The Story of Public Gardens
One of the finest surviving examples of Victorian Gardens in North America, the Halifax Public Gardens began on Common land by the Nova Scotia Horticultural Society in 1836. In 1847, Horticultural Hall was erected in the Gardens and served as the meeting room for members of the Society. A second series of gardens was established by the City of Halifax in 1867 and in 1874 the gardens were unified into the present 16 acres. The Gardens continue to be an accessible public leisure destination.
In 1872, Richard Power was hired as the Garden’s superintendent. Under his supervision, the Gardens saw many of the linden and elm trees along Summer and Sackville Streets that still exist today. Power remained the superintendent until 1915, and during that period he oversaw the introduction of the bandstand, the fountains, statues and wrought iron gates – all fundamental features of the High Victorian Pleasure Garden and all honouring a milestone in Queen Victoria’s reign, a contemporary military event, or an important local personage. Throughout the Gardens the trees, shrubs and flowers are planted as separate specimens. The Gardens are filled with many exotic and semi-tropical species enriched by colour and texture. Power believed the Gardens were a work of art rather than a work of nature.
The Halifax Public Gardens were recognized as a National Historic Site in 1984. It is a valuable resource in the study of heritage plants and landscape design. As well, it houses a public collection of garden artefacts such as statues, a bandstand and fountains, which are representative of the Victorian era.
Programming & Special Events:
- Free Sunday concerts in the bandstand throughout the summer.
- Wedding ceremonies are not permitted in the Public Gardens. For information on HRM owned parks and wedding ceremonies click here.
- Wedding and any special event photos are welcome in the park without notice/booking as long as within Garden hours (see below).
Check back for an updated list of activities!
Research & Tours:
Guided walking tours provided by local tourism operators. Special tours arranged through local interest groups.
PLEASE NOTE:
Waste receptacles are provided throughout the Gardens.
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