From Farm to Plate to Future: Inside ROOTED Gala 2025
Every great event tells a story. ROOTED Gala tells one that starts in the soil, travels through our farms and kitchens, and ends with a powerful investment in Nova Scotia’s future.
At Halifax Convention Centre, we have the privilege of hosting events that bring people together. ROOTED is a farm-to-table gala experience built around sustainability, storytelling, and a deep respect for Nova Scotia agriculture. Each course highlights a different aspect of farming, showcasing the journey ingredients take from farm to plate and the people behind them.
Described simply as “celebrating farmers, one plate at a time,” the event blends elevated dining with a warm, country-chic atmosphere. Guests don’t just enjoy an incredible meal; they leave with a deeper appreciation for the land, the food it produces, and the community that makes it all possible.
Where Local Food Meets Lasting Impact
At the heart of ROOTED is its commitment to giving back. The gala proudly supports 4-H Nova Scotia, a province-wide, community-based youth organization dedicated to helping young people develop leadership, life skills, and a strong connection to agriculture.
Proceeds from ROOTED directly support 4-H programming across Nova Scotia, empowering youth to Learn To Do By Doing in a safe, inclusive, and hands-on environment. From building confidence to developing leadership skills, 4-H members play a vital role in the future of rural communities and the province’s agricultural landscape.
A Memorable First Chapter for ROOTED
When ROOTED debuted, it was clear this was an event Halifax was ready to embrace. The inaugural gala sold out, welcoming more than 600 guests who came together to celebrate local food while supporting a meaningful cause.
The evening raised more than $90,000 in support of 4-H Nova Scotia, helping invest in youth programming across the province, with the final fundraising total to be announced. What stood out most, however, was the energy in the room. Farmers, chefs, community leaders, and supporters gathered around shared tables, united by their appreciation for Nova Scotia agriculture and a shared commitment to its future.
It was a powerful first chapter and a strong foundation for what’s to come.
Six Chefs. One Shared Vision.
Food is the centrepiece of ROOTED, and the chefs are the storytellers who bring each course to life.
One of six chefs who participated in this year’s gala was Christophe Luzeux, our Executive Chef at Halifax Convention Centre. A world-renowned, award-winning culinary artist, Chef Luzeux has called Halifax home for nearly three decades. Originally from France, he brings international experience to a deep respect for Nova Scotia ingredients, people, and place. As a long-standing member of our team, Chef Luzeux often speaks about the importance of collaboration. For him, meaningful food experiences are built through strong teams, shared passion, and a genuine connection to the land that produces every ingredient.
He was joined by an exceptional group of chefs from across the province, including Jason Lynch of the Annapolis Valley, Shane Robicheau of Saulnierville, Halifax chefs Stephanie Ogilvie and Craig Flinn, and Alain Bossé, also known as The Kilted Chef. Together, they created a menu that highlighted regional flavours, local partnerships, and the powerful relationship between farmers and chefs.
“Being part of the ROOTED Gala is an incredible opportunity to collaborate with talented chefs from across our community and bring innovative dishes to life. The featured recipes are inspired by local ingredients and ideas from guest chefs, while our Halifax Convention Centre culinary team brings them to life - it’s the perfect mix of creativity and teamwork. The ROOTED Gala is a meaningful way to celebrate Nova Scotia’s food culture and the people behind it.” Christophe Luzeux, Executive Chef at Halifax Convention Centre.
ROOTED Returns in 2026
Following a sold-out debut, ROOTED is returning to Halifax Convention Centre on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, taking place on the Convention Level.
It’s more than a night out; it’s an investment in the next generation of stewards of the land. Those interested in learning more about the event can explore the incredible work behind ROOTED on the gala’s website and stay tuned for updates as 2026 approaches here.
“For a first of its kind event, ROOTED’s success was seeded in passionate collaboration. The Halifax Convention Centre team believed in its vison and demonstrated an unwavering commitment to celebrate Nova Scotia grown food and the farmers who produce it. Our organizers believed if we built it, people would come – and they did, beyond our expectations. The pride felt in the room by our generous sponsors and enthusiastic guests for Nova Scotia agriculture was contagious,” said David Hovell, ROOTED Gala Chair. “And ROOTED’s proceeds will be an investment to ensure the innovation and creativity to feed Nova Scotians has a bright future.”
Purpose, Brought to Life at the Halifax Convention Centre
ROOTED is a powerful example of how events can create lasting impact. At the Halifax Convention Centre, we’re proud to host experiences that celebrate community, support local causes, and leave guests feeling connected long after the evening ends.
If you’re an event planner, organization, or business looking to host an event with purpose, we’d love to help bring your vision to life. Click here to learn more about hosting your next event at Halifax Convention Centre.
Because when people gather with intention, incredible things can happen.