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12 Reasons Why Fredericton Feels Like a Hallmark Holiday Movie

12 Reasons Why Fredericton Feels Like a Hallmark Holiday Movie

With twinkling lights, historic streets, and that unmistakable small-town magic, Fredericton, New Brunswick feels straight out of a Hallmark Christmas movie. Here, the holidays are warm and nostalgic — where historic inns glow with candlelight, downtown shops are dressed for the season, and time seems to slow in the best possible way. From a B&B that inspired a real Hallmark film, to sleigh rides, concerts, and cozy cafés, the city and surrounding region create a storybook holiday escape. If you’re dreaming of a festive getaway filled with simple joys, here are 12 magical reasons Fredericton delivers the wonder of Christmas.

new brunswickMaritimes MavenNovember 16, 2025Art Galley of Nova ScotiaFredericton, Quartermain House B & B, Quartermain B & B, Quartermain Bed and Breakfast, Quartermain House, Stay a Night & Dinner's on Us package, Stay a Night and Dinner's On Us, downtown fredericton, festive markets, downtown shopping, Downtown Dollars, Downtown Dollar Blowout Sale, Downtown Spectacular, Christmas in the Village, Gagetown, I.O.D.E. Evergreen Tour, Evergreen Tour, Serendipity Shoppe, Christmas Dinner at Kings Landing, Kings Landing, Kings Head Inn, Kings Landing's Christmas Village Aglow, Christmas Village Aglow, Twinkle Tours, Tony LePage, Fredericton City Hall, City Hall Tree Lighting, Riverfront Trail, Fredericton Riverfront Trail, Pine Grove Festival of Lights, Sitansisk, St. Mary's First Nation, The Playhouse, Fredericton's Playhouse, festive performances, festive event, Fredericton Capital Region, Nutcracker Tea, The Nutcracker at The Playhouse, Nutcracker Magic, Santa Claus Parade, Sleigh Ride, Sandwith's Sleigh Rides, fat bike, fat bike rentals, Heaven Inn Devon, 2025 NB Spirits Festival, Festive Forks, Festive Forks Holiday Lunch Initiative, Festive Forks Holiday Lunch, Christmas market, christmas event, Downtown Fredericton, festive Comments

Vintage in the Village - Wine Tasting Walk

Vintage in the Village - Wine Tasting Walk

Vintage in the Village in Gagetown, New Brunswick is a charming wine-tasting walk through historic homes and heritage sites, all in support of local history. With handcrafted pottery goblets, warm hospitality, and delicious pairings at every stop, it’s a fun-filled day brimming with flavour, connection, and community spirit. Tickets sell out fast, and once you experience it, you’ll understand why.

new brunswickMaritimes MavenJuly 9, 2025Art Galley of Nova ScotiaGagetown, Greig Pottery, fall event, autumn event, Vintage in the Village, wine festival, wine tasting, autumn festival, fall festival, village festival, village, Arcadia Comments

Deer Island, New Brunswick: A Bay of Fundy Escape Worth Exploring

Deer Island, New Brunswick: A Bay of Fundy Escape Worth Exploring

A short ferry ride from mainland New Brunswick leads to Deer Island, a Bay of Fundy island where whales roam offshore, deer wander the roads, and every turn brings another coastal discovery. From Old Sow and sea kayaking to beaches, seafood, art galleries, and friendly locals, this guide shares the best things to see, do, eat, and experience on Deer Island.

new brunswickMaritimes MavenJuly 8, 2025Art Galley of Nova Scotiakayaking, biking, hiking, Deer Island, lighthouse, 45th Parallel Restaurant, Bay of Fundy, whale watching, Old Sow tidal whirlpool, Campobello Island, tourism destination, Coastal Transport Ferry, bay of fundy, whale watching tour, sea kayaking, Full Tide Ocean Safaris, Seascape Kayak Tours, Old Sow, Deer Point Lighthouse, deer, white-tailed deer, Deer Island Point Park, Leonardville Lighthouse, Cummings Cove, Chocolate Cove, Lamberts Cove, Big Meadow Lake, English Bar Beach, Stuart Town Beach, Clark Gregory Nature Preserve, Sunsets, Gardener's Beach, Lambert's Cove Baptist Church, Lambertville, Kaitlyn Pendleton, wildlike, birdwatching, Deer Island Treasures, Crowded Cupboard, Maritime Texture, Lower Field and Flowers, Spirit of the Island, Fireball Gallery, Crow on my Shoulder, Jerome Andrews Art Gallery, 45th Parallel Motel, 45th Parallel Motel and Restaurant, Truck'n Good Food, Ocean View Takeout, Bella's Country Store, J.R. Barteau General Store, Mercury Ice Cream, Janice's Veggies, Homeport Suites, Homeport Suites and Residences, Deer Island Point Campground, The Spirit of the Island sculpture, Jim Boyd Comments

Exquistely Beautiful Kingsbrae Garden

Exquistely Beautiful Kingsbrae Garden

Wander through 27 acres of beauty at Kingsbrae Garden in St. Andrews, New Brunswick — where timeless formal gardens meet creative modern design. From whimsical themed spaces to the remarkable sculpture garden, featuring works from artists across Canada, there’s inspiration around every corner. After exploring, unwind at the Sage in the Garden, where you can savour a delicious meal on the patio or inside the cozy café.

new brunswickMaritimes MavenJune 24, 2025Kingsbrae Gardennew brunswick botanical garden, art gallery, garden, Kingsbrae Garden, saint andrews, Saint Andrews By-the-Sea, perennial gardens, summer event Comments

Experience St. Andrews Like a Local

Experience St. Andrews Like a Local

Planning a trip to the charming seaside town of St. Andrews by-the-Sea? While the well-loved iconic sights are definitely worth a visit, there’s something special about slowing down and discovering the places locals quietly love. From secret gardens and tucked-away shops to heritage hideaways, shaded patios and sunset views, here’s your guide to experiencing St. Andrews like you live here.

new brunswickMaritimes MavenJune 22, 2025Cottage ChicSt. Andrews, Steven Smith, Charlotte County Courthouse, McGuire Chocolate Company, Honeybeans, tourist destination, Vicki Hogarth, Crocker Hill Store, steven smith, stone garden, sculpture garden, Vincent Prager, Eva Prager, Charlotte County Gaol, Ross Memorial Museum, Sherrif Andrews House, Tall Tom's, lemonade, Saint Andrews Brewing Company, Saint Andrews Brewing Co., Niger Reef, Niger Reef Tea House, Café Drewhaven, Cafe Drewhaven, The Pâtisserie & Bakery at Drewhaven, patisserie, bakery, Treadwell Inn, The Chandler Room, The Chandler Room Wine Bar & Kitchen, William & Water, William and Water, Elizabeth Park, Marée by Margot, The Nautical Shop, Marmalade Home & Gift Boutique, Jona and Jessie, Jona & Jessie, Bucca Dell'Acqua, Pulp & Paper Books, The Sunbury Shores Arts & Nature Centre, Sunbury Shores Arts and Nature Centre, Keffer Pottery, Macklem House Antiques, Great Canadian North Art Gallery, Sage, Kingsbrae Garden, Kingsbrae Garden Cafe, Van Horne Trail, Algonquin Resort, Pendlebury Lighthouse, Katy's Cove Beach, mcguire chocolate company, ice cream, The Gables, Seasons by the Sea Bistro, Seasons by the Sea, St. Andrews Farmers Market, St. Andrews By-The-Sea, KIRA amphitheatre, KIRA Summer Events, Ministers Island, Tourist Destination, tourism destination Comments

The Wabanaki Tree Spirit Medicine Walk

The Wabanaki Tree Spirit Medicine Walk

Step into the stillness of an old growth forest with Wabanaki medicine keepers Cecelia Brooks and son Anthony, whose gentle guidance transforms a simple walk into something far more meaningful. Along the wooded trails of Fredericton’s Odell Park, they share deep-rooted knowledge of local plants and trees, how they nourish, heal and connect us to something greater.

Saint John and the Towns by the Bay for the Holidays

Saint John and the Towns by the Bay for the Holidays

Searching for the perfect holiday escape? Saint John and the Towns by the Bay have everything you need to capture the magic of the season. Imagine sparkling lights, charming window displays, unique boutique shopping, heartwarming theatre productions, cozy rural markets, festive food and drink, and of course, visits with Santa, all wrapped up in a warm embrace of holiday cheer. There’s truly snow place like Saint John and the Towns by the Bay for the holidays to discover all the ways to make this season unforgettable.

new brunswickMaritimes MavenDecember 6, 2024Cottage ChicSaint John, Saint John New Brunswick, Saint John City Market, Uptown Saint John, Towns By The Bay, Towns By The Bay of Fundy, festive event, Quispamsis Arts and Culture Park, Quispamsis, holiday dreamland, european christmas, Belding Hill Farms, Winter Wonderland, Italian By Night, Delta Saint John, Uptown Saint John shopping, Handworks Gallery, freak lunchbox, in Pursuit, tuck studio, emporia saint John, Paddington Station, Lordon, The Urban Shoe Myth, Second Cup, Hopscotch Bar, Hopscotch Whisky Bar, Imperial Theatre, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Saint John Theatre Company, Keirstead's Flower Shop, Kings Square, Gingerbread Trail, Uptown Sparkles, Christmas in the Barn, The Barn in Bloomfield, Brent Rourke, Bluemerle Glass Studio, Bella McBride, Kredl’s Corner Market, Kredl's Craft Fair, Christmas trees, wreaths, European Christmas, Belding Hill Farm, Station 33 Cafe, Jade Muller pottery, Little Forest Farm Apothecary, Living Art, Denise McLean, Cynthia Liberty, Minou Hibou Crochet, Kings County Museum, Christmas Tea, Beer Daddy BBQ, festival holiday, holiday escape, holiday event, maritimes, Maritimes Maven, festive, christmas event, festive markets, Christmas market, Discover Saint John, Town of Hampton Comments

Rossmount Inn - Culinary Destination

Rossmount Inn - Culinary Destination

Rossmount Inn is a culinary destination and boutique hotel just minutes from St. Andrews, New Brunswick. It’s where award-winning Chef Chris Aerni—one of Canada’s top chefs—creates world-class, market-fresh, local, and primarily organic cuisine. Since 2001, Chris and his wife Graziella have transformed the 18-room manor house and its 87-acre estate into a charming country inn with a restaurant & bar so popular it boasts one of Canada’s top ten waiting lists. Dining here is extraordinary —book a reservation and discover Chef Aerni’s culinary excellence firsthand.

Campobello Island, New Brunswick: A Beloved Bay of Fundy Island

Campobello Island, New Brunswick: A Beloved Bay of Fundy Island

Campobello Island, New Brunswick, is a beloved Bay of Fundy escape where rugged coastlines, fascinating history, wildlife and quiet beaches invite you to slow down and explore. Walk out to the iconic Head Harbour Lightstation at low tide, wander the grounds and trails of Roosevelt Campobello International Park, watch for whales and porpoises, and discover the island’s local character along the way.

From lighthouses and beaches to sea glass, wildlife and unforgettable coastal views, Campobello offers plenty of reasons to stay awhile.

new brunswickMaritimes MavenSeptember 12, 2024Cottage ChicCampobello, Southwest New Brunswick, Passamaquoddy Bay, whale watching, Head Harbour Lighthouse, Head Harbour Lightstation, East Quoddy Lighthouse, Mulholland Lighthouse, Campobello Museum, Campobello Island, tourism destination, the friendship trail, Campobello Lighthouse, Head Harbour Wharf, Roosevelt Campobello International Park, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Edmund S. Muskie Visitor Centre, Roosevelt Campobello Cottage, Roosevelt Cottage, Bay of Fundy, FDR, Prince Café, Prince Cottage, Hubbard Cottage, Tea with Eleanor, Wells-Shober Cottage, Eleanor Roosevelt, Happy Hour with FDR, Roosevelt Park’s Natural Area, Roosevelt Park, Friar’s Head, Liberty Point, The Friendship Trail, Witapehtiyik 'tawtimuwa, birdwatchers, birdwatching, Frog Rock, Raccoon Beach, Herring Cove Beach, The Pier on the Waterfront, The Pier Restaurant, Pollock Cove resort Cottages, The Flip Flop House, The Scoop Shack, Campobello Island Gift Shop, Campobello Gift Shop, Herring Cove Provincial Park, Herring Cove Campground, Herring Cove Golf Course, Mill Cove Beach, kayaking, Campobello Library and Museum, Campobello Library, humpback whales, minke, finback whales, sunset tour, sunsets, sunrises, sunrise, sunset, The Porch at Friar's Bay, The Porch Restaurant, pan-seared scallops, Campobello Fresh Fish Markets, Campobello Island Fresh Fish Markets, Campobello Fish Markets, Point Star Seafood, Shore Thing Market, Lubec, Wilson's Beach, Mulholland Point Lighthouse, Lubec Narrows, Marine Interpretation Centre, Fogfest, Campobello Coastal Challenge, Campobello Seaglass Festival, Welshpool, Deer Island Ferries, East Coast Ferries, Coastal Transport Ltd., East Coast Ferries Ltd., East Coast Ferry, Deer Island Ferry, Coastal Transport Ferries, Coastal Transport Ferry, Quoddy Loop, International Border, Campobello Island Oceanfront Cottages, Campobello Oceanfront Cottages, Whale of a View Cottage, Periwinkle Cottage, Starfish Cottage, Sea Urchin Cottage, East Quoddy Tours, maritimes tourism destination, Tourist Destination Comments

Campobello Island Oceanfront Cottages

Campobello Island Oceanfront Cottages

Whales spouting offshore. Eagles soaring overhead. Sunsets that stop you in your tracks.

Tucked along the rugged coastline of Campobello Island, these oceanfront cottages offer one of the most magical stays in the Bay of Fundy. After visiting three times, I understand why guests return year after year.

Step inside Campobello Island Oceanfront Cottages and discover a coastal escape where wildlife, history, and unforgettable views await.

Luxury Fishing Boat Stay at Creekside RNR

Luxury Fishing Boat Stay at Creekside RNR

Escape to Rest A’shore at Creekside RNR in Cocagne, New Brunswick! Enjoy ultimate relaxation or a fun-filled adventure. This former fishing boat, now a luxury glamping spot, offers the best of both worlds. Unwind in a serene setting with access to a Nordic spa, or dive into outdoor activities. You will love this nautical-themed haven by its own private pond.

The Puffin Tour at Machias Seal Island

If seeing puffins close up is on your bucket list, book a half-day excursion to Machias Seal Island. Avid bird watchers, nature lovers, scientists, wildlife photographers, and filmmakers have been flocking to this wee mile-long island in the lower Bay of Fundy for almost 200 years. Folks like me go, too, toting a little camera with a tiny lens, and a big sense of adventure because no other birding destination compares for close range puffin observation and photography. If you love puffins, the puffin tour at Machias Seal Island is a must do.

new brunswickMaritimes MavenDecember 15, 2023Art Galley of Nova ScotiaPuffin Tour, Machias Seal Island, The Puffin Tour, puffins, birding, bird watchers, bird watching, nature lovers, wildlife photographers, wildlife photography, bird photography, The National Audubon Society, John James Audubon, close-range puffin observation, puffin photos, puffin photography, diverse seabird colony, seabird colony, Bay of Fundy, Gulf of Maine, Dr. Anthony Diamond, Tony Diamond, wildlife ecology, pelagic birds, Heather L. Major, Atlantic Laboratory for Avian Research, ALAR, avian research, Atlantic Puffin, Razorbill Auk, Razorbill, Common Murre, Common Tern, Leach's Storm-petrel, Northern Gannet, gannet, storm-petrel, seabirds, seabird, Sea Watch Tours, Seal Cove, Grand Manan Island, Grand Manan, nesting season, puffin colony, Alec Ingalls, Peter Wilcox, Durlin Ingersoll, Preston Wilcox, Preston's Tours, Machias Seal Island Lighthouse Keeper, Machias Seal Island Lighthouse, Day's Catch, Little Catch, Arctic Terns, Puffin Tour Blinds, Seabird Blind, puffling, hatchling, puffin, Seal Cove Harbour Wharf, Canadian Wildlife Services, Canadian coastguard, Ralph Eldridge, Maritimes Maven, Coreen Hildebrand, tourism destination, maritimes maven, Razorbills, Bold Coast Charter Co., Bold Coast Charter Company, Bold Coast Charter Comments

Visit Moncton - Dieppe

Visit Moncton - Dieppe

Moncton–Dieppe, New Brunswick is your hub for fun in the heart of the Maritimes. Savour incredible food and drink, shop local boutiques, unwind at a Nordic spa, explore colourful street art, and stroll vibrant downtown streets — all in one easy weekend. This grown-up playground blends culture, comfort, and creativity, making it the perfect getaway.

new brunswickMaritimes MavenJune 8, 2023Cottage Chicmoncton-dieppe, Moncton New Brunswick, moncton, dieppe new brunswick, dieppe, destination moncton-dieppe, girls getaway, weekend escape, weekend getaway, dieppe market, Atelier Tony, Atelier, Tony's, Atelier Restaurant, pastry chef, USVA Nordik Spa, nordic spa, thermotherapy, Brix Experience, cooking class, Italian cooking class, Chef Regan, Chef Tony Atelier, Caprese salad, gnocchi, food and drink experiences, Brix, Canvas Moncton, Canvas Hotel, Palette Urban Rooftop Bar, Barr 55 Cafe, Gahan House, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, downtown Moncton, Palette Urban Rooftop bar, Bar 55 Cafe, lattes, breakfast sandwiches, Epoch Coffee, Epoch coffee tasting, coffee tasting, columbian coffee, coffee house, coffee roaster, Lordon, Kept on Main, Boutique 2e Look, Boutique Hospice Shoppe, Boutique Hospice, Gifts Galore, Festival Inspire Murals, Festival Inspire, murals, street art, public art, arts and culture, Sophia & Spritz, Sophia and Spritz, Italian cuisine, Chef James Hughes, Riverfront Park, Chocolate River, Petitcodiac River, RCMP Memorial monument, RCMP memorial sculpture, Heritage self-guided itour, heritage iTour, Moncton Heritage tour, heritage tour, Jordi Bonet Mural, Explosion, Jordi Bonet, Capitol Theatre, vaudeville house, La Factrie, Lost and Found Ice Cream, Halo Donuts, cities small towns and villages Comments

St. Andrews by-the-Sea

St. Andrews by-the-Sea

St. Andrews by-the-Sea casts its salty spell on you instantly. The pull of this seaside resort town has enticed wealthy summer visitors since the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. They knew this town was special, and you will, too. You can sense the history and grandeur here. Let it sweep you off your feet and hold you spellbound. I dare you to not to fall in love with St. Andrews.

new brunswickMaritimes MavenJune 2, 2023Cottage ChicSaint Andrews, St. Andrews, Airbnb, VRBO, Canada's First Interior Decorator, St. Andrews by-the-Sea, Kate's Garden, Lee Wells, Drewhaven, The Smokehouse BBQ and Bar, Algonquin Golf Course, golfcourse, golf, Kingsbrae Garden, horticultural garden, sculpture garden, Kingsbrae Garden Cafe, Chef Alex Haun, Water Street, Passamaquoddy Bay, New Brunswick's prettiest town, Canada's Great Street, The Best Place to Visit in Canada, Crocker Hill, Crocker Hill Store, Maree, Marée, Cottage Chic, The Leather Shop, Serendipin' Art, The Sunbury Shores Arts & Nature Centre, Keffer Pottery, Great Canadian North Art Gallery, Macklem House Antiques, The Whale Store, Char and Chowder, The Chandler Room, Treadwell Inn, The Chandler Room Wine Bar & Kitchen, Drewhaven Town & Country, The Pâtisserie & Bakery at Drewhaven, Geoff Slater, Niger Reef, Local Historic Place, Lucille Douglas, heritage murals, Rossmount Inn, Chef Chris Aerni, culinary experience, Honeybeans, St. Andrews Farmers Market, St. Andrews Farmers' Market, Katy's Cove Beach, Dragon Boat, Elvis Presley Boulevard artwork, That's Amor'EH Emporium, Saint Andrews Brewing Company, Wharf Bound pale ale, PaddleFest, Canada, Indulge Food Festival, whale watching, sail, sailing, tall ship, swimming, swim, beach, Huntsman Science Marine Centre, Fundy Discovery Aquarium, Sir William Van Horne, Van Horne, Ministers Island, architecture, park, wharf, hiking, hiking trails, Sherrif Andrews House, cities small towns and villages, Charlotte coastal region, national historical site, Chamcook Mountain Comments

Cory Cottage in St. Andrews

Cory Cottage in St. Andrews

Imagine vacationing in a 1830’s home that was once owned and decorated by Kate Reed, Canada’s first interior decorator. Then imagine that same historic house, recently redesigned by international designer Lee Wells, with luxurious style and comfort. Picture yourself staying in this beautiful 4 + 1 bedroom, 6 bathroom cottage set in the resort town of St. Andrews by-the-Sea on a garden property with an ocean view rooftop balcony. This is Cory Cottage.

Dumfries Maples Sugarbush

Dumfries Maples Sugarbush

Just 35 minutes from Fredericton, Dumfries Maples Sugarbush & Pancake House serves up fluffy pancakes, fresh maple syrup, maple taffy, and guided sugarbush tours each spring. Book your table and experience one of New Brunswick’s sweetest seasonal traditions.

new brunswickMaritimes MavenMarch 21, 2023Cottage ChicDumfries Maples, Dumfries, Sugar Bush, pancakes, sugarbush, pancake house, maple syrup, maple season, saint john river valley, pure maple syrup, dumfries maple syrup, sugarbush farmers, maple products, sugarbush tour, spring event Comments

Lady Smith Manor’s Christmas Market

Lady Smith Manor’s Christmas Market

This November, the historic Georgian Manor at Lady Smith Manor in Dorchester, New Brunswick, transforms into A Wizarding Christmas! Discover local artisans and vendors, a magical scavenger hunt, whimsical decorations and festive refreshments. Find out what’s planned for the seventh annual Christmas Market, revisit past themes and get the details you need to plan your visit, including the exclusive Friday evening preview.

Ballet By the Ocean

Ballet By the Ocean

Be moved, be changed forever by the transformative Ballet by the Ocean. Immerse all your senses as you enjoy culinary art and ballet art together in a magical place. It is a world-class experience incorporating a creative tasting menu featuring local ingredients and original ballet choreography inspired by and created for an outdoor stage in a stunning natural habitat on the southeast shore of New Brunswick, Canada.

new brunswickMaritimes MavenAugust 17, 2022Cottage ChicBallet by the Ocean, Grand Digue, Atlantic Ballet of Canada, Atlantic Ballet, Susan Chalmers-Gauvin, Igor Dobrovolski, Grande-Digue, culinary experience, summer event, Atelier Tony, Tony Boulangerie Comments