Welcome to
Halifax, NS
You’ve reached the mainland — and one of Canada’s most vibrant port cities!
This is your third major milestone in The Big Canada Run, and your second stop in beautiful Nova Scotia. Every kilometre you’ve logged so far has led you here — and you’re making serious progress. In fact, you’re now closer to Dublin, Ireland than to Victoria, B.C. But don’t worry — you’re headed in the right direction. And what a place to pause and take it all in.
Halifax: More than a city — a region full of stories
What most people call Halifax is actually a regional municipality made up of Halifax, Dartmouth, Bedford, and the surrounding rural areas. It’s where urban energy meets coastal charm — a perfect mix of history, culture, and laid-back maritime vibes.
Stroll the 4 km waterfront boardwalk and you’ll pass food trucks, art vendors, restaurants, and live music. Sit with an ice cream cone, watch the sailboats, and breathe in the salty Atlantic air. This is Canada’s Ocean Gateway — and it shows.
Port of entry, path of dreams
Halifax has always been a city of arrivals. Nearly one million immigrants passed through Pier 21, the historic immigration centre that helped shape modern Canada. Today, one in five Canadians can trace their roots back to someone who came through these very docks.
Want to feel that history? The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 tells the stories of those journeys with honesty, heart, and hope. Right next door, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic dives into Halifax’s seafaring legacy — including a moving exhibit on the Titanic and Halifax’s role in the aftermath of the disaster.
Step back in time at the Halifax Citadel
High on a hill above the city sits the star-shaped Citadel, a National Historic Site and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Here, the 78th Highlanders and Royal Artillery re-enactors bring the 1800s to life — bagpipes, kilts, and cannon blasts included.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even sign up for the Soldier for a Day program. Slip into a Highlander uniform, learn how to march and drill, and fire a real (but very safe) rifle. It’s a workout and a history lesson in one.
A light that leads the way
One of the most beloved icons of the region is just a short drive away: Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world. Perched on wave-smoothed granite, the red-and-white tower has been guiding sailors — and inspiring visitors — for over a century. Its name comes from nearby St. Margaret’s Bay, shortened affectionately to “Peggy’s Cove.”
It’s a beacon of safety, beauty, and resilience — just like the journey you’re on.
A city that knows how to study… and celebrate
With six universities and more pubs per capita than any other Canadian city, Halifax is where learning and leisure go hand in hand. Whether you’re sipping craft beer at a local pub or fueling up on fresh lobster and Atlantic salmon, there’s no shortage of places to toast your progress.
Fun fact: Halifax has three times the national average of post-secondary students — which might explain all those late-night pizza places.
You’re not just passing through — you’re powering forward
You’ve run, walked, or hiked your way to one of Canada’s most dynamic cities. You’ve covered real ground — and earned every step of it. Halifax marks another milestone on this epic cross-country adventure. So take a moment. Celebrate. Refuel. Stretch those legs. And get ready for what’s next.
Next stop: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island — birthplace of Confederation and home to Canada’s warmest welcomes.
You’re doing something incredible. One kilometre at a time. One city at a time. One story at a time.
🇨🇦 Keep going — Canada is cheering you on.
Photo credits:
Peggy’s Cove, NS @acorn_art_photography instagram
Halifax Harbour @acorn_art_photography instagram
Halifax Citadel Historic Site @acorn_art_photography instagram
Lobster and wine @discoverhalifax instagram
Next Stop - Charlottetown, PEI
Keep Going
Keep Going