Good morning, Saint John! We’re officially one week into 2026, and if you’re still sticking to your New Year’s resolutions, congratulations…and please teach a class. If you slipped up with a donut, skipped the gym, or accidentally did both before 9am, today is a perfectly good day to get back on track. And if not, there’s always 2027. 😅
Here’s the lowdown for the day:
Move your car or the plow will ❄️
Ottawa checking in at the port 🚢
Hurry hard into the weekend 🥌
Enjoy the day!
-Geoff Walsh, Publisher
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NEWS NOTES
🚗 Heads up, North End drivers
If you street park in the North End, today’s the day to shuffle the car. The City of Saint John has declared a temporary no-parking zone today, Thursday, January 8, from 7am to 7pm to finish snow clearing and removal.
No parking is allowed on Adelaide, Clarendon, Harvey, Douglas Street, and Douglas Avenue between Main and Bentley. Signs are posted, and enforcement means fines and possibly a tow. Consider this your friendly reminder before the plow trucks do their thing.
🚢 Federal transport talk, Saint John edition
Saint John is getting a federal fly-in next week, with the conversation focused on ports, supply chains, and how goods move in and out of the region. The Saint John Region Chamber is hosting a January 13 luncheon featuring Canada’s federal transport minister, Steven MacKinnon, who’s expected to outline current federal transportation priorities.
💼 Money titles, finally with receipts
If you’ve ever wondered what actually separates a financial advisor from a financial planner, New Brunswick just put some rules around it. As of January 1, those titles are now protected, meaning they can’t just be used casually. Anyone calling themselves one will need proper education and oversight through an approved credentialing body, overseen by the Financial and Consumer Services Commission of New Brunswick.
The change rolls out over the next few years and is optional, but if someone chooses to use one of those titles, it now has to actually mean something.
*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.
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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’
WEEKEND PREVIEW
FRIDAY
2026 Vision Board Night | January 9
ArtLab DCI is hosting a relaxed women’s evening focused on reflection, creativity, and setting intentions for the year ahead. Guests will create their own vision board in a calm, supportive setting with no pressure to perform or share. Runs 5:30-7:30pm at the Kent Theatre on Coburg Street, upstairs on the second floor. Registration is required in advance.
Wolf Castle – Waiting For the Dawn Tour | January 9
The Waiting For the Dawn tour stops in Saint John with Wolf Castle, joined by The Olympic Symphonium and Stephen Hero & Friends. The show blends pop-rap and old-school roots with sharp lyrics and big hooks, moving between celebration and reflection. It’s a high-energy night that’s easy to get into, whether you know the music or are just looking for a great live show.
No Jokes Barred 2026! | January 9
No Jokes Barred is back at Wasted Day Brewing with a night of uncensored stand-up that’s cheaper than the gym and way more effective. Hosted by Jon Forward, the show features a stacked lineup of local and regional comics, plus an Overtime segment where brave audience members can toss their name in for a quick shot on stage. Doors at 8pm, show at 8:30pm.
SATURDAY
Cedarcrest Gardens Winter Market | January 10
The Winter Market returns to Cedarcrest Gardens with Saturday shopping from 9am–2pm inside the heated greenhouse. Running weekly through the end of February, the market brings together a rotating mix of local vendors, making it an easy stop for fresh finds and a warm wander on a winter morning. In the case of bad weather, any changes or cancellations will be shared on Cedarcrest’s social channels.
DIY Hand Warmers at the City Market | January 10
The Saint John City Market is hosting a cozy, drop-in workshop where kids and grown-ups can make reusable felt hand warmers to get through winter. It’s free while supplies last and runs 11am-2pm inside The Blue Pelican Bath & Body. Live guitar music by Tyler Jordan plays from 12-3pm, and younger kids may need a helping hand.
Brooms & Brews | January 10
The Carleton Curling Club is teaming up with Moosehead Breweries for an easygoing afternoon of curling and beer tasting. No experience needed. Just show up ready to slide a rock or two. Runs 12-4pm and includes a few ends of curling plus tasting tokens, with non-alcoholic options available. Open to everyone, with spots available by signup through the club.
Brick City Beatdown | January 10–11
Irving Oil Field House will be buzzing as 31 teams roll into Saint John for Atlantic Canada’s largest 4v4 ultimate frisbee tournament. Players from across the Maritimes and beyond spend the weekend sprinting, bidding, and laying it all out in a fast, physical format that’s easy to follow and fun to watch. Spectators are welcome, and yes, there’s merch if you want to rep the beatdown.
SUNDAY
New Brunswick Youth Orchestra - Vive le Canada | January 11
The New Brunswick Youth Orchestra returns to the Imperial Theatre for a Sunday afternoon concert that’s family-friendly and easy to enjoy, whether you’re a regular or just curious. The program mixes familiar favourites with big, dramatic moments, including music inspired by The Hockey Sweater, plus works by Márquez and Tchaikovsky. It’s a community-focused show that highlights young musicians from across the province. Show starts at 2pm.
Harry Potter Trivia Night | January 11
Gahan House Port City is hosting a Harry Potter–themed trivia night that’s basically a pop quiz for your inner wizard. Gather your House, brush up on spells, creatures, and questionable Defence Against the Dark Arts decisions, and see who takes the Cup. Starts at 7pm. Free to play, but reservations with a food or beverage purchase required.
*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.
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SIDE NOTES
Today’s Tides 🌊
High Tide | 3:07 AM(Thu 08 January) | 7.57 m(24.84 ft) |
Low Tide | 9:20 AM(Thu 08 January) | 1.35 m(4.43 ft) |
High Tide | 3:28 PM(Thu 08 January) | 7.55 m(24.77 ft) |
Low Tide | 9:45 PM(Thu 08 January) | 1.24 m(4.07 ft) |
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Thanks!
Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone who is still going strong in 2026 💪!
-Geoff Walsh - Publisher