You can meet Santa Claus at various locations throughout St. Augustine during the holiday season. One popular spot is the Lightner Museum, where Santa often makes appearances during holiday events. Be sure to check the local event calendars for specific dates and times for Santa sightings.
10+ Family-Friendly Activities in St. Augustine This Holiday Season
Feeling the holiday spirit and planning a family trip to St. Augustine? You’re in for a treat! This historic city transforms into a winter wonderland each holiday season, offering countless family-friendly activities. From dazzling light displays to parades and charming historical traditions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through more than 10 family-friendly activities in St. Augustine this holiday season, ensuring your visit is unforgettable.
Dazzling Lights and Festive Parades
Nights of Lights Tours
Experience the magic of the Nights of Lights in St. Augustine as the city shines with thousands of strands of holiday lights. While wandering the charming cobblestone streets of the historic district is essential, there are countless ways to soak in the millions of shimmering lights that illuminate centuries-old architecture, crafting an atmosphere.
Best Viewing Spots
For those exploring on foot or looking for the best viewing spots, be sure to head to the Bridge of Lions and St. George Street. The Bridge of Lions offers an attractive vantage point to capture the illuminated skyline, while St. George Street, with its charming shops and historical ambiance, is ideal for soaking in the holiday spirit. Whether by trolley, foot or simply standing in awe, the Nights of Lights promises a memorable experience for all.
Old Town Trolley: One of the standout options is Old Town Trolley Tours®. This 45-minute ride through Historic Downtown includes magic glasses, cheerful drivers and popular seasonal songs on the speakers. The experience even includes hot apple cider and fresh sugar cookies at the end of your ride, making it a delightful family-friendly activity in St. Augustine. From November 24, 2024, through January 26, 2025, starting at 6 pm, these tours provide a guided adventure through the shimmering lights.
St. Augustine Christmas Parade
Kick off the holiday season with the St. Augustine Christmas Parade, featuring colorful floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus himself! This annual event, taking place on December 7, 2024, from 9 to 10:30 am, starts at the Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche and winds through downtown, concluding behind the Visitor Information Center.
Arrive early to secure a prime viewing spot along the historic district’s streets, and while you wait, enjoy some hot chocolate or snacks from local vendors. Families can also take part in fun activities like face painting, holiday craft stations and interactive games set up along the parade route. After the parade, Santa will be at the Plaza de la Constitución for photos, providing the perfect opportunity to capture holiday memories.
For added convenience, make use of the seasonal park-and-ride shuttle services starting at 8 am, ensuring easy access for all attendees. The St. Augustine Christmas Parade is more than just floats; it’s the perfect family Christmas vacation idea.
Holiday Regatta of Lights
The Holiday Regatta of Lights is not just about watching decorated boats glide across Matanzas Bay; it’s also an opportunity to share a family-friendly activity for the holidays. Along the bayfront, numerous vendors set up stalls offering delicious treats like warm churros, hot cocoa and snacks that kids will love. Interactive booths may feature holiday-themed crafts where children can create their own ornaments or decorate gingerbread cookies, adding a hands-on element to the evening.
Moreover, many local businesses and restaurants along the waterfront host special events and activities tailored for families. Some might offer storytelling sessions with holiday themes, while others could host live music performances or caroling groups to add to the lively atmosphere. For a truly memorable experience, consider taking a family photo with Santa at one of the designated spots along the bay.
Additionally, some waterfront restaurants may provide kid-friendly menus and holiday discounts, making them perfect spots to enjoy a family dinner while watching the mesmerizing parade of lights. Keep an eye out for face painting stations or balloon artists, which are sure to entertain and engage younger children throughout the evening. The Holiday Regatta of Lights offers a magical backdrop for building family traditions and creating lasting holiday memories.
Historic Charm and Holiday Traditions
Luminary Night at St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
This annual tradition hosted by the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum features more than 2,000 luminaries displayed throughout the grounds and on the streets surrounding this historic landmark, creating a magical holiday experience. Lights and holiday décor adorn the 1876 Keeper’s House and other historic buildings on the property. There are a variety of family-friendly activities during the Luminary Night event, including storytelling by the fire and music performances. For a special treat, guests can climb the tower for sparkling views of Nights of Lights from the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse.
Location: St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum.
100 Red Cox Dr., St. Augustine, FL 32080
904-829-0745
Date and Time: Wednesday, December 4, 2024, 6 pm-8 pm
Villa Zorayda Museum’s Candlelight Tours
Join the Villa Zorayda Museum this holiday season for their “Candlelight Tours,” perfect for families to enjoy together! The Zorayda is decorated for the holidays, with decorations throughout the museum and a spectacular Christmas tree taking center stage in the “Court of Lions.” Visitors can admire Victorian and traditional decorations in every room. Over 100 candles glow warmly as you take a state-of-the-art audio-guided tour of this historic home, learning about the building’s impressive 140 years of history and its art and antique collection. This tour is not recommended for children ages five and under. Tours are at 5:30 and 7 pm on select evenings during Nights of Lights.
Upcoming Dates: Friday, December 6; Friday, December 13; Friday, December 20; Friday, December 27; Friday, January 3.
Music and Art, a Holiday Décor Exhibition at Ximenez-Fatio House Museum
In celebration of the holiday season and the renowned Nights of Lights, the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum, in collaboration with the St. Augustine Art Association, presents a series of family-friendly activities set against festive displays on the historic property’s fireplace walls. This year’s theme, “100 Years of Music,” commemorates the 100th anniversary of the St. Augustine Art Association, founded in the Ximenez-Fatio home, set for November 26, 2024. Visitors can explore this musical journey as they admire decorations from 14 local artists who have transformed each room’s mantle and wall with unique artistic interpretations. In harmony with the theme, free concerts featuring various musicians will be held in the enchanting gardens every Saturday from 2 to 4 pm throughout the Nights of Lights, from November 26, 2024, to January 18, 2025. Enhance your visit by touring the historic home, adorned with period-appropriate collections and furnishings, from 10 am to 5 pm, Monday through Saturday. Admission is required for the home tour and mantle viewing, while the garden concerts remain open to all. This series of events promises a delightful cultural and musical holiday experience for all ages.
Holiday Market at Lightner Museum
Mark your calendars for a magical evening at the Lightner Museum’s special Lightner After Hours & Holiday Market event on Thursday, December 5th, from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Located at 75 King Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084, this event offers an enchanting shopping experience within the museum’s historic Alcazar swimming pool room. Transformed into a bustling marketplace, the space will feature a curated selection of over 35 local artisans and small businesses.
Unique Gifts From Local Artisans
Wander through the market and discover a myriad of unique gifts and handmade crafts by talented local artisans. This event is an excellent opportunity to support small businesses while finding that perfect holiday treasure for your loved ones.
Family-Friendly Activities
In addition to shopping, there will be family-friendly activities to enjoy! Kids can participate in holiday-themed games and even visit with Santa for a memorable photo opportunity. It’s a great way to bring the whole family together and create lasting holiday memories.
Shopping Experience
The Lightner Museum’s historic ambiance enhances the charm of the holiday market, creating a truly lively atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy holiday music and delightful decorations, immersing themselves in the joyful spirit of the season. Whether you’re seeking one-of-a-kind gifts or fun family activities, or simply wishing to soak in the holiday vibes, the Lightner After Hours & Holiday Market event promises an evening of shopping, fun and cheer.
FAQs
Yes, St. Augustine hosts several special holiday markets that are perfect for finding unique gifts and enjoying cheer. The Holiday Market at the Lightner Museum is a must-visit, featuring local artisans and vendors selling handmade crafts and treats.
Absolutely! St. Augustine showcases an array of holiday-themed performances that promise to delight audiences of all ages. The Limelight Theatre often presents special holiday plays and musicals, bringing classic stories to life onstage. Additionally, the St. Augustine Ballet’s enchanting production of The Nutcracker is a holiday favorite, performed at the Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College. These performances add an extra layer of magic to St. Augustine’s holiday season.
