Inviting in the Local Community

At our Centre, we believe that community events play a vital role in bringing people together, fostering a sense of belonging, and creating a positive impact on the community. We are committed to continuing our tradition of hosting community events that make a difference and look forward to seeing the positive impact they will have.

During the 2023 IIHF World Junior Championship, the Ballroom level at the Convention Centre was transformed into #ExploreNB Fan Fest, with a merch store, inflatables, and games, mascots, face-painters, mascot visits, a New Brunswick tourism experience, daily live music from East Coast artists, and hot stoves with special guests. Fan Fest took a huge amount of coordination and collaboration from our teams across the convention centre, and it exceeded expectations welcoming over 15,000 visitors.

In May we we’re honored to welcome the 13th Cedar & Maple Gala hosted by the Lebanese Chamber of Commerce of Nova Scotia. This prestigious and culture-filled evening is regarded as one of the most anticipated business events of the year, honouring Canadian Business of the Year, Lebanese Professional of the Year, Lebanese Business of the Year, and Lebanese Business Person of the Year. The Lebanese Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization committed to the development and growth of economic and commercial relations between Canada and Lebanon.

Presented by My East Coast Experience, the Most Inspiring Immigrants in Atlantic Canada initiative identified and honoured those who stand out in their towns and cities across this region -- the trailblazers and leaders who have made a difference in their communities. This important and inspiring program culminated in a prestigious gala celebration held on January 20. During the gala event, chosen recipients were recognized and awarded by delegates from across the region, as selected by a distinguished Advisory Committee comprising members from New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.

We are proud to support community events from across Nova Scotia, which help to raise millions of dollars each year for our communities, friends, and neighbours. These events bring people together and the funds raised from these events go towards a variety of causes, such as healthcare, education, and social services. In 2022, we hosted 14 charitable events including:

• UNICEF’s Water for Life Gala (500 attendees)
• A Different Stage of Mind – Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia (470 attendees)
• Support4Sport Awards Banquet (370 attendees)
• Arthritis Society 28th Celebrity Roast Gala (760 attendees)
• Grocery Gala Foundation (740 attendees)
• Laing House Masquerade Ball (440 attendees)
• The Great Big Dig in support of the IWK (880 attendees)
• Family Business Atlantic – The Peter Wilson Dinner (460 attendees)
• The Discovery Awards (430 attendees)
• Evergreen Gala (400 attendees)
• Phoenix Youth Holiday Luncheon (680 attendees)
• Feeling The Love Dinner & Dance – Hospice Halifax (450 attendees)
• The Halifax Progress Clubs Sports Charity Dinner (1,270 attendees)

“Through our events hosted at the Halifax Convention Centre, we have been able to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars to support Arthritis Society Canada’s innovative research, programs for children living with arthritis and a search for a cure. To have our events hosted at the Halifax Convention Centre means we guarantee an elevated event that will grab the attention of our community leaders. We also know that we will have a professional, knowledgeable team leading us every step of the way to make it a success for our organization!”

- Natalie Fournier, Manager Events, Arthritis Society of Canada

The Water for Life Gala features some of the best chefs in Nova Scotia with dishes inspired by countries around the world. The culinary team at the Convention Centre was honored to participate in the auction, enjoy live music and hear from guest speakers who shared the importance of UNICEF’s work. The solidarity of the Halifax community to support these life-changing programs is more important than ever. The Gala will continue to support Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) projects for children who need them most. Through the generosity of many donors, UNICEF leads innovative initiatives to bring life-saving water to all children.

Springtime is one of our favourite times of the year at the Halifax Convention Centre. It’s the start of convention season and the time when we get out in the fresh air and visit our incredible neighbours. This April, we visited 45 of our downtown friends with gifts of Blueberry Oatcakes (made from scratch in our kitchen) and a calendar of our upcoming events. We love the opportunity to reach out and let our neighbours and partners know when they can expect a busy downtown Halifax with event activity.