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Good morning, Saint John! If this heat has you questioning your life choices, just be glad you’re not this bear in Wisconsin who spent over a week with a plastic jar stuck on its head. Three counties. Fifty miles. Zero snacks. She’s fine now…but let this be your reminder: summer’s weird, stay cool, and avoid tight-fitting Tupperware.

Here’s what we’re opening up this morning:

• Hop on the bus through KV! 🚌

• What’s the best beach around? 🏝️

• Three major festivals kick off this weekend 🎉 

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

SPONSORED
⚡ Skip the Pump, Not the Road Trips

More Saint John drivers are switching to plug-in hybrids, and Loch Lomond Mitsubishi is making it easier than ever to get behind the wheel in August! Low rates = more affordability PLUS you can get yourself the Outlander PHEV at cost all August long!

These vehicles give you the best of both worlds. You can drive electric for everyday errands and switch to gas when you need to go farther. That means fewer stops at the pump, lower monthly fuel costs, and no stress when you’re heading out of town.

Whether you’re curious about how plug-in hybrids work or already eyeing the Outlander PHEV, the team at Loch Lomond Mitsubishi will talk you through it in plain language. No pressure, no over-explaining.

Test drives are always welcome. Drop by Loch Lomond Road and see what they’ve got.

NEWS NOTES

🚍 Bus service is coming to KV

Starting Monday (August 11) KV Go hits the road…a new free daytime bus pilot rolling through Quispamsis and Rothesay on two weekday loops and a weekend route. Stops include parks, grocery stores, clinics, and more. It’s not door-to-door , but rather a traditional fixed-route, stop-to-stop trial to test whether public transit has long-term wheels in the valley.

Schedules, maps, and FAQs are at kvgo.org, and rider feedback is key. Users can fill out the survey for a shot at a $50 gift card and help shape the future of getting around without a car. Paper copies of route info are available at both town halls and the Kennebecasis Public Library

🔥 Some dry out there, bud…better FireSmart your yard

With the entire province under a burn ban, it’s a great time to rethink the ol’ backyard firepit and maybe the patch of brush that’s been “decorative” since 2019.

New Brunswick’s FireSmart NB program is full of practical, surprisingly simple tips to protect your home and neighbourhood from wildfires. We’re talking small things that make a big difference like trimming trees near your roof, clearing out dry debris, and making sure your woodpile isn’t doubling as kindling.

Start by visiting firesmartnb.ca or download the FireSmart app to do a DIY home wildfire risk assessment. Although we can’t make it rain, we can move that brush pile.

💬 Your Opinion, Please!

Looks like hot, sunny weather is sticking around all weekend, which means perfect beach conditions! We know there’s no shortage of local beaches to choose from, so we’re curious: which one gets your vote as the top spot to soak up the sun? Cast your pick below, and if we missed your secret slice of sandy paradise, let us know and why it’s so great!

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

LOCAL BUSINESS

☕️ Eb Coffee Truck opens its first brick-and-mortar

After seven summers of slinging espresso from their cheerful little truck, Eb Coffeeshop has officially put down roots. Starting today, you can grab your favourite scratch-baked treats and handcrafted drinks from their brand new shop inside Place 400 (400 Main Street). They’re open today and tomorrow from 7am to 4pm. It’s nice to know we’ve got another awesome coffee shop to enjoy!

SPONSORED
Make Your Mark! ✍️

Get your brand in front of eager eyes. Partner with us for prime advertising opportunities!

EVENTS
What’s Happenin’

WEEKEND PREVIEW

TODAY

Buskers on the Boardwalk | August 7-10
Fire breathers, jugglers, acrobats, and comedians are back on the boardwalk for one of the summer’s wildest weekends. With performances running day and night across two stages, expect surprises around every corner, from circus flames to sidewalk antics. It’s all free, all family-friendly, and all happening uptown. Full schedule is live now, plan your stroll accordingly.

Board Game Night at Heroes’ Beacon | August 7
A $5 cover gets folks into an easygoing night of dice rolling, card flipping, and maybe a little friendly sabotage. The team at Heroes’ Beacon has a growing game library to borrow from, or players can bring their own. It runs 6-9:45pm at their Charlotte Street shop and all levels of experience (and competitiveness) are welcome. 

FRIDAY

SJ Pride Week | August 8-17
Saint John’s Pride Week returns with a full slate of free and ticketed events celebrating community, creativity, and connection. Highlights include the Chromafest Pride Kickoff at Chroma NB’s new HQ, lively drag bingos, queer comedy shows, and the much-loved Pride Splash Bash at Little River Reservoir. Don’t miss the 23rd Annual Pride Parade on August 16 at 1pm, rolling from Long Wharf to Area 506’s Container Village with all the flair and rainbow pride. Get the full schedule of events here!

Fundy Sea Shanty Festival | August 8-11
Head to the village of Fundy-St. Martins for a weekend packed with music, food, and maritime heritage. The Sea Shanty Festival celebrates the songs and stories of the sailors who helped shape Atlantic history. It’s a lively mix of tradition, community, and coastal charm and a great excuse for a summer road trip.

SATURDAY

Passport to Parks at the Res | August 9
The City’s free summer series lands at Little River Reservoir this weekend with an afternoon of family fun from 1-3:30pm. This edition features rock painting as the main activity, plus music, games, and more. No registration needed, just show up and enjoy the sunshine. Rain date is August 10, but the weather looks mighty fine this weekend!

Latimore Lake Family Fun Day | August 9
The Latimore Lake Community Centre is turning 75, and they’re throwing a full-blown birthday bash. Expect bouncy castles, face painting, games, and free everything! BBQ, drinks, popcorn, cotton candy, and even a visit from local fire and police crews. It runs 12-4pm by the lake, and everyone’s invited. It’s fun, it’s free, and it’s a big milestone for this east side neighbourhood hub.

Drifter’s Market Returns | August 9
After a packed first run, Drifter Brew Co. is bringing back its community market with another afternoon of local makers, tasty bites, and fresh pours. It runs 12-4pm at their Hampton Road location in Rothesay, with live music and laid-back vibes on tap. A great chance to browse and support local and maybe grab a pint while you’re at it.

Hypochondriacs at the Container Village | August 9
AREA 506 is clearing out the cans after two big festival weekends and they’ve called in Josh Bravener & The Hypochondriacs to help. It’s a free show, with high-energy tunes and plenty of post-festival leftovers to sip through. Things kick off at 7pm at the Container Village, and yes, they’d appreciate your help with the beverages.

Old Man Luedecke at Hampton Brewing | August 9
Award-winning folk artist Old Man Luedecke brings his banjo and charm to the outdoor stage at Hampton Brewing for a cozy evening of storytelling and song. Doors open at 6:15pm, with music starting at 7pm. Bring a chair, dress for the weather, and settle in with a drink under the stars. Tickets are available through Locarius, and seating is first-come, first-served.

SUNDAY

The Spy Who Came In From The Bay | August 10
As part of the St. Martins Sea Shanty Festival, Andrew MacLean tells the incredible true tale of a WWII German spy who abandoned his mission and chose life in Canada instead. From secret documents to buried spy gear, this 11am talk reveals a story of trust, skepticism, and surprising wartime twists right in New Brunswick’s backyard. A must-hear for history buffs and curious locals alike.

Kingston Farmer’s Market | Sundays
Have you been to the Kingston Farmer’s Market this year? Sundays from 8am to 1pm are packed with local produce, crafts, and good vibes…a perfect way to spend a morning before the week kicks in. Don’t miss it while it runs through October 25.

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SIDE NOTES

Today’s Tides 🌊 

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Thanks!

Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone who needs to cool down a little. 😎

-Geoff Walsh - Publisher

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