Discover Culture, Community, and Creativity at the East Coast Markets & Exchange

The East Coast Markets & Exchange is a vibrant multicultural marketplace and a series of engaging events, kicking off with our outdoor summer edition on Saturday, July 5th, 2025, at Foundation Wharf on the Halifax Waterfront. From 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, the scenic Halifax waterfront, Foundation Wharf will be transformed into a lively celebration filled with music, dance, and stories from across Nova Scotia and around the world.

Set against the picturesque Halifax Waterfront—a hub of culture and tourism—this event not only celebrates the incredible diversity that defines our province but also supports local businesses and strengthens community connections in one of Nova Scotia’s most vibrant public spaces.

This event brings together a diverse marketplace featuring many small businesses proudly representing cultures from different parts of the world. Our vendors come from countries and regions including Canada (with strong representation from Nova Scotia), Cuba, Venezuela, Mexico, Mauritius, Colombia, Nigeria, Vietnam, Japan, China, Trinidad and Tobago, Taiwan, Panama, and India. This extraordinary variety of backgrounds creates a rich, multicultural atmosphere where visitors can discover unique products, authentic flavors, and handcrafted goods that reflect the vibrant heritage of each culture. It’s more than a market—it’s a celebration of global entrepreneurship and community spirit, right here in Halifax.

What to Expect:

• Live music, dance, and entertainment reflecting the diverse spirit of Nova Scotia

• Informational sessions designed to educate, share experiences, and promote cultural understanding

• A bustling vendor marketplace filled with food, fashion, art, handmade goods, and more

  
  

Confirmed Vendors:

We’re proud to showcase an incredible lineup of vendors offering a wide range of unique products and services, including:

• Nova Scotia Loyal Village with 8 Vendors

• La Casita Kitchen

• Las Paletas de Juan

• Salsa harbour

• Zilwa Foods

• Riceful

• ONE Canteen

• La Potosina

• Herbs Indian Vegetarian & Vegan Feast

• Celtic Cookies

• Ellie's Handmade Boutique

• Nails On'! by Saya

• Alma candles

• Oriental Expressions x Happy Stitches

• Certified Canadian

• Alan Aguirre- REALTOR

• Frogdust Productions

• Endless Draws

• Sree Vibes

• Jodi Brown Photography

• Davira

• INFO BOOTH & 50/50 Sales

• Gift 4 U

• DB Pearlz Designs

• Karenina Crochet

• NiceOnU Studio

• Crystal Core Jewellery

• Artoftola Creative Studios

  
  

We still have just a few vendor spots available. Interested businesses should reach out soon, spaces are limited. Plus, we have some exciting additions coming soon, so stay tuned!

Announcing Our Host:

We’re thrilled to announce that Elsy Makhlouf will be the host for the day at the East Coast Markets & Exchange!

Elsy Makhlouf

Singer, songwriter, guitarist, and DJ, Elsy Makhlouf brings vibrant energy and artistry to the stage, performing in multiple languages and having graced renowned venues across Canada.

Beyond music, Elsy is the founder of Lively Public Relations Inc.—a company built on strategic vision and a passion for community impact. A trilingual public relations professional, Elsy has worked across diverse sectors including government, startups, nonprofits, and small businesses. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations from Mount Saint Vincent University, with minors in Management and Marketing.

Her commitment to social change is reflected in her TEDx Talk on housing insecurity and recognition such as the Platinum Jubilee Community Hero award and Future City Builders 30Lab Program honors. Elsy's work seamlessly blends creativity and strategy, empowering clients and audiences alike.

Special Guest:

Damian Stoilov - Department of Growth and Development’s Ministerial Assistant focusing on the Nova Scotia Loyal Program. (MLA for Bedford South)

More Announcements Coming Soon:

Stay tuned for the reveal of our full stage lineup, packed with captivating performances you won’t want to miss.

Proudly Presented With the Support Of:

• 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗮 𝗦𝗰𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗮 – Official Sponsor

• OLA – Community Partner

Join Us for a Celebration of Diversity and Community:

The East Coast Markets & Exchange is a family-friendly and accessible event, open to everyone. Whether you're looking to explore global flavors, support local businesses, enjoy live performances, or hear from inspiring voices in the community — July 5th at Foundation Wharf is the place to be. This day is all about connection, culture, and community. Come discover something new, share stories, and celebrate the rich diversity that defines Halifax and Nova Scotia.

Interested in Supporting or Sponsoring This Event?

The East Coast Markets & Exchange is more than a marketplace — it's a platform for celebrating diversity and empowering small businesses. Your support as a sponsor or partner plays a direct role in fostering entrepreneurship, promoting cultural exchange, and building an inclusive local economy.

By joining us, you align with a growing initiative that reaches a broad, engaged, and multicultural audience in the heart of Nova Scotia.

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities or ways to support this event’s growth and impact, please contact: EastCoastMarketsExchange@gmail.com

Let’s create something meaningful—together.