The oldest city in the United States is attracting global attention, but not for its rich history, beautiful beaches, chic accommodations or award-winning cuisine. Instead, thousands of visitors annually travel to the historic coastal town of St. Augustine, Florida for a dose of holiday magic.
From November to January the city’s historic downtown district transforms into a whimsical winter festival called the Nights of Lights, a citywide event featuring millions of twinkling lights so spectacular that Clark Griswold would stop in awe. From sidewalks to rooftops, holiday displays adorn historic buildings, public spaces, hotels, restaurants and small businesses. And most notably, these spectacular light displays are free for the community to enjoy.
Now in its 31st year, the festival showcases an eclectic mix of performances, each hoping to be the city’s biggest and brightest. Residents and visitors alike dress up in seasonal attire adding to the festive atmosphere. Golf cart playing Christmas tunes, the Grinch himself rolls down Aviles Street. Horse-drawn carriages line up with couples sipping cups of mulled wine on a chilly Florida night. Almost every inch of the city, every business, every hotel, displays its own personality with themed trees and custom decorations inside and out.
From walking tours to scenic sails, there are many ways for visitors to enjoy the nighttime festival of lights. Consider adding this travel experience to your upcoming itinerary.
Golf Cart Tours with St. Augustine Land and Sea Tours
St. Augustine Land and Sea Tours offer one of the best ways to experience the festival across more than 20 blocks of the city’s historic district. Guests are greeted by their personal driver, dressed for the occasion, aboard an open-cabin electric golf cart. Small groups are treated to family-friendly holiday music and relaxing viewing opportunities as they leisurely stroll around town. These golf carts are an easy and comfortable way to navigate the otherwise tight streets and crowded event areas. This particular tour is recommended for families with small children as well as mobility concerns. Each electric golf cart can accommodate up to 9 guests for this tour of approximately 45 minutes.
A private car ride from The Tasting Tour
Ready to star in your own Hallmark Christmas movie? Private horse-drawn carriage rides from The Tasting Tour are great for couples looking for that movie-worthy romance. But not just for couples, these old-fashioned carriage tours are also great for adult groups of 4 and under who are looking for a more personalized, intimate and luxurious viewing experience in the historic downtown district. Passengers are treated to friendly, festive car decorations and glasses of wine as they embark on a charming guided tour of the city’s skyline. These 35-45 minute tours are booked by appointment and subject to availability.
Not to be overlooked, St. Augustine Experience’s guided walking tours may be just the experience you’re looking for. Walking tours can elevate your status from standard tourist to knowledgeable local insider, exploring nooks, crannies and unique locations that travelers otherwise miss. Guests are greeted by a friendly tour guide who is ready to cater to their pace and interests as they explore the sprawling winter festival on foot. The tour guide effortlessly blends the city’s deep history and folklore with contemporary events and remarkable light displays. Guests don’t want to miss a festive moment, with the tour guide offering a handy list of stops to add as well as sharing more about walking tour events like the 7:00 pm “snow” and self-serve draft in Aggie’s Draft Room. A Night Journey of Light. A wonderful travel experience for travelers looking to see the lights, but capture the magic of the city’s incredible history. These 90 minute tours are offered 7 days a week, rain or shine.
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Sunset sail with Freedom Charter
Sailing daily from the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, family-owned and operated Schooner Freedom Charters offers the perfect sunset sail to view the lights from the bay. The 76-foot vessel welcomes its passengers with open arms. Before sailing they offer a helpful safety lesson, immediately followed by a champagne (or soda) toast. The atmosphere on deck is relaxed and stunning, entertaining couples, groups and even families with small children. Families are welcome to help raise the sails, and children get to “steer” the boat. The crew serves unlimited bar drinks and shares more about the site and wildlife. When the sun goes down the schooner lights up in its own holiday display while the crew passes around Christmas candy and plays festive music. The ship sails to different parts of the coast so guests can get the best seats in the house to view the lights. Approximately 2 hour tours depart at 4:15 pm from November 23 to January 12.
Other holiday events and activities not to be missed
After travelers see the stunning lights, they should plan to attend one of the many holiday events during the winter festival. Other events to enjoy include Luminary Night at the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum, the Christmas Experience at Villa Zoraida, and the annual Holiday Boat Parade in Palm Valley and Matanzas Bay. Many local hotels, inns and restaurants will also offer special dinners, tours and menus specially prepared for the season. Travelers looking to plan a trip to Nights of Lights should explore the St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and The Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau website for more resources.
St. Augustine Nights of Lights is undoubtedly one of the best winter light festivals free to the public in the United States. With something for everyone, this event will dazzle the “grinchiest” of groups, couples, families and travelers alike.
Anna Marie Imborino
Anna Marie Imborino is a travel writer from Charleston, SC, USA. His love for history and art keeps him traveling, looking not only at the places, but at the experiences of the people who make up the stories
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