If you’re from/new to New Brunswick—or settling in after a recent RCMP or military posting—December is one of the best times to get to know your community. Both Fredericton and Moncton come alive with holiday markets, light displays, family activities, and cozy winter traditions that help newcomers feel right at home.

Whether you’re moving with kids, exploring your new neighbourhood, or looking for festive ways to connect with the community, here’s your friendly local REALTOR® guide to the best holiday events happening this season.

1. Fredericton’s Garrison Night Market – Holiday Edition

Held in the Historic Garrison District, this beloved outdoor market transforms into a winter wonderland each December. You’ll find local artisans, festive treats, warm drinks, and live music.

Why it’s great for newcomers:

Meet local makers and small businesses
Find unique holiday gifts
Explore downtown Fredericton’s historic charm

Bundle up—it’s part of the fun!

**2. Moncton’s Lights at the Zoo – A Family Favourite**

The Magnetic Hill Zoo puts on one of New Brunswick’s most magical light displays, and it grows bigger every year.

Highlights:

Thousands of twinkling lights
Walk-through paths
Hot chocolate stations
A perfect outing for kids of all ages

If you’ve just moved to Moncton, this event is an easy, feel-good way to settle in and explore your new city.

3. ✨ Light Up the Sky at Kings Landing

If you’re craving that truly magical, Hallmark-movie kind of Christmas experience, Light Up the Sky at Kings Landing is one of New Brunswick’s most enchanting holiday traditions. The historic village is completely transformed into a glowing winter wonderland, with thousands of lights draped across heritage buildings, live music floating through the air, and warm fires crackling throughout the grounds.

What makes it special:

The entire 19th-century village illuminated at night
Carolers, live performances, and costumed interpreters
Cozy fires, hot cocoa, mulled drinks, and festive treats
Picture-perfect photo spots for family Christmas pictures
A nostalgic, peaceful holiday vibe that families adore

For newly relocated RCMP or military families, this event is often the moment when New Brunswick starts to feel like home. Kids love it, parents relax into the cozy atmosphere, and it becomes an annual tradition almost instantly.

4. Festive Family Skates (Both Cities)

Public skating is a winter staple here. Both Fredericton and Moncton offer free or low-cost holiday skates, often with music, themed nights, and community groups hosting.

Great rinks to check out:

Fredericton: Willie O’Ree Place, Grant-Harvey Centre, Lady Beaverbrook Rink
Moncton: Superior Propane Centre, Ian Fowler Oval, Parc du Mascaret in Dieppe

It’s an easy, active way for kids to burn off holiday energy and for parents to meet local families.

5. Holiday Home Tours & Decoration Drives

Many neighbourhoods in Fredericton, Oromocto, Moncton, Riverview, and Dieppe participate in self-guided Christmas light tours. Some local charities even create mapped routes you can follow.

Why you should check them out:

A great way to discover new neighbourhoods
Kids LOVE the lights
You get a feel for each area’s character and community spirit

If you’re house hunting soon, these night drives can double as casual neighbourhood research.

6. Fredericton’s Christmas Craft Shows & Artisan Markets

New Brunswick has a thriving local arts scene, and December craft shows are some of the best in Atlantic Canada.

Top Fredericton markets to explore:

Christmas at the Market (Boyce Farmers Market)
University & community craft fairs
Local pop-ups in cafés and community centres

These markets are perfect for newcomers who want to experience Fredericton’s creative culture—and pick up locally made holiday gifts.

7. Moncton’s Royale Greater Moncton Santa Claus Parade

If you missed it, add it to next year’s calendar! It’s one of the most impressive parades in Atlantic Canada. But even after parade day, the fun continues with pop-up events, neighbourhood displays, and weekend celebrations all month long.

Great for:

Newly relocated families
Kids adjusting to a new city
Parents wanting to meet other families

Moncton really shines during the holidays—literally and figuratively.

8. Holiday Shows, Concerts & Theatre Performances

Both cities host beautiful live productions throughout December, many featuring local young performers.

Annual favourites include:

The Nutcracker ballet
Theatre NB holiday shows
Choir concerts
Capitol Theatre & Playhouse holiday programming

These events let you experience New Brunswick’s arts scene while creating new family traditions.

9. Cozy, Local New Brunswick Traditions to Try

Beyond the big events, New Brunswick offers small, heartwarming traditions that help newcomers feel instantly at home:

Taffy on the snow
Homemade molasses cookies
Winter storm movie days
Snowshoeing at Killarney Lake or Irishtown Nature Park
Warm beverages from local cafés after a snowy walk

These little rituals help make the province feel welcoming, warm, and deeply connected.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re long-time locals or brand-new to the province after an RCMP or military posting, the holiday season is one of the best times to experience what Fredericton and Moncton truly offer. These events bring people together, spark joy, and help newcomers feel rooted in their new community.

If you ever need neighborhood recommendations, relocation guidance, or help finding the perfect home in NB, I’m always here to support you. Welcome to New Brunswick—and happy holidays!

A Local’s Guide to Holiday Events in Fredericton & Moncton: Fun for Families, Newcomers, and Relocating RCMP/Military Members