10 Fun Things to Do in Nova Scotia in November

Looking for things to do in Nova Scotia in November? Here are10 fun ideas to keep you busy all month long.

As November rolls in, many of us start to feel the excitement of the upcoming holidays, and for me, it’s an extra-special time of year—it’s my birthday month and the start of my favourite season!

With holiday markets, tree-lighting ceremonies, and cozy events popping up across Nova Scotia, there’s plenty to look forward to before the holiday rush truly begins. If you’re looking to make the most of this in-between month, check out these fun things to do in Nova Scotia in November.

1. Attend Remembrance Day Ceremonies

Remembrance Day on November 11 is deeply respected in Nova Scotia, with ceremonies held in nearly every community to honour veterans and active service members.

Halifax’s Grand Parade hosts one of the province’s largest ceremonies, with its touching tribute and beautiful setting in the city’s historic heart. Over in Dartmouth, Sullivan’s Pond also holds a well-attended ceremony in a beautiful outdoor setting at the Veteran’s War Memorial.

These events are just a few of many that take place across the province, allowing locals and visitors alike to pay their respects and reflect on the day’s significance. Find other ceremonies here.

2. Start Your Holiday Shopping at Christmas Markets

Holiday craft markets start popping up in early November, offering a great chance to find unique, locally-made gifts.

One of the biggest events, Christmas at the Forum in Halifax, features hundreds of vendors and is a must for serious shoppers looking for one-of-a-kind finds. For a cozy, small-town experience, head to the Lunenburg Christmas Craft Festival, where local artisans showcase everything from pottery to seasonal foods.

These markets are perfect for picking up meaningful gifts and getting into the holiday spirit early. Check out our full guide to the best Christmas markets in Nova Scotia for more details.

3. Attend Hal-Con in Halifax

If you’re a fan of sci-fi, fantasy, or pop culture, Hal-Con is the place to be in early November. This annual convention brings together fans from all over Atlantic Canada for a weekend filled with costume contests, celebrity guests, artist showcases, and workshops. Whether you’re there to meet your favourite TV actor, browse unique collectibles, or just people-watch, Hal-Con offers something fun for all ages.

When: November 8 – 10, 2024

4. Get into the Festive Spirit

November brings the start of holiday celebrations, with festive markets, tree-lighting ceremonies, and Christmas parades happening in towns and cities across the province. Whether you’re looking for tree-lighting ceremonies or cozy holiday markets, there’s no shortage of ways to get in the holiday spirit.

For those in the Halifax area, some of the best ways to get into the festive spirit include the tree lighting ceremony in front of City Hall, the annual Parade of Lights, and the Evergreen Market on the waterfront. And if you have kids, a visit to see Woody at Mic Mac Mall is a must! Check out our full list of holiday events in the Halifax area for more details.

large christmas tree illuminated with many strands of lights stands in front of city hall, which is illuminated with a light projection.

5. Enjoy a Holiday Parade

Nothing kicks off the holiday season quite like a Christmas parade, and Nova Scotia’s parades bring out all the charm of local communities. Halifax’s Parade of Lights is a highlight, with decorated floats, live music, and, of course, Santa himself, but it will take place in December this year.

Many smaller towns across the province also host their own parades, each with a unique festive atmosphere. Here are a few happening in November:

Barrington: November 23
Amherst: November 23 at 6 pm
Antigonish: November 23 @ 6 pm
Truro: November 24 @ 3:55 pm
Annapolis Royal: November 29
Light Up Lunenburg: November 29-30
Chester Village Christmas: November 29 – December 1
Wolfville Night of Lights: November 30

Bundle up, bring a thermos of hot chocolate, and enjoy the magic of this Nova Scotian holiday tradition.

6. Step Back in Time at the Citadel’s Victorian Christmas

Experience Christmas as Queen Victoria’s soldiers and their families would have celebrated it at the Citadel’s Victorian Christmas. This unique holiday event offers a glimpse into 19th-century traditions, with a beautifully decorated Victorian Christmas tree, festive parades, and games that would have entertained the soldiers of the era. Warm up by the campfire, enjoy guest performances, and meet Father Christmas dressed in full Victorian attire. It’s a unique way to celebrate the season and step back in time.

Where: Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
When: November 23 & 24, 2024, 12 – 4 pm both days

7. Unwind at the Spa Before the Holiday Rush

November is an ideal time to relax before the holiday season picks up, and Nova Scotia has some beautiful spots to do just that. For a Nordic-inspired experience, Sensea Nordic Spa on the South Shore and Oceanstone (my personal favourite), are ideal for an outdoor experience, where you can move between hot pools, saunas and cozy relaxation areas surrounded by nature.

For those looking for a full day of luxury, Fox Harb’r Resort offers spa packages in a beautiful setting. A spa day in November is the perfect way to recharge and get ready for the festive season. Check out our full guide to Nova Scotia’s Nordic spas for more details.

8. See Disney’s Frozen at Neptune Theatre

For a magical outing, catch Disney’s Frozen at Halifax’s Neptune Theatre, running from November 7 to January 5. Recommended for ages 6 and up, this enchanting musical brings Elsa, Anna, and Olaf to life on stage with incredible sets, costumes, and memorable songs.

The show lasts about 2.5 hours with an intermission—ideal for a family day out but note that babies and children under 4 aren’t permitted at live performances.

When: November 7, 2024 – January 5, 2025, shows at 2 pm and 7:30 pm
Cost: Tickets start at $40

9. Glow: A Holiday Light Festival

Glow transforms the Halifax Exhibition Centre into a magical holiday wonderland with millions of lights, towering displays, and family-friendly activities. Wander through stunning light installations, enjoy live entertainment, and shop at the winter market featuring local artisans. This magical experience is perfect for families and a cozy escape from the winter chill.

When: November 20, 2024 – January 1, 2025
Where: Halifax Exhibition Centre, 200 Prospect Rd
Cost: Starts at $19.97 (children and seniors), $25.97 (adults)

10. Admire a Lobster Trap Christmas Tree

In true Nova Scotia fashion, many coastal communities celebrate the season with lobster trap Christmas trees. These creative displays—often decorated with buoys, nets, and lights—honour the province’s fishing heritage while adding a touch of holiday cheer.

Barrington has one of the largest and most well-known lobster trap trees, but you’ll find them in coastal towns throughout the province.

Barrington’s lobster trap tree will be lit on November 21 at 6pm, with hot chocolate, live music and fireworks. Even if you can’t make it for the lighting, seeing these unique trees is a uniquely Nova Scotian way to get into the holiday spirit, and they make for some fun photo ops, too.

a lobster trap tree - many lobster traps are piled up to make a tree shape. the traps are decorated with red and green lights, and colourful buoys and a there's a mini red and white striped lighthouse on the top of the tree.

While November sometimes feels like an in-between month, it doesn’t have to be! As the fall colours fade and the winter holidays approach, there are plenty of things to do in Nova Scotia in November.

Whether you’re browsing craft markets, getting festive at the first holiday events or taking some time to yourself before the holiday rush, there’s plenty to look forward to before the holiday rush truly begins. Which of these events will you add to your calendar this month?