St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, transforms into a magical wonderland during the holiday season. The annual “Night of Lights” event showcases the city’s historic charm while celebrating the festive spirit with millions of sparkling lights. If you plan to visit St. Augustine this Christmas, here are 44 activities to enjoy that will make your trip unforgettable.
Walk Through Historic St. George Street
St. George Street, the heart of St. Augustine, becomes even more magical during the Night of Lights. Stroll through this historic street while admiring beautifully lit buildings and festive storefronts.
Take a Trolley Tour of the Night of Lights
Hop on a trolley for a guided tour of the city’s dazzling holiday display. The trolley tour provides an excellent way to take in all the best light displays while learning about the city’s rich history.
Visit the Plaza de la Constitución
In the center of St. Augustine, the Plaza de la Constitución is decked out with twinkling lights, Christmas trees, and holiday decorations. It’s a picture-perfect spot to soak up the festive atmosphere.
Explore Flagler College’s Festive Display
With its grand architecture, Flagler College becomes even more breathtaking during the Night of Lights. The building is adorned with elegant lighting, making it a must-see stop on your holiday tour.
Experience the Holiday Regatta of Lights
This annual boat parade is a beloved tradition in St. Augustine. Watch as boats of all sizes sail along Matanzas Bay, decorated with colorful Christmas lights.
Enjoy a Carriage Ride Through the Lights
For a romantic and enchanting experience, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the beautifully illuminated streets of St. Augustine.
Visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
The St. Augustine Lighthouse offers a unique perspective during the holiday season. The grounds are festively decorated, and climbing to the top offers panoramic views of the city’s sparkling lights.
Attend a Christmas Eve Service at the Cathedral Basilica
The historic Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine is stunningly decorated for the holiday season. Attend a Christmas Eve service for a spiritual experience in a truly breathtaking setting.
Explore the Colonial Quarter
Step back to St. Augustine’s Colonial Quarter, where you can learn about the city’s history while enjoying the festive decorations.
Take a Sunset Cruise
Book a sunset cruise to experience the lights of St. Augustine from the water. The view is truly magical as the sun sets and the city begins to glow.
Visit the Lightner Museum
The Lightner Museum is not only a fascinating museum filled with beautiful antiques and artifacts; during the holiday season, it’s decorated with festive lights and decorations.
Attend the Christmas Parade
The St. Augustine Christmas Parade is one of the city’s most significant holidays. Featuring festive floats, bands, and Santa Claus himself, it is a must-see for families.
Admire the Christmas Tree at the Government House
The Government House in St. Augustine sets up a grand Christmas tree each year, which is beautifully lit and decorated.
Take a Ghosts and Gravestones Holiday Tour
For those seeking a spookier holiday experience, the Ghosts and Gravestones Holiday Tour mixes Christmas with haunted tales from the city’s past.
Visit Villa Zorayda Museum’s Candlelight Tour
Villa Zorayda Museum offers special holiday candlelight tours. The museum is filled with festive decor, and the guided tour provides insight into the unique architecture and history of the building.
Shop for Holiday Gifts at the St. Augustine Outlets
The St. Augustine Outlets are the perfect place for holiday shopping. Here, you can find gifts for loved ones and take advantage of seasonal deals.
Enjoy Christmas Music at the Cathedral Basilica Concert Series
The Cathedral Basilica hosts Christmas concerts during the holiday season, featuring beautiful choral music and traditional holiday songs.
Sip Hot Cocoa at Kilwins Chocolates
Warm up with a cup of hot cocoa from Kilwins Chocolates as you stroll through the illuminated streets.
Watch the Nutcracker at the Lewis Auditorium
Enjoy a performance of the classic ballet, “The Nutcracker,” at the Lewis Auditorium. This enchanting holiday tradition is perfect for all ages.
Attend a Holiday Market at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre
The St. Augustine Amphitheatre hosts a festive holiday market where you can shop for local crafts and gifts and enjoy seasonal treats.
Stay at the Casa Monica Resort & Spa
The Casa Monica Resort & Spa is beautifully decorated for the holiday season. Stay at this luxurious hotel to experience holiday magic combined with St. Augustine’s historic charm.
Experience the Annual Art Walk
The annual St. Augustine Art Walk features galleries decorated for the season and local artists showcasing their holiday-inspired works.
Watch the Illuminated Fishing Village at St. Augustine Fish Camp
Visit St. Augustine Fish Camp to enjoy a quaint fishing village adorned with twinkling lights. The reflections on the water create a serene and festive scene.
Take a Self-Guided Tour of Christmas Decorations
St. Augustine’s historic homes and businesses are decorated with elaborate Christmas lights. Take a self-guided tour to explore the best of these festive displays.
Explore Anastasia State Park
Anastasia State Park is a beautiful natural area to explore during the holiday season. Pack a picnic and enjoy the park’s tranquil setting.
Visit the Fountain of Youth
While known for its historical significance, the Fountain of Youth is beautifully decorated during Christmas. Take a tour and learn about the history while enjoying the holiday decor.
Attend the St. Augustine Art & Craft Festival
The St. Augustine Art & Craft Festival features local artisans and crafters selling handmade holiday gifts. It’s the perfect place to find a unique present for someone special.
Take a Photography Tour
Capture the beauty of the Night of Lights with a guided photography tour. Learn tips and tricks from professional photographers to take stunning holiday photos.
Explore the World Golf Hall of Fame’s Festive Decor
The World Golf Hall of Fame gets into the holiday spirit with unique decorations. It’s a great spot for golf lovers and holiday enthusiasts alike.
Attend the Menorcan Christmas at the Llambias House
Celebrate St. Augustine’s Menorcan heritage with a special Menorcan Christmas celebration at the historic Llambias House.
Dine at a Festively Decorated Restaurant
Many of St. Augustine’s restaurants go all out with holiday decorations. Enjoy a meal in a beautifully festive setting.
Visit the Potter’s Wax Museum
The Potter’s Wax Museum becomes even more fun during the holiday season. The wax figures are often dressed in festive outfits to match the holiday cheer.
Take a Holiday-Themed Painting Class
Join a holiday-themed painting class and create your Christmas masterpiece to take home as a keepsake.
Explore the Castillo de San Marcos
The Castillo de San Marcos is always a must-see when in St. Augustine. During the holidays, the city’s dazzling light display surrounds the fort.
Visit the Old Jail Museum
Take a tour of the Old Jail Museum during the holiday season and hear tales of old St. Augustine while enjoying the festive decor.
Watch the First City Lights Symphony
The First City Lights Symphony is a unique musical event in Night of Lights. It is a beautiful blend of music and visual beauty.
Experience the Festival of Trees
The Festival of Trees showcases beautifully decorated Christmas trees, each with its unique theme. It’s a great way to get inspiration for your holiday decorating.
Tour the Ximenez-Fatio House
The Ximenez-Fatio House is a historic home that’s beautifully decorated for Christmas. Take a tour and learn about the history of this stunning building.
Enjoy a Boat Tour of the Night of Lights
For a different perspective, book a boat tour and see the Night of Lights from the water. It’s a serene and magical way to experience the event.
Attend the Winter Wonderland at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm
The St. Augustine Alligator Farm hosts a Winter Wonderland event with festive lights, holiday-themed exhibits, and fun activities for kids.
Visit the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum
The St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum is a fun and educational stop for families. During the holiday season, the museum features festive decorations.
Listen to Christmas Carols by the Bay
Gather by the bay and enjoy traditional Christmas carols sung by local choirs. The serene setting adds a special touch to this classic holiday experience.
Attend the Colonial Night Watch
The Colonial Night Watch is a reenactment event that brings history to life with a festive twist. It’s a unique way to experience St. Augustine’s past during the holidays.
Take a Night of Lights Photography Class
Learn how to capture the magic of the Night of Lights with a professional photography class. This is a great way to take home stunning memories of your holiday visit. St. Augustine is magical during the holiday season, with countless activities to enjoy. Whether walking through the illuminated streets or exploring historic landmarks, the Night of Lights brings a festive glow to every corner of the city.