Best VPN Canada: Top Secure and Fast Services for 2026
Choosing the best VPN for Canada involves considering factors like privacy, security, and access to content. Many users seek a solution that protects their online activities while allowing access to streaming services and avoiding local restrictions. A good VPN ensures secure, private internet use and improves access to digital content within and outside Canada. With…
Your guide to Halifax’s ultimate long weekend
Friday and a new month land on the same day this week, and Halifax is strutting into August with flair. The long weekend brings sunshine, parades, fireworks and wall-to-wall energy as the city lights up with festivals, comedy, music and sports. Whether you’re grabbing your spot on the boardwalk for the buskers or dancing until…
Nova Scotia kids turn dreams into business
Two young performers from Nova Scotia are taking entrepreneurship into their own hands, proving that passion, sustainability, and hard work can go hand in hand. Ten-year-old Grace Duplissea of Halifax and 12-year-old Frankie Parnell of New Glasgow are not just kids with big dreams. They are budding entrepreneurs determined to fund their modelling and dance…
This Halifax hip-hop artist will liberate your mind and soul
The 2024 Hopscotch Festival that took place in October of last year brought Danny Brown and Jadakiss to Atlantic Canada’s biggest city. And yet, it was another artist who stole the spotlight when he raised Palestine’s flag to the audience, having them chant “Free Palestine,” before delivering the set of a lifetime, hyping up the…
Halifax vintage boutique gives back $4,000 to local causes
Racks of clothing in a vivid rainbow gradient line the walls at Esmé & Evee, the newest vintage boutique tucked into the heart of Halifax’s North End. Located at 2674 Agricola St., the store greets customers with curated vintage treasures dating as far back as 1970, all hand-selected and quality-checked by owner Madeleine Villa. “I…
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Ready to stop dreading the dentist?
Let’s face it, for most people, going to the dentist ranks somewhere between doing your taxes and waiting in line at Access Nova Scotia. But the good news is, dentistry is evolving. Many modern clinics, like Lawen Dentistry, are finding new ways to minimize pain, reduce anxiety, and make the whole process less “white-knuckle survival”…
Hockey culture in this country is steeped in misogyny and rape culture
For any readers who don’t live in Canada, you may not be aware of the recent ruling in the Hockey Canada Scandal and the subsequent trial. I can’t bring myself to regurgitate it word-for-word so you can read about it here, here, and here. The gist is this: five professional hockey players were found not…
Halifax artists get a shot at opening for Kid LAROI or Dom Dolla
The Magnetic World Music Festival is giving local artists a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform alongside global stars like Dom Dolla and The Kid LAROI as part of its 2025 edition, set to take place from Sept. 26 to 28 in Halifax. For the first time in the festival’s history, organizers are hosting an open contest…
Halifax takes centre stage as VIONNE Magazine launches their cover
In a celebration of fashion, community, and representation, VIONNE Magazine is launching its first cover right here in Halifax. The exclusive launch party is being hosted at Ela Lani Hair Salon and Spa, a vibrant and culturally-rooted salon owned by Pearl Ejelike, a multi-hyphenate creative, entrepreneur, and the mastermind behind the signature hairstyles featured in…
Halifax workshop is set to turn climate grief into art
Halifax residents are being invited to explore their climate grief, anxiety and hope through paper, glue and shared silence, rather than protest. Tender Earth is a collage workshop led by award-winning science educator, climate storyteller, and digital media producer Ive Velikova, and it takes place Friday, July 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Open…
Skunk Motel proving their punk-rock versatility with new EP
All-girl punk band Skunk Motel is riding high after releasing their debut EP on June 20. Having performed at several Music Nova Scotia showcases and being crowned The Coast’s gold winner for Best Punk Band in 2024, the four members of Skunk Motel have continued to up the ante with their five-track debut, wearing all…
We asked, you answered.
Sean Feucht holds rallies that blend upbeat Christian-rock songs with sermons that tie in his right-wing political views. Between praising President Donald Trump as “God’s chosen one” and suggesting that abortion supporters are “demons,” Feucht has repeatedly advocated for the fusion of church and state. And now his MAGA Christian roadshow is hitting Halifax. It…
Nova Scotia model inspires new colouring book
Illustrator and entrepreneur Leslie Carvery is launching a new colouring book on Wednesday, July 23 that honours Sherry Anne Crowe, a Halifax based model, actor, inspirational speaker, emcee and corporate leader whose story is inspiring to women of all ages. Titled Call Me Sherry Anne, the 22-page book created under Carvery’s Afro Girl Design brand…
Nova Scotia realtor helps 2SLGBTQ+ Americans find safe haven in Halifax
As legal protections for 2SLGBTQIA+ people continue to unravel in parts of the United States, a Nova Scotia realtor is seeing a growing number of queer couples turn to Canada for safety — and he’s helping them find their new homes in Halifax. Jody Allen, a real estate agent with Royal LePage Anchor Realty, has…
Halifax comes alive: a weekend of music, pride, and summer energy
We’ve reached the time of year when Lana Del Rey’s “Young and Beautiful” takes over your reel soundtrack. It’s the season of “hot summer nights, mid-July / when you and I were forever wild.” Halifax has fully transformed into the arts and culture hub of the Maritimes. The streets are alive with the hum of…
Casa di Stefano: A slice of suburban passion
Driving into a busy strip mall on Cobequid Road in Sackville at six o’clock on a Wednesday, I admit I was puzzled. Why was the parking lot full? The answer became clear as soon as I stepped through the doors of Casa di Stefano—the space was buzzing. Couples leaned in over glasses of wine, families…
Breaking barriers at 43: Sarah McCann will be a correspondent at the Halifax Fashion Week blue carpet
A Halifax-based content creator known for her advocacy of sustainable fashion and for pushing back against ageism in the industry is gearing up to be one of the official blue carpet correspondents at Halifax Fashion Week. Sarah McCann, a content creator, teacher, mother, laser technician and a freelance model, has spent the last few years…
Creating musical sapphic spaces with Dyke Night Halifax
While spaces for queer folks have become more common as 2SLGBTQIA+ acceptance becomes the norm, it can still be hard for certain sections of the community to find a place to belong. In particular, it can be difficult to find a space for lesbian, gender-diverse and trans people. Seeing that need in the community, local…
Stolen TD Halifax Jazz Festival banner replaced by community college’s generous gesture
Organizers of the Halifax Jazz Festival say they were left shocked and heartbroken after discovering their 60-foot festival banner had been stolen, just one week before opening night of the long-running summer event. The banner, which was installed at the corner of Barrington Street and South Street, was taken sometime between the night of Monday,…
Halifax artist launches provincewide grief and solidarity quilt for Palestine
Flyers taped along Spring Garden Road in Halifax have become quiet calls to action. Watercolour images of flowers, doves, and watermelon slices frame a QR code and an invitation that reads “Nova Scotia Grief and Solidarity Quilt for Palestine.” The posters, placed by textile artist and literacy advocate Kelly Bee, are drawing artists and activists…
Make the most of Maritime summer: Halifax’s weekend event guide for July 11-13
After a long spring, Halifax is embracing the warm days and bright evenings that define the Maritime summer. With only a few short months of sunny weather and extended daylight, this is the time to make the most of the season’s offerings. This weekend, from July 11 to 13, the city comes alive with a…
We asked, you answered.
The Coast has been closely following the drama that is the Windsor Street Exchange. First it was getting an overhaul, then it wasn’t, then it was again. It’s hard to keep up. At this week’s meeting, regional councillors voted unanimously in favour of continuing some preparation, or early work projects, at the busy intersection this…
From Coldbrook to Paris: Teen model fundraises for fashion week dream
The air inside the Lighthouse Art Centre was alive with anticipation. Models, both seasoned and new, moved between mirrored walls, adjusting their poses, checking their outfits, and perfecting their walks in preparation for Halifax Fashion Week. The low hum of chatter filled the room — hopeful models exchanging tips, discussing casting calls, and talking about…
Halifax Pride will flourish onto city streets this month
Halifax Pride is excited to bring 2SLGBTQIA+ folks and allies two whole weeks of pride-filled celebrations. From drag shows to queer markets, picnics to the parade, this year’s Halifax Pride festival is set to be one of the best yet, at a time where it’s as important as ever. “Things are really exciting,” says Halifax…
From Saint Lucia to Halifax stages: King Kayo’s rise through authentic artistry
After a season of standout performances across the Maritimes, including headline sets and major opening slots, King Kayo is performing in Halifax this weekend to headline the Halifax Mural Festival, bringing his unmistakable Caribbean-rooted sound and community-focused spirit back to the city he proudly calls home. King Kayo, born Filbert Salton in Ciceron, Saint Lucia,…
Spotlighting three female artists at the Halifax Mural Festival
Along Quinpool Road, the air buzzes with the sound of aerosol cans spraying paint, the hum of the soft swish of brushes against brick, the faint scent of paint and the murmur of encouragement shared between artists. Two vibrant murals — one a tribute to Nova Scotia’s coastal greens and blues, the other inspired by…
Thrifting is the future: A guide to sustainable second-hand shopping in Halifax
As awareness grows around fast fashion’s environmental cost, Halifax’s thrift and vintage scene is booming. Choosing secondhand fashion is not only wallet-friendly, it’s a powerful act of sustainability. Thrifting keeps clothes out of landfills, supports local businesses, and allows you to express yourself through one-of-a-kind finds. Here are 10 standout shops where conscious style meets…
Chill the rules, and the red wine
Have we finally turned the corner and entered summer? Let’s hope June’s gloom is behind us and barbecue season upon us. For me, half of the pleasure of a great barbecue is the drinks. While I have focused my first articles for The Coast on food and restaurants, my true expertise is the liquid on…
Halifax designer champions love and self-expression through fashion
For designer John Michael Brewer, fashion has always been more than fabric and thread; it’s been a form of resistance, storytelling, and healing. Brewer, the Cape Breton-born creative, is gearing up to debut his new project: a bridal collection named Bubé, inspired by his own wedding and his partner, and rooted in the belief that love…
Every big show happening in Halifax in July 2025
Halifax Jazz Festival July 15-20 The TD Halifax Jazz Festival—formerly known as the Atlantic Jazz Festival—is the oldest jazz festival and largest summer festival in Atlantic Canada. Designated a Hallmark Event by the Halifax Regional Municipality, the festival attracts up to 65,000 visitors, involves 400 volunteers and employs over 350 local musicians. Here is a…
Tart & Soul Café looks to community to help downsize and thrive
Tucked into the corner of Oxford and Coburg, Tart & Soul Café has long been a fixture in Halifax’s south end — known as much for its giant cinnamon buns and ethically-sourced coffee as for its cozy atmosphere, cross-stitched David Bowie, and famously eclectic playlists. Tart & Soul is a safe and welcoming space for…
Top 10 Best Free VPN Services (For Canadians) in 2026
Many people seek free VPN services to enhance their online privacy without extra cost. While paid VPNs often provide more features, some free options can still offer reliable protection and basic privacy benefits. A good free VPN can help users browse securely and maintain privacy without charging a fee, but it’s important to understand their…
Top 10 Best VPN for Android Users in 2026
Many Android users seek reliable virtual private networks (VPNs) to protect their online privacy and enhance security on mobile devices. With the increasing amount of personal data exchanged on smartphones and tablets, using a VPN has become essential for safeguarding information from hackers and tracking. The best VPN for Android offers a balance of strong…
Best VPN for Torrenting in 2025 (For Canadians)
Torrenting involves sharing files across peer-to-peer networks, which can expose users to privacy risks and potential legal issues. A reliable VPN protects users by encrypting their connection and masking their IP address during torrenting activities. The best VPN for torrenting ensures secure and anonymous file sharing while maintaining strong privacy protections and fast speeds. Choosing…
Best VPN for IPTV for Canadians in 2025
Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) has become a popular way to stream live TV and on-demand content. However, accessing IPTV services can come with challenges like geo-restrictions, privacy concerns, and potential speed limitations. Choosing the best VPN for IPTV helps users unlock content, maintain privacy, and enjoy smooth streaming without interruptions or throttling. A reliable VPN…
Top 10 Best VPN for iPhone in 2025 (For Canadians)
Choosing the best VPN for an iPhone is essential for anyone looking to enhance their online privacy, access restricted content, or secure their data on public networks. iPhones come with built-in security features, but using a reliable VPN adds an extra layer of protection and flexibility. The best VPN for iPhone provides a balance of…
Best VPN for Netflix (For Canadians) 2025
Watching Netflix with a VPN has become increasingly popular as it allows access to different libraries and content unavailable in certain regions. Many face challenges streaming seamlessly due to Netflix’s VPN detection, making the choice of VPN very important. The best VPN for Netflix reliably unblocks content across various countries while maintaining fast speeds and…
Top 10 Best VPN for Firestick (Canadian Version) 2025
A VPN enhances the capabilities of a Firestick by providing secure access to a wider range of content and protecting user privacy. It helps bypass geo-restrictions and improves streaming options, making it a valuable tool for many Firestick users. The best VPN for Firestick combines speed, security, and reliability to offer seamless access to streaming…
Best VPN for Streaming in Canada 2025
Streaming content from platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu has become a daily activity for many. However, geo-restrictions often limit access to shows and movies based on location. This is where virtual private networks (VPNs) play a key role. The best VPN for streaming enables users to bypass these regional blocks, ensuring access to content…