💤 Waking Up from Dreamland

Good morning Saint John, this is SJ Today - and of course we’d rather be in the tub for National Bubble Bath Day, but we’re soakin’ up the local info for you instead. 🫧

Here’s what we’ve unplugged today:

• The port will soon have a new connection with Northern Europe 🌍

• So many rinks, so little time ⛸️

• Let’s make Saturday a beach day 🥌

Let’s get it!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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NEWS NOTES

🚢 Saint John’s Port Takes Center Stage

Come February, Saint John is stepping up as a key player in global trade. Thanks to a new partnership between DP World and the Gemini Cooperation (Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd, the shipping industry’s dynamic duo), our port will connect directly to Northern Europe.

With our two brand-new cranes flexing their muscles and a focus on reliable schedules, the Port City is ready to shine. While Vancouver and Prince Rupert handle the Asia-Pacific rush, we’re locking in trade with Europe—proving once again our little city’s port can play with the big leagues.

🎭 Go Behind the Scenes at the Imperial Theatre

Ever wondered what’s behind the curtain of the Imperial Theatre? Well, here’s your chance to find out! The Saint John Newcomers Centre is kicking off the year with guided tours of our own iconic National Historic Site.

This Saturday you can take a step back in time and explore the theatre’s fascinating history, from its vaudeville roots to its transformation into a modern performance space. You’ll also get a sneak peek at upcoming shows featuring diverse artists. 

The tours will run throughout the afternoon with multiple times to choose from, so there’s no excuse to miss out. Register now, grab your spot, and enjoy a unique local experience!

🚔 Saint John Police Wrap Up 2024 RIDE Campaign

The Saint John Police Force has wrapped up the 2024 RIDE Campaign, marking another successful year in their efforts to reduce impaired driving. Officers conducted 708 breath tests, resulting in 8 impaired driving arrests and 16 seven-day suspensions.

A total of 6,250 vehicles passed through checkpoints, with 14 vehicles impounded. While the RIDE Campaign is over, the Saint John Police will continue conducting random checkpoints throughout 2025 to keep the roads safe.

The police also thank the public for their continued support in making the community safer.

✨  Dreamland’s Lights Dim Until Next Year

It’s official: the Holiday Dreamland at Quispamsis Arts and Culture Park is packing up its 50,000+ twinkling lights, gingerbread house, and Santa’s sleigh. Crews are dismantling the display this week, and let’s be honest—we’re not emotionally ready.

January is already taking everything from us—days off from work, cookies, Christmas movies on repeat—and now, the lights? Can’t we at least cling to a little sparkle while we trudge through the boring first month of the year? Give us this one thing, January!

But before we get too misty-eyed, don’t forget the skating rink is still open daily from 10am-10pm, weather permitting. It’s not exactly the same as frolicking through Dreamland, but at least you can still make winter memories—and try and skate away from the January blues.

Enjoy The Cold While We Have It

Speaking of outdoor rinks, we now have them in every part of our region. So, why not take advantage of this little cold snap and get out and enjoy them?

🏒 Grand Bay’s Rink is Ready to Glide!
Good news for skaters in Grand Bay-Westfield!—their outdoor rink is officially open for business! The local fire department braved the cold to give the rink a fresh flood earlier this week. The ice? Smooth as can be.

Located at the end of Campbell and Brittain Roads, this is your go-to spot to lace up, practice your twirls, or just shuffle around like a pro in the making. Everyone’s welcome, so grab your skates and head over for some frosty fun.

❄️ Saint John’s Newest Chill Spot
If you haven’t taken a glide around the region’s newest outdoor rink, Uptown at Ihtohli-maqahamok - The Gathering Space, be sure to get out while it’s still cold! Open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. You can enjoy the city views, listen to tunes from the new stage and best of all, head to the new heated indoor patios at Market Square for something tasty afterwards! 

⛸️ Classic Rothesay Common 
In Rothesay, you can check if the ice is open by checking the webcam. Open
9am-10pm most days when the weather is working in our favour. But be sure to check the schedule here for any special events or pond hockey sessions.

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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’

TONIGHT

Trivia Nights at Drifter Brew Co. | January 8, 22
Get your brain in gear at Drifter Brew Co. every Wednesday at 7 PM! Enjoy a fun-filled trivia night with great prizes, tasty wings at half price (with the purchase of a pint), and excellent company. Test your knowledge and compete for the win! Book a table for up to 6 players by calling 506.216.2611.

THURSDAY

James Mullinger Improv Spectacular | January 8, 9 & 10
James is going off the cuff at the Saint John Theatre Company for a few nights this week! You choose the topics, and James delivers the laughs—completely improvised and totally unrehearsed. No two shows will be the same, so why not catch all three? With guest comedians and fresh jokes every night, it’s sure to be a wild ride. Tickets are $35 ($30 for Main Stage Subscribers). 14+ recommended. Get ready for a show like no other!

FRIDAY

Marcel & Christine at O'Leary's Pub | January 10
Get ready to kick off the annual winter series at O'Leary's Pub! Join Marcel & Christine for a fun-filled night of live entertainment and good vibes. Bring your friends, come early, and enjoy a cozy evening with great music and drinks. Don’t miss out on the perfect way to shake off the January chill! 7-10pm, O'Leary's Pub.

SATURDAY

Mindful Beginnings Workshop | January 11
Start your year with purpose and self-compassion at the Mindful Beginnings workshop. Explore where you are and where you want to go through gentle reflection and mindful goal setting. Join us for a nurturing space to align your goals with your values and create a fulfilling, balanced year. 6-8pm at Wasted Day Brew. Free for those with the Mindful Planner, $10 for workshop-only, or $35 with planner included.

Beach Day Bonspiel in January | January 11
Who says beach days are just for summer? Carleton Curling Club is hosting a beach party on ice! Sign up for a day of fun with 12 teams competing in three 6-end games, plus snacks, prizes, and dinner. It’s the perfect way to leave winter behind and warm up on the ice. 10am-8pm, $200 per team (4 players). Email [email protected] to register.

January Actor Workout | January 11
Ready to stretch your acting muscles? Join the fun at Fort Heart Productions for a dynamic Saturday Actor Workout focusing on Improvisation & Impulse Skills! Whether you're a seasoned actor or a newcomer, this monthly workshop is a great way to sharpen your skills, meet fellow creatives, and play exciting acting games. Open to all 18+, pre-register now to secure your spot! Pay What You Can, with a suggested $20 contribution. 6-8pm, 72 Charlotte St.

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SIDE NOTES

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Thanks!

Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone could use a refreshing splash of Saint John stories! 🛀

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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