Welcoming In Our Community

In 2023-2024, the Halifax Convention Centre welcomed major community fundraisers for both local groups and national non-profit organizations to support initiatives across the province and around the world. From gala dinners to celebrity fundraising roasts, the Halifax Convention Centre brought people together for common causes and created a space to share efforts that improve the health and wellbeing of our communities.

• In April, 10 local chefs, including our Culinary team, prepared inspired menus for the 31st Annual Chefs for UNICEF Water for Life Gala, which raised funds to improve access to clean water and sanitation for children around the world.
   
• Proceeds from the 29th Celebrity Roast Gala Dinner in April supported the Arthritis Society of Canada for ongoing research and Camp JoinTogether.
   
• In September, the Grocery Foundation Gala returned, which has raised more than $10 million since 1999 to support local families and children in need.
   
• The first-ever Habitat for Humanity Nova Scotia’s HUGE House Party brought Jann Arden and Ricky from the Trailer Park Boys to the Convention Centre to support building safe and affordable homes for people across the province.
   
• KENT's Great Big Dig returned in November to raise over $250,000 for the IWK Foundation, which provides specialized and life-saving care for children.
   
• This year at the Convention Centre, over half a million dollars was raised for the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia between $300,000 at the Evergreen Gala in November and $260,560 at A Different Stage of Mind Grand Finale.
   
• 100% of funds raised at Feeling the Love Dinner & Dance in February supported Hospice Halifax, dedicated to compassionate end-of-life care.

This year, the Halifax Convention Centre partnered with organizations that represent diverse communities in our province to create a more inclusive and welcoming space for gathering and celebration. In September, we hosted the First-Ever Fusion Garba celebrating Gujarati dance, from Gujarat, India, with over 600 members of the Indo-Asian community. That month, we also hosted the Mayor’s New International Student Reception, which recognized the contributions that international students make to the cultural vibrancy, diversity, and prosperity of Halifax. We also welcomed back the 14th Annual Cedar & Maple Gala hosted by the Lebanese Chamber of Commerce, celebrating the achievements of Halifax’s Lebanese community.

In March, the Convention Centre was honoured to host the Special Olympics of Nova Scotia’s Inspired Gala & Auction, with special guest NHL executive Brian Burke, which raised funds to improve the lives of more than 2,500 athletes living with intellectual disabilities. The Inspired Gala recognized the talent and dedication of volunteers and athletes who make meaningful contributions to inclusion through sport. 

The Halifax Convention Centre welcomed back the Savour Food & Wine Festival on March 28, the largest celebration and not-for-profit showcase of more than 80 local food and beverage producers, mixologists, and restaurants, including many of our downtown neighbours. Over 1,200 guests enjoyed samples representing the best of our region, with all proceeds supporting the Restaurant Association of Nova Scotia, a non-profit organization that advances the hospitality industry. As downtown Halifax’s largest event venue, the Convention Centre supports business year-round and across the province by attracting over 90,000 guests annually who stay, dine, and shop during events with us. Events like Savour invite visitors to be inspired by the unique flavours, characters, and communities of our province.

"The whole idea about food and wine is that you need to experience it. Restaurants are the leaders; you find a wine here, you buy it when you go home. You taste food here, you like it. It’s a great way to get into the community.”

- Gordon Stewart, Former Executive Director, Restaurant Association of Nova Scotia. 

In February, the Halifax Convention Centre was the venue sponsor of the first-ever African Heritage Month Gala and Dinner. In partnership with the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia, over 950 guests celebrated more than 400 years of African Nova Scotian history, culture, and resilience by lifting voices through speech and song. Performers included Canadian Idol star Gary Beals, Linda Carvery, and Corey Adams. We are excited to welcome the African Heritage Gala back in 2024.

"As we gather to celebrate the positive contributions to Canadian history by African people, we have a reason to be proud. Music has always been a powerful tool for preserving our cultural heritage as Black people." 

- Julien Matwawana, Executive Director, African Nova Scotian Music Association (ANSMA).