🗞️ A soberish future

Good morning!

Just when I thought spring had fully sprung, Halifax is reminding me not to put away my scarves quite yet. The weather has taken a chilly turn, with brisk winds and cooler temperatures making a surprise return—proof that Nova Scotia’s seasons like to keep me on my toes.

But while the temperatures may have backtracked, Halifax’s cultural calendar is moving full speed ahead. The city is buzzing as the arts season kicks off, bringing fresh energy and creativity to galleries, theatres, fashion shows, and venues across town. From opening nights to outdoor installations, there's no shortage of inspiration to warm the soul—even if the weather hasn't caught up yet.

Here’s to a great week ahead!

XOXO
Warren

🌡️ Traffic & Weather

Today: ☁️ 4°

Tomorrow: ☀️ 8°

Next Day: 🌤️ 11°

🚗 Driving, biking or busing today? Check out the current traffic conditions and ongoing road closures.

💨 Here is Halifax’s Air Quality Index and the smoke report.

FOOD + DRINK

A soberish future: The rise of low- and no-alcohol beverages in Nova Scotia

In just a few days, Halifax will welcome its first alcohol-free bar. The soon-to-open Soberish Bar will join Soberish Mocktail Shoppe, located within Nor’easter Apparel on Agricola Street. Both ventures are the brainchild of Jay Hiltz, who first tested the appeal of non-alcoholic drinks at his Chester clothing store. The success there convinced him to scrap plans for an espresso bar at the rear of his north-end storefront and focus instead on non-alcoholic beverages.

The Coast’s food writer Mark DeWolf spoke to Jay Hiltz and other pioneers of the non-alcoholic beverage scene on its rise in popularity in Halifax.

🤔 Need To Know

🔎 The Halifax Regional Municipality is exploring the idea of creating one membership to cover all of its recreational facilities – but it’s seeking public input on the idea first.

👮 Police in Halifax have charged a 27-year-old man with two counts of forcible confinement after they allege he forced two teenage boys into a bathroom stall at the Halifax Shopping Centre and wouldn't allow them to leave unless they drank alcohol.

❄️ Frost advisory issued for parts of HRM as temperatures are expected to dip overnight.

🍛 The provincial government is making some changes heading into the summer season aimed at making it easier to get a temporary food permit.

 🚕 Halifax ranks 3rd for worst traffic in Canada.

🍔 The countdown is on! 5 days until Jam’s Grand Opening! Burgers, bouncy castles, and community vibes—proceeds support Dartmouth General Hospital Foundation. June 1, 11am–3pm!*

🌟 Now renting at The Paramount! Located on South Park Street, enjoy upscale amenities, in-suite laundry, and walkable access to every Halifax summer event. Live central!*

🛶 Near Long Lake, Armdale Place blends nature and city life. Spacious suites, free laundry, parking, and transit access—your perfect Cowie Hill home!*

🌿 Welcome to Bayers Park I and II! Spacious, affordable living in Halifax’s West End. Near major transit routes with free laundry, parking, and discounts for seniors and essential workers.*

*Sponsored Post

SPONSORED BY GARRISON BREWING CO.

Grab a Garrison and win VIP for The Killers

Are we human... or are we really excited to offer you free concert tickets and a downtown hotel stay 👀 Garrison Brewing is partnering with a few local bars and restaurants to offer you a chance to WIN 2-VIP tickets to The Killers, a 1-night stay at Halifax Marriott Harbourfront, and gift cards to Garrison Taprooms and Stone's Throw Patio.

Grab a Garrison and get a ballot! 1 beer = 1 ballot 🍻 For a list of participating restaurants, visit @garrisonbrewing on Instagram.

Contest runs May 22 - June 15. Good luck!

LOCAL

Halifax henna artist making waves in the local community

The local artist behind Halifax Henna which brings henna art to weddings, festivals and community events across Nova Scotia has taken on a new project called Henna Crowns. Rajani created the Henna Crowns project where she works with patients in the Sunshine Room at the IWK Health Centre who are receiving cancer treatment.

“These are crowns that I make with henna on the heads of patients with cancer or alopecia,” says Rajani. “Hair is very important to most women, and with cancer treatment, they lose this… Henna Crowns is a way of giving these women a safety blanket or an accessory.”

The Coast’s Warren D’Silva talks to the owner of Halifax Henna about her journey and using her art to make a difference.

🗞️ In Other News

🚗 RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment arrested seven impaired drivers and suspended the licences of an additional three across the municipality over the weekend.

🧯 Garage fire on Farnham Road destroyed owner’s priceless items in the garage and also sent him and his wife to hospital.

🏢 Halifax non-profit gets $450K donation to purchase Gottingen Street building.

🏠 With the cost of living continuing to rise, an event in Halifax this weekend offered parents ways to help navigate what can be a rewarding but expensive experience.

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🗓️ Things To Do

Looking for something to do this week? Check out these Coast picks:

🎸 JD Fortune Rocks INXS: Get ready for an epic night of rock 'n roll as JD Fortune takes the stage to perform all the hits of the iconic band INXS! Get ready to dance, sing along, and relive all your favorite INXS tunes in person at Monte's Showbar Grill.  | May 31 | From $37 |

🎤 Atlantic Revival Nights: Get ready for three nights of unforgettable worship and revival with John Arnott at the Sackawa Canoe Club! Feel immersed in the powerful spirit of prayer, praise, and preaching. This event is an opportunity to experience the presence of God in a tangible way. | June1-3 | From $20 |

🎓 Graduation Party- Class of 2025: Get ready to celebrate in style as we mark the end of an incredible journey! Join the Class of 2025 for an unforgettable night of fun. | May 31 | From $20 |

Have an event to share? Let us know at [email protected].

⚓️ What’s In The Harbour

🚢➡️ The GPO EMERALD Cargo ship arrives in Halifax from Rotterdam Maasvlakte, Netherlands at 10am.

🍴 Where To Eat & Drink

🍵 Chaii Samosa: Craving something deliciously comforting? Try their samosas—crispy, golden, and filled with flavourful goodness—paired perfectly with a steaming cup of masala chai, rich with bold spices. Whether you're catching up with friends or taking a cozy break, this combo is the ultimate treat. Warm, satisfying, and made with love, it's the taste of tradition with a twist. 

🍗 R&B Kitchen: The perfect blend of sweet and savoury? You need to try their mouthwatering fried chicken and waffles! Crispy, juicy chicken paired with fluffy waffles and drizzled in syrup—it’s a match made in comfort food heaven. Whether you're brunching with friends or treating yourself to something special, this classic combo hits all the right notes. Bold flavours, satisfying crunch, and that irresistible sweet touch.

👀 In Case You Missed It

💃 The Atlantic Burlesque Festival returns May 30–31, promising more than just feathers and flair. With dazzling performances, interactive workshops, and a mission rooted in equity and empowerment, this year’s festival brings together a fierce lineup of talent—including Halifax’s own Tanya Cheex—to celebrate the past, present, and future of burlesque on the East Coast. Warren D’Silva from The Coast spoke to the headliner before her homecoming this weekend.

That’s it!

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