Community Invited to Warm Up On the Waterfront

One of Nova Scotia's favourite evenings of holiday magic just got even better with an invitation to Warm Up on the Waterfront with seasonal treats and free parking.

The Waterfront Development Corporation Limited (WDCL), Murphy's On the Water, the Waterfront Warehouse, Bishop's Cellar and Del Sol are coming together to support the 13th Annual Chronicle Herald Holiday Parade of Lights and host a pre-parade event on Saturday, Nov. 15.

WDCL will offer free parking at its Lower Water Street lots for 24 hours, beginning noon on Saturday, Nov. 15. Spots will be on a first-come, first-served basis.

"WDCL is pleased to take part in this annual event -- it adds such great energy to the night, to the community and to the season," said Colin MacLean, president and CEO. "It's also an opportunity for people to experience ways to enjoy the waterfront year-round."

Parade-goers can warm up with free holiday treats and seasonal music from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at various locations on the waterfront.

Staff from Murphy's on the Water and the Waterfront Warehouse, as well as WDCL, will serve free hot chocolate. Parade-goers can also enjoy treats at Bishop's Landing with Bishop's Cellar serving Nova Scotia fresh-pressed apple cider and Del Sol handing out candy canes and colour-changing rings.

The Kids Help Phone will also hold the final weekend of its Designer Showcase fundraiser at Bishop's Landing in conjunction with the event.

"Murphy's on the Water is a proud supporter of the Warm up the Waterfront event," said manager Robyn Stewart who noted the business will again be entering its popular Harbour Hopper float in the parade.

"We welcome anything that brings visitors to the waterfront during what is usually a quiet time of year," said Robert Risley, owner of RCR Hospitality Group, which includes the Waterfront Warehouse. "We look forward to being involved with this pre-parade event and to hopefully watch it grow in the years to come."

The Waterfront Warehouse, which will also have a float in the parade, is open year-round; Murphy's will open year-round beginning next year.

The popular annual parade, organized by Downtown Halifax Business Commission, draws about 100,000 people, and is often considered the unofficial kick off to the holiday season.

Free parking will be available at The Cable Wharf, Queen's Landing, Block M, Marine Park, and Cunard lots and includes metered spots.

Visit www.wdcl.ca for more information on Warm Up On the Waterfront and ways to enjoy the waterfront this season.

For parade details, including the route, visit www.downtownhalifax.ns.ca .

WDCL is a provincial Crown corporation that plans, co-ordinates, promotes and develops properties, events and activities on designated waterfronts around Halifax Harbour.