Good morning Saint John! As Homer Simpson once warned, you only get so many sweet noggy days before the government takes it away again…our advice, grab a bottle of Port City Royal’s sweet stuff.

Here’s what else is in the glass this morning:

Cheers to a fantastic weekend!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

Share your story with our readers and let them know what makes you unique. Advertise with us for morning visibility!

🌪️ Wreaths are blowin’ in the wind

If inflatable Santas, minions, or the neighbour’s wreath keep blowing by your window this morning, that’s your cue. Today’s weather is a bit of a beast. Rain moves in late this morning and continues into tonight, with 25–40 mm expected, helped along by melting snow. Winds crank up this afternoon, with southerly gusts up to 110 km/h along the Fundy coast before easing overnight.

The city and EMO are reiterating the usual storm smarts… if you haven’t already, pull in any loose decorations, clear storm drains and gutters, and be sure to charge up your devices  just in case.

🔌 NB Power Wants 54 Cents a Month

Provincial hydro bills might get a tiny bump next year, about 54 cents a month for the average household. NB Power filed its annual Variance Account Recovery with the province saying they want to make sure costs stay fair.

They say the reason for the change is less nuclear and hydro production thanks to drought, fewer industrial users, and leftover balances from past years. Selling extra electricity in the summer helped keep the increase small.

CEO Lori Clark says the goal is simple, keep bills predictable so you don’t get any nasty surprises.

🏆 Top clicks of the week

Monday - This week’s council agenda
Tuesday - Stockings of hope collecting gifts for local shelters
Wednesday - Live view of the rink at Arts & Culture Park
Thursday - Tonight’s the last night for the twinkle tour

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WHAT WE’RE DOING THIS WEEKEND

FRIDAY

Harbour Lights Breakfast at the City Market | December 19
The Saint John City Market turns into Harbour Lights HQ for the day, starting bright and early with a full breakfast cooked by the Mayor and Council at North Market Wharf Seafood from 5:45–8:30am. Donations are collected all day, CBC Information Morning broadcasts live in the morning, and the popular Harbour Lights mugs go on sale in person at 6am. Everything supports local food banks.

Christmas at Trinity Galleries | December 19
Trinity Galleries is leaning into the season with a two-hour night of live music in an intimate gallery setting. Karine leads on vocals, joined by Jorian on piano, Chad on bass, and special guest Natalia Delacroix on viola. A festive vibe in a cool space.

Imperial Holiday Sing Along | Friday, December 19
Bring the whole family to the Imperial Theatre and belt out your favourite holiday tunes with Janet and Richard Kidd and their amazing choir. Song sheets provided, everyone is welcome, and the best part, it’s free. Grab a seat at 7:00 PM and get ready for a festive sing-along to kick off the season.

SATURDAY

Christmas Workshops at The Sewist | December 20
Get festive at The Sewist with beginner-friendly Christmas workshops sure to make your holiday extra special. Each session runs 2:00 to 3:45 PM and covers fun projects perfect for gifts or decorating your home.

Home for Christmas at Hampton Brewing | December 20
Hampton Brewing Co. hosts an all-day, family-friendly holiday celebration with Clydesdale carriage rides, festive treats, a Santa visit, and pop-up shopping from Lasso & Lace Boutique. Live music runs throughout the day with sets from Josh Norrad, Hope King, and Kevin Chase. It’s free to attend, with some activities available for an extra cost, and designed as an easygoing way to kick off the season.

Kenny & Dolly’s Christmas Tribute | December 20
A country Christmas classic gets the spotlight at the Imperial Theatre with a live tribute to Once Upon A Christmas. Performers Kylie Fox and Josh Bravener, backed by a local all-star band, recreate the beloved holiday album that’s been part of Canadian Christmases for decades. The night also includes an Elvis holiday opener from Mike Bravener. Show starts at 7:30pm.

SUNDAY

Harbour View Home for the Holidays | December 21
Harbour View High School brings its annual holiday concert to the Imperial Theatre with an afternoon of music from school choirs, concert bands, and special guests from the wider HV community. It’s a family-friendly performance that leans festive and local, with plenty of familiar seasonal sounds. The show starts at 2pm.

Uptown Snow Ball | December 21
Saint John Swing Dance hosts a festive evening of jazz music and swing dancing at the Kent Theatre. The night kicks off with a beginner-friendly lesson at 6pm, no partner or experience needed, followed by social dancing, holiday tunes, and a special performance. It’s pay-what-you-can, encourages festive formal attire, and leans cozy in all the right ways.

_{^{*Nothing in this section is sponsored, just things you need to know. We’ll always let you know if items are sponsored.}}

📍You all nailed it. This festive snap was taken at the City Market. Big shoutout to everyone who guessed correctly: Linda V., Linda F., Shelia C., Rick F., Cynthia P., Ken C., Edgar D., Victoria R., Beverley S., Lue B. M., R. T., Shawna M., Denise M., Leah S., Lorraine M., Ann Marie P., Justin L., Brenda T., Diana A., Bill W., David C., Sean M., and one mysterious local who prefers to stay anonymous.

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Today’s Tides 🌊

Stocking Stuffers That Bite 🎣

Saint John’s own WALTERS Baits makes homemade fishing lures that actually catch fish. With 11 lures, 17 colours, and local delivery before Christmas, these are perfect for anyone on your list who likes dinner that fights back.

Email [email protected] to order before Santa’s sleigh hits the water.

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Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone who likes a little nog in their coffee ☕.

-Geoff Walsh - Publisher