Celebrating its 33rd year, the Halifax Busker Festival is back and ready to entertain. Head to Halifax over the Nova Scotia Natal Day long weekend for some frivolity and fun.

From Wednesday, July 31st to Monday, August 5th, come spend some time along the historic Halifax waterfront while letting talented street performers entertain you all through the afternoon and evening. There will be highlighted performances taking place from noon to 10 pm on multiple stages during each day of the event. The Halifax Busker Festival strives to offer something for every member of the family to enjoy.

The festival is completely free to attend and all ages are welcome. Organizers do, however, encourage attendees to bring some extra cash so that they can tip the performers. How much you pay is completely up to you. Performers will have their hats out and will gladly receive tips from spectators that enjoyed what they saw.

Buskers come to the Halifax Busker Festival from all around the world to entertain thousands of festivalgoers every year. Their performances range from wacky and hilarious to mind-blowing and sublime. You’ll find yourself catching your breath as you watch high-flying acrobats and daring fire-breathers and scratching your head as you puzzle over mystifying magic tricks. Each busker has perfected their unique talent in order to put on the best show.

In addition to the buskers, make sure you also check out some of the international vendors that will be set up at the festival. Find food, jewelry, clothing, and more as you wander through the crowds in search of another performance to watch. East Coast Amusement will also be setting up carnival rides and a midway along Salter Street. Hop over to enjoy some thrills or try your luck at winning a carnival prize.

Another highlight of the Halifax Busker Festival is the Nova Scotia Marquee Music Stage, which will be returning for its third year. Located at Bishops Landing, the stage will feature performances from both up-and-coming and award-winning Nova Scotian singer-songwriters. Musicians who have appeared on the stage at previous festivals include Cory Tetford, Christine Campbell, and Reeny Smith. The concerts are also free to attend.

The Halifax Busker Festival has received numerous accolades since it was first founded in 1984. It was named one of the world’s top five outdoor festivals by the Bangkok Times, the top festival in Atlantic Canada by UP Magazine, and one of the top 10 August events in the world by National Geographic’s Intelligent Traveller.

If you’re planning an outing to the Busker Festival, then make sure you come prepared. It will be the height of summer, so outfit yourself with a hat, sunscreen, loose clothing, and extra water. Bring along something to sit on as well, such as a folding chair or a blanket, for when you want to take a break. Organizers ask that you keep pets at home as the waterfront can get quite crowded.

The Halifax Busker Festival is always a highlight of the Nova Scotia summer. You won’t find such a large gathering of unique and talented street performers anywhere else, so come and check it out if you have the chance.