In an unprecedented controversy sweeping through New Brunswick’s tourism industry, a popular spa has found itself at the center of a heated debate after announcing a women-only topless event scheduled for later this month. Provincial officials have warned the establishment that proceeding without proper licensing could result in severe consequences, including potential suspension of their operating permit.
The Nordic-inspired Chance Harbour Nature Spa, located near Saint John, sparked the controversy when it announced plans to host its “Topless Tuesday” event on June 18th. The establishment’s owner, Lisa Williams, had designed the gathering as an empowerment opportunity for women to experience the spa’s amenities in a judgment-free environment without the traditional swimwear requirements.
“We simply wanted to create a safe space where women could experience the freedom that men have always had,” Williams explained in a statement issued Wednesday. “There was never any intention to violate regulations or create a public disturbance.”
However, the Department of Justice and Public Safety quickly intervened, issuing a stern warning that the event would require a special license under the province’s Liquor Control Act. Officials clarified that any establishment offering “nude entertainment” must secure proper authorization—a classification the spa owners vehemently dispute.
“This is not entertainment—it’s about body autonomy and creating a supportive community,” Williams countered. “We’re operating exactly like traditional Nordic spas across Europe where this practice is completely normalized.”
The controversy has ignited passionate responses across CO24 News platforms, with supporters arguing that the event represents an important step toward gender equality. Legal experts interviewed by CO24 Canada noted the complex intersection of business regulations and evolving social norms.
“There’s a significant difference between entertainment venues and wellness facilities,” explained Melissa Chen, a constitutional rights attorney based in Fredericton. “The application of these regulations to a therapeutic spa environment raises important questions about how we categorize and regulate female bodies in public spaces.”
The spa has received an outpouring of support from patrons and women’s rights advocates who view the regulatory pushback as emblematic of broader double standards. Many point out that men are routinely permitted to go topless in various public settings without similar scrutiny.
Provincial officials maintain that their position is strictly about regulatory compliance rather than moral judgment. “All businesses must adhere to provincial licensing requirements regardless of the nature of their events,” stated regulatory spokesperson James Harrison. “This is about ensuring proper oversight, not making value judgments.”
Williams and her legal team are currently reviewing their options, including applying for the special license or potentially challenging the classification of the event as “entertainment” rather than wellness. Meanwhile, ticket sales for the event have reportedly surged since the controversy began, suggesting the dispute may have inadvertently boosted interest.
The situation raises profound questions about bodily autonomy and regulatory frameworks in Canada. As society continues to evolve, how will our regulatory systems adapt to changing perspectives on gender equality and body freedom without imposing outdated moral standards on legitimate business operations?
