Get ready, Saint John! This weekend, from December 5th to 7th, 2025, our vibrant city is buzzing with an incredible array of events to kick off the festive season. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, live entertainment, unique shopping opportunities, or a chance to give back, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening around town:

Uptown Sparkles Extravaganza (Friday, December 5th)

The heart of Saint John will truly sparkle this Friday as Uptown Sparkles 2025 celebrates its 16th year! This free, open-air celebration kicks off the winter season with a magical evening of lights, music, and community spirit. Get all the details here: https://uptownsj.com/uptown-sparkles/

Plan Your Night: View the official map to find the “Warm & Bright” fire pits, washroom facilities, and the best routes between King’s Square and the Night Market.

Sparkling Activities & Shopping:

• BGC Holiday Market & Santa Photos: Head to Market Square Atrium for a festive market and a chance to get photos with Santa.
• Holiday Vendor Market @ Heroes’ Beacon: Discover unique, handmade items from local vendors upstairs at Heroes’ Beacon.
• Holiday Photos With P.R.O. Kids: Capture festive memories at the Saint John City Market.
• Uptown Sparkles Embroidery Pop-In: Enjoy a free embroidery workshop at The Sewist, with all materials provided.
• The Write Cup Bookstore Cafe: Find fantastic books by local authors and start your Christmas shopping.
• Sparkle at Exit ’98 Vintage: Browse over 500 vintage pieces and their new winter collection.
• Cricket Cove – SPARKLES: Enjoy homemade cookies and participate in knitting a traditional Christmas garland.
• Brunswick Square Uptown Sparkles: Experience entertainment in Centre Court, featuring Sarah Hebert and Urban Dance.
• Harbour Lights & Snow Whispers Art Show: Visit an exhibition featuring new artwork.
• Trinity Galleries celebrates turning 30!: Join the celebration with cake and treats from 4-7 PM.
• MADD Canada Saint John and Area: Project Red Ribbon & Tree Lighting Ceremony: Support a vital cause at King’s Square.
• Many Uptown businesses, including Dr. Brown, Emporia, Juniper, Charlotte Street Bakery, Jeremiah’s Deli & Catering, Together Designs, In Pursuit, Delta Hotels, Foggy City Take-out, The Feel Good Store, Hats on the Square, and Keirsteads, will be offering special treats, extended hours, and festive surprises.

Live Entertainment & Arts

Friday, December 5th:

• Family Sparkles Film Festival: The Imperial Theatre hosts an evening of free holiday short films for the whole family.
• Live JAZZ at the Gallery: Enjoy an amazing evening of Jazz music at Trinity Galleries for $20.
• Billy Bishop Goes to War: Step into the remarkable story of Canadian WWI flying ace Billy Bishop at The BMO Studio Theatre.
• Stadacona Band Celtic group kitchen party: Warm up by the fireplace at Catapult Coffee & Studio with a laid-back Celtic performance.
• Stadacona Band Jazz in the Market: Hear sweet jazz Christmas music by the Stadacona Jazz ensemble at the Saint John City Market.
• Stadacona Band in the Stone Church: The Stadacona Band’s Brass Quintet and Saxophone Quartet celebrate the holiday season in a beautiful setting.

Saturday, December 6th:

• COUNTRY BOYS: CHRISTMAS EDITION: The Imperial Theatre presents a tribute to country music icons Alan Jackson, Garth Brooks, Brad Paisley, and George Strait for $50.
• Billy Bishop Goes to War: Another chance to see this compelling play at The BMO Studio Theatre.

Sunday, December 7th:

• Christmas from the Heart: Music from the Heart presents a festive choral collaboration at the Imperial Theatre for $33.75.
• Billy Bishop Goes to War: Catch the final performance of this powerful story at The BMO Studio Theatre.

Holiday Markets & Community Giving

Saturday, December 6th:

• Saint John High School Holiday Bazaar: Support local vendors and enjoy ethereal music from the choir at the Dennis R. Knibb Auditorium. Admission is free.
• Kennebecasis Regional Police Force – Cram a Cruiser Christmas Food Drive: Help fill a cruiser with donations for the KV Food Basket at the KV Superstore from 10 AM to 12 PM.

Sports & Games

Sunday, December 7th:

• Saint John Sea Dogs vs. Moncton Wildcats: Cheer on our home team at TD Station at 3:00 PM.
• Bingo: Try your luck at Exhibition Park.

Food & Drink Specials

Friday, December 5th:

• East Coast Emo Night: Head to Wasted Day Brewing for a unique evening.
• BeBe Wellness Beverages Pop-Up at Lordon: Sample their signature sparkling apple cider vinegar beverages.

Saturday, December 6th:

• The Saturday Bakery: A weekly pop-up event at East Coast Bistro featuring a monthly menu of traditional baked goods.
• Rusty Gate: Enjoy the atmosphere at Long Bay Brewery.
• Record Sale Popup: Discover new tunes at Wasted Day Brewing.

For a full list of events happening in Saint John and links to all the event pages, visit our Event Page. Don’t miss out on a fantastic weekend in Saint John!