A Holiday Bay-cation ❄

November 12, 2024


There’s “snow” place like Saint John and the Towns by the Bay during the holiday season! From tree lightings to craft markets, choral sing-alongs, Santa Claus parades, and everything in between, there’s no shortage of cheer and charm to be found.

In need of some holiday bay-cation inspiration? Keep reading to discover the events and community celebrations that make this season so magical.

‘YULE’ BE AMAZED BY OUR ENTERTAINMENT

November 21st | Celebrate the season with the CPKC Holiday Train, featuring James Barker Band and Clerel! The Holiday Train will tour Canada and the US, raising money, food, and awareness to support food bands across their network. Support a great cause, and enjoy a fantastic festive show.

 

November 21st | Tina Randell returns to the Kent Theatre for another evening of tears and laughter with The Holiday Nutcrackers! All the way from Port Rexton, Newfoundland, Tina will have you in stiches all night long. 

 

November 23rd | Head to the Imperial Theatre for Christmas with the Ennis Sisters, a JUNO award-winning trio hailing from St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador. Flavoured by Celtic and traditional Newfoundland influences, their music offers a broad mix of original songs as well as uniquely interpreted tune and ballads.

 

November 23rd | Kick off the season with Frosty Fun Night at Kent Theatre! Enjoy a double feature of Rudolph and The Grinch. Stop by the complimentary snack bar to grab a drink and some popcorn, and don't forget your family selfie.

 

November 27th - December 1st | A delight for the senses and a fest for the heart - the Saint John Theatre Company presents Charlie and the Chocolate Factory! Experience a world where golden tickets make dreams sweeter, and Willy Wonka teaches that candy is dandy, but manners are golden. Get your tickets in advance, as this show is sure to sell out fast!

 

December 4th | At the Celtic Tenors Christmas, you'll get more than a performance by world-class artists; you'll enjoy an evening to savour and a night with tenors who - despite their incredible success - don't take themselves too seriously!

 

December 5th | Enjoy the Stadacona Band Christmas Tour, featuring David Myles. This is a cozy Imperial Theatre show you won't want to miss.

 

December 6th | Celebrate the magic of the season with Acadian Christmas! The program features classic Christmas tunes performed by exceptional talents, festive melodies to warm your hearts, and a friendly atmosphere for the whole family.

 

December 6th | What's this? What's this? There's Drag Artists everywhere! Relive your favourite Christmas/Halloween hybrid movie at A Nightmare Before Christmas: Drag Edition!

 

December 8th | Celebrate the yuletide with a faithful recreation of the classic Once Upon a Christmas album at Kenny & Dolly’s Christmas Tribute. Join Kylie Fox (Kylie Fox Band), Josh Bravener (The Hypochondriacs) along with a super talent band of NB musicians for a wonderful evening.

 

December 9th | Enjoy a family-fun event at the Imperial Theatre's Retro Film screening of the Grinch Double Feature!

 

December 12th | David Myles is back at Brunswick Square for his annual Singing For Supper tour! In partnership with CBC Radio, David brings his award-winning performance to cities across New Brunswick, collecting food and funds for local food banks.

 

December 13th - 15th | Gala Ballet presents The Nutcracker, the classic holiday story by E.T.A. Hoffman, set to music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Once again, The Nutcracker will deliver the magic of the season in this annual holiday tradition for the whole family. Local dancers share the stage with guest principal artists from some of Canada’s most renowned professional ballet companies.

 

December 20th | Sing all the classics at the Imperial Theatre Holiday Sing Along! If you’re shy, come along and list in. It’s a hometown party with many great local singers. This is a free show with general admission for all to enjoy.

 

December 21st | Thane Dunn’s Aloha from Saint John - The Elvis Christmas Special will get everyone into the Christmas spirit. Imagine the legendary Aloha from Hawaii satellite telecast combined with Elvis' Christmas classics, and you get an evening of entertainment you won't forget!

 

December 22nd | Symphony New Brunswick unwraps a special present for the whole family at their Family Concert, “Holiday Magic”!

 

December 31st | Join the Indigenous Tourism Association of New Brunswick for a Taste of the Atlantic - New Year’s Eve Edition! Luxury meets Indigenous excellence at this unforgettable experience, and every moment is crafted to inspire. Each dish is a masterpiece created to honour the bounty of the land and the ancestral stewardship passed down through generations. You'll also enjoy Indigenous arts, song, storytelling, laughter, ceremony, and language - each element woven together to create a tapestry of tradition, resilience, and celebration.

 

December 31st | Ring in the New Year at the Top of the Town, and celebrate with an incredible one-man full-band sound experience featuring all the hits of Elton John and Billy Joel!

‘CLAUS’ FOR CELEBRATION

You better watch out, you better not cry, you better not pout, we’re telling you why – Santa Claus is coming to town! Enjoy the Santa Claus parades taking place throughout our region:

 

Looking for other celebrations to be a part of? Be sure to check out:

November 20th | Kick off the holiday season in Quispamsis at their annual Tree Lighting! You're sure to enjoy the unveiling of the Holiday Dreamland LED light display for the 2024-25 season. Bring a mug from home to enjoy a hot beverage, and get ready for a special visit from Santa.

 

November 30th | The Town of Hampton turns into something right out of a holiday movie during their Winter Wonderland. Numerous craft markets, an afternoon tea, art displays, and more, culminating with a visit from the big man himself.  

 

November 30th | Whether you are Clark Kent in a Christmas sweater or Maleficent in a holiday gown, join fellow cosplayers for a festive night at the Holiday Heroes and Villains Bash! Get your tickets in advance - snacks and a free drink are included.

 

Weekends, November 30th - December 8th | Head to Fundy-St. Martins for Christmas in the Village! Take pictures with Santa at the Sea Caves, visit with the Grinch, enjoy a variety of holiday activities, and take in a wonderful selection of vendors at the market. Don't forget to stop by the open shops and restaurants, too!

 

December 1st | Grand Bay-Westfield displays its festive best at the annual Tree Lighting! Enjoy music beforehand, and a sing-a-long afterwards. Cookies and hot chocolate will be available, too.

 

December 1st | Join the community of Nauwigewauk for their annual Tree Lighting! There will be music, cookies, fire trucks, and fun for everyone to enjoy.

 

December 6th | Step into a world of twinkling lights and holiday cheer at Uptown Sparkles! This magical, one-night celebration brings uptown Saint John to life with dazzling displays, live music, cozy firepits, and festive surprises around every corner. Enjoy special deals and offers from local shops, restaurants, and galleries, and explore everything that makes the season sparkle.

 

December 8th | Meet the Grinch, browse a variety of vendors at a Christmas market, enjoy balloon animals, face painting, and more at The Magic of Christmas! All in support of the Make a Wish Foundation.

 

December 12th & 13th | Hop aboard the festive 50-seat coach for a magical Twinkle Tour through Saint John, Rothesay, and Quispamsis. Be a part of the excitement and wonder as this guided tour takes you to some of the twinkliest decorations around!

 

December 27th | Celebrate the holidays with friends and family at It's a Crowe's Christmas Bash! See everyone who's home for the holidays in one place.

‘SLEIGH’ YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING LIST

November 15th & 16th | If you're looking for unique art, cards, prints, and more, be sure to check out Lana’s Annual Christmas Art Show, in a lovely new location!

 

November 15th – 17th | Three days of festive sights, sounds, smells, and smiles are waiting for you at Rhoda’s Christmas Festival! Santa will be making a special appearance on Sunday the 17th, so be sure to bring the whole family and enjoy all this annual market has to offer.

 

Weekends, November 15th – December 8th | Embrace the holiday spirit at the Rockwood Park Christmas Market. This festive market promises a delightful experience for all ages. Wander through charming, decorated wooden booths filled with unique gifts and delicious treats, savour culinary delights, warm up with a cup of hot chocolate, and visit with Santa - this is a winter wonderland like no other!

 

November 16th | Get some early shopping done at the Christmas Market at the Lions Club. Hand crafted jewelry, baked goods, knitted items, children's clothing, and so much more!

 

November 17th | Hosted both indoors and outdoors, the Rothesay Yule Christmas Market offers a cozy marketplace of shopping while you soak up the festive spirit. Complete with live music, magic shows, a petting zoo, treats, and a special visit with Santa, this is a kick-off to the season you won't want to miss!

 

Weekends, November 22nd – December 14th | Don't miss out on the 3rd Annual Outdoor European Style Christmas Market at Belding Hill Farms. Eat, drink, social with friends all while shopping for some of those hard-to-buy-for family and friends.

 

November 23rd | Browse a variety of great holiday gift ideas at A Very Merry Market! Admittance is by donation, with proceeds going to Gentle Path Counselling Services.

 

November 23rd | Get ready for a jolly good time at Holiday in the Heights! Meet Santa himself, enjoy festive music, sample delicious food and treats, all while browsing a variety of vendor stalls with unique gifts for everyone.

 

November 29th & 30th | With 175 tables showcasing incredible local vendors, you're sure to find unique gifts at Bobby’s Hospice Christmas Market! Don't miss out on the chance to snag some amazing finds while supporting our local community.

 

Weekends, November 29th - December 15th | Mark your calendars for a festive time at Christmas on the Common Indoor Market. Browse handcrafted gifts from local artisans, all while enjoying festive decor and great holiday vibes.

 

December 6th | Shop from a variety of vendors during Uptown Sparkles at the BGC Holiday Market! Enjoy live music, raffle prizes, a 50/50 and more.

 

December 7th | Check out 15+ Atlantic Canadian makers and suppliers at the first-ever Lovely Little Holiday Market!

 

December 7th | Celebrate the Christmas season at Fullerton’s Annual Christmas Sale and Market!

Land acknowledgement

The Saint John Region is situated on the traditional territory of the Wolastoqiyik, Mi’Kmaq, and Peskotomuhkati Nations. This territory is covered by Peace and Friendship Treaties signed with the British Crown in the 1700s. The treaties recognized the significant and meaningful role of the Wolastoqiyik, Mi’Kmaq, and Peskotomuhkati in this province and the country with the intent to establish a relationship of trust and friendship.

Envision Saint John: The Regional Growth Agency pays respect to the elders, past and present, and descendants of this land, and is committed to moving forward in the spirit of truth, collaboration, and reconciliation.