Celebrate the Holidays in St. Augustine: Christmas Events You Won’t Want to Miss
St. Augustine, Florida, the nation’s oldest city, is known for its rich history, charming streets, and stunning architecture. But when the holiday season rolls around, the city transforms into a winter wonderland with a magical array of Christmas events that bring the festive spirit to life in unique and unforgettable ways. From dazzling light displays to festive parades and historic tours, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in St. Augustine this Christmas.
Here are some of the top Christmas events happening in St. Augustine this year that you won’t want to miss:
1. Nights of Lights
When: November 18, 2024 – January 31, 2025
Where: Throughout St. Augustine
Details:
One of the most iconic holiday traditions in St. Augustine is the Nights of Lights, where the entire historic district is adorned with millions of twinkling white lights. The event kicks off every November and runs through January, casting a magical glow over the ancient streets and historic buildings. Visitors can take a stroll along St. George Street, enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride, or take a boat tour to view the spectacular lights from the water. It’s truly a sight to behold and a must-see for anyone visiting during the holiday season.
For more information, visit Nights of Lights.
2. Florida Water Tours: Sunset Nights of Lights Cruise
When: Daily, 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Where: 107 Yacht Club Drive, St. Augustine Florida 32084
Details:
For a truly unique experience, hop aboard the Sunset Nights of Lights Cruise with Florida Water Tours. This evening cruise offers breathtaking views of the illuminated city from the water, as you sail past historic landmarks and beautifully lit waterfront properties. The experience combines the serene beauty of a St. Augustine sunset with the magical glow of the Nights of Lights. The crew provides interesting commentary about the city’s history, and you’ll have plenty of time to capture stunning photos of the lights reflecting on the water.
If you’re looking for a memorable way to see the lights, this cruise is a fantastic option. The boat’s open-air seating offers a perfect vantage point for viewing the lights, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect holiday outing.
For tickets and more information, visit Florida Water Tours: Sunset Nights of Lights Cruise.
3. Florida Water Tours: Nights of Lights Cruise
When: Daily, times vary.
Where: 107 Yacht Club Drive St. Augustine, 32084
Details:
Another great option from Florida Water Tours is their standard Nights of Lights Cruise. This boat tour is a 75-minute adventure that takes you through the historic bayfront and scenic waterways of St. Augustine, offering an up-close view of the Nights of Lights display. You’ll see the spectacular holiday lights illuminating the city’s landmarks, historic homes, and parks, including the famous Lightner Museum and the Bridge of Lions. The tour is enhanced by the knowledgeable guides, who share the history of the city’s Christmas traditions while you enjoy the festive scene.
If you want to enjoy the Christmas lights from the comfort of a cozy boat while taking in the cool evening breeze, this cruise is a perfect way to see the city’s holiday spirit.
For tickets and more details, visit Florida Water Tours: Nights of Lights Cruise.
4. St. Augustine Christmas Parade
When: December 7, 2024, at 10:00 AM
Where: Downtown St. Augustine
Details:
The St. Augustine Christmas Parade is a festive, family-friendly tradition that marches through the streets of the nation’s oldest city. Featuring local school bands, community groups, festive floats, and even Santa Claus himself, the parade is a delightful way to kick off the holiday season. Arrive early to grab a good spot along the parade route and enjoy the colorful procession as it makes its way through historic St. Augustine.
For more details, visit St. Augustine Christmas Parade.
5. The Candlelight Tour at the Lightner Museum
When: December 13–14, 2024
Where: Lightner Museum
Details:
Step back in time and experience Christmas like never before at the Candlelight Tour of the historic Lightner Museum. The museum, housed in a former hotel built in the 1880s, is beautifully decorated for the holidays. On this special evening, visitors can enjoy candlelit tours of the museum, listen to live holiday music, and admire the stunning Victorian-era decorations. It’s a romantic, intimate way to experience the spirit of the season.
For more information, visit Lightner Museum Candlelight Tour.
6. St. Augustine Ballet’s The Nutcracker
When: December 13–14, 2024
Where: Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College
Details:
The Nutcracker ballet is a holiday classic, and St. Augustine’s very own St. Augustine Ballet brings it to life with their annual performance. This production features stunning choreography, beautiful costumes, and a live orchestra, making it one of the most anticipated events of the holiday season in St. Augustine. The Nutcracker will transport you into the magical world of Clara, the Nutcracker Prince, and the Sugar Plum Fairy.
For tickets and more information, visit St. Augustine Ballet.
7. Historic Tours of Distinction: Holiday Historic Home Tours
When: December 1–31, 2024
Where: Various historic homes in St. Augustine
Details:
Experience St. Augustine’s rich history and charming architecture through the Holiday Historic Home Tours. This unique tour allows visitors to step inside beautifully restored historic homes that are decked out for the holiday season. You’ll learn about the fascinating history of these homes, while enjoying the festive decorations that highlight both colonial and Victorian-era holiday traditions.
For more information, visit Holiday Historic Home Tours.
8. A Ghostly Christmas Tour
When: December 6–30, 2024
Where: St. Augustine Historic District
Details:
For something a little different this holiday season, why not experience the spooky side of Christmas with a Ghostly Christmas Tour? This guided walking tour takes you through the haunted streets of St. Augustine while telling eerie tales of Christmas past. You’ll hear stories of ghostly apparitions, mysterious happenings, and historic figures who still seem to haunt the city’s festive season.
For more details, visit Ghostly Christmas Tour.
9. St. Augustine’s Holiday Music & Concerts
When: Throughout December
Where: Various venues in St. Augustine
Details:
From Christmas carolers to full orchestral performances, St. Augustine offers a variety of holiday music concertsthroughout December. One of the highlights is the St. Augustine Community Chorus Christmas Concert, which features a heartwarming performance of holiday classics. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional concert or a lively jazz band, you’ll find the perfect holiday soundtrack in St. Augustine.
For concert details, visit St. Augustine Holiday Concerts.
10. Christmas at the Colonial Quarter
When: December 1–31, 2024
Where: Colonial Quarter
Details:
Step back in time and experience a 16th-century Christmas at the Colonial Quarter. This interactive attraction showcases the history of early St. Augustine, and during the holiday season, the Colonial Quarter is beautifully decorated and filled with holiday cheer. Visitors can learn about the Christmas traditions of early settlers, watch live demonstrations, and enjoy seasonal treats. It’s a fantastic experience for families and history enthusiasts alike.
For more details, visit Christmas at Colonial Quarter.
11. Holiday Lights Boat Parade
When: December 14, 2024, at 6:00 PM
Where: Matanzas Bay
Details:
For a unique holiday experience, check out the Holiday Lights Boat Parade. Dozens of boats decorated with festive lights parade through Matanzas Bay, creating a glowing spectacle on the water. It’s a festive event that’s perfect for boat lovers or anyone who enjoys a different take on traditional holiday displays. The parade is free to watch, and you can enjoy the festive atmosphere from various points along the waterfront.
For more information, visit Holiday Lights Boat Parade.
12. Christmas Eve Services at Historic Churches
When: December 24, 2024
Where: Various historic churches in St. Augustine
Details:
For those looking for a more spiritual holiday experience, St. Augustine’s historic churches host Christmas Eve services that are deeply moving. Whether you’re attending a midnight Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine or a candlelit service at one of the city’s other historic churches, these services offer a peaceful and beautiful way to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.
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