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Grand Parade: Halifax's Historic Heart

Discover Halifax's historic heart: Grand Parade, a vibrant civic space hosting events, memorials, and cultural experiences since 1749.

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Grand Parade, established in 1749, is a historic military parade square in the heart of downtown Halifax. Flanked by Halifax City Hall and St. Paul's Church, it's a central civic space hosting events, ceremonies, and gatherings. The Cenotaph, a war memorial, stands in the middle, commemorating those who died in WWI and later conflicts.

A brief summary to Grand Parade

  • 1770 Barrington St, Halifax, Downtown Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 3K4, CA
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Local tips

  • Check the local event calendar to plan your visit around special happenings in the square.
  • Visit during local events or festivals for a lively atmosphere and unique experiences.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and vibrant street performances.
  • Explore nearby cafes and shops for a taste of local cuisine and culture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Grand Parade is centrally located in downtown Halifax, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby points of interest. From the Halifax Waterfront, walk west along Salter Street or Sackville Street until you reach Barrington Street. The Grand Parade will be on your left, across from City Hall. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Halifax Transit provides bus service to the Grand Parade. Several routes stop near the Parade, including routes 1, 4, and 7. Check the Halifax Transit website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. A single adult fare is $3.00. Tickets are valid for 150 minutes (2.5 hours) from activation and can be used to transfer to another bus or ferry route. You can pay with exact change when boarding the bus, or purchase tickets through the HFXGO mobile app.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Halifax. Request a ride to Grand Parade at 1770 Barrington St, Halifax, NS. The cost will vary depending on your starting point, but a typical ride from the Halifax Stanfield International Airport to Grand Parade would cost approximately CAD 60-80. A short trip from a downtown hotel should cost approximately $10-$20.

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Discover more about Grand Parade

The Grand Parade is a rectangular civic space in Downtown Halifax with a rich history dating back to the founding of the city in 1749. Originally a military parade square, it has evolved into a vital gathering place for locals and tourists alike. Located in the heart of downtown, the Grand Parade is bordered by Halifax City Hall to the north and St. Paul's Church, the oldest Protestant church in Canada, to the south. This central location has made it a focal point for civic events, musical performances, political demonstrations, and annual celebrations like New Year's Eve and Remembrance Day. The Cenotaph, unveiled in 1929, stands as a memorial to Haligonians who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars, the Korean Conflict, and the Afghanistan Conflict. Designed by J. Massey Rhind, the sculpture depicts a victorious but grieving Britannia, representing Nova Scotian motherhood. Throughout the year, the Grand Parade hosts various events, markets, concerts, and community celebrations. Street performers and artists often showcase their talents, adding to the lively atmosphere. The square also provides a glimpse into Halifax's past, highlighting the city's role in Canadian history.

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