Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

In the heart of downtown Halifax, this strategic hilltop fort offers a commanding view of Halifax Harbour. Step back to 1869 and immerse yourself in the social and military history of Halifax with the 78th Highlanders and the 3rd Brigade Royal Artillery. Learn about the changing roles of the fort and visit the Army Museum.

The Parade Square and accessible washrooms inside the Halifax Citadel remain open from November to May, weather permitting. The Visitor Centre and all period rooms and exhibits are closed. The upper level of the fort walls (ramparts) are closed for visitor safety. Full programming returns in May! More information

Victorian Christmas

Capture some holiday magic on November 25 and 26, from noon to 4 pm. Admission is free with a donation to Feed Nova Scotia.

Santa Claus and Parka.

Holiday experiences

Enjoy the return of Victorian Christmas and new holiday experiences with friends and family!

A group sitting at a decorated table raises their glasses for a toast.

Halifax Citadel Distilled Experiences

Enjoy a quick tasting or embark on a private or public tour including tasting tutorials with a distiller!

Visiting Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

Activities and experiences

Things to do, events, family and school programs, demonstrations, guided ghost tours, museum.

Plan your visit

How to get here, maps and directions, facilities and services, hours, accessibility, event rentals, photos, fees.

Shop and reserve

Passes and permits, souvenirs, reservations. Rent space for your meeting or special event.

Fees

Visitor passes and program fees. Free admission for youth.

Passes and permits

Discovery Pass. Film permits.

Safety and guidelines

Important bulletins, weather, seasonal safety, visitor guidelines.

About Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

Culture and history

History, architecture, Hometown Heros, engineering, Halifax Defence Complex.

Stewardship and management

Jobs, partners, permits and licenses, public consultations, plans, and policies.

Contact us

General inquiries: 902-426-5080

halifax@pc.gc.ca

Hours of operation

Open daily
9 am to 5 pm

Services change with the seasons. 

The grounds are open year-round.

See more details

#HalifaxCitadelNHS

More places to discover with Parks Canada

Georges Island National Historic Site

A drumlin created by glacial deposits thousands of years ago, Georges Island sits in the centre of Halifax Harbour and was at the heart of military action for hundreds of years.

Prince of Wales Tower National Historic Site

Built in 1796-97 to protect against French attack, the Prince of Wales Tower was the first of its kind in North America. Visitors can explore its history, architectural features and significance as a defensive structure.

Fort McNab National Historic Site

From the 1880s and for more than half a century, Fort McNab played a key role in the Halifax Defence System, guarding one of the British Empire’s (and then Canada’s) most significant naval stations.

York Redoubt National Historic Site

An integral part of Halifax’s Defense Complex, York Redoubt helped protect this strategic port city from military attack for over 200 years. Walking paths and interpretive panels help tell its impressive story.

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