Jax Irwin’s Halifax

If I’m going to the ocean for a beach day, I want it to really feel like the ocean. I love cold water, and Martinique doesn’t frig around. It’s also usually pretty chill, so you can read a book and eat a slightly warm sandwich in bliss!

Mo Kenney is a legend and a gem, and one of my favourite artists in NS and beyond. I love seeing them live not only for the songs, but they’re also one of the funniest and wittiest people when it comes to stage banter and storytelling. If you ever have a chance to see hunky Mo live… do it!!!

They aren’t a couple… but my god they are POWERFUL. They’re hilarious, wildly hardworking, and I firmly believe they will take over the world one day. They also have one of the wildest and most unhinged live shows I’ve ever seen, so please do yourself a favour and see the gals if you can.

Whether you want to play pool, dance, or stare off in the distance questioning your future… this place is the best. I’ve loved Charlie’s for nearly 20 years, and it’s a place that has felt like home in all of my weirdest and wildest eras. Bars can sometimes feel overwhelming since I got sober, but the staff here are sweeties, and Todd always makes sure he has a Diet Coke ready for me when I’m home.

I heard about Byron when I was visiting home last summer, and when I checked it out I immediately knew why everyone was so excited about it! Delicious coffee, very laid back, and the owners and staff are super kind. Plus the overall aesthetic makes me feel like I’m capable of standing up on a surfboard like a cool guy… and I appreciate that false hope.

Whenever anyone asks me where to get their hair done in Halifax, I can always confidently say OBB. I absolutely love Kat and everyone working there, and it’s been so beautiful to see what they’ve built over the years. I love the energy in the space, and it truly feels like a little queer hair oasis.

Liz is one of my favourite people to chat with on and off the mic, and I’m equally baffled and impressed with how much this girl can get done in a day. She’s a fountain of knowledge when it comes to anything tv/film/pop culture, and I love the way she champions the region and other women in media.

It’s really cool to see all the changes on the waterfront over the years, but I pinky swear you that if Summit Cafe ever goes anywhere… I will riot. It’s a delicious little breakfast/lunch spot tucked away in the Summit Building, and has so many options + really good prices. The owners Kathy and Paul are 10/10, and treat everyone like family. Plus they have the best homemade hummus that I would eat on its own with a spoon because it’s so good.

Whenever I need a little hit of home, I put on anything by Kim Harris. Not only is she one of the most talented and kind musicians on the planet, but her voice has a richness and flow that immediately makes me homesick in the most beautiful way.

Meaghan and Ree Wright are a super talented little twin duo, and it’s been so impressive to see them grow in video, commercial, and film over the years. I love their creative style and approach, and how they capture and portray Maritime beauty in all of their work.