Good morning Saint John, Can you believe it’s already December 17? I still haven’t watched Home Alone, had any eggnog, or made a single one of my family’s traditional treats. Don’t even get me started on shopping. I must be the only one this far behind….right? 😅

Here’s what we’re adding to the list this morning:

Let’s get it checked off and on with the day!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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🏗️ Big money, bigger buildings

Saint John is rolling out the welcome mat for big residential projects uptown and around the inner harbour. The city’s new Large-Scale Development Incentive Program is designed to spark high-density growth while making sure new buildings actually benefit the community.

To qualify, projects must cost at least $40 million, include 150+ units, and meet serious density requirements. Grants are paid out over 10 years once construction is complete, with extra support for affordable units, three-bedroom apartments, ground-floor retail, parks, transit upgrades, or tricky sites. Applications are reviewed by the Development Incentive Review Committee and approved by council.

❄️ Winter fines might double soon

Saint John is looking at doubling fines for snowclearing nights and applying the same higher penalties year-round for no parking and wrong-side-of-the-street tickets. You can read the staff recommendation here and council gives its final reading in early January.

Basically, a $30 snow ban ticket would jump to $60, a $40 late fee becomes $80, and if it goes to court it could hit $125. Streets get cleared, sidewalks stay safe, and your wallet can avoid a real chill if you park smart.

🚨 Festive RIDE is out in force

Saint John police and partners have been hitting the streets with their Festive RIDE campaign and the numbers are already piling up. Since December 1, they’ve checked over 1,300 vehicles, done 174 screenings, suspended a few drivers, and even towed seven cars.

The takeaway is simple. If you’re hitting the holiday parties, plan your ride home. Designate a sober driver or grab a cab. Police will keep patrolling Saint John and the Kennebecasis Valley all month making sure everyone gets home safely.

⛸️ Rink’s open and ready to glide

Quispamsis is officially in skating season mode! The Arts and Culture Park outdoor rink opened last night, just in time for some after-school laps or a sunset spin.

The ice will be open daily from 10am-10pm., weather permitting. Keep an eye on onsite signs or the park’s social media for any unexpected closures, or spy the action live via the Arts and Culture Park webcam.

A couple of friendly reminders: hockey sticks, pucks, and nets are off-limits, but washrooms and changerooms are available. Time to lace up and hit the ice!

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Here’s what’s shaping up around Saint John as we head toward the end of the year. Tons of dinner reservations are already spoken for, but there are still solid options whether you’re heading out early, staying close to home, or planning a late night.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks | Long Wharf
The City of Saint John is planning a fireworks display from Long Wharf at 8pm, weather permitting...and let’s be honest, we’ve got about a 50/50 shot. If conditions don’t cooperate, the backup date is January 1 at 8pm. And no guessing, the city is planning updates at noon and again at 6pm on the day of the show.

 👨‍👩‍👧 Family & Earlier Events

Free Public Skates | City Arenas
Several free skates are scheduled throughout the day. River Valley Community Centre hosts skates from 8–9am and 11:45am–1pm (senior skate), then get to  the qplex for complimentary hot chocolate from 10-11:30, while Stewart Hurley Arena and Peter Murray Arena offer a 2:30–4pm skate.

Sea Dogs vs. Newfoundland Regiment | TD Station
A 2pm puck drop makes this an easy, family-friendly way to mark the day without committing to a late night. A solid option for anyone keeping things simple and hoping to check out the fireworks on the way home!

Beer Bread Prime Rib Dinner | Beer Bread
Beer Bread is offering a three-course prime rib dinner for $60, along with an online NYE special that includes Detroit-style pizzas, vodka linguine, a bottle of prosecco, and dessert. Still might have a chance at reservations!

Saint John Ale House | Market Square
A reliable option for anyone skipping a fixed menu but still wanting to be out. Expect the usual Ale House energy, full bar service, and doors staying open until 3am.

NYE Trifecta Tour | Trade & Convention Centre
Jimmy Swift Band, Grand Theft Bus, and Slowcoaster share the stage for a full-scale concert night, with a DJ kicking things off at 7pm. Tickets are $85 plus fees.

Glow Years Eve | The Five & Dime
A late-night option running from 9pm to 2am with DJ J-Demi, drag performances, and a packed dance floor. No cover all night and 19+ entry.

Big Rockin’ New Year’s Eve | Wasted Day Brewing
Groovy Tuesday and friends take over Wasted Day with four live acts across genres, starting at 7pm and running through the countdown. Tickets range from $29.99 to $35.

Partyline New Year’s Eve | Kennebecasis Legion, Rothesay
A community party with doors opening at 8pm and the band playing from 9pm to 12:30am. Tickets are $25 and capacity is limited.

Ultimate New Year Party | Callie’s Pub
A late-start party beginning at 10pm, featuring Bollywood and high-energy dance music. Tickets start at $20 and include Indian appetizers.

Got an Event to Share?

There’s a fair bit happening around Saint John this New Year’s, but how are you spending it? Take the poll and tell us your favourite NYE traditions…and your go-to takeout spots!

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Watch this space each Wednesday for a random snap from somewhere in the Saint John region. Can you name the spot? Only true locals will know. We snapped this photo during one of the many festive celebrations over the past couple of weeks. Hit reply with your best guess and we will reveal the location and any correct answers in Friday’s issue.

Tag @sjtoday.ca on Facebook to get your photos featured!

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Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone who’s just sitting around enjoying their tree these days 🎄.

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher