Get ready - Open City is back! This Saturday, May 9th, 2026, downtown Halifax will be buzzing with energy as Open City returns for a one-day celebration of fun events, great food, and community spirit. Local businesses across the city will offer pop-up events, deals, and special events you won't want to miss. Whether you're looking to try something new or revisit a favourite spot, Open City is the perfect excuse to explore, support local, and connect with your community.
Who's participating in Open City in Downtown Halifax and what are they offering?
Ambassatours Gray Line - Harbour Hopper Tours (1549 Lower Water St)
Enjoy 20% off Halifax's #1 Boat Tour, the Harbour Hopper, for one day only on May 9th, 2026! No code needed - prices are already discounted, just book your ticket and you're all set!
Downtown Halifax Business Commission (1546 Barrington St)
Pop in for some free face painting, balloon art, and other fun treats for kids of all ages at DHBC's Welcome Centre!
Argyle Fine Art (102-1559 Barrington Street)
Celebrate the launch of new works from the incredible emerging artist, Emma Fisher. Then become part of a fun community image and get your portrait line-drawn on the gallery windows by local artist.
Teichert Gallery (1723 Hollis Street)
Browse a collection of mosaic artworks all sized 2ft x 2 ft created by a variety of artists and in various media.
Spirit Spa (Halifax 5150 Salter Street)
Enjoy a Tax Free offering on all retail (with exclusions) along with samples & wildflower seeds gifted with all retail purchases!
Halifax Circus (1479 Barrington Street)
Visit the Halifax Circus from 1pm-4pm to check out their space, ask questions about classes and summer camps, and participate in entry-level ongoing workshops.
Verve Fine Craft Gallery (Halifax 1573 Barrington Street)
Explore the debut of a unique collection of one-of-a-kind mugs created by accomplished ceramic artists from across Canada. If you find one you like, buy the mug and get a free drip coffee or drink of any size from their neighbours, The Bird's Nest Cafe.
Naguara Venezuelan Food (Halifax Brewery Market)
Try some of Naguara's most delicious dishes including their popular gluten-friendly corn empanadas in multiple fillings, freshly made arepas like the famous Reina Pepiada, and their signature cheese tequeños.
Market Price (1477 Lower Water Street)
Take advantage of up to 75% OFF during Market Price's Spring Cleaning Sale!
I Heart Bikes (1549 Lower Water Street)
Test out I Heart Bikes E-trike in a free 10-minute test drive and then indulge in their $1 slushies and hot drinks.
Sunny Day Nature Art (Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market)
Visit the Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market and stop by Sunny Day Nature Art who will be offering their handmade, unique products with locally picked flowers in resin.
Our Place Coffeehouse (1873 Granville Street)
Enjoy delicious $5 Spring Specialty Beverages (12oz).
The Prow Gallery (1479 Lower Water Street, Bishop's Landing)
Spend an afternoon with talented artist Marilyn McAvoy as she introduces her newest work, describes her artistic process and answers questions from curious visitors.
Carrefour Atlantic Emporium (1869 Upper Water Street)
Enjoy a free limited edition sticker with every purchase!
Bird’s Nest Café (1547 Barrington St)
Their famous Portuguese custard tarts are back and are always quick to sell out, so get there early!
ROUSSEAU Chocolatier (5151 South Street)
Indulge in 2 Chocolate-covered Madeleines and Hot Chocolate for only $10.
Stardust Bar + Kitchen (1688 Barrington Street)
Take advantage of Stardust Bar + Kitchens' Back Door Take-Out Taco Deal!
Halifax Bra Store (1496 Lower Water Street)
Get a free bra fitting, purchase the perfect bra, and receive a free gift with a value of $35.
The Board Room Game Cafe & Chain Reaction Disc Golf (1256 Barrington Street)
Buy 2 and Get 1 Free in the retail section of the Board Room Game Cafe! Treat yourself to a limited edition FrootLoops Fog and Roll-For-Your-Flavour Italian Sodas available for dine-in, or take-out! Then take advantage of 15% off all Disc Golf products at Chain Reaction Disc Golf (located within the Board Room!).
Centre for Craft & Mary E. Black Gallery (1061 Marginal Road, Suite 140)
Enjoy free admission and visit their galleries, featuring Interior Motifs by ceramicist Martina Lantin and a large showcase by NSCAD University Design students.
Boneheads BBQ (1014 Barrington Street)
Test out Boneheads BBQ's new special sandwich called "The Filthy Pig".
Zuya Production (2-1658 Market Street)
Capture a photo in their 2026 HRM-themed photo booth for $6.99 (2 strips). Then receive a free uniquely designed wooden card with any purchase over $40.
Anytime Fitness Halifax (1660 Hollis Street)
Stop by the Anytime Fitness tent to win a number of prizes from merch to supplements, and maybe even a free gym membership!
Gallery Hop 2026 (Various galleries in Halifax & Bedford)
Visit participating galleries in Halifax & Bedford for an afternoon of stunning art and special events!
Monky Funky Cafe (1594 Granville Street)
Take in a delicious Mint Mojito, on the house, with any Club Sandwich purchase!
The Art Gallery of Nova Scotia (1723 Hollis Street)
Be one of the first 100 people who visit AGNS and sign up for one of their new admission passes—Free Access Under 25 or the $28 Annual Admission Pass—and get a free AGNS notebook filled with images of artwork from their permanent collection.
The Stubborn Goat Gastropub (1580 Argyle Street)
Build Your Own delicious Mac & Cheese for only $5!
The 7 Virtues Atelier (106-1709 Lower Water St)
Drop in or book your time to design your own signature perfume and receive a complimentary Perfume Layering Discovery Set (value $37).
Durty Nelly's (1645 Argyle Street)
Grab a sample of their house made brown bread and buy a loaf to take home and enjoy later.
Get ready to explore downtown Halifax like never before during Open City, this Saturday, May 9th, 2026! From incredible food and local art, to live demos and exclusive deals, it's the perfect day to support local and discover the city's vibrant culture. Bring your friends, your appetite, and enjoy the excitement waiting around every corner!
