Halifax, Nova Scotia, is set to continue a cherished tradition as Lieutenant-Governor Mike Savage and Ms. Darlene Savage prepare to host the annual New Year's Day Levée. The event will take place at the historic Government House, offering citizens an opportunity to greet the province's vice-regal representative and usher in the new year.
A Time-Honoured Tradition in Nova Scotia
The New Year's Day Levée is a custom with deep roots in Canadian history, dating back to the era of New France. Originally a military gathering, it has evolved into a civilian event where the public can meet and offer New Year's greetings to the Lieutenant-Governor, the King's representative in the province. This open house at Government House serves as a symbolic and accessible point of connection between the Crown and the people of Nova Scotia.
The event is scheduled for Wednesday, January 1, 2026. While specific timings were not detailed in the initial announcement, these levées typically occur in the late morning or early afternoon. The Province of Nova Scotia released the official notice on December 19, 2025, encouraging residents to mark their calendars.
What to Expect at Government House
Attendees can anticipate a formal yet welcoming atmosphere at the official residence of the Lieutenant-Governor. The levée often includes brief remarks from His Honour, the opportunity for a handshake or greeting, and light refreshments. It is a family-friendly occasion that underscores civic participation and the continuity of public institutions.
Government House, located at 1451 Barrington Street in Halifax, is a National Historic Site and has been the home of Nova Scotia's lieutenant-governors since 1805. Opening its doors for this event allows the public to experience a part of the province's heritage and governance firsthand.
The Significance of the Vice-Regal Role
Lieutenant-Governor Mike Savage, former mayor of the Halifax Regional Municipality, was installed as the 34th Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia in 2023. Hosting the levée is a key part of his ceremonial and community duties. By welcoming citizens from all walks of life, the event reinforces the role of the Crown as a non-partisan, unifying symbol within the constitutional framework of Canada.
This annual open house is more than just a social gathering; it is a living tradition that promotes civic engagement and offers a personal connection to the province's history and its present-day leadership. For many Nova Scotians, it is a meaningful way to begin the new year.
