As International Picnic Day approaches on Wednesday, June 18, there’s no better time to gather your loved ones and enjoy the natural beauty of Halifax. From lush gardens to scenic waterfronts, here are some of the city’s top picnic spots.
1. Halifax Public Gardens
This has to be the obvious first choice. Established in 1867, the Halifax Public Gardens are a Victorian-era oasis in the heart of the city. Located at the corner of Spring Garden Road and South Park Street, the 16-acre park boasts meticulously manicured flower beds, serene fountains, and shaded benches perfect for a relaxed picnic. Don’t miss the ornate bandstand, which hosts free public concerts on Sunday afternoons during the summer.
2. Halifax Commons
As Canada’s oldest urban park, the Halifax Commons offers expansive green spaces ideal for family picnics. The Central Common, adjacent to Bell Road, features a playground, skate park, paddling pool, and a swimming pool, and all of them are free to use. Nearby, the Emera Oval provides a great spot for summer roller skating.
3. Point Pleasant Park
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Situated at the southern tip of the Halifax Peninsula, Point Pleasant Park offers a tranquil setting with wooded trails and historic landmarks. Enjoy a picnic near the Cambridge Battery and catch a performance by Shakespeare by the Sea, which runs nightly (except Mondays) at 7 p.m. during the summer.
4. Sir Sandford Fleming Park (The Dingle)
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Located in Jollimore, this 95-acre park features the Dingle Memorial Tower, offering panoramic views of the Northwest Arm. The park also includes walking trails, a small sandy beach, and a pond. These are perfect for a peaceful picnic away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
5. Leighton Dillman Park
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Part of the Dartmouth Common, Leighton Dillman Park is a picturesque hillside park near the Zatzman Sportsplex. It features the Park Avenue Community Oven, open seasonally on Saturdays from noon to 3 p.m., where you can bake your own pizzas or flatbreads.
6. Shubie Park
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Situated along the historic Shubenacadie Canal, Shubie Park is an excellent spot for a family picnic. With ample space for games, a playground for kids, and access to the canal for kayaking and canoeing, it’s an ideal location for a fun-filled day.
7. Seaview Park
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Once the site of the Africville community, Seaview Park has been transformed into a peaceful picnic spot. Enjoy your meal at the former locations of Skinner’s Well or Tibby’s Pond, and visit the Africville Museum, housed in the reconstructed Seaview Baptist Church, to learn about the area’s history.
8. Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park
Located about 17 miles south of Halifax in Sambro Creek, this coastal park boasts three separate white-sand beaches nestled in coves along the Atlantic Ocean. The park offers picturesque hiking trails like the popular Pennant Point trail, which is perfect for bird-watching and wildlife viewing.
9. Kidston Lake
Situated approximately 9 km from downtown Halifax in the Spryfield area, Kidston Lake features an artificial sand beach on its eastern shore. The lake is a popular swimming destination and offers a good swim from the beach to two rock formations called Breadloaf and the Whale’s Back.
Tips for a perfect picnic:
Pack Essentials: Bring a blanket, sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water.
Plan Ahead: Check the weather forecast and park hours before heading out.
Respect Nature: Clean up after yourself to keep these spots beautiful for everyone.
Whether you’re seeking a serene garden, a historic park, or a scenic waterfront, Halifax offers a variety of perfect picnic spots to celebrate International Picnic Day. Gather your picnic basket and enjoy a day outdoors in one of these beautiful locations.