Annual Garden Party

Their Honours, The Honourable Arthur J. LeBlanc, ONS, KC, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia and Mrs. Patsy LeBlanc are delighted to invite all Nova Scotians and visitors to Government House for the annual Garden Party on Wednesday, 19 June 2024 from 2pm - 5pm.

Inspired by the Garden Parties of Buckingham Palace, the Lieutenant Governor’s Garden Party has been an annual event in Halifax for over 100 years.  Previously an invitation-only event, the Garden Party is now an opportunity for all Nova Scotians and tourists to visit Government House and meet the Lieutenant Governor. 

The Garden Party is a fun afternoon where old friends are reunited and new friendships are formed on the grounds of the ceremonial home of all Nova Scotians.  Special thanks to the volunteers from the Scouts, Girl Guides, Army, Air and Sea Cadets and St John’s Ambulance as well as Honourary Aides-de-Camp who give generously of their time to ensure the success and safety of this event. 

The Lieutenant Governor and Mrs. LeBlanc look forward to welcoming you to Government House!

When is the Garden Party?

The next Garden Party will be held on Wednesday, 19 June 2024 from 2pm-5pm.

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What happens at the Garden Party?

Guests will enter Government House through the main entrance on 1451 Barrington Street to be greeted by Their Honours in the receiving line.  Guests will then proceed to the back lawn to enjoy refreshments and music.  When most of the guests have arrived, Their Honours will enter the back lawn to mingle with the guests until Their Honours depart.

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Do I need an invitation to attend?

No.  The Lieutenant Governor’s Garden Party is open to the public.  All Nova Scotians and visitors are welcome to attend.

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Is there an admission fee?

No.  The Garden Party is free of charge and open to all.

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Where is Government House?

Government House is located at 1451 Barrington Street, Halifax Nova Scotia.

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What should I wear?

Guests are requested to wear business attire.  National and/or traditional dress and military uniforms are also worn.  Women do not have to wear hats but are welcome to do so if they wish. 

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How do I address the Lieutenant Governor?

You should address the Lieutenant Governor as “Your Honour” and his wife, Mrs. LeBlanc as “Your Honour”.  More on Addressing the Lieutenant Governor

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What happens if it rains?

If it rains, the Garden Party will be moved inside Government House.  

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May I bring my children?

Yes.  Children are welcome to attend the Garden Party, but must be supervised by an adult at all times.

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How many people attend the Garden Party?

Approximately 500 to 1,000 people attend the Garden Party each year.

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Is parking available at Government House?

Parking is not available at Government House, but is available on surrounding streets and lots.

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Is Government House wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Government House is wheelchair accessible.  Guests with mobility aids can enter the back lawn through the side entrance of Government House.

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May I take photos?

Yes, you may take photos during the Garden Party.  If you would like to take a photo with Their Honours please wait until after you have passed through the receiving line and Their Honours are mingling on the back lawn.  At which time, please notify the Aide-de-Camp accompanying Their Honours that you would like to take a photo and he/she will assist you.

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How can I get a copy of a photograph taken by the official photographer?

A selection of photos from the Garden Party will be posted to the Office of the Lieutenant Governor’s Flickr page.  You are welcome to download the photos for your own personal use.  Photos may not be altered or used for any commercial, fundraising or political purposes.

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Is there a protocol for departing the Garden Party?

You may depart from the Garden Party at any time of your choosing between 2pm and 5pm.

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