Free Social Events

The Shift+ Nova Scotia Planning Conference is coming up soon! Shift isn’t just about insightful sessions—it’s also about connecting, creating, and being inspired! Alongside our main conference on March 27-28, we’re thrilled to invite you to a series of engaging social events designed to spark new ideas and conversations.

Please note: These events are free, but some require separate registration in addition to your Conference ticket, given limited space.

SnapTalk

March 26 | 6:30-8:30 PM | Good Robot, Robie St.
Kick off the conference with this high-energy pitch session, where visionaries and changemakers share bold ideas and exciting projects. Join us for an evening of inspiration, networking, and great company! Limited seats available—secure your spot now!

Colour & Connect

March 27 | 10-11:30 AM | Wonder’neath Art Society
Start your day with a fun and interactive art-making session to spark creativity and conversation! Paint, collage, or design a custom pin as a personal expression of yourself, your interests, or what you love about Nova Scotia. No experience needed—just bring your imagination! Limited seats available—secure your spot now!

Municipal Early Career Planners Meeting

March 27 | 10:00 – 11:30 AM | The Lord Nelson Hotel
This program is open to all municipal planners within their first 5 years of their career, or municipal planners who are new to planning in Nova Scotia. Join a meet-up on Thursday morning, to network and discuss question, problems, and ideas.

Carmichael Public Lecture: Minding the Street

March 27 | 7-8:30 PM (doors and cash bar at 6:30) | Lord Nelson Hotel
The 24th Annual Carmichael Public Lecture is included in your SHIFT+ ticket. However, this is an open lecture and we welcome attendees from the broader community so don’t hesitate to share the details!

Join SHIFT+ & the Downtown Halifax Business Commission for “Minding the Street: What we can learn from psychology and neuroscience about building vibrant, vital cities.” In this talk, Dr. Colin Ellard will explore how urban spaces shape our emotions, movement, and well-being. His research, bridging psychology, neuroscience, and urban planning, reveals what makes places truly engaging and livable. A must-attend for planners, designers, and anyone passionate about vibrant cities! Free to attend, but please register here if you do not already have a SHIFT+ Conference ticket.