Organizers are putting the finishing touches on the annual Uptown Sparkles event in Saint John.

Friday night’s event is described by some as one of the largest events of the year in the city’s uptown core.

Nancy Tissington, executive director of Uptown Saint John, said they are ready to put on a magical night.

“This event is all about supporting local,” Tissington said in a recent interview with our newsroom.

Uptown Sparkles includes ice sculptures, music, outdoor firepits, and other winter-friendly activities.

Tissington said it all begins at 6 p.m. outside Saint John City Hall with the mayor’s tree lighting.

“From there, we ask folks to just meander the streets of the uptown,” she said.

There will be a large fire pit outside the Saint John City Market along with wood fire pits with s’mores in King’s Square.

Live music can be heard in King’s Square and inside CenterBeam Place, while DJ D – Dennis Hunt will be outside the City Market.

Ice sculptures will be located throughout uptown, including on Prince William Street, Germain Street, King’s Square and at the City Market.

The Saint John Night Market at the City Market will include regular and pop-up vendors, along with hot chocolate and coffee.

Jolly Trolley rides will also take place in front of Service New Brunswick on King Square North from 6 to 9 p.m.

Many businesses throughout uptown will also stay open late and offer up special activities for customers.

Tissington said she expects attendance numbers will return to levels they saw before the pandemic.

“Last year, we were about half of what we normally have. Normally, we have around 55,000 to 60,000 people,” she said.

No streets will be closed for Uptown Sparkle and on-street parking will be free after 5 p.m.

You can find a full list of events and activities by clicking here.