What’s open and what’s closed this Thanksgiving long weekend in Halifax 2025

Every Thanksgiving, someone forgets—groceries, garbage day, or that bus that isn’t coming. To help you dodge the long-weekend confusion, here’s what’s open and what’s closed across Halifax.

Disclaimer: Details come from official releases and past holiday schedules but may change without notice. Always confirm with individual locations before heading out.

Know something we missed? Email news@haligonia.ca with updates or corrections.

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Municipal services

• Garbage, organics, and recycling: No pickup on Monday, October. 13. Collection moves to Saturday, Oct. 11. The Otter Lake and Materials Recovery facilities are closed Monday but open Saturday. The Bayers Lake Household Special Waste Depot is closed Oct. 11 but open Oct. 18, while a mobile waste depot runs Oct. 11 at Mic Mac Mall (9 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Halifax Transit: Buses and the Alderney Ferry operate on holiday schedules Monday. The Woodside Ferry does not run. First Alderney ferry trip: 7:30 a.m.; last trip: 11:45 p.m.
• Recreation: Most municipal recreation centres are closed Monday, except Sackville Sports Stadium. The Emera Oval’s final summer/fall day is Sunday, Oct. 12 before ice prep begins.
• 311 and Customer Service Centres: Closed Monday. Urgent 311 calls will still be taken. Regular hours return Tuesday, October. 14.
• Parking: Free on-street parking Monday, but all other signs still apply.

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Halifax Water

Offices are closed Monday, Oct. 13, reopening Tuesday, Oct. 14.

Emergency crews remain on call 24/7 for water, wastewater, and stormwater issues at 902-420-9287.

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Grocery, retail, and liquor

• Grocery & Retail: Thanksgiving Day is a designated retail closing day in Nova Scotia. Expect major grocery chains, malls, and big box stores (Sobeys, Superstore, Walmart, Costco, Halifax Shopping Centre, Mic Mac Mall, Dartmouth Crossing) to be closed. Some corner stores, small markets, and pharmacies may open on reduced hours.
• Liquor (NSLC): All NSLC locations are closed Monday. Some private beer, wine, or specialty retailers may open if they choose, but check before heading out.

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Quick takeaway

If it runs on wheels, takes your trash, or sells you beer, it’s likely off duty Monday.

If it’s your neighbourhood corner shop, there’s a fighting chance.