As the nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine’s charm never disappoints. No matter which season you visit this spectacular city, you’ll experience a unique blend of historic sites, captivating architecture, abundant seafood and scenic waterways. When the holiday season arrives, St. Augustine’s charms are magical. From twinkling light displays to entertaining tours to musical performances, there’s something to please everyone. Enhance your holiday joy at these special events.
Night of Lights
Known as one of the best holiday light displays in the world, St. Augustine’s Night of Lights features millions of tiny white lights from the ground to the rooftops. Bask in this magical glow from November 19th through January 31st. Enjoy every evening beginning at dusk. 11 S Castillo Drive. 904-825-1004 www.NightsofLights.com
Light Up the Beach
From November 26th through December 31st, colorful light displays along A1A Beach Boulevard and St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park add holiday magic at the St. Augustine Light Up the Beach event. 350 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. 904-471-2122 www.staugbch.com/events/page/sab-events
St. Augustine Regatta of Lights
On December 10th the annual Regatta of Lights Boat Parade lights up the water in downtown St. Augustine. Brightly lit boats decorated in a myriad of themes pass by the bayfront north of the Bridge of Lions. The Regatta is free and open to the public and starts at 6 p.m. Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine. 904-824-9725 www.staugustineyachtclub.com/regatta-of-lights
Lighthouse Illuminations
From November 23rd through January 14th twenty-one uniquely decorated trees, each with a distinct theme, will be on display at the St. Augustine Lighthouse. Celebrate the magic of the season as you explore the Keepers’ house and grounds illuminated by lights and garlands. Tickets for the after-hours event are $21.95 for adults and seniors and $19.95 for children. 81 Lighthouse Dr. www.StaugustineLigthhouse.org
St. Augustine Christmas Parade
Who doesn’t love a Christmas parade? Usher in the holiday season at St. Augustine’s annual Christmas Parade showcasing floats, cars, horses, marching bands and special guest, Santa. The parade starts at 9 a.m. by the Mission Nombre de Dios on San Marco Ave. and continues through the historic downtown streets. 904-824-9407 www.staugustinesocial.com/christmas-parade
EMMA Concert Association Presents Holiday Pops Concert
On December 14th EMMA Concert Association presents the Gainesville Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops Concert at Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College at 7:30 p.m. General admission is $60. 14 Granada St. 904-797-2800 www.emmaconcerts.com
“Noches de Navidad” and Las Posadas at Mission Nombre de Dios
On December 17th, Our Lady of La Leche hosts a beautiful silent night experience on the Sacred Acre, complete with a Live Nativity, Eucharistic Adoration, cookies and hot cocoa along with a 16th-Century Spanish procession of “Las Posadas” (the Inns), presented by Historic Florida Militia. Admission is free. Reservations required. 101 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine. www.missionandshrine.org
Nutcracker Ballet
Saint Augustine Ballet presents the 14th annual Nutcracker Ballet. The Sugar Plum Fairy, the Mouse King, Clara, Uncle Drosselmeyer and all the Nutcracker characters will return to the St. Augustine stage for three performances this holiday season. The performance of this timeless classic features professional ballet dancers and dance students from St. Augustine and surrounding areas. Tickets are $35-$50 each. The performances are Saturday, December 17th at 1:30 and 7 p.m. and Sunday, December 18th at 1:30 p.m. at Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College, 14 Granada St., St. Augustine. 904-810-5670 www.saintaugustineballet.org
How the GRINCH Stole Christmas Experience
Christmas simply can’t happen without Mr. Grinch! Ride along with this lovable grouch as he tries to steal Christmas away from one and all. This interactive GRINCHmas experience includes a private boarding, 45-minute ride on open-air electric vehicles with holiday music adding to the experience. Tickets are $35 and reservations are required. Tours are between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. running from November 23rd through December 31st. The Tasting Tours, 24 Cathedral Pl., #401, St. Augustine. 904-325-3911 www.thetastingtours.com
