There’s something extra magical about Christmas on the coast in New Brunswick.
Maybe it’s the salty sea air mixing with the scent of holiday baking or seafood feasts, or the way fishing wharves and seaside towns transform into something straight out of a Hallmark movie with Christmas trees made of buoys and lobster traps and twinkling lights on the ocean.
Every November and December, New Brunswick’s coastal communities and cities transform into festive wonderlands—each with its own maritime twist on the season.
From holiday markets and cozy village strolls to holiday breakfasts and light-filled parades, here are some of the Coastal Christmas events I’m most looking forward to this year across our beautiful province.
Note: This post is not sponsored in any way, and to keep it updated with all the coastal holiday magic, I’ll be updating it every chance I get —sometimes on the fly, maybe even from a car or ferry! While I’ll try my best to keep it free of typos and bad grammar, well—it’s the holidays, and we’re all just doing our best!
Oh, and please know—I would love to include every Christmas market, craft fair, shopping event but due to the large volume of these types of events, I simply cannot include every single one. Those I’ve mentioned are likely shopping events I have attended in the past and loved, or ones that I have heard raving reviews of!
Yes, I know I should start with holiday events in the Greater Moncton and Dieppe area, given that’s where we call home, but if you’ve followed me for years, you know that we look forward to our annual trip to St. Andrews by the Sea for the holidays every December.
This seaside town is something straight out of a Hallmark Christmas movie in November and December. It is absolutely worth visiting, whether as a day trip or for a holiday weekend getaway. Book a stay at the iconic Algonquin Hotel and Resort—I’m told they are going all in on a Coastal Christmas theme this year and I can’t wait.
Festival of Trees at the Algonquin Resort
🗓️ November 29th to January 2nd
Step inside the historic Algonquin Resort this holiday season and experience pure Christmas magic. The grand halls are decked with stunning, one-of-a-kind trees created by local organizations. The best part? It’s open to the public, not just hotel guests!
Sparkle by the Sea
🗓️ November 28th & 29th
Each November, St. Andrews by-the-Sea transforms into a seaside winter wonderland for Sparkle by the Sea, the must-attend holiday shopping event of the season. Local shops stay open late with festive décor, special promotions, treats, and twinkling lights all weekend long.
St. Andrews Lobster Trap Tree Lighting
🗓️ November 28th from 5:30 to 6:00 pm
The annual lighting of the St. Andrews Lobster Trap & Buoy Christmas Tree in Market Square, in support of the local food bank.
St. Andrews Firemen’s Santa Claus Parade
🗓️ December 6th from 5:30 to 6:00 pm
The annual Santa Claus Parade in St. Andrews by the Sea, along water street!
Christmas by the Sea Fest
🗓️ December 14th from 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Not to pick favourites, but this might be my favourite holiday event of the year! Stroll through the enchanting downtown of St. Andrews by-the-Sea, where twinkling lights, carolers, and gingerbread house creations fill the air with festive cheer. Sip hot chocolate or mulled cider in a keepsake mug, shop local, and cozy up by the fireplaces in Market Square—perfect for magical holiday photo ops. And don’t forget to vote in the annual Gingerbread House Competition! Catch all of the details here.
I’ll never forget the first time we traveled to our cottage on Grand Manan Island in December and I saw the Christmas tree and decorations on the Grand Manan Adventure, the islands beautiful ferry that travels year-round to the Queen of the Fundy Isles. From holiday pop-ups and markets in the island’s most beautiful shops such as Newton’s Mercantile & Café (don’t skip on their gingerbread cookies) and Cheeky Gifts! This year, they are ending their annual Santa Claus Parade with a bang—fireworks at Stanley’s Beach in North Head!
Christmas at the Mercantile
🗓️ November 6th to December 20th
My favourite island cafe, Newton’s Mercantile & Café, is being transformed into a Christmas wonderland again this holiday season until December 30th, with a special Christmas at the Mercantile event happening November 6th through to November 8th. Gayla and Tim make the MOST delicious gingerbread cookies, so make sure to leave with one or two (or more)!
Grand Manan Island Christmas Market
🗓️ November 29th | 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
Sailing to Grand Manan or on the island on Saturday, November 29th? I can’t say enough about how wonderful their Christmas Market is at the Curling Club. You’ll find beautiful locally made gifts!
Grand Manan Island Christmas Parade & Fireworks
🗓️ November 30th at 6:00 pm
The island will be welcoming Santa Claus for the annual Grand Manan Christmas parade, beginning at St. Paul’s Stone Church (Ingalls Head) and finishing at the Grand Manan Community Center. Following the parade, there will be Fireworks at Stanley’s Beach at 8:00 pm!
There’s no shortage of holiday magic in the Greater Moncton Area come Christmastime!
From the beloved Royale Santa Claus Parade and Antler Breakfast to the must-attend Lady Smith Manor Christmas Market and Christmas at the Coliseum, the city truly sparkles during the holiday season. Wander through twinkling displays at Wild Lights at the Zoo, or spend your weekends exploring countless holiday markets and craft shows bursting with local treasures and handmade gifts. Whether you’re sipping hot cocoa, meeting Santa, or shopping local at mermaid favourites such as Kept on Main, B Home, and Gifts Galore, there’s something festive for everyone in Moncton, Dieppe, and Riverview.
Lady Smith Manor Christmas Market
🗓️ November 15th and 16th
🎟️ Purchase tickets here.
A classic every year, this year’s Christmas Market theme is Alice in Wonderland and I’m so looking forward to seeing how Miriam and Stephen transform the Manor into a holiday wonderland. Make sure to stay for a drink at the Thirsty Whippet and don’t pass on the warm, toasted donuts! Trust me on this one.
Christmas on the Wharf
🗓️ Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday from November 13th to December 13th
New this year, I’m so excited to check out Christmas on the Wharf at the Wharf Village at Magnetic Hill. I hear there will be holiday shopping, photo opportunities, and festive treats! Christmas on the Wharf will be from 5-9 pm on Thursday and Friday, and 12-9 pm on Saturday. Catch the details here.
Antler Breakfast
🗓️ November 21st
🎟️ Purchase tickets here.
We look forward to this event every year! On Friday, November 21st, downtown Moncton will be a sea of red antler reindeer as the community comes out for the annual Antler Breakfast in support of the Greater Moncton Progress Club and local charities.
Royale Greater Moncton Santa Claus Parade
🗓️ November 22nd | Starts at 5:00 pm
A staple in Moncton, the annual Royale Greater Moncton Santa Claus Parade is a must if you’re in the city. This year’s theme is Festival of Lights, and I know it will be beautiful! Make sure to bring non-perishable food items for the food bank and your letters to Santa!
Holiday Pet Market
🗓️ November 22nd from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
You know I’m a sucker for ANYTHING that’s for the fur children and I was so excited when Marc and the team at B Home told us their plans for a Holiday Pet Market at the Arches of St. George. Pet owners can get an on the spot pet portrait made, have a Christmas Photo of their pet taken at the Pet Photo Booth, and find all sorts of gifts and stocking stuffers for their babies. More details here.
Turner’s Christmas at the Coliseum
🗓️ November 21st to 23rd
🎟️ Purchase tickets here.
A classic in Moncton, Turner’s Christmas at the Coliseum is a three-day holiday shopping event at the Moncton Coliseum featuring 300+ vendors. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the door.
Ukrainian Christmas Market
🗓️ November 23rd from 11:30 am to 4:00pm
One of two Ukrainian Christmas Markets happening in the city this holiday season, this event at 52 Falkland Street, Moncton promises to have something for everyone, including unique gifts and delicious food! More details here.
Holiday Hog Nog at Green Pig Country Market
🗓️ November 27th & 28th and December 4th & 5th from 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm
Snack, Sip, Shop, and Socialize! This event sounds like such a fun time, and honestly, a trip to the Green Pig Country Market any season is always worth it! I’m sure this event will be a splashing good time!
Wild Lights at Magnetic Hill Zoo
🗓️ November 28th through to January 3rd
🎟️ Purchase tickets here.
A treasured holiday event in Moncton, Wild Lights at the Magnetic Hill Zoo is perfect for all ages! The event features hundreds of thousands of lights throughout the zoo. This year, there are plenty of new photo ops for everyone.
Holiday Markets at the Arches
🗓️ Saturday, November 29th, December 6th, December 13th, and December 20th
If you’ve ever attended a market at the Arches of St. George, hosted by the incredible team at B Home, well, you know you’re in for a treat! I got the mermaid scoop that after the Holiday Pet Market on Saturday, the 22nd, they will be hosting a Holiday Market every Saturday until Christmas from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Follow along on Instagram for more on the events and vendors each week!
Aura: A Moncton Holiday Experience
🗓️ December 4th through to 18th on Thursdays
Aura was a new holiday event in Moncton last year, and I’m thrilled to hear it’s back for another holiday season! Sip holiday-themed cocktails (or take a cocktail class hosted by BRIX Experience), watch holiday movies under the stars, and shop for the perfect gift. There are plenty of photo ops, too! Catch all of the details here.
KOLIADA Fest 2025: Ukrainian Christmas Fest
🗓️ December 7th from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm
This Ukrainian Christmas event is happening at the Irishtown Community Centre where you can take part in a festive celebration of Ukrainian culture and traditions. Enjoy a variety of delicious Ukrainian food, beautiful handcrafted items, lively entertainment, and Ukrainian workshops! Event details here.
There’s something so magical about Shediac at Christmas. Every corner of town feels merry, bright, and wonderfully maritime. This seaside town transforms into a coastal holiday dream—where the salty air mixes with twinkling lights and festive cheer. The iconic lobster trap tree at the Shediac Lobster Shop glows proudly, while the world-famous Shediac Lobster dons his very own Santa hat that lights up the night. Make sure to stop for a photo op, it’s quintessential coastal Christmas vibes!
Shediac Santa Claus Parade
🗓️ November 21st at 7:00 pm
More details and aprade route to come but save the date for this year’s Santa Claus Parade in Shediac! I have heard absolutely great things about this parade, including that it’s worth the drive from Moncton to check it out!
Shediac Christmas Market
🗓️ December 6th & 7th
I love checking out this Christmas Market in Shediac each year. I’m waiting for more details, but you can check out this page for all of the holiday-themed events happening in Shediac this season!
Just a short 30-minute drive from Moncton is the magical seaside town of Bouctouche. Home to one of the most beautiful farmers’ markets in the province and the beloved Pays de la Sagouine—Bouctouche has plenty of holiday cheer to spread each November and December!
Pays de la Sagouine Souper-Spectacle de Noël
🗓️ November 14th to December 21st
🎟️ Purchase tickets here.
We had the pleasure of attending a Pays de la Sagouine Souper-Spectacle de Noël a few years ago and I still talk about it. It was such a fun evening and the cast was amazing. There are some dates available but tickets do often sell out!
Bouctouche Christmas Farmers’ Market
🗓️ December 5th & 6th from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm
Shop handmade gifts, sip something warm, and soak up small-town magic at the Bouctouche Farmers’ Market’s annual Christmas Market this December. The Bouctouche Farmers’ Market is a gem all year long, but it becomes an extra special market around the holidays! It’s worth the drive out to attend their Christmas Farmer’ Market.
The holiday season in Saint John is nothing short of enchanting. From the holiday lights along historic streets to festive events like the annual Uptown Sparkles celebration, the city comes alive with Christmas cheer. Enjoy the charm of local markets, cozy restaurants, and waterfront views wrapped in holiday magic—it’s the perfect place to soak up the spirit of the season by the Bay of Fundy.
The Rothesay Yule
🗓️ November 16th from 11:30 am to 3:00 pm
Purchase tickets here.
The Rothesay Yule, created by The Maritime Edit together with CAA Atlantic, has been on my holiday radar and wish list for the last few years. Known as the kick-off to the season, the Rothesay Yule is a major fundraising event for the Saint John Regional Hospital Foundation. The event is both indoor and outdoor and features plenty of vendors, live music, magic shows, a petting zoo, and much more. And of course, a photo op with the dreamiest Santa!
Rhoda’s Christmas Festival 2025
🗓️ November 14th to 16th
🎟️ Tickets are $8 entry ($7 for seniors) and valid all weekend
An absolute legend of a holiday event in Saint John, I’ve never been myself, but I’ve heard amazing things from friends in Saint John about this annual tradition, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year! New location this year, the Irving Oil Field House, complete with free parking!
Uptown Sparkles 2025
🗓️ December 5th
I have heard nothing but rave reviews about this annual holiday event which includes the Mayor’s Tree Lighting, the historic City Market lit up in spectacular splendour, Victorian Carollers, Jolly Trolley Rides, a holiday Craft Market, and more. This sounds like the most magical evening to head out shopping and stopping for festive bites, sips, and treats Uptown! Details here.
St. Stephen Christmas Parade
🗓️ December 6th at 6:00 pm
The St. Stephen Christmas Parade begins at the Ganong Factory and continues to Ferry Point Bridge.
Kickoff to Christmas & Walk of Lights St. Stephen
🗓️ November 21st
Multiple shopping events and holiday markets will be taking place in St. Stephen on November 21st, including the launch of the Walk of Lights along the waterfront!
Christmas at Cobbler’s Lane in Sussex
🗓️ November 22nd & 23rd from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
We heard about this event straight from the team at Cobbler’s Lane themselves when we met them and bought ALL the fudge at the Rothesay Yule. This two day event sounds amazing. Catch all of the details here.
Christmas in the Village in St. Martins
🗓️ November 29th & 30th
This is the first time I’ve heard of Christmas in the Village, but knowing how dreamy and magical St. Martins can be in the summer, I can only imagine how perfect it is when transformed into a holiday wonderland. According to Tourism NB, this event features vendors, a farmers’ market, live music, story times, visits with the “authentic Santa at the Caves Restaurant”, and more!
Olde Tyme Christmas in Sussex
🗓️ December 5th from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
I just heard about this event in downtown Sussex thanks to the team at Stoke Resorts, and while I haven’t been able to find many details, the Facebook event mentions free horse-and-carriage rides, refreshments, Santa, and MORE! Catch the event details here.
Sussex Santa Claus Parade
🗓️ December 6th at 6:30 pm
Sussex’s annual Santa Claus Parade begins on Perry Street and ends at Walmart. This year’s theme is Holly Jolly!
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Reminder: This post is a work in progress and will continue to be updated into the holidays as I hear about magical holiday events you should know about! Bookmark this post and check back often!
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