Good morning Saint John, this is SJ Today and just Rudolph, we’re lighting up the lastest local news before the holidays.

Here’s whats up this morning:

• Foodie Friday - two new spots to try this weekend 😋

• Wreathin’ it up in the Public Gardens today 🎀

• Can the fat man skate? ⛸️

Let’s find out!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

FOODIE FRIDAY
Uptown’s New Deli Stop 🥪

Germain Street just got a new lunch option with the arrival of Nick’s Deli, a spot serving up sandwiches, soups, and baked goods.

Owner Nickolas Mullen, a Grand Bay-Westfield native, brings restaurant experience and a love of homemade food to his new venture. “I wanted a place where I could share my passion for good, flavourful meals with my community,” he says.

The menu includes deli classics like the Italian sandwich, Cajun Chicken Salad, and Philly Cheese Steak, alongside hearty soups. Nick’s goal? A friendly spot where everyone feels welcome.

If you’re in the mood for something new, Nick’s Deli is worth checking out. Whether for a quick lunch or a grab-and-go dinner, it just might hit the spot.

Freshly Baked Excitement—A Slice of Fundy Opens Tomorrow! 🥧

There’s a brand-new bakery rising out East, and it’s bringing the goods! Desiree Sullivan is ready to cut the ribbon on A Slice of Fundy, her East Saint John bakery, opening tomorrow. Specializing in cheesecakes and baked sweets “anchored in flavour,” Desiree’s creations are a mix of family recipes and her own sweet spin.

Having moved to the neighbourhood 3 years ago and fallen in love with the East Saint John community, she’s now returning the love with every bite.

Don’t miss the grand opening—stop by 15B Fulton Lane, grab a treat, and toast to a new local favourite. This bakery is shaping up to be the icing on East Saint John’s cake!

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NEWS NOTES

Holiday Cheer in the in Public Gardens Today 🎅

A giant Santa, steaming mugs of free hot chocolate, and festive tunes—all set in the Saint John Public Gardens? Can it get any more Christmassy than that?!

Thanks to the Saint John Horticultural Association, you can soak up the holiday magic today from 3-4pm. Snap a photo with big Santa, sip cocoa from a keepsake holiday mug, and grab a beautiful wreath to take home (while supplies last—so hustle!).

There’s no parking in the Gardens, but a short stroll from Rocky Terrace and Mt. Pleasant Ave will get you there. Bundle up, bring your Christmas cheer, and soak up the festive vibes in one of the city’s low-key holiday destinations. 

Holiday Safety Tips from Saint John Fire Department 🧯

It’s the holidays, so of course we’re going to deck the halls with a bunch of flammable stuff. From the tree, to the garland and even those ugly sweaters. Luckily, SJFD has some helpful tips to keep our homes safe this season! 

🎄 The Tree: Choose a fresh tree, like a really fresh one. Not the sad, crispy one in the corner. Cut 2” off the trunk and water it every day. Yes, the tree gets thirsty. Also, keep it away from heat sources—your fireplace doesn’t need more competition for attention.

💡 The Lights: Only use lights that are CSA-approved (because nobody wants a surprise spark while sipping eggnog). If they’re missing bulbs or have frayed wires, toss them. Also, turn them off before you leave—your lights don’t need to stay on just to prove they’re brighter than Tom’s next door. 

🎉 Holiday Hosting: Check those smoke alarms (seriously, do it). Keep candles away from decorations. And when you’re cooking, just stay in the kitchen—don’t try to multitask in other rooms. (Lookin’ at you aunt Karen). 

Want more tips? Check out the full list here. Stay safe, keep it merry, and let’s keep the fireworks for NYE.

🏆 Top Clicks of the Week

Monday: FRSC On-Demand Waste Collection Schedule 
Tuesday: Salvation Army Desperate Need for Toy Donations
Wednesday: Fusion SJ & Uncorked Tours Holiday Cocktail Hour(tonight)
Thursday: Current Provincial Agencies, Boards & Commissions (ABCs) Openings
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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’

TONIGHT

Fusion Holiday Cocktail Hour at Uncorked Tours | December 20
Enjoy a festive evening at the Saint John City Market with Fusion Saint John’s Holiday Cocktail Hour from 4–6 PM at Uncorked Tours. Tickets are $25 and include a custom cocktail glass, one complimentary drink, and a portion of proceeds benefiting the Harbour Lights campaign. Celebrate the season while supporting a great cause!

Mike Lynch at Punch Lines Comedy Club | December 20 + 21
Get ready to laugh until your sides hurt! Newfoundland’s Mike Lynch is bringing his signature mix of sketch comedy and stand-up to Saint John. Known for viral characters like Cecil O’Brien and Randy Lee, plus tracks on Just for Laughs Originals, this comedy dynamo packs theaters across Canada. Doors open at 6:30pm., so grab a seat early. 

SATURDAY

Winter Solstice Mini Retreat | December 21
Ready to light up your inner fire? Oh My Soul and Journey invites you to mark the return of the sun with a cozy, reflective retreat. Settle in for meditation, card pulling, journaling, tea, and candlelit intention-setting in the charming old fire station on Church Ave. Spots are limited, so grab yours for $20 and prepare to welcome the new solar cycle with peace and purpose.

Grand Theft Bus Live Album Release | December 21
Catch Grand Theft Bus at Haven Music Hall for a special holiday show celebrating their new live album, recorded at AREA 506. This LP supports the Friars Family “Celebrate” Fund, fighting generational poverty in Saint John, with 100% of proceeds going to the cause. Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8pm (19+).

SUNDAY

Saint John Writers Meetup | December 22
Got a story to tell? Join the Saint John Writers at Second Cup for a laid-back, pressure-free writing session! Whether you’re a seasoned author or just scribbling your first sentence, this is the place to connect with fellow wordsmiths. No assignments, no deadlines—just a chance to write, share, and be inspired. Swing by anytime between 10am and noon and tap into the local writing community.

Skate with Mr. & Mrs. Claus | December 22
Join the Lacrosse NB U17 Female Team for a jolly good time at Charles Gorman Arena! Meet the 2025 Canada Games prospects and snap a photo with Mr. & Mrs. Claus in the festive photo booth. Treats, laughs, and holiday cheer await—just don’t forget your helmet!. Kids must have an adult in tow, so bring the whole crew and make some holiday mems.

Got an Event to Share?

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YOUR PICS
Where Were We Wednesday? 📸

On Wednesday we snapped a pic Uptown - a portion of the mural in the parking lot at Canterbury & Princess. Shouts out to Al Babineau & Anne Laurie for correctly guessing over on our facebook page! Check in next week to see if you know where are.

Tag @sjtoday to get your photos featured!

SIDE NOTES

Today’s Tides 🌊 

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Thanks!

Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone you plan to celebrate with this weekend! 🎊

-Geoff Walsh - Publisher

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