The City of Saint John is bringing back its free Sunshine Summer Program for 2026. If you have kids between the ages of 6 and 12, this eight week outdoor program offers a great way to keep them active and engaged. Registration is officially open.

What the Program Offers

The Sunshine Summer Program is designed for children ages 6 to 12. City staff run daily activities including sports, active games, arts and crafts, and off site adventures.

Important Schedule Details

The program operates in two daily blocks. The morning session runs from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and the afternoon session runs from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. On Thursdays, pick up happens early at 3:30 p.m. for staff meetings.

You must know that this is not a full time childcare service. There is no supervision during the lunch hour. Your children must go home between the morning and afternoon sessions. A parent or guardian must also be home and available throughout the day.

Program Locations and Dates

The city splits the program across nine locations.

Community centre programs open on June 22 and run until August 14. These locations include KBM Community Centre, Latimore Lake Community Centre, Lorneville Community Centre, and Milford Memorial Community Centre.

School locations open on June 25 and run until August 14. These include Barnhill Memorial School, Bayside Middle School, Glen Falls School, Hazen White St. Francis School, and Lakewood Heights School.

How to Register

Parents register their kids online through the City of Saint John website or in person at a chosen program location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Sunshine Summer Program?

It is a free eight week outdoor recreation program for Saint John children ages 6 to 12.

What are the daily hours?

The program runs from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and again from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. On Thursdays, the afternoon session ends at 3:30 p.m.

Can kids stay for lunch?

No. Children must go home between sessions because staff do not provide lunch hour supervision.

Is this a full time childcare option?

No. A parent or guardian must be home and available throughout the entire day.

How do I register?

You register online via the city website or in person at the program locations.