News release

Exhibition Park to Cease Operations This Fall

Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal (Oct. 2007 - Feb. 2021)

Harsh winter storms have caused significant damage to Exhibition Park in Halifax. To maintain public safety, government will be ceasing operation at the 30-year-old facility as of Nov. 16 to avoid any risk moving into winter.

Government had the building assessed and found immediate repairs would be required to ensure the integrity of the facility before next snowfall.

With costs estimated at $3 million for needed repairs to the roof and electrical, and another $6 million for upgrades, government will instead examine transferring the site.

The facility was the site of many events throughout the year, including the Maritime Fall Fair. A steering committee assessed options for an alternate location for the Maritime Fall Fair across the province.

"This process, while informative, took valuable time usually dedicated to the planning of the fair, so the committee has decided that our efforts are best put towards preparing for the 2016 Maritime Fall," said David Logie, co-chair, Maritime Fall Fair Steering Committee and president of the Annapolis Valley Exhibition. "While there will be no fair this year, the committee sees this as an opportunity to improve and refocus the fair for an even better event in 2016."

The deed, previously held by Trade Centre Limited, will transfer to the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.

The department will begin discussions with interested parties about the facility's future before making a final decision.