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 city 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 Nights of Lights, a citywide event featuring millions of twinkling lights so spectacular that Clark Griswold would be in awe. From sidewalks to rooftops, holiday displays adorn historic buildings, public spaces, hotels, restaurants and small businesses. And most notably, this magnificent light display is free for the community to enjoy.
Now in its 31st year, the festival features an eclectic mix of displays, each hoping to be the biggest and brightest in the city. Residents and visitors alike add to the festive atmosphere by dressing for the season. Golf carts playing Christmas tunes, the Grinch himself, roll down Evil’s Street. Horse-drawn carriages pass by on a chilly Florida night as couples huddle together over cups of mulled wine. Almost every inch of the city, every business, every hotel, shows 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 Nights of Lights festival. Consider adding these travel experiences to your next itinerary.
Golf Cart Tour with St. Augustine Land and Sea Tours
St. Augustine land and sea tours Covering more than 20 blocks of the city’s historic district, the festival offers one of the best ways to experience it. Guests are greeted by their personal driver, who rides in an open-cabin electric golf cart, dressed for the occasion. Small groups are treated to family-friendly holiday music and leisurely viewing opportunities as they leisurely make their way around town. This golf cart is an easy and comfortable way to navigate the otherwise tight streets and crowded event areas. This particular tour is recommended for families with young children as well as families with mobility concerns. Each electric golf cart can accommodate up to 9 guests for this tour of approximately 45 minutes.
Private carriage ride from The Tasting Tours
Ready to star in your own Hallmark Christmas movie? Private horse-carriage ride from Tasting tours It is great for couples looking for a movie-worthy romance. But not just for couples, this old-fashioned carriage tour is also great for adult groups of 4 or less looking for a more personal, intimate and luxurious viewing experience of the historic downtown district. Passengers are treated to friendly staff, festive carriage decorations and offered glasses of wine as they embark on a fascinating guided tour of the city’s lightscape. These 35-45 minute tours are booked by appointment and are subject to availability.
Not to be overlooked, from guided walking tours Experience St. Augustine It 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 spots that are otherwise missed by tourists. Guests are greeted by friendly tour guides ready to meet 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. Not wanting guests to miss a festive moment, the tour guide shares more about events to visit on foot such as “snow” at 7:00pm and self-serve drafts. Augie’s Draft Room In addition to offering a tailored list of stops to add to the Nights of Lights itinerary. A great travel experience for travelers who want to see the lights, but also 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 sailing with Schooner Freedom Charter
Daily sailings from the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, family owned and operated Schooner Freedom Charter Offer a perfect sunset sail to view the lights from the bay. The 76-foot vessel welcomes its passengers with open arms. Before sailing they give a helpful safety lesson, followed by a champagne (or soda) toast. The atmosphere on deck is relaxed and spectacular, entertaining couples, groups and even families with young children. Families are welcome to help raise the sails, and children have the opportunity to “calf” the boat. The crew serves unlimited bar drinks and shares more about the sites and wildlife. Once 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 seat in the house to view the lights. Approximately 2 hours tour starts from 23rd November to 12th January at 4:15 pm.
Other holiday events and activities are not to be missed
After tourists see the spectacular lights, they should also plan to attend one of the many festivities that take place during the winter festival. Other events to enjoy include Luminary Night St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime MuseumExperience Christmas here Villa Zorredaand the annual holiday boat parades in Palm Valley and Matanzas Bay to name just a few. Many local hotels, inns and restaurants will also offer special dinners, tours and menus specially curated for the season. Travelers planning to visit the Nights of Lights should explore St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and Beaches Visitor and Convention Bureau website for more resources.
St. Augustine Nights of Lights is without a doubt one of the free winter light festivals in the United States. With something for everyone, this event will delight groups, couples, families and the “grinchiest” of travelers.
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