Summer Swimming information – The Big Splash – Outdoor Pool
LANE SWIM RESCHEDULED – Friday, August 20, 2026
The Big Splash is temporary closed due to prepare it following yesterday’s mechanical issue.
The Lane Swim scheduled from 9 – 10 a.m. has been CANCELLED and is RESCHEDULED to be held from 11 a.m. – 12 noon today. No other aquatics programming is expected to be impacted at this time.
** Please note that the Lane Swim will be held using 3 lanes only, and is taking place during swimming lessons.
Grand Opening Ceremony: The Big Splash – Outdoor Pool
You are invited! Join Region of Queens Municipality’s Council, invited guests and community members for an event to celebrate the opening of The Big Splash – Outdoor Pool at Queens Place Emera Centre. The Grand Opening is taking place on Monday, August 17 at 4:45 p.m.
There are speeches at 4:45 p.m., followed by at free public swim from 5 – 6:30 p.m., with live music by Sam Wentzell!
Please note that the capacity limits are in place during the event – 90 people in the pool, and a maximum of 150 people total on the pool deck and in the pool.
We are excited to celebrate this exciting new recreational facility for the community – and want to make a big splash about it!
Free – Sensory Friendly Swim, August 13 from 5 – 6:30 pM
We’re excited to offer a Sensory Friendly Swim at The Big Splash Outdoor Swimming Pool! The Swim is scheduled for this evening (Thursday, August 13), from 5 – 6:30 pm.
Sensory Friendly Swim is designed to create a welcoming and supportive environment where swimmers and their families can feel comfortable, with an emphasis on choice, predictability, and flexibility. Where possible, we aim to reduce unnecessary noise, music, and provide a quieter space for anyone who needs a break.
We also know that knowing what to expect can make all the difference. Families are encouraged to visit The Big Splash at Queens Place Emera Centre ahead of their swim time to become familiar with the facility, including the entrance, change rooms, and pool area.
It’s also important to recognize that some sensory experiences are a natural part of the pool environment and cannot always be changed. These may include echoes and safety-related whistles. By sharing this information ahead of time, swimmers can know what to expect, helping them feel more prepared, comfortable, and confident during their visit.
See you soon!
Schedule – Monday, August 10 – Saturday, August 15, 2026
We are excited! This week, August 10 through 15 is the first full week of regular programming at The Big Splash – Outdoor Pool, as as you can see from the schedule, there are lots of opportunities for fun, physically active good times at the pool!
SCHEDULE
MONDAY, AUGUST 10 – SATURDAY, AUGUST 15, 2026 :
** Please refer to the Rate Sheet for prices
MONDAY, AUGUST 10:
- Lane Swim: 9:00am – 11:00am
- Swimming Lessons: 11:00am – 2:00pm
- Afternoon Public Swim: 2:30pm – 4:00pm
- Evening Public Swim: 5:00pm – 6:30pm
TUESDAY, AUGUST 11:
- Lane Swim: 9:00am – 10:00am
- Introduction to Aquafit: 10:00am – 10:45pm
- Swimming Lessons: 11:00am – 2:00pm
- Afternoon Public Swim: 2:30pm – 4:00pm
- Evening Public Swim: 5:00pm – 6:30pm
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12:
- Lane Swim: 9:00am – 10:00am
- Healing Waters Aquafit: 10:00am – 10:30am
- Swimming Lessons: 11:00am – 2:00pm
- Afternoon Public Swim: 2:30pm – 4:30pm
- Aquafit Dance & Strength: 5:45pm – 6:30pm
THURSDAY, AUGUST 13:
- Lane Swim: 9:00am – 11:00am
- Swimming Lessons: 11:00am – 2:00pm
- Afternoon Public Swim: 2:30pm – 4:00pm
- FREE Sensory Friendly Swim: 5:00pm – 6:30pm
FRIDAY, AUGUST 14:
- Lane Swim: 9:00am – 10:00am
- Aquafit Dance & Strength: 10:00am – 10:45am
- Swimming Lessons: 11:00am – 2:00pm
- Afternoon Public Swim: 3:00pm – 4:00pm
SATURDAY, AUGUST 15:
- Lane Swim: 10:00am – 11:00am
- Aquafit & Pickleball: 11:00am – 11:45am
- Pool Rental: 1:30pm – 3:00pm
Note: Recreational Swims (Public, Family, Lane) – First-come, first-served basis no registration required.
Rates:
Drop-In
Preschool (0-3) – Free with a paying adult
Child (4-12) – $4.00
Youth (13-20) – $4.00
Adult (21-59) – $6.00
Senior (60+) – $5.00
Group of 4 – $18.00
*Prices include HST
For options other than drop-in, please see the rate sheet or speak with a Customer Service Representative at Queens Place Emera Centre who would be pleased to find an option that would work best for you.
Swimming lessons are by registration only (if you missed registration, there may be a few spots in some levels available – call 902-354-4422 to sign up).
Aquafit Classes Price List
Drop-In:
45 – 60 minute classes
Adult (21+) $8.50 per class
Youth (13-20) $7.00 per class
*prices include HST
Drop-In :
30 minute classes
All Participants (13+) $4.25 per class
*prices include HST
10 Pass Fitness Punch Pass (45 to 60 minutes classes)
Adult (21+) $75.00
Youth (13-21) $65.00
*prices include HST
**can be used for RQM run aquatics & fitness centre classes
10 Pass Fitness Punch Pass (30 minute classes)
Adult (21+) $ 40.00
Youth (13 – 21) $35.00
*prices include HST
It is not required that participants sign up in advance for aquafit classes, but signing up will guarantee a spot in the class. This ensures that everyone has the opportunity to attend classes, and keeps class attendance fair and accessible to everyone.
For fitness membership options that also provide access to other parts of the facility, please see the rate sheet or speak with a Customer Service Representative at Queens Place Emera Centre.
We look forward to seeing you at The Big Splash!
Aquafit Classes – August 10-15, 2026
If you’ve been wondering about what aquatics programs will be offered at The Big Splash – Outdoor Pool … read below for the Aquatics Fitness class schedule for August 10th – August 15th!! It’s filled with fun programs to get you active and moving!
Summer Aqua Classes:
TUESDAY, AUGUST 11
10:00am – 10:45am Introduction to Aquafit
Adult (21+) $8.50 per class
Youth (13-20) $7.00 per class
*prices include HST
Beginner Level: Low impact, high energy – Aqua Fit is exercise that feels as good as it works. Learn the basic moves, improve your fitness, and have fun!
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12 10:00am -10:30am
Healing Waters
All Participants (13+) $4.25 per class
*prices include HST
Beginner Level: Designed for participants with mobility issues, those recovering from injury or illness, or those who have not exercised for a while. Focus is on balance, mobility and strength.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12
5:45pm – 6:30pm
Aquafit Dance & Strength
Adult (21+) $8.50 per class
Youth (13-20) $7.00 per class
*prices include HST
Intermediate Level: Fun class combining dance and aquafit moves. Focus on cardio and strength.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 14
10:15am -11:00am
Aquafit Dance & Strength
Adult (21+) $8.50 per class
Youth (13-20) $7.00 per class
*prices include HST
Intermediate Level: Fun class combining dance and aquafit moves. Focus on cardio and strength.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 15
11:00am – 11:45am
Aquafit & Pickleball
Adult (21+) $8.50 per class
Youth (13-20) $7.00 per class
*prices include HST
Intermediate Level: From the court to the pool, Cross-train in the pool to improve the cardio, agility, strength and balance that power your pickleball game. Yes, we’ll be using water paddles – they’re great for building resistance and endurance with every stroke.
Aquafit Classes Price List:
Drop-In
45 – 60 minute classes
Adult (21+) $8.50 per class
Youth (13-20) $7.00 per class
*prices include HST
Drop-In
30 minute classes
All Participants (13+) $4.25 per class
*prices include HST
10 Pass Fitness Punch Pass (45 – 60 minute classes)
Adult (21+) $75.00
Youth (13-21) $65.00
*prices include HST
**can be used for RQM run aquatics & fitness centre classes
10 Pass Fitness Punch Pass (30 minute classes)
Adult (21+) $ 40.00
Youth (13 – 21) $35.00
*prices include HST
For fitness membership options that also provide access to other parts of the facility, please see the rate sheet (https://www.queensplace.ca/rates-and-memberships/ ) or speak with a Customer Service Representative at Queens Place Emera Centre in person or on the phone at 902-354-4422.
How to sign-in for Group Fitness classes:
Starting at 6:00am on weekdays, participants may phone the Customer Service Desk (902-354-4422) and sign-in for any QPEC class happening that day (in the pool or in the Fitness Studio). Between 6:00 – 9:00pm on Friday’s, or Saturday’s up until class time, participants may phone to sign in for Saturday class. You are not required to phone in advance; however, it will secure your spot in the class. Maximums for each class are set according to facility requirements and safety. Class participants check in at the Front Desk upon arrival. Classes are on a first-come, first-served basis for all participants. Once the maximum has been reached, a wait list will be kept in case a spot becomes available.
Notice – Reduced Capacity for Afternoon Swim, August 7.
Issued Friday August 7, 2026 at 12 noon:
For the Afternoon Public Swim on Friday, July 7, from 2 – 4 pm, the maximum capacity is 60 bathers.
The Evening Public Swim will will have the usual capacity.
Rates for The Big Splash – Outdoor Pool, in effect starting August 10, 2026
Issued August 5, 2026:
A big part of enjoying summer is going for a swim – Region of Queens Municipality is excited that The Big Splash – Outdoor Pool at Queens Place Emera Centre is now open, and that residents and visitors to the area have been enjoying the pool on it’s first day open (opening day was August 4!). To celebrate opening week, all public lane swims, and afternoon and evening swims are free of charge! Have you been for a swim yet?
The rate sheet shows the different ways users can add swimming at The Big Splash to their recreational activities – whether you want to swim occasionally, frequently, as part of an “All Access” facility pass, or added to your annual or monthly Queens Place Emera Centre membership – there are lots of options to choose from!
Click this link for a PDF of the rate sheet or refer to the poster below. ** PLEASE NOTE: the rates listed begin on August 10, 2026.
Entrance to The Big Splash is through the lobby at Queens Place Emera Centre, 50 Queens Place Drive, Liverpool. Please check in at the Customer Service Desk.
Times of Free Swims During Opening Week (August 4 – 7, 2026)
originally posted August 4, 2026
TODAY is the day you have been waiting for!!! Region of Queens Municipality is thrilled that as of today, the wait is over, and people will be able to enjoy the Municipality’s newest recreation facility, The Big Splash at Queens Place Emera Centre.
To celebrate the opening of The Big Splash, public lane swims as well as afternoon and evening swims will be FREE from August 4 to August 7, 2026.
Come for a swim, cool off and enjoy the beautiful new pool!!
Swim times this week include:
Tuesday, August 4th:
• Lane Swim: 10:00am-1:00pm
• Afternoon Public Swim: 2:00pm-4:00pm
• Evening Public Swim: 5:00pm-6:30pm
Wednesday, August 5th:
• Lane Swim: 12:00pm-1:00pm
• Afternoon Public Swim: 2:00pm-4:00pm
• Evening Public Swim: 5:00pm-6:30pm
Thursday, August 6th:
• Lane Swim: 12:00pm-1:00pm
• Afternoon Public Swim: 2:00pm-4:00pm
• Evening Public Swim: 5:00pm-6:30pm
Friday, August 7th:
• Lane Swim: 9:00am-11:00am
• Afternoon Public Swim: 2:00pm-4:00pm
• Evening Public Swim: 5:00pm-6:30pm
For complete details on this amazing new outdoor pool, please visit www.regionofqueens.com or call us at 902-354-4422.
A BIT of INFORMATION ABOUT THE NAME
This project wouldn’t have been possible without contributions from the Province of Nova Scotia and private donor who made an anonymous contribution to help see the pool project come to fruition. As part of the anonymous donation agreement, the donor was invited to select a name for the new pool – they chose The Big Splash, which conveys the fun, energy, and excitement we know that swimmers of all ages will feel when they arrive at the facility and get to experience their first swim.
Stay tuned for more news in the next week or so as we unveil the date for our celebratory Grand Opening Pool Party event!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
💦The Big Splash – Outdoor Pool 💦
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
originally published August 4, 2026
UPDATED: AUGUST 6, 2026
😎 Now that The Big Splash has opened at Queens Place Emera Centre, we have compiled a list of answers to some questions people have asked or may be wondering about before going to the new pool. 😁 As more questions are asked, we’ll update the list.
Go – swim – have fun!! 😎 💦
💦 How early can I arrive for a public swim or swimming lesson?
– Please arrive no more than 5 minutes before your scheduled swim or lesson. This helps us manage the number of people in the change rooms and ensure everyone has enough space. It also allows participants in the swimming lesson or program before yours to leave the water and pool deck before you enter, reducing congestion and creating a safer, more comfortable environment for everyone.
💦Where is the facility entrance?
– All guests using The Big Splash Outdoor Swimming Pool enter and exit through the main lobby at Queens Place Emera Centre. Please check in at the front desk before entering the pool area.
Are lockers available?
– Yes. Day-use lockers are available for your convenience. Please bring your own lock, as locks are not provided.
💦 What footwear is allowed on the pool deck?
– Outdoor footwear is not to be worn on the pool deck to help keep the area clean. Clean flip-flops, sandals, or other clean pool-safe footwear are recommended.
💦 What should I bring?
– Please arrive ready to enter the pool wearing clean swimwear. Guests are also required to bring their own towels and sunscreen, as these items are not provided. Water bottles are permitted; however, please use non-glass containers for the safety of all guests. There is a water bottle filling station at the pool to refill water bottles. Please note that food and gum are not permitted on the pool deck.
💦 What are the admission requirements?
– For the health and safety of everyone:
· Children who are not toilet trained must wear a swim diaper. If you forget a swim diaper, we can provide one.
· Please shower before entering the pool.
· Do not enter the water if you are feeling unwell or have
symptoms of illness.
· Patrons with open cuts or sores should not use the pool until
they have healed or been cleared by a doctor.
💦 Do I need to supervise my child during public swims and other pool programs?
– Yes. Children ages 7 and under and non-swimmers must always remain within arm’s reach of a responsible person 16 years of age or older. Children aged 8 – 9 must have an adult (aged 16+) on deck or in the pool supervising. Children ages 10 – 11 must have an adult (age 16+) supervision present at the aquatic centre. Ages 12 and up can swim independently unless a weak/non swimmer. If you are not swimming or supervising someone in the water, please do not remain on the pool deck. This helps us manage deck capacity and maintain a safe environment for everyone.
💦 Will I need to complete a swim test to swim in the deep end without a lifejacket during public or lane swim?
– Yes. Swimmers who wish to use areas of the pool beyond the shallow end are required to complete a swim test. Swim tests help our lifeguards assess each swimmer’s comfort level and swimming ability, ensuring everyone can enjoy the pool safely. The swim test only needs to be completed once per season, during your first public or lane swim visit. After successfully completing the test, swimmers will have access to the appropriate areas of the pool based on their demonstrated swimming ability.
💦 Can parents or spectators stay on the pool deck during swimming lessons?
– Only participants, staff, and those actively supervising a swimmer should be on the pool deck during swimming lessons. Spectators who are not supervising should remain in designated viewing areas, if available, to help manage capacity.
💦 Can I bring my own pool equipment during public swims?
– For the safety of all swimmers, personal equipment such as snorkels, flippers, fins, and mermaid tails is not permitted during public swims. We have various sized PFDs, noodles and flutterboards available for use.
💦 Why are there maximum capacities for swims?
– Each swim has a maximum number of participants based on the type of program, available lifeguards, and safe supervision ratios. Public and lane swims are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Once capacity is reached, additional admissions cannot be accommodated.
– At The Big Splash Outdoor Swimming Pool, the number of lifeguards required on deck increases as the number of swimmers increases:
• 0–30 swimmers: 1 lifeguard required
• 31–60 swimmers: 2 lifeguards required
• 61–90 swimmers: 3 lifeguards required
– Pool maximums also depend on staffing levels and therefore may be reduced to align with lifeguards on duty.
– Any time the beachfront entry and lap pool are open, 2 lifeguards are required.
– These guidelines help ensure appropriate supervision; however, the number of swimmers permitted may be adjusted at the discretion of the on-site supervisor or lifeguards based on current conditions, safety considerations, and the ability to effectively supervise all areas of the pool.
💦 Do you have to wear a bathing suit, or can you wear shorts and a t-shirt?
– You may wear either a bathing suit or clean shorts and a T-shirt. If you choose to wear clothing, we recommend light, breathable shorts and a T-shirt, as heavier clothing can become waterlogged and make it more difficult to swim. Lifeguards may require that you wear a PFD or use a pool noodle if your swim attire affects your ability to float to ensure your safety.
💦 Can young children wear puddle jumpers?
– Yes, but that does not replace the requirement for direct supervision.
💦 Do adults have to do the swim test? Why?
– Yes, adults must do the swim test. Being an adult does not necessarily mean someone is a strong swimmer. While you know your own swimming abilities, our lifeguards do not. That’s why we ask everyone to demonstrate their swimming ability before accessing certain areas of the pool. This process helps us accurately assess each swimmer’s ability so we can maintain a safe environment for everyone. It’s not about questioning your experience; it’s about ensuring our lifeguards have the information they need to respond appropriately and keep all guests safe.
💦 Will there be aqua fit classes?
– Aquafit classes will be announced once staff and instructor availability has been confirmed. Please stay tuned for more information, which will be shared in the coming week.
💦 Will there be evening or weekend lessons so people who work can register their child in lessons?
– Expanding options for our lesson schedule to include these times is something we hope to offer in the future based on staffing availability.
💦 Are strollers allowed on the pool deck, or must they be stored in the locker room?
– Yes, strollers are welcome on the pool deck! We just ask that the wheels are reasonably clean and free of mud or debris before entering the pool area to help keep the deck clean. We can provide supplies to clean the wheels, if needed.
💦 Have you thought about people with sensory impairments that can’t handle a lot of noise/ large groups? On a smaller scale?
– Yes, we would love to add more programming options based on staffing availability.
💦 What will a normal season be? How long will the pool be open this year?
– A regular pool season will run from June through September, with programming offered throughout those months based on staff availability. If staff availability and the environment supports opening sooner, or closing later, the season could be extended further.
– For the remainder of this season, programming will depend on both weather and staff availability, so we’ll be taking things week by week. We will offer as much programming as our staffing levels can support while ensuring supervisory requirements are maintained at all times.
💦 Are swimming lessons for adults being offered this season?
– Once youth registration for swimming lessons is finished, we will know what other things we can add based on staffing. If we have free slots, absolutely we can do adult classes. Stay tuned!
💦 Want to see more programming?
– Consider becoming a lifeguard or swim instructor and join our aquatics team! Contact us for more information at 902-354-4422 or email info@queensplace.ca.
New Outdoor Pool to Open to Public on August 4, 2026!
originally posted July 31, 2026:
Region of Queens Municipality is thrilled to announce that our newest recreation facility, The Big Splash at Queens Place Emera Centre, opens to the public on Tuesday, August 4!
To celebrate the opening of The Big Splash, public lane swims as well as afternoon and evening swims will be FREE from August 4 to August 7, 2026.
Swim times this week include:
Tuesday, August 4th:
- Lane Swim: 10:00am-1:00pm
- Afternoon Public Swim: 2:00pm-4:00pm
- Evening Public Swim: 5:00pm-6:30pm
Wednesday, August 5th:
- Lane Swim: 12:00pm-1:00pm
- Afternoon Public Swim: 2:00pm-4:00pm
- Evening Public Swim: 5:00pm-6:30pm
Thursday, August 6th:
- Lane Swim: 12:00pm-1:00pm
- Afternoon Public Swim: 2:00pm-4:00pm
- Evening Public Swim: 5:00pm-6:30pm
Friday, August 7th:
- Lane Swim: 9:00am-11:00am
- Afternoon Public Swim: 2:00pm-4:00pm
- Evening Public Swim: 5:00pm-6:30pm
For complete details on this amazing new outdoor pool, please visit www.regionofqueens.com or call us at 902-354-4422.
ABOUT THE NAME
This project wouldn’t have been possible without contributions from the Province of Nova Scotia and private donor who made an anonymous contribution to help see the pool project come to fruition. As part of the anonymous donation agreement, the donor was invited to select a name for the new pool – they chose The Big Splash, which conveys the fun, energy, and excitement we know that swimmers of all ages will feel when they arrive at the facility and get to experience their first swim. Stay tuned for more news in the next week or so as we unveil the date for our celebratory Grand Opening Pool Party event!
