About this Post: If you’re looking for a little holiday cheer, Glow Garden’s Halifax is the place to find it! In this post I chat about my visit to Glow Gardens in Halifax, and my friend Dave O’Connor, the fabulous entrepreneur behind the magic!
If you’ve ever been invited to a party planned by Dave O’Connor, you’re in for a real treat! I’ve attended summer parties, New Year’s galas, milestone birthday celebrations, and everything in between…and every single time, it’s the “party of the year” where no other could come close in comparison.
I’ve known Dave O’Connor for decades and therefore, it’s a true pleasure to share with you the amazing person behind the brand, Glow.
About Dave O’Connor:
In 1996, inspired by his entrepreneur father and family, O’Connor began his own entrepreneurial journey with a small sign business that 27 years later, would grow into the mega event supply company it is today…employing 100 full-time employees and 80+ part-time staff (dependant on the season).
O’Connor has built an empire on partying as Glow is an amalgamation of 6 divisions in one: Signs and Event Graphics, Amusement & Games Rentals, Design & Décor Rentals and Retail Showroom, Tent Rental, Glow Halloween, and Glow Gardens.
While this entrepreneur continues to build his business, setting his own course and taking pride in watching the many young people on his team grow and prosper…he’s also deeply passionate about giving back to the community.
With 24 years of volunteering with the Halifax Progress Club, time spent coaching and on the Board of the Halifax Hawks Hockey Club, current Chair of the Dartmouth Hospital Foundation Annual Lobster Dinner as well as various sponsorships through Glow including the Great Big Dig, the Mental Health Foundation, IWK Children’s Hospital, and the Dartmouth Hospital Foundation to name a few…it’s no wonder Dave O’Connor was named Business Leader of the Year at the Halifax Chamber of Commerce Annual Business Awards in 2018! O’Connor is a balance of working hard and giving back… with his lovely wife and fabulous boys cheering him on.
Glow Gardens Halifax, Holiday Lights:
The holiday season is upon us and Glow has officially headed into their “bright and shiny” season as Glow Gardens Halifax opens its doors from November 23rd to January 2nd with over a million lights, a vendor market, daily visits from Santa, seasonal treats and beverages, live music, and much, much more!
Don’t Dim the Lights!
BUT HANG ON JUST A SECOND…before I tell you about the lovely night I had I want to take a moment to address a bit of controversy that’s been hanging around since the light show began.
To summarize: In 2019 Glow Gardens across the Country was owned by a BC company called Glow Gardens. There was some controversy with the Halifax Show and many thought it was Glow the Event Store, the Halifax local company, that was behind the event. The local company clarified on social posts that they had zero connection. Legal discussions began with the BC company as the very similar names was causing the local Glow to be negatively impacted. An agreement was reached where the local company took over Glow Gardens Halifax after that first year.
Glow Gardens Halifax is 100% owned and operated by Glow the Event Store under the Legal name of Glow Signs & Promotions Ltd., a born and bred NS company. A company that believes in inclusivity and giving back to the community. In fact, all of the other Glow Gardens across the country are now all individually owned as well.
I’m a Fan of Glow:
So, as I stated from the beginning…if you’ve ever attended an event hosted by Dave O’Connor, you’re in for a real treat! With the holidays upon us, the Glow team has worked tirelessly to bring another fabulous event to Halifax with this year’s theme being “Santa’s Lost Presents”.
On opening night, I visited with my daughter as we strolled through the lights taking numerous photos, doing a bit of shopping, tasting a few glowing beverages, enjoying a delicious piece of cheesecake, and listening to fabulous music.
The event is FILLED with family-friendly activities and if you haven’t booked a visit, I highly recommend you grab a few friends, your favourite date, or a couple of kids…and head towards the lights!
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To find out more about Glow or to purchase Tickets,
visit their Website or find them on Instagram.
Great post, Colleen! I appreciate knowing that this Glow doesn’t have anything to do with the “other” Glow. The Halifax company is certainly well-loved, and for good reason.