The best time to visit St. Augustine during the holiday season is from late November through the end of December. This period encompasses a multitude of festive events, including the famous Nights of Lights display, holiday markets, and a variety of performances. Early December is particularly special, as it ushers in a host of holiday activities, and crowds are generally more manageable.
Must-Attend St. Augustine Holiday Events
St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, boasts a rich history that comes alive in its cobblestone streets, Spanish Colonial architecture, and charming shops. With its idyllic coastal setting and captivating past, it’s a destination that transports visitors to a bygone era. During the holiday season, St. Augustine transforms into a spectacular showcase of festive events and traditions that draw event enthusiasts and tourists alike. Below is a curated list of must-attend events that will make your holiday in St. Augustine truly unforgettable.
Nights of Lights Tours
St. Augustine transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland during its annual Nights of Lights. Millions of tiny white lights adorn the historic district, creating a magical atmosphere that has earned the city recognition as one of the top 10 holiday light displays in the world.
Best Viewing Spots
Old Town Trolley
Old Town Trolley provides a unique opportunity to experience the Nights of Lights in comfort and style. As you journey through the historic district, knowledgeable guides share intriguing stories about St. Augustine’s past while you marvel at the dazzling displays. The open-air design of the trolley allows for unobstructed views of the twinkling lights, ensuring that you won’t miss a moment of the enchanting scenery. This ride lasts 30 to 45 minutes through historic downtown and includes magic glasses, an entertaining driver, seasonal songs, plus cider and a cookie after the experience. The rides commence from late November through late January, each evening. From the Visitor Information Center, guests embark on this magical journey through the historic district, immersing themselves in the captivating holiday displays.
Bridge of Lions
The Bridge of Lions offers one of the most picturesque viewpoints in St. Augustine during the holiday season. As you stand on the bridge, you’ll be treated to a stunning vista of the sparkling lights reflecting off the water below, creating a captivating scene. It’s an ideal spot for photography, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors who want to capture the magic of the holiday in St. Augustine.
St. George Street
St. George Street bustles with festive cheer and is a must-visit during the holiday season. Lined with charming shops and cafes adorned with holiday decorations, this pedestrian-friendly street is perfect for leisurely strolls. As you wander through, the lively atmosphere and performances add to the excitement, making it an unforgettable experience as you soak in the holiday spirit amid the beautiful lights.
Holiday Events in St. Augustine
Colonial Night Watch
The Colonial Night Watch is an engaging annual event in St. Augustine that brings history to life. On December 7, 2024, visitors can experience the 18th century through historical reenactments and period costumes. The main event, a torchlight parade, starts at 7 pm at the Castillo de San Marcos, where reenactors will march to the Old City Gates and the Governor’s House Cultural Center. Throughout the day, events will include a military weapons inspection, artillery demonstrations, and living history interpretations from 10 am to 4 pm at the Oldest House Museum Complex. This family-friendly event invites everyone to enjoy the history and the holiday spirit with carols and a “Volley of Joy.”
Historical Reenactments: Engage in the dramatic reenactments of pivotal moments in St. Augustine’s colonial history. Watch as actors in period costumes recreate battles and daily life from the 1700s. These reenactments provide a unique opportunity to learn about the city’s history in an interactive and entertaining way.
Period Costumes: The Colonial Night Watch is known for its attention to detail, particularly in the period costumes worn by reenactors. These authentic outfits add to the overall ambiance and transport visitors back in time, enhancing the historical experience.
St. Augustine Christmas Parade
Another great holiday event in St. Augustine is the 67th Annual Christmas Parade. It will kick off the season with an exuberant display of festive decorations. Local organizations participate with decorated cars, dogs, and costumed marchers. This annual event features a vibrant procession of floats, marching bands, classic cars, and, of course, Santa Claus himself! Taking place on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 9 to 10:30 am, the parade starts at the Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche and winds through downtown, concluding behind the Visitor Information Center. Prime viewing spots line the historic district’s streets, and after the parade, Santa will greet children at the Plaza de la Constitución for photos. Seasonal Park and Ride Shuttle services will begin at 8 am to ensure easy access for all attendees.
Regatta of Lights
The Holiday Regatta of Lights takes St. Augustine’s world-famous Nights of Lights onto the water, transforming the bayfront into a breathtaking display of festivity. Scheduled for Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 6 to 7:30 pm, this annual event is organized by the St. Augustine Yacht Club and features a stunning array of sail, power, and paddle vessels, each intricately decorated with colorful lights. The best viewing spots for spectators are between the Bridge of Lions and the Castillo de San Marcos, where sailboats, trawlers, yachts, shrimp boats and more participants compete in four categories: best theme, most colorful, best in class and best overall. This enchanting parade not only highlights the maritime roots and rich nautical heritage of St. Augustine but also provides an unforgettable experience for both locals and visitors. To enjoy the spectacle, guests can sit along the bayfront by the seawall or take in the view from waterfront restaurants such as Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille and Casa Reina.
Villa Zorayda Candlelight Tours
Join the Villa Zorayda Museum this holiday season for their annual Candlelight Tours, where the enchanting ambiance of this historic Moorish-inspired mansion is transformed into a magical holiday wonderland. The villa is beautifully adorned with Victorian and traditional decorations throughout the museum, showcasing a spectacular Christmas tree center stage in the “Court of Lions.” With over 100 candles aglow, you will take an audio-guided tour to explore the fascinating 140 years of history, as well as the museum’s beautiful art and antique collection. As the evening unfolds, guests will gather around the upper and lower balconies in anticipation of the highlight of the event: the lighting of the Christmas tree. Experience the wonder as the museum darkens, gradually illuminating each floor in celebration. After witnessing the spectacular lighting, enjoy a complimentary beverage and cookie to complete your Candlelight Tour. Please note: this tour is not recommended for children ages five and under.
2024 Candlelight Tour Dates:
• Friday, December 6th
• Friday, December 13th
• Monday, December 16th
• Friday, December 20th
• Friday, December 27th
• Monday, December 30th
• Friday, January 3rd
Tours commence at 5:30 pm and 7 pm each night.
Luminary Night at the St. Augustine Lighthouse
Luminary Night is a holiday event in St. Augustine that transforms the lighthouse grounds into a winter wonderland. Thousands of luminaries create a breathtaking ambiance, illuminating the historic lighthouse and surrounding area.
Luminary Displays: The glow of thousands of luminaries creates a serene and enchanting atmosphere at the St. Augustine Lighthouse. Wander through the illuminated pathways and take in the beauty of the lights against the backdrop of the historic lighthouse.
Festive Activities: Luminary Night also features various festive activities, including live music, refreshments and family-friendly entertainment. It’s a wonderful way to spend an evening and get into the holiday spirit.
Christmas Tour of Homes
The 53rd Annual Holiday Tour of Homes, presented by the Garden Club of St. Augustine, takes visitors inside six homes in the nation’s oldest city on Sunday, December 8, 2024, between 12 and 5 pm. “Christmas in the Gilded Age” is the theme for 2024, and the homes are all located in the Flagler Model Land neighborhood, on Valencia and Riberia Streets. Flagler built his mansion on Valencia Street in 1893, next to the Memorial Presbyterian Church he founded. The church and his home and estate were on the large block surrounded by Valencia, Sevilla, Carerra and Riberia Streets, and several of his trusted business partners also built homes in the neighborhood during the Gilded Age. This walking tour enables guests to see beautiful homes decorated with fresh wreaths, garlands, and floral arrangements. Tickets go on sale on October 1, 2024.
Guests may tour the homes at their own pace from noon to 5 pm. In addition to the tour, visitors can enjoy the Garden Club’s “Holiday Tea and Boutique” and purchase delicious treats and many handmade items, such as crafts, baked goods and jams created by the club’s members. The Holiday Tea and Boutique is at the River House (179 Marine Street) and is open from noon until 4 pm. Some limited transportation will be provided from the parking garage to the River House and select locations. This is a walking tour, and there are stairs at some of the homes. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are highly recommended.
Date and Time: Sunday, December 8, 2024, from noon to 5 pm.
Location: The six homes are in the Flagler Model Land community in historic downtown. This is a walking tour. The list of homes will be released shortly before the tour. There will be transportation from the tour to the Holiday Tea and Boutique at the River House.
Holiday Pops Concert by the St. Augustine Orchestra
The EMMA Concert Series presents their traditional holiday concert featuring The Gainesville Orchestra with their Holiday Pops show, on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, from 7:30 to 9:30 pm. The Gainesville Chamber Orchestra was founded in 1983, with an inaugural concert by 34 professional musicians, teachers, and talented students. By 2013, they had added members, signed Maestro Evans Haile as music director and conductor, and changed the organization’s name to The Gainesville Orchestra.
Date and Time: Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at 7:30 pm.
Location: Lewis Auditorium, 14 Granada Street, St. Augustine, Florida 32084
Parking: Free parking will be available at the St. Johns County Council on Aging, 180 Marine Street, St. Augustine. A free shuttle service will take those attending the concert to and from the parking lot. Free parking will not be available at Flagler College’s Lewis Auditorium.
About EMMA Concert Association: The association was named to honor Emil Maestre, a Spanish cellist who retired to St. Augustine. Founded in 1979 by several music lovers, EMMA’s mission is to provide “quality music and dance performances at modest ticket prices.” This nonprofit volunteer organization strives to present music and dance performances at an affordable price. In addition, EMMA provides funds, equipment and instruments to various school programs in St. Johns County.
St. Augustine Ballet’s The Nutcracker
The St. Augustine Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker is a beloved holiday tradition that brings the magic of Tchaikovsky’s classic score to life. This enchanting ballet tells the timeless story of Clara’s magical Christmas Eve adventure. The St. Augustine Ballet performs its annual Nutcracker at Flagler College’s Lewis Auditorium from Friday, December 20, through Sunday, December 22, 2024, at 7 pm. There are two shows on Saturday — 1:30 pm and 7 pm. The final performance for The Nutcracker will begin at 2 pm on Sunday, December 22.
The year 2024 marks the 16th anniversary of St. Augustine Ballet’s presentation of The Nutcracker. To celebrate, they have added more professional dancers and performers and have planned surprises for the audience. Character roles have not been announced.
The St. Augustine Ballet offers performance opportunities to ballet dancers from St. Johns County and the surrounding areas. The company brings in professional dancers to perform in two large shows produced annually, including The Nutcracker. The St. Augustine Ballet is a nonprofit performing arts organization founded in 2010.
St. Augustine Winter Spectacular
Get in the holiday spirit at the St. Augustine Winter Spectacular 2024 at Lewis Auditorium! This popular family-friendly, entertaining holiday production follows a young girl’s journey home for the holidays. Expect high-kick dancers reminiscent of the iconic Radio City Rockettes mixed with holiday music, ballerinas, acrobats, actors and more amid dazzling costuming and props. Refreshments will be sold in the lobby. Be sure to participate in the raffle and auctions taking place during each performance.
Performance Dates | Times:
• Saturday, December 14, 2024 — 7 pm
• Sunday, December 15, 2024 — 2 pm
Holiday Market at Lightner Museum
The Lightner Museum is hosting a special Lightner After-Hours and Holiday Market event on Thursday, December 5th, from 5:30 to 8:30 pm at the Lightner Museum, 75 King Street. This festive gathering transforms the historic Alcazar swimming pool room into a vibrant marketplace featuring a curated selection of local artisans and small businesses. Each year, the Lightner Museum hosts over 35 unique artisans and small businesses for a festive evening of shopping and fun, making it an excellent addition to your holiday in St. Augustine.
Local Artisans: Explore the holiday market and discover unique gifts and handmade crafts from local artisans. It’s a wonderful opportunity to support small businesses and find special holiday treasures.
Festive Shopping Experience: The historic setting of the Lightner Museum adds to the charm of the holiday market. This St. Augustine holiday event is a great way to enjoy a festive shopping experience, complete with spirited music and decorations.
FAQs
St. Augustine offers a plethora of unique shopping destinations perfect for holiday gift hunting. The St. George Street area is lined with charming boutiques and specialty shops. The Lightner Museum’s holiday market and the St. Augustine Premium Outlets are also excellent choices for finding unique gifts and artisan crafts while supporting local businesses. Don’t miss the festive atmosphere and unique finds at Aviles Street, the oldest street in the United States.
Those having a St. Augustine holiday typically enjoy mild and pleasant weather during the winter season. In December, average temperatures hover between the mid-50s °F (10-13°C) at night and the low 70s °F (21-23°C) in the daytime. This comfortable climate makes it perfect for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions and attending festive events. However, it’s always advisable to check the weather forecast close to your visit and pack accordingly.
