🚢 Is This the Port’s Next Move?

Good morning, Saint John! Yesterday was a sweaty one, and while today’s giving us a bit of a break, that doesn’t mean you don’t still deserve a little something frosty to cool you off. Ice cream? A dip in the Bay? A cold beer before 5? We won’t judge 🍦.

Here’s the lowdown for the day:

• Is Saint John about to import cars? 🚢

• Main Street squeezes traffic again 😩

• Culturefest returns for 7th year 🎉

Enjoy the day!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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NEWS NOTES

⚓️ Port Could Soon Be Importing…Cars?

The next big arrival at Port Saint John might not be containers or cruise ships…it could be car carriers.

DP World Canada, which operates the container terminal, is eyeing a pilot project to start importing vehicles through the port. CEO Doug Smith says they’re hoping to get things rolling within three months.

It’s not a brand-new idea, the port handled vehicles years ago, but with container traffic booming and CPKC rail in play, it’s back on the table. There are a few curveballs, like those dramatic Fundy tides, which would require custom barges and ramps. Estimated cost? Up to $20 million.

If it all lines up, Saint John could soon be welcoming a new kind of cargo, and a new chapter in port business. ($)

🚧 Main Street Project Tightens the Screws

If Main Street feels like it’s been under construction forever, well… buckle up. The City’s Active Transportation Project, aiming to better connect the South-Central Peninsula, Old North End, and beyond — is rolling into its next phase, and this one’s a doozy for drivers.

As of this week, the Route 1 on- and off-ramps to the Main Street Viaduct are officially under construction. The ramps will stay open, but lanes are narrowed and will stay that way for about six weeks. Expect tighter squeezes, slower crawls, and more brake-light bonding.

The city suggests detouring via Garden Street/Paradise Row or Crown Street/One Mile Interchange if you’d rather keep moving. And a small win: access from Station Street, Portland Street, and Paradise Row should be fully back by week’s end.

🌍 Culturefest Returns as City’s Diversity Takes Centre Stage 

When Culturefest first kicked off seven years ago, it was a modest little event. Now? It’s one of Saint John’s biggest celebrations, and a clear sign of how much this city is changing.

The Saint John Newcomers Centre just announced the return of International Culturefest, set for NB Day weekend (Aug. 2–3) in partnership with AREA 506. Expect street food, music, performances, and a cultural village representing more than 20 newcomer communities now calling Saint John home.

It’s colourful, it’s delicious, and it’s a growing tradition that clearly reflects a vibrant and more global Saint John every year!

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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’

TONIGHT

Drifter Brew Open Mic Night | June 26
Every Thursday from 7-9pm, Drifter Brew in Rothesay hosts an open mic night with host Corey Jellison. Sing, play, tell a story, or just kick back with a cold one and enjoy local talent. Bring your instrument, sign up on-site, and join the friendly, all-levels jam session. Great way to unwind and connect with the community.

FRIDAY

Multiculturalism Day Parade & Celebration | June 27
Saint John’s first-ever Multiculturalism Day Parade kicks off at 5:30pm from King’s Square, led by bagpipes and bursting with colour. Wear your cultural attire, bring an instrument or a flag, and join the fun as the parade winds its way to Market Square Atrium. There you’ll find live performances, food tastings, kids’ activities, and even a Saharan Desert experience. It’s free, festive, and open to everyone.

Doctor Mother Father EP Release Show | June 27
It’s an all-Saint John lineup at Haven Music Hall as Doctor Mother Father drops their new EP It All Depends on How You Wanna Hurt. Joining them on stage: Sleepover and Try It Again Pierce. Doors at 8pm, show at 9pm. It’s 19+, loud, local, and $10 in advance ($15 at the door).

SATURDAY

Community Shred Event | June 28
Got papers piling up? Kennebecasis Crime Stoppers is hosting their annual shredding event at the Atlantic Superstore lot in Rothesay starting at 10am, and they’ll keep going until the truck’s full. Swing by with your sensitive docs or old love letter and clear some clutter and heartache. It's free, secure, and open to everyone.

Superstars of Wrestling on the Boardwalk | June 28
Get ready to rumble…pro wrestling is taking over the new Boardwalk at 1 Market Square this Saturday night. Bell time is 7pm, and it’s free to watch as the Superstars of Wrestling crown their first-ever heavyweight champ. Expect high-flying moves, hometown heroes, and a licensed 19+ patio for fans of the Attitude Era and beyond. 

Saint John Rapids vs. St. Margaret's Bay Rebels | June 28
The Saint John Rapids hit the floor at Lord Beaverbrook Arena for a Saturday night showdown against the Rebels. Puck drops at 7:30pm, and home crowd energy is always welcome. Bring your noise, grab a seat, and cheer on the Rapids as they battle it out on home turf.

SUNDAY

Rockwood Park Rogaine | June 29
No, not the hair stuff…a “rogaine” is an orienteering-style treasure hunt where you chase scattered checkpoints across Rockwood Park with a map and a time limit. Choose the 90-minute easier course (mostly trails) or the 180-minute harder one (off-trail, tougher nav). Points if you find ‘em, penalties if you're late. Starts from the north lot near the old Cherry Brook Zoo.

SPCA Pet Clothing & Accessories Sale | June 29
The Saint John SPCA is breaking out the fashion racks for your four-legged friends this Sunday from 10am-2pm. Expect cozy sweaters, cooling jackets, leashes, costumes…even dog pools. Everything’s priced to move, and every dollar goes to helping animals in care. You might come for the deals but leave with a better-dressed pet and a happy heart.

Port City Emergency Vet Anniversary BBQ | June 29
Port City Emergency Vet is turning three and they’re celebrating with a free BBQ party from 12-4pm at their McAllister Drive location. Expect giveaways, face painting, dog agility demos, pet photos, and treats for furry friends. Everyone’s welcome, whether you’re a longtime client or just stopping by to say hi. Bring the fam, bring the pup, and cross your paws for good weather.

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SIDE NOTES

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Thanks!

Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with the bartender at happy hour

-Geoff Walsh - Publisher

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