Saint John is trading grey for green—and you’re invited to be part of the transformation. Beautify Saint John (#BeautifySJ) is the city’s newest grassroots initiative, designed to add beauty, pride, and a splash of creativity to our public-facing spaces. With a boost from the City of Saint John Grants program, the project is rolling out across the city, supported by community centres, local businesses, non-profits, and residents who want to see their neighbourhoods shine.
Saint John, Beautified
Planting the Seed for Civic Pride
At the heart of #BeautifySJ is a simple idea: when we care for our spaces, we care for each other. The initiative will distribute 50 custom planter boxes—free of charge—to participants who apply through a quick online form. Whether you're a local resident looking to jazz up your front step, or a business hoping to turn heads with a window box makeover, you’re welcome to apply.
It’s a first-come, needs-based system, but the contest is open to everyone. Get in while you can and fill out the form here to enter your household, business, or organization for one of the coveted boxes.
From “No” to “Whoa!”: Show Off Your Transformation
Got a space you’re dying to beautify? All it takes to enter the official #BeautifySJ competition is a little elbow grease, a few “before” and “after” photos, and a spark of creativity. There will be prizes—but more importantly, there will be pride.
Stay tuned on social media and watch your inbox: contest registration will be launching soon. This is your chance to turn a bland front step, bare wall, or boring sidewalk into something buzz-worthy.
Tools of the Trade: Powered by the Saint John Tool Library
This isn’t just a pretty project. It’s a smart one. And it wouldn’t be possible without the quiet brilliance of the Saint John Tool Library, the community-powered organization that lets locals borrow tools just like they would books.
The Tool Library is doing more than lending drills and saws—they’re helping build the planter boxes, organizing volunteers, and making it easier than ever for people to roll up their sleeves and dig in (literally). It’s civic empowerment with a toolbox twist.
Got a Van? A Hammer? A Willing Spirit? Sign Up!
Projects like #BeautifySJ don’t happen without community muscle. If you’re looking for a way to get involved beyond planting petunias, consider volunteering your time. Beautify Saint John needs folks to build planter boxes, deliver them, and spread the word. Whether you’re handy with a circular saw or just handy with a social post, there’s a role for you. Email Brent at brent.harris@sjtl.ca and let him know how you’d like to help.
Let’s Bloom Together
#BeautifySJ isn’t just about plants. It’s about people. About the pride we take in our streets and the connections we build when we create something together. So get growing. Sign up, volunteer, or cheer on your neighbours. Saint John is about to get a whole lot brighter—and you’ll want to say you were part of the glow-up.
