image credit: halifaxpopexplosion.com
Halifax Pop Explosion, one of the city’s coolest annual arts attractions, kicks off Thursday, October 19—packing shows and appearances from over 150 artists, speakers and comedians into four days.
Whether you live in Nova Scotia’s capital or decide on that last minute road trip, HPX is a must-attend event that will not only prolong your summer festival buzz, but give you the chance to explore one of the East Coast’s most beautiful cities. Happening today until Saturday, here’s why you need to make your way to HPX.
The Music
“Year over year, we always strive to showcase some of the best artists hailing from Atlantic Canada as well as other amazing Canadian Acts and even some artists from the US and Europe, says Executive Director James Boyle. “Really, we program music we love, regardless of genre, so it can make for a real eclectic mix”
This year, Hey Rosetta!, Basia Bulat, Keys N Krates, BADBADNOTGOOD, Daniel Caesar and so many more will be playing shows at 10 venues across Halifax. You can buy tickets for individual shows, or grab a wristband that allows you to venue-hop until the early hours of the morning. If you want to make it a family affair, there are plenty of all-ages shows worth checking out. Check out the full artist lineup here.
XPAND: The Free Music Conference
That’s right—free. Whether you’re a budding artist, music industry hopeful or just a music lover, HPX presents this free music conference as an opportunity to network, educate and inspire the music community through presentations, workshops and one-on-one information sessions with awesome industry delegates.
The Setting
Even if you’re a few hours away, the chance to experience incredible music, food and programming with charming East Coast seascapes as the backdrop is unparalleled. In between HPX events, why not take a spin around the province and try surfing, a winery tour or a craft beer or two.
“You need to experience Halifax when HPX is happening,” says Boyle. “Great music, great food, not too hot, not too cold. It’s the best time to visit.”
Everything You Need To Know To Go
Where & when: The HPX box office is located at Cambridge Suites (1583 Brunswick Street), and is open today until Saturday, October 22 10am-10pm. Full schedule here.
How much: You can grab a VIP pass for $219, festival wristband for $109, weekend pass for $89 or daily pass for $59. Buy tickets here.