Shop Local, Shop Green: A Guide to Sustainable Shopping in Saint John
One of the best things we can do as individuals to protect the environment is to shop as sustainably as we can. Luckily, Saint John is home to many businesses and collectives whose goals emphasize purchasing local produce, reducing the impacts of fast fashion, and supporting small organizations! You’ll have a blast searching for unique gifts and clothing, fresh food, and home décor. It can be a fun and ethical challenge to try and find whatever you want or need in your local area.
Queen Square Farmers Market https://linktr.ee/Qsfmsj
The Queen Square Farmers Market is open from mid-May until early October each year. On Sundays from 9am until 2pm, you can find food vendors, artists, performers and more. The market is a great place to purchase sustainable grocery items and gifts. It is the perfect place to engage with the Saint John community and spend a relaxing day.
Pumpkin Patch https://pumpkinpatchsaintjohn.com/
Pumpkin Patch is found on the west side of Saint John and specializes in local produce. You can shop for in-season fruits, veggies, and meat. You can also find gardening supplies, plants and flowers, and over 50 flavours of ice cream! However, Pumpkin Patch closes for the winter months.
Saint John City Market https://www.sjcitymarket.ca/
Photo Source: https://www.sjcitymarket.ca/gallery
The Saint John City Market is a staple of the city, open from Monday to Saturday year-round. You’ll be able to find local food and drink vendors, specialty international products, clothes, homemade gifts, and a variety of art. The market is in the heart of uptown and provides a sense of community along with high-quality merchandise. It is a delight to experience in the holiday season and you’ll most likely be able to find unique gifts for all the special people in your life at one stop.
Corn Crib http://corncrib.ca/
Corn Crib is located on King Street and sells organic food and health products. The business aims to use local sources whenever possible and makes sure that no food goes to waste. Corn Crib promotes a healthy, holistic lifestyle and environmental stewardship.
The Feel Good Store https://thefeelgoodstore.ca/
The Feel Good Store is located in the centre of uptown Saint John and is closed Sundays and Mondays. The eco-friendly store sells health and beauty products along with reusable options for single-use items, jewelry, art, and other trinkets. The shop boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere and even has a bar to grab yourself a cup of tea.
Kingston Farmers Market http://www.kingstonfarmersmarket.ca/
Photo Source: https://theseasonalgourmet.ca/category/new-brunswick/
The Kingston Farmers Market is open Saturdays from 8 am-1pm beginning in early May through to late October. It hosts over 90 vendors selling local products including produce, prepared food, textiles, art, and jewelry. You’ll also usually be treated to live music. Enjoy a beautiful ferry ride between the city and the Kingston peninsula.
Guy’s Frenchys https://guysfrenchys.com/guys-frenchys-locations/saint-john-new-brunswick/
The Saint John Guy’s Frenchys location is found on the west side. The store has a wide range of second-hand clothing for varying sizes and ages at very affordable prices, along with a selection of other items. Make an event out of searching for unique pieces and you’re sure to find a steal.
The Kindness Closet https://thekindnesscloset.myshopify.com/
The Kindness Closet is a non-profit thrift boutique found just outside the city market. The inconspicuous shop is stocked with curated second-hand clothing and a variety of products made by small Canadian businesses. They also maintain a selection of free interview/work clothing for those in need, run an upcycling education program, and spread awareness concerning the harmful nature of fast fashion.
The Clothes Mine https://www.clothesmine.ca/
Photo Source: https://lapetitewatson.com/saint-john-nb-thrift-guide/
The Clothes Mine is a thrift store located on the east side of the city. It boasts affordable prices and a wide array of clothing, with daily restocks. There is something for everybody at this sustainable business!
The Hospice Shoppe https://hospicesj.ca/hospice-shoppe/
The Hospice Shoppe is located on the west side of Saint John. You can shop tax-free for clothing and home décor, with all profits going directly to Bobby’s Hospice to support those in palliative care. Support several good causes while searching for one-of-a-kind items.
Container Village https://www.area506.ca/container-village
The Area 506 container village is home to over 40 vendors, all working out of shipping containers. You can find food, second-hand clothing, gifts and more from Wednesdays to Sundays (or whenever a cruise ship is in port). There are also frequent art installations and musical performances throughout the operational season.
We hope this list gives you a good start on your journey to shopping local. Happy shopping!