Paint the Gardens 2026

A plein air artist enjoying the inspiring beauty of the Halifax Public Gardens during Paint the Gardens

 

Bring your easel to the Gardens!

Creativity and community come together once again as The Friends of the Public Gardens’ plein air Paint the Gardens program returns for the 2026 season.

Guidelines and Registration

For Individual Artists:

  • Paint the Gardens is offered on Saturdays only, beginning July 4, 2026 and continuing until early September (end date to be announced).

  • Registration is required. To register in advance, please email info@halifaxpublicgardens.ca with:

    • your full name

    • your email address

    • your requested participation date

  • Day-of registration is also available at the Info Desk in Horticultural Hall, starting 9:00 AM on Saturdays.

  • Participants are required to bring all their own materials and supplies.

  • The Info Desk and the Café (Uncommon Grounds) open at 9:00 a.m.

  • Participants may paint from 9:00 a.m. until 30 minutes before the Gardens close.

  • On your registered painting day, go to the Info Desk in Horticultural Hall to receive your participant name tag. 

  • Your participant name tag must be worn and clearly visible at all times while painting in the Gardens.

  • Name tags are valid for one use only, on the date for which they are issued.

  • A new registration is required for each additional day of participation (register and participate as often as you wish!)

  • Artists are asked to respect the Gardens by selecting painting locations that do not block gates, pathways, bridges, or other pedestrian areas, and by ensuring that all supplies and materials are removed when finished.

  • If you have questions or concerns during your visit, please speak with volunteers at the Info Desk.

Artist Groups

  • Paint the Gardens is offered on Saturdays only, beginning July 4, 2026 and continuing until early September (end date to be announced). Registration is required (see below).

  • If a group wishes to paint together, a Request for Event form is required. This notifies volunteers and security staff, particularly if participants of the same group will be spread throughout the Gardens. To request a form, please email info@halifaxpublicgardens.ca

General Information

  • Public washrooms are located inside the Spring Garden Road entrance at Juan Plaza.

  • A drinking fountain and water bottle refill station is located on the east side of Juan Plaza.

  • Select images of the Gardens that include Paint the Gardens participants may be used in ongoing and future promotional material.


Welcome to the Halifax Public Gardens. We hope you enjoy your painting experience!

Questions? Please email info@halifaxpublicgardens.ca