodoboit Harbour. Check local event calendars or community social media pages for details on a parade near you.
4. Shop at a Holiday Market
Holiday markets are a great way to support local businesses and artisans while checking off your gift list. Nova Scotia has plenty of festive markets to explore this December. Check out our full list of Christmas markets for more ideas.
A few favourites include Christmas on the LaHave on the South Shore, where you’ll find local crafts and treats, and the Evergreen Festival in Halifax. It’s one of the largest and longest-running Christmas markets in the province—and our personal favourite. With twinkling lights, live music, and a cozy downtown vibe, it’s the closest you’ll get to a European-style Christmas market in Nova Scotia.
5. Pick the Perfect Christmas Tree
Did you know Nova Scotia is one of Canada’s top producers of Christmas trees? The Lunenburg region is even known as the balsam fir capital of the world, making it a great spot to pick out the perfect tree.
You don’t have to head to Lunenburg, though. There are u-pick tree farms scattered across the province where you can cut your own and make a day of it. If you’d rather grab a pre-picked tree, you’ll find plenty for sale at local fire stations, Kiwanis clubs, or even pop-up lots in grocery store parking lots throughout December.
6. Take In Festive Lights
December is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy Nova Scotia’s best festive light displays. In Halifax, the Public Gardens and waterfront are beautifully lit throughout the season.
Smaller communities are just as festive. The Pictou Christmas Light-Up kicks things off on Dec. 6, and the Dartmouth Tree Lighting on Dec. 7 is always a favourite, with live music, fireworks, and hot chocolate.
Over in Cape Breton, Two Rivers Wildlife Park hosts its annual light display on three weekends in December. In Sackville, Acadia Park sparkles with over 4,000 white lights all throughout December and for something indoors, Halifax’s Glow Gardens offers a bright, family-friendly experience.
7. Go on a Self-Guided Holiday Lights Tour
Some neighbourhoods go all-out for the holidays, and it’s worth taking an evening drive or walk to soak it all in.
There are plenty of light displays to check out in Halifax, from the well-known “two brothers’ houses” on Connaught Avenue to neighbourhoods like Colby, where entire streets are decked out with lights and blow-up Santas.
In Fall River, you’ll find Anderson’s Christmas Lights on Henry Avenue, featuring thousands of lights synchronized to holiday music.
If you’re heading to the Annapolis Valley, towns like Kentville and the surrounding communities have homes and neighbourhoods that shine bright all December long.
And for something unique, head to West Pubnico to see the Buoy Tree at Dennis Point Wharf. Made entirely of brightly painted lobster buoys, it’s a festive display with a coastal twist (check out our article on Nova Scotia’s Lobster Trap Trees for more info).
8. Enjoy a Holiday Show
Take a break from the shopping and festivities to enjoy a classic holiday show—there’s no shortage of great performances in December.
At Neptune Theatre in Halifax, Dickens’ A Christmas Carol runs from Dec. 5–29. It’s a classic story that’s perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. For ballet fans, Symphony Nova Scotia’s The Nutcracker takes the stage at the Rebecca Cohn Auditorium from Dec. 6–8 and Dec. 12–15.
If you’re looking for a mix of music and tradition, check out Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy’s Celtic Family Christmas. This lively holiday show comes to Glace Bay on Dec. 3 and Halifax on Dec. 6–7.
These are just a few highlights—plenty of other concerts, plays, and performances are happening across the province, so check local listings for more.
9. Catch a Sports Game
If you’re looking for a break from the holiday events and festivities, catching a game at the Scotiabank Centre in Halifax is a fun way to spend an evening.
The Halifax Mooseheads take to the ice on Dec. 14 against the Charlottetown Islanders and on Dec. 31 for a New Year’s Eve matchup against the Cape Breton Eagles.
For something a little different, check out the Halifax Thunderbirds as they take on the Albany FireWolves on Dec. 28. Whether you’re a sports fan or just want to enjoy a night out, these games offer a great change of pace during the busy holiday season.
10. Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Style
Ring in the New Year with festive events happening across Nova Scotia. Whether you’re looking for live music, fireworks, or a quiet dinner to toast the year ahead, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate.
In Halifax, the Grand Parade hosts a family-friendly celebration with live performances, food trucks, and a dazzling fireworks display to welcome in the new year. For those looking for a quieter evening, many local restaurants and inns offer special New Year’s Eve menus—perfect for a cozy night out.
No matter how you choose to celebrate, it’s a great way to wrap up December and kick off the New Year.
Make the Most of December in Nova Scotia
Whether you’re enjoying holiday festivals, taking in festive lights, or catching a sports game, there’s no shortage of things to do in Nova Scotia this December. From coastal towns to lively city events, it’s the perfect time to explore the province and make some seasonal memories.
What’s on your December bucket list? Let us know in the comments, and be sure to check out our other guides for more ideas to make the most of winter in Nova Scotia.
More Inspiration for Your Nova Scotia Bucket List
The Best Halifax Christmas Events to Get You in the Festive Spirit
10 Fun Things to Do in Nova Scotia in November
Halifax in December: A Local’s Guide to Festive Fun in the City
10 Festive Things to Do in Nova Scotia in December
Lobster Trap Christmas Trees: A Unique Nova Scotia Tradition
Christmas Markets in Nova Scotia You Won’t Want to Miss [2024]
Where to See the Best Christmas Lights in Halifax and the HRM
