By Lisa Kennedy, Director of External Relations, City of Saint John
Every December, Uptown Saint John comes alive with lights, music, and the unmistakable sense that the holidays have truly arrived. This year’s celebrations promise to be some of the most memorable yet, with two festive evenings back-to-back: Market Mingle on Thursday, December 4 and Uptown Sparkles on Friday, December 5.
On Thursday evening, the Saint John City Market will host Market Mingle from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Visitors can look forward to complimentary festive finger foods, hot chocolate, cookies, and s’mores at the Market’s outdoor fire pit. Santa will be onsite for photos, live music will carry through the aisles, and children will have plenty to enjoy with balloon animals, face painting, and crafts. Market vendors will be open throughout the evening, offering unique local gifts and seasonal treats. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet new friends, share holiday traditions, and kick off the season together in one of our city’s most iconic spaces.
Then, on Friday, Uptown Sparkles begins at 5:00 p.m. with activities organized by Uptown Saint John and event sponsors. Live music, cozy firepits, marshmallow roasting in King’s Square powered by Saint John Energy, and festive surprises throughout the district will help set the tone for the evening. At 6:00 p.m., everyone is invited to City Hall for the Mayor’s Tree Lighting, the official kick-off to a night designed to showcase the best of our vibrant Uptown. Following the tree lighting, guests can explore special offerings from Uptown businesses and enjoy the atmosphere.
I also encourage everyone to take part in a new tradition at this year’s Sparkles: the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Ornament Exchange. The Mayor will be placing the first ornaments on the tree and inviting everyone to take part. Bring an ornament that represents your family, your heritage, your business, or your creativity, and exchange it for one already on the tree. The goal is simple: give an ornament, take an ornament, share your story, and help celebrate the diversity and connection that define our community. The hope is that by the end of the night, every ornament has found a new home!
Together, Market Mingle on December 4 and Uptown Sparkles on December 5 reflect the spirit of Saint John: genuine, diverse, warm, and welcoming. These evenings offer opportunities to connect with neighbours, enjoy holiday traditions, and celebrate our growing and colourful community.
We hope to see you at both events as we gather for Market Mingle, light the Mayor’s tree, exchange ornaments, and sparkle Uptown.
