Random facts about Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax, Nova Scotia is located on Canada’s Atlantic seacoast. Spanning 201 communities, the Halifax region is a mix of urban and rural; each city, town and village with its own distinctive Nova Scotian charm. The rugged seaside diversity provides travelers the chance to get close to nature and enjoy many activities on the ocean. Known for its stunning coastline, fresh cuisine, welcoming community and rich history, Halifax is brimming with opportunities to experience authentic Maritime Canada.

While many may aware of Halifax’s seaside charm, here are five random facts you may not have known:

1) Halifax is home to the longest continuously run farmers’ market – Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market is the longest continuously running farmers’ market in North America! Open year round, you will find a diverse selection of local ingredients, goods and gifts. Halifax Historic Market (located in Brewery Square) allows visitors to stroll through a 200-year-old granite and ironstone heritage building and meet local, small-scale farmers and artisans

2) First Victorian Public Garden in North America (circa. 1836) – The sprawling public gardens in the heart of downtown Halifax are a sight to behold. There are over 140 species of trees, flowers and plants, ponds frequented by ducks and swans and plenty of green space with benches for relaxing. Visitors can also enjoy coffee and treats from the Uncommon Grounds café located in the center of the Gardens.

3) Oldest salt water ferry North America (1752) – Many are aware of the ferries in Seattle, but the Halifax ferry system was the first. Samuel Cunard, who founded Cunard Cruise Lines, was inspired to start his business by the Halifax ferry service.

4) The Halifax Explosion (Dec. 6, 1917) was the greatest man-made explosion before the atomic bomb. Evidence of the explosion’s impact can be seen at St. Paul’s Church and the Fairview Lawn Cemetery. There is also a permanent exhibit at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.

5) One of the world’s longest boardwalks – The Halifax boardwalk is over 3.8km. Along the boardwalk visitors will find water tours, seaside snack shacks, kids’ activities and patios galore!

If you know of some other interesting facts about Halifax, Nova Scotia, please leave a comment below. Click the following link to read about other Random Factoid Friday destinations.

3 Comments

Nancie says:

June 20, 2015 at 6:39 am

Hi Mike. Great introduction to my hometown. Here’s a fact for you…

Dalhousie University publishes the longest running college newspaper in Canada; the Dalhousie Gazette, established in 1868. 🙂
1. Mike Shubic says:
  
  June 28, 2015 at 2:16 pm
  
  Hi Nancie…thank so much for stopping by and sharing. Much appreciated. Cheers, Mike