👀 Patios, Pickleball, and Parade Plans

Good morning Saint John, this is SJ Today - the newsletter that’s kinda like your nosey neighbour, but in that fill you in on the town gossip kinda way…👀

Here’s what we’re hearing today:

• Still waiting on boardwalk patios 🪑

• Quispam pickleball courts have closed 🎾

• The best place to watch KV Santa parade 🍻

Let’s talk about it!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

SPONSORED
Stand Out in the Crowd! 🌟

Reach local families and make an impression. Grab your spot in our newsletter today!

NEWS NOTES

Boardwalk Patios Stuck in Limbo 🍺

It’s been six months since the new all-season patios at Market Square were unveiled, and despite a promising start in June, restaurant owners are still waiting for full approval. After a brief closure by the provincial fire marshal, the patios have been open, but key features—including heaters and approved furniture—are still out of reach.

For Jesse Vergen and the Saint John Ale House, it’s been a test of patience. “The finish line keeps moving,” he says. “As we approach the holiday season, we’re stuck in limbo, and it’s frustrating for both us and our customers.”

The heaters that were meant to make the patios usable year-round are still waiting for final installation, with work expected to finish by the New Year. But with no clear timeline for full approval, restaurants are left wondering when they’ll finally be able to put those fancy new patios—and their events—into action. (CTV)

A Volunteer Gig That Really Makes Waves 🌍

The Saint John Seafarers' Mission needs you! Located at 92 Tilley Lane, this hidden gem offers a homey escape for cargo ship crew members who spend months at sea, far from family and friends. Volunteers keep it running by offering warm welcomes, baking treats, or helping with holiday gift boxes for visiting sailors.

Sign up—you could be the reason someone enjoys a hot coffee, a cozy winter coat, or even a game of ping-pong after a grueling voyage. Plus, you’ll meet people from around the globe—no passport required!

Ready to jump aboard? Visit sjseafarers.com/volunteer to apply and learn more. 

Bike Park Hype Video 🚴‍♀️

The Town of Quispamsis has dropped an exciting new video showcasing the Millennium Cycle Bike Park, bound to get cyclists of all ages and abilities excited. This 90-second clip is packed with high-energy music and footage that highlights the park’s 20 trails and 7 km of natural terrain. Produced by Camp Bay Media, it’s the perfect preview for anyone looking to take on everything from beginner-friendly rides to more advanced challenges.

Open year-round, the Millennium Cycle Bike Park, located across from Meenan’s Cove Park, is the ideal place to get your wheels moving. Whether you're cycling solo or gearing up for a competition, this park has something for everyone. Check out the video and start planning your next ride! 

Quispamsis Courts Are Officially Closed for the Season

That’s a wrap, folks! The pickleball and tennis nets at the Town of Quispamsis courts have been packed up for the winter. After an epic year of serves and volleys, they’re taking a well-earned rest until 2025. But don’t hang up your racket just yet! If you’re itching to keep your game sharp, head to indoor spots like the YMCA, UNBSJ, or the Carlton Community Centre. You can also join the local pickleball connections Facebook group to stay in the loop. Get your swing on while you wait for the courts to reopen—just don’t blame us if you miss the fresh air! 🎾

Clock’s Ticking on Your Shot at Rock Stardom! 🤘

Area 506 is looking for New Brunswick's finest talent to join their 2025 festival lineup. If you're in a band or know someone who’s ready to rock, now’s the time to send your press kit, demo, or links—anything that shows off your sound—before the November 30 deadline. Don’t miss out on the chance to get your name in lights next summer!

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

SPONSORED
Your Voice Matters! 📢

Share your story with our readers and let them know what makes you unique. Advertise with us for morning visibility!

EVENTS
What’s Happenin’

TONIGHT

Thursday Nights at the City Market | Tonight 'til 9pm
Tonight, the Saint John City Market is the place to be! Enjoy live music, the best food, local drinks and a chance to cross off a few names on your holiday shopping list. With vendors staying open until 9pm, there’s plenty of time to grab a bite, sip a cold one, and explore the market. Don’t miss out on this perfect mid-week pick-me-up!

Grinch-Inspired Paint n’ Sip | November 28
Get ready for a Grinchy good time! Join us at LebanOn The Go for a whimsical holiday tree painting party, perfect for adding some Who-ville wonder to your home decor. For just $55, enjoy all the art supplies, expert guidance, and a complimentary glass of wine (because painting is better with a drink in hand!). Space is limited, so gather your crew, grab your easel, and get creative.

FRIDAY

Christmas on The Common Indoor Market | November 29 - December 15
Starting this weekend you can get into the holiday spirit at the Christmas on The Common Indoor Market at One Gondola Point Road, Rothesay! Browse handcrafted gifts from local artisans, sip on hot chocolate, and soak in all the festive vibes with plenty of Christmas decor. Entry is FREE! The market runs on Fridays from 4–8 pm, Saturdays from 10 am–4 pm, and Sundays from 12–4 pm. 

Afro Groove | November 29
Get ready to move at Crave Lounge this Friday with Afro Groove! Dance the night away to the hottest Afrobeat, Amapiano, and Dancehall tracks spun by DJ GodsPEED and DJ Rossy. Doors open at 10 PM—bring your best moves and groove to the beats! Cover is just $5, and it’s all happening at 32 Grannan Lane. 

SATURDAY

Get Foggin’ Festive at Foghorn Brewing | November 30
Our pick for the best place to enjoy the KV parade? Get into the holiday spirit at Foghorn Brewing on Saturday, Nov 30th with Four Songs on a Streetcorner performing live from 4-6 pm! Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies for the little ones, and cold beer for the big kids (19+). Warm up before (or during) the KV Santa Claus Parade.

Something French, Emery's Dream, & Carbon Crush | November 30
Saint John’s Something French are taking the stage at Haven Music Hall at this all-ages show featuring Emery’s Dream, and Carbon Crush! Doors open at 7 PM, show starts at 8 PM—don't be late. $10 in advance, $15 at the door. Come for the music, stay for the vibes!

Got an Event to Share?

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

YOUR PICS
@SJTODAY

📸 Kelti Darrah | 📍 Shoreline Trail

Tag @sjtoday to get your photos featured!

SIDE NOTES

Today’s Tides 🌊 

Get Noticed in SJ Today!
Got something to share? Our baseline ads are made for moments just like this. With your message nestled in among the latest Saint John updates, it’s a quick and easy way to get seen by local readers. Let’s help you make an impression!*

^{_{*indicates sponsored content}}

Thanks!

Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found anything useful, share it with someone that never seems to know what’s going on. 🤷‍♂️

-Geoff Walsh - Publisher

Did I Miss Something?