Last updated: November 11, 2024
Get ready for a festive adventure in Saint John with our detailed guide. From locals to holiday tourists, this guide is your companion for exploring Saint John's festive season.
One highlight is the Gingerbread Trail, where visitors can marvel at intricate gingerbread creations displayed throughout the city. Craft NB Christmas Festival features a variety of unique handmade gifts, perfect for holiday shopping. And the Holiday Cheers event is something you definitely don't want to miss, offering a cozy atmosphere filled with seasonal treats and local festivities. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Saint John Holiday Light Displays
Fundy-St. Martins Christmas Parade
- What to Expect
- Colorful parade with festive floats and decorated vehicles.
- Description
- The Fundy-St. Martins Christmas Parade is a vibrant community event featuring festive floats, decorated vehicles, and joyful participants celebrating the holiday season in St. Martins, New Brunswick.
- Where
- Fundy-St. Martins | More Info : Fundy-St. Martins Christmas Parade
Saint John Holiday Markets and Shopping
Craft NB Christmas Festival
- What to Expect
- Showcase of diverse fine crafts by local artisans.
- Description
- Craft NB's Christmas Festival in Saint John showcases fine craft from over 40 juried members, featuring hand-built pottery, solar prints, local honey, glassworks, and more. Local food vendors and carollers add to the festive atmosphere.
- Where
- Saint John | More Info : Craft NB Christmas Festival
Saint John Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Holiday Cheers
- What to Expect
- Live music performances by various artists to support local food banks.
- Description
- The CPKC Holiday Train is a festive journey across Canada and the U.S., featuring live music performances by notable artists and raising donations for local food banks to combat hunger.
- Where
- Saint John | More Info : Holiday Cheers
Nutcracker Ballet
- What to Expect
- Classic ballet performance with elaborate sets and costumes.
- Description
- The Nutcracker Ballet is a timeless tale of Clara and her enchanted nutcracker doll, set to Tchaikovsky's iconic score. This classic ballet features intricate choreography, elaborate costumes, and a rich narrative that transports audiences to a world of wonder.
- Where
- Saint John | More Info : Nutcracker Ballet
70th Annual Saint John Santa Claus Parade
- What to Expect
- A cherished local tradition featuring numerous floats and community participation.
- Description
- The parade showcases an impressive lineup of colourful floats, marching bands, and festive performances, delighting attendees of all ages. Local community groups and schools participate, adding to the vibrant atmosphere that encourages holiday spirit among residents and visitors alike. Spectators can enjoy the heartening sight of Santa Claus, accompanied by friendly characters spreading cheer along the parade route.
- Where
- Saint John | More Info : 70th Annual Saint John Santa Claus Parade
Christmas Tree Lighting
- What to Expect
- Community-based ceremony celebrating the season with performances and a stunning illuminated tree.
- Description
- A spectacular gathering takes place as the community comes together to witness the dazzling tree lighting ceremony. Families, friends, and visitors enjoy lively performances, hot cocoa, and the spirit of the season, all highlighted by the illuminated centerpiece that marks this cherished occasion. The atmosphere fills with excitement and joy, creating lasting memories.
- Where
- Saint John | More Info : Christmas Tree Lighting
Saint John Other Holiday Activities
Gingerbread Trail
- What to Expect
- Unique gingerbread creations displayed at local businesses.
- Description
- Explore gingerbread displays at various businesses throughout Uptown Saint John, showcasing creative creations.
- Where
- Saint John | More Info : Gingerbread Trail
A Day with Santa
- What to Expect
- Santa's visit to Rothesay for holiday interactions.
- Description
- A Day with Santa features Santa Claus visiting Rothesay, interacting with children, and spreading holiday cheer.
- Where
- Rothesay | More Info : A Day with Santa
KV Santa Claus Parade
- What to Expect
- Community parade with festive floats and road closures.
- Description
- The 26th Annual KV Santa Claus Parade in Rothesay and Quispamsis features a "Christmas Treasures" theme, starting at 6 PM from KVHS and traveling along Hampton Road, Marr Road, and Clark Road intersection.
- Where
- Quispamsis | More Info : KV Santa Claus Parade
Five Festive Fridays
- What to Expect
- Spiritual community events with special masses and devotions.
- Description
- Five Festive Fridays at St. John Baptist Catholic Church feature special masses, devotions, and community events, fostering spiritual growth and community bonding.
- Where
- Saint John | More Info : Five Festive Fridays