2026-07-04

BearBall

11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Bear Games
Part of BearBall XL.
Join a fun, laid back crew for board games and video games – in the banquet hall.
Location: The Hollis Hotel, 1649 Hollis Street

BearBall

11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Guided Waterfront Walking Tour
Part of BearBall XL.
Join us for a relaxed stroll along the stunning Halifax Waterfront. We’ll kick things off at the Old Triangle Alehouse with a cold pint to set the mood, then wander our way toward the waterfront’s shops and cafés — stopping by the stunning Queen’s Marque, grabbing a bite (lobster rolls, anyone?) at the Cable Wharf food court, and taking in the salty breeze along the historic piers. We’ll share a laugh with the Drunken Lampposts (we relate), before looping inland for a royal wave past the Government House, and finishing our walk at Stillwell for the next activity.
Location: Old Triangle, 5136 Prince Street

BearBall

2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Beers & Bears
Part of BearBall XL.
Ready your taste buds and fluff your beards — it’s time for Beers n’ Bears at Stillwell, Halifax’s swanky-yet-snuggly gastropub on Barrington Street. Whether you’re a seasoned hophead, a curious cider sipper, or just here for the vibes and eye candy (valid), this low-key hang is your chance to mix, mingle, and sample something delicious — on tap or otherwise.
Location: Stillwell, 1672 Barrington Street

BearBall

4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Lobby Meat & Greet
Part of BearBall XL.
Fill the hole in your schedule by meeting new folks at the lobby bar.
Location: The Hollis Hotel, 1649 Hollis Street

BearBall

6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Wet Fur Pool Party
Part of BearBall XL.
Slide into your sexiest skivvies and join us at the Wet Fur Pool Party at the hotel’s heated indoor pool. The hot tub is bubbling, the tunes are bumpin’, and the vibes are cheekier than a cub caught stealing snacks. Whether you’re floating like a majestic sea otter or showing off your best splash dance moves, this furry affair is sure to be among the most memorable parts of the evening.
Location: The Hollis Hotel, 1649 Hollis Street

BearBall

8:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
VIB-only Private Reception
Part of BearBall XL.
Sashay on in to our VIB (Very Important Bear) Private Reception, held in the stylish hotel restaurant — a cozy den of cocktails, conversation, and low-key glamour. This exclusive gathering is your chance to rub shoulders (and maybe a little more) with fellow VIPs, meet the weekend’s organizers, and ease into the festivities with good company all around. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres will be served, and there may be a surprise in store…
Location: The Hollis Hotel, 1649 Hollis Street

BearBall

9:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Bear Ball XL Main Event
Part of BearBall XL.
Unleash your inner beast and own the night at Bear Ball XL — the ultimate dance party where fur flies, beats drop, and the energy is as electric as your best moves. The one and only DJ Joshua Reid will be serving up a fierce mix of bangers, classics, and everything in between to keep you moving till the stars blink. Whether you’re grinding close, throwing down your signature bear stomp, or just shaking what your mama gave you, this is the place to bring your wildest energy.
Dress code: gay bar, leather, and kink apparel.
Location: The Hollis Hotel, 1649 Hollis Street

BearBall

9:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Pup Playroom
Part of BearBall XL.
Welcome to The Pound — our private pup playroom — where tails wag freely and the vibes are playful mischief. Whether you’re a seasoned pupper or just curious about the scene, this intimate space is your safe haven to explore, connect, and let your inner pup run wild (leashes optional, fun mandatory).
The pup playroom will be hosted by Pup Gumby.
Location: The Hollis Hotel, 1649 Hollis Street