Good morning Saint John! Can you imagine a raccoon snuggling up with you on the couch? Researchers say trash pandas are shrinking their snouts and getting so comfortable around humans that one day, they could practically be pets 🦝.

Here’s what we’re riffling through this morning:

Happy Monday!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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⛽ Gas prices set to drop this week

Saint John drivers might see a small boost for their wallets on Thursday. The Holt government is tweaking how the Energy and Utilities Board sets pump prices, using E10 gasoline, a cheaper ethanol blend, instead of regular gas. Officials say it could shave five to seven cents a litre. Opposition calls it déjà vu, while the Green Party is pleasantly surprised. Not a windfall, but maybe enough to grab a cupcake on the way to work.

🎸Rescheduled Matt Andersen performance

Matt Andersen battled a cold last week, forcing the postponement of his Singing for Supper concert. He’s back on Tuesday at Brunswick Square, 12–1:30 p.m., performing festive favourites and originals for the Harbour Lights campaign, supporting local food banks. Admission is free, volunteers will be collecting food and cash, and a portion of Andersen merch sales will go to the cause.

✏️ Province plan to keep teachers and school health pros

New Brunswick is rolling out a new retention and recruitment strategy aimed at keeping teachers, social workers, speech pathologists, and school psychologists from fleeing faster than a pop quiz. The plan focuses on three goals: retain the folks already in the system, attract new talent, and build a steady pipeline for the future. Officials promise empowerment, recognition, and support. Metrics will track progress, so we’ll soon find out if the plan actually sticks.

⚖️ Saint John Common Council | December 15 2025, 6pm

See the full agenda.

The meeting begins at 6pm in City Hall’s Council Chamber. The public is welcome to attend in person, watch online, or view on Rogers TV.

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Here are a few things to look forward to this week. Don’t forget to send us your events any time!

MONDAY

Saint John Youth Orchestra Holiday Concert | December 15
The Saint John Youth Orchestra takes the stage at Centre scolaire Samuel-de-Champlain at 7:30pm for an evening of live orchestral music. The program includes Rossini’s Barber of Seville Overture, Bruch’s Violin Concerto No. 1 featuring competition winner Skylar Brigley-Byers, selections from Star Wars, and a few holiday favourites to close things out. Admission is free, with donations accepted at the door.

TUESDAY

TIFF All We Imagine as Light | December 16
TIFF brings All We Imagine as Light to the Imperial Theatre at 7pm, a quietly powerful film from director Payal Kapadia. The story follows two nurses in Mumbai navigating friendship, love, and big life shifts, before a trip to the coast changes their perspective. Dreamy, intimate, and beautifully shot, it’s a thoughtful pick for anyone in the mood for something reflective. Tickets are $12.50.

WEDNESDAY

Long Bay Cryo Fresh Hop Launch | December 17
Britt’s Uptown hosts a one-night launch of Long Bay Brewing’s new Cryo Fresh Hop Beer, plus a full tap takeover to keep the drinks flowing. They’ve got prizes, giveaways, and eight Long Bay taps for just $6 during the event (and after while supplies last). A night for beer fans or anyone looking for local brews, and a fun uptown hangout.

THURSDAY

Gingerbread and the Missing Gifts | December 18
ArtLab DCI presents a festive, family-friendly theatre production created by the Art Lab Kids Town team. Gingerbread Cookie and the Missing Gifts blends music, songs, familiar characters, and a visit from Saint Nicholas, all performed in Ukrainian. Designed for both kids and adults, the show leans into holiday warmth and creativity. Admission is $10 per person, with limited space available.

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.

SATURDAY

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.

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📸 Angelina Guseva | 📍 Harbour Bridge

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Today’s Tides 🌊

Myth, Reflection, and Fiber Art

When life reshapes itself in midlife, we’re invited to listen for deeper wisdom. Through story, mythic reflection, and hands-on creativity, this session explores the Crone as guide and truth- teller. We’ll weave insights from the Vasilisa/Baba Yaga story and craft a needle-felted doll that grounds personal meaning in times of change. Friday, Dec 19th, 6:00–9:00 pm, Saint John (location after registration). $75 + tax, supplies included. Register here. *

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Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone who has to keep a strap on the garbage bins 🐾.

-Geoff Walsh - Publisher