Whether you’ve just arrived in town or you’re a woofy and welcoming local, meet the early arrivals at Stardust Bar! Think flirty glances, fuzzy hugs, and the kind of growls that aren’t just from your stomach. Dress code: cute and casual.

NOTE: This event is open to all – no ticket or pass necessary and no cover charge.

Come pick up your weekend pass from the registration table, located in the lobby of The Hollis Hotel.

We’re trading sidewalks for sea legs as we catch the cutest little harbour ferry across the water to Dartmouth — a.k.a. the side with actual views of Halifax (no shade, but… all the shade). We’ll float past the skyline, wave at tugboats like we’re in a parade, and wander around downtown Dartmouth in search of snacks, brews, and a patio perfect for bear-spotting 🐻👀

We’ll sip and socialize, then catch the 2PM ferry back to Halifax.

NOTE: We will meet in the lobby of the Host Hotel and leave by 11:35AM (on the dot) to catch the 11:45AM ferry.

Fill the hole in your schedule by meeting new folks at the lobby bar.

Join your fellow bears, cubs, otters, and admirers at Stardust Bar, a combination bar & restaurant — because life’s too short not to sip cocktails with new friends who might scratch your back later.

Slip into something comfier and join us at Thirst Trap Lagoon, the hotel’s indoor pool. Whether you’re floating on a giant inflatable donut or holding court from the hot tub, there’s no agenda — just good vibes and sexy dudes.

Brace yourself for Bears Gone Wild: An Adult Comedy Hypnosis Show! Witness the outrageous antics when Las Vegas-trained stage hypnotist Brandon Dean hypnotizes audience volunteers to be the stars.

Each show, Brandon calls for volunteers from the audience who want to explore the power of their imagination and subconscious mind through hypnosis. Hilarity ensues as he guides hypnotized audience members on entertaining journeys to imaginary environments.

In this interactive show, all audience members will have the opportunity to experience the power of their own subconscious minds without ever being hypnotized or appearing on stage.

Hypnotist Brandon Dean is renowned for his unique comedy hypnosis cabaret shows. He’s performed at international gay leather event weekends in Dallas, St. Petersburg (FL), Atlanta and Las Vegas, and U-Bear Weekend near Toronto. After a 30-year absence living away working in media and entertainment, Brandon moved back home to Nova Scotia in 2019 and regularly performs in theatres across the province.

Doors @ 7:00PM, show begins @ 7:30PM.

IMPORTANT: Don’t be late! Once the show starts, any latecomers will be held in the lobby until an appropriate time in the show to enter. You won’t want to miss a minute!

Aloha, boys! Pack your coconuts and fluff your floral — we’re setting sail for Bear Island, the most tropical freaky tiki this side of Canada. It’s flower power meets body positivity, with a dash of sun, sweat, and sweet, sweet sass. Dress code: floral shirts & island wear.

Come pick up your weekend pass from the registration table, located in the lobby of The Hollis Hotel.

Join a fun, laid back crew for board games and video games – in the banquet hall.

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.

Note: We will meet at the Old Triangle Alehouse just down the street from the Host Hotel.

Route:

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.

Fill the hole in your schedule by meeting new folks at the lobby bar.

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.

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 VIBs, 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…

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.

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.

Wake up, glam up, and get ready to roar, because it’s time for Bears Drag Brunch — the fiercest, most fabulous meal of your weekend, served hot and messy at Stardust Bar! Your ticket includes a mouthwatering brunch plate, plus a full serving of camp, curves, and chaos dished out by a lineup of queens who don’t just slay — they maul. Expect bold looks, belly laughs, surprise splits, and enough sass to season your scrambled eggs.

Note: Everyone will have a seat. However, seating is first-come, first-serve and there are a variety of table locations. Those wishing to be right up front near the stage should plan to arrive early. Doors open at 10AM and the show begins at 11AM.

Whether you’re a seasoned lumberjack or a total first-timer, this is your chance to let loose with your fellow furballs in the most delightfully chaotic way possible. HaliMac isn’t just axes — it’s got local craft beer, tasty snacks to fuel your inner warrior, and enough action to make you yell: “And my axe!” in full fantasy flair.

NOTE: Closed-toed shoes are required for this excursion or you will not be allowed into the axe-throwing room (venue policy).

The weekend’s been legendary — but we’re not done yet, honey! Close it out in glittering, growling style with Disco Bear at Rumours Cabaret, where the beats are bold, the lights are low, and the dance floor is calling your name (in falsetto).