First bell

Photo: HALIFAX MOOSEHEADS

Halifax Mooseheads

After two pandemic-ravaged seasons, the hometown hockey heroes return to Scotiabank Centre for what players and fans alike hope will be a return to normal play. Highlights to put in your calendar include the home opener against Cape Breton on Oct. 2, the first visit in almost a year and a half by a non-Maritime opponent (Shawinigan) on Oct. 15, and Nov. 14’s match with Charlottetown—a rare Sunday matinee (the ideal choice for young fans with early bedtimes). halifaxmooseheads.ca

Art Gallery of Nova Scotia

While the pandemic has curtailed programming and events, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia on Hollis Street continues to host a variety of exhibitions. From the permanent collection, Folk/Funk is just the thing to inspire emerging talents: a whimsical collection of clay pieces offering “fun, satirical takes on contemporary life.” artgalleryofnovascotia.ca

Gus the tortoise

Photo: CHRISTIAN LAFORCE

Museum of Natural History

Gus, the museum’s much-loved tortoise, turned 99 this year, and still enjoys his daily walk around the grounds, where he nibbles on grass and dandelions, and meets young visitors. Join him at 3 p.m. naturalhistory.novascotia.ca/what-see-do/daily-events

Discovery Centre

With visiting exhibitions, permanent installations, and (COVID-safe) hands-on experiences aplenty, the Discovery Centre is a perfect rainyday destination for inquiring young minds. With hours of engaging entertainment, it’s a great spot to burn off some energy while learning about the world around us— scientific education disguised as fun! thediscoverycentre.ca