Halifax’s nightlife scene is dominated by a plethora of pubs and bars. Rumour has it the city has the highest number of drinking establishments, per capita, in North America.
If you’re over 19, head to the city’s downtown core to find everything from Irish pubs, sports bars, gay bars, dance clubs, wine bars and beer gardens.
Pubs:
My favourite places for a night out with friends are the Irish pubs. They tend to have a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with the added bonus of live music. There are lots of great cover bands in Nova Scotia. Most play a mixture of current hits, classic sing-along tunes like ‘Sweet Caroline’, and a little Celtic music for good measure!
Durty Nelly’s is my go-to spot. This Irish pub is so authentic they actually designed and built it in Ireland and then shipped it in pieces to Halifax to be reassembled. They have good food and live music every night. The only drawback is that, because of the pub’s popularity, it’s always busy. So expect to stand in line if you show up at later in the night. Your best bet is to go early, grab a bite and then stick around for a fun night.
Locals love the Lower Deck and, because of its location on the waterfront and close proximity to a popular hotel, it also draws a lot of tourists. You won’t find fancy drinks on their menu; this pub is all about beer (with a few brands of coolers for non-beer drinkers). Live music is also on tap seven nights a week and my favourite cover band, Signal Hill, plays there often. If you’re at the Lower Deck on a summer’s night, listening to Signal Hill, it is impossible not to have a good time!
Sports Bars:
If you want to watch the game while you drink your beer, The HFX Sports Bar & Grill has you covered. The bar has over 100 screens for your viewing pleasure and they also have a free app that allows you to tap in to any TV to listen to the sporting event of your choice.
Gay Bars:
Reflections Cabaret is all about great DJ music and, since it opened in 1996, has been known as a hot spot for dancing. Their motto is “no labels, no rules” and everyone – no matter their gender or sexual preference – is welcome.
While Menz and Mollyz Bar is also an inclusive spot, gay men tend to make up a large portion of their clientele. At Menz you can expect to dance the night away, sing karaoke (if you’re there on a Wednesday), see a burlesque or drag show, interact with a diverse group of people and be served by drag queens or bare chested men!
Wine Bars:
Obladee Wine Bar is a small, casual spot that offers an extensive wine list. You’ll find a selection of local wines, along with those from Europe, Australia, New Zealand, California, and more. They also have a small food menu, which includes the option to build your own charcuterie board.
Little Oak Bar specializes in wine, spirits and snacks. There is a small selection of seafood and charcuterie board items to nibble on while you enjoy your drink. Or, if it’s a full meal you’re after, select an item from their ever-changing daily menu.
The Gleeful Globetrotter 