The Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo started in 1979. It was ceremoniously opened by Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother. This event is an indoor spectacle usually held in Halifax's Metro Centre. It featured music, dancing, acrobatic, and comedic performances.
The Tattoo parade commenced on the morning of July 1st (Canada Day). It took place throught the streets of Downtown Halifax. This year marked the 100th Anniversary of the Royal Canadian Navy.
The word, "Tattoo" derived from a Dutch tradition of drummers marching through the streets, summoning the British soldiers to return to their quarters from the taverns and inns (to "turn off the taps" or "doe den tap toe").