Don’t Miss Fundy Winterfest 2026: The Most Spectacular Winter Festival in New Brunswick – Bigger, Bolder, and Better Than Ever

Published on December 24, 2025

Are you ready for the ultimate winter adventure in Rothesay, New Brunswick? Fundy Winterfest 2026 is just around the corner, and it’s the most exciting festival of the season! From January 17 to March 8, 2026, Rothesay and the surrounding communities will come alive with fun, outdoor activities, and magical winter experiences. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this festival will make you fall in love with winter all over again. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Fundy Winterfest, its exciting events, and why it’s the perfect way to embrace the beauty of winter.

What is Fundy Winterfest?

Fundy Winterfest is a regional winter celebration that takes place across Rothesay and its neighbouring communities, including Saint John, Quispamsis, Hampton, Grand Bay-Westfield, and St. Martins. The festival lasts for nearly two months, from January 17 to March 8, 2026, and invites everyone to celebrate winter with a range of fun activities, local culture, and outdoor experiences.

What makes Fundy Winterfest so special is that it embraces winter rather than avoiding it. People from all walks of life are encouraged to get outdoors and enjoy the season, whether it’s by engaging in winter sports, attending cultural events, or simply having fun with family and friends. This festival is designed to make the most of the snowy season and showcase the beauty of the region, all while creating lasting memories for those who take part.

When and Where is Fundy Winterfest?

Fundy Winterfest will run from January 17 to March 8, 2026. It takes place in Rothesay and surrounding areas in the greater Saint John region of New Brunswick, Canada. This means you can explore several beautiful communities and participate in events across the area.

The main events of the festival are spread across parks, cultural centres, and outdoor spaces in these regions. Rothesay, with its snowy landscapes and scenic parks, offers the perfect backdrop for a winter celebration. Whether you’re in Rothesay or another nearby town, the whole region will be buzzing with exciting activities during this period.

Why Should You Attend Fundy Winterfest?

Fundy Winterfest is much more than just a festival—it’s an experience that brings together community spirit, outdoor fun, and cultural celebrations. The event is designed to appeal to all ages, making it perfect for families, friends, and even solo adventurers. Let’s take a look at what makes Fundy Winterfest stand out from other festivals.

Embrace the Winter Outdoors

One of the best things about Fundy Winterfest is the focus on outdoor winter activities. Instead of staying indoors during the cold months, this festival encourages people to get outside and experience the joys of winter. Whether you love ice skating, snowshoeing, or simply walking in the snow, there’s something for everyone.

In previous years, the festival has featured activities like:

• Ice skating on outdoor rinks: Rothesay and neighbouring areas have several beautiful outdoor rinks where you can skate under the winter sky. These rinks are perfect for families to enjoy a fun day of skating.
• Snowshoeing and winter hikes: If you love exploring nature, the festival offers guided snowshoeing tours through local parks. Walking through snow-covered trails is an unforgettable experience.
• Winter sports: The festival often includes winter sports events like hockey games, pond hockey, and snowball fights. These events are not just for spectators—they’re for anyone who wants to join in the fun!

Cultural and Social Events

While the outdoor activities are a big part of Fundy Winterfest, there’s also a strong emphasis on community gatherings and cultural celebrations. From storytelling sessions to live music performances, there’s always something happening indoors and outdoors.

Some cultural events to look forward to include:

• Bonfires and music sessions: Gather around a warm bonfire, listen to live music, and enjoy hot drinks like hot chocolate. It’s a great way to socialise and stay warm while embracing the winter atmosphere.
• Storytelling and local heritage: Learn about the history and culture of Rothesay and the surrounding areas through storytelling sessions and cultural exhibitions.
• Craft workshops: Get creative at one of the many craft workshops where you can make your own winter-themed decorations or souvenirs. This is a perfect activity for families with young children.

A Festival for All Ages

One of the things that makes Fundy Winterfest so appealing is that it’s designed to be family-friendly and enjoyable for all ages. There are activities that kids will love, such as:

• Bouncy castles and other fun inflatables.
• Games and challenges designed specifically for children.
• Ice sculpting and snowman-building competitions that families can participate in together.

For adults, there are plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the festival as well. Whether it’s participating in a local food tasting, enjoying a wine and cheese event, or attending a live concert, Fundy Winterfest ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The Spirit of Community

Fundy Winterfest isn’t just about having fun—it’s about bringing people together. This festival is a great way to experience the strong sense of community in Rothesay and the surrounding areas. Many of the events are volunteer-driven, meaning the people who live in these communities are directly involved in making the festival a success. This creates a warm, welcoming environment for everyone who attends.

You’ll also see local businesses getting involved, offering everything from food and drinks to local crafts and goods. Supporting these local businesses is another way to help the community grow and thrive.

A Winter Festival Like No Other

While many people associate winter with staying indoors, Fundy Winterfest takes a different approach. It shows you that winter can be fun, exciting, and full of life. The festival celebrates everything that’s wonderful about the winter season—snow, cold air, and the joy of outdoor activities—all while fostering a strong sense of community and togetherness. It’s a perfect way to make the most of the cold weather and enjoy the beauty of New Brunswick.

Insider Tips for Enjoying Fundy Winterfest

If you’re planning to attend Fundy Winterfest 2026, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:

1. Dress warmly: Make sure to wear layers, as New Brunswick winters can be quite cold. Don’t forget your gloves, hats, and scarves!
2. Check the event schedule: Fundy Winterfest spans several weeks, so make sure to check the event schedule ahead of time to plan your visit around the activities you’re most interested in.
3. Get involved: The festival is all about community participation. Don’t just watch—join in on the activities, whether it’s ice skating, snowshoeing, or helping with a snow sculpture.
4. Bring the whole family: Fundy Winterfest is designed for all ages, so it’s a great event for families. Bring your children along for a day of fun and excitement.

Fundy Winterfest 2026 in Rothesay, New Brunswick, is an experience you don’t want to miss. It’s a winter celebration that turns the coldest season of the year into the most exciting time of the year. With outdoor activities, cultural events, and a strong community spirit, this festival has something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Fundy Winterfest is the perfect way to embrace the winter season and create lasting memories with family and friends.

So, mark your calendars for January 17 to March 8, 2026, and get ready for a winter adventure like no other. Fundy Winterfest is waiting for you to join in the fun!