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Want a first-hand experience of what it’s like visiting the St. Augustine Night of Lights? I’ve got you.
My Florida Travel Podcast partner, Christina Sawyer, and I have visited this delightful area on more than one occasion. Combined, this is our experience of what it’s like to travel with our family and take in the St. Augustine Night of Lights. Christina has 3 kids, and at the time were ages 7 to 16. When I traveled, we had teenagers. I’ve also updated this guide for 2023.
Here are what you can expect and additional things to do in St. Augustine, Florida to make an entire weekend holiday trip.
First of all, I love St. Augustine. It happens to be one of my favorite places to visit. But most of all, I was ready to see some Christmas lights. I can assure you, that St. Augustine did not disappoint.
As a family that’s always on the move, finding that perfect holiday experience can be a challenge. But fear not, because I’m here to provide you with an expert guide to the St. Augustine Nights of Lights – an enchanting holiday festival that will make your Christmas truly magical. Whether you’re wondering when to see the lights or where to find the best photo spots, this comprehensive guide has you covered.
When is the St. Augustine Nights of Lights?
The Nights of Lights in St. Augustine is an annual festival that transforms this charming city into a twinkling wonderland. Mark your calendars because this spectacular event typically runs from mid-November through January, giving you plenty of time to plan your visit.
When does St. Augustine decorate for Christmas? It officially kicks off on November 18, 2023, and lasts until January 31, 2024.
The exact St. Augustine Christmas Lights dates and times for the event may vary slightly from year to year, so it’s best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information. You can find more information about the event, including the dates and times, on the St. Augustine Nights of Lights website.
How long do the lights stay up in St. Augustine? Every year they are up until January 31at giving you plenty of time to see them.
What are the St. Augustine Nights of Lights?
If you’re wondering what makes the St. Augustine Nights of Lights so special, it’s all about the lights, of course!
This festival of lights is renowned for its dazzling display of millions of white, twinkling lights that adorn the historic buildings, trees, and streets of the city. It’s like stepping into a real-life fairy tale, making it the perfect backdrop for a family holiday adventure.
For the most part, the light displays are warm white lights, with an occasional colorful accent.
The holiday lights are on all the main-facing buildings, the lamp posts, palm trees, the bridge, and even the extraordinarily beautiful Flagler College.
What time is the Nights of Lights in St. Augustine?
The time when the lights turn on for the St. Augustine Nights of Lights varies depending on the day of the week and the time of the season. However, in general, the lights are typically turned on at sunset, which can vary from around 5:00 to 6:00 PM, depending on the time of year. It’s important to check the official schedule for the exact time of the lights turn on each day, as it can vary.
Are the St. Augustine Nights of Lights free?
Yes, the St. Augustine Nights of Lights is a free event for visitors to enjoy. Because the tiny white lights are literally everywhere in the downtown area, there is no admission fee to see the lights or to participate in the festivities associated with the event. The entire area is filled with holiday magic and holiday cheer!
Since it’s a free event, there is no need to purchase St. Augustine Nights of Lights Tickets.
However, some of the additional activities, such as carriage rides or trolley tours, may have a fee associated with them. Additionally, parking in certain areas may require payment of a parking fee.
How to See the Lights
Now that you know when and what to expect, let’s dive into how to make the most of your visit to the Nights of Lights in St. Augustine.
Best Ways to Experience the Magic
St. Augustine offers various ways for families to immerse themselves in the magic of the Nights of Lights. If you prefer a guided experience, consider taking one of the enchanting trolley tours. These tours provide a narrated journey through the city’s beautifully lit streets, offering historical insights along the way.
For those who like to explore at their own pace, a self-guided walking tour is a fantastic option. Start at the historic district and wander through the illuminated cobblestone streets, taking in the charm of the city as you go.
Where to See the Lights
To truly appreciate the brilliance of the St. Augustine Nights of Lights, you’ll want to visit key locations and landmarks that are transformed into stunning spectacles of light.
The Plaza de la Constitución, located in the heart of the historic district, is a central hub for the festival. The park’s ancient oak trees are adorned with thousands of lights, creating a magical canopy. It’s the perfect place to start your journey.
The Bridge of Lions, a symbol of St. Augustine, is another must-see. The bridge is beautifully illuminated and provides breathtaking views of the city. A stroll across the bridge is a memorable experience during Nights of Lights.
And don’t forget to explore the waterfront area, where you can catch reflections of the lights shimmering on the water.
Can you walk the St. Augustine Lights?
Yes, you can definitely walk the St. Augustine Nights of Lights! In fact, walking is a great way to experience the event and take in all the beautiful holiday lights and decorations throughout the historic district. Many visitors enjoy strolling along the pedestrian-friendly streets, taking in the sights and sounds of the magical atmosphere, and visiting the various shops and restaurants that participate in the event.
Walking is also the best way to avoid any potential traffic congestion that can occur during peak times of the event. Some of the best views of the historic buildings occur if you walk from the Bridge of Lions toward the historic district or towards the Castillo de San Marcos along the waterfront.
However, it’s important to note that some of the streets and sidewalks can be crowded during the busiest times, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and to take extra caution when crossing streets or walking in areas with heavy foot traffic.
St. Augustine Nights of Lights Trolley Tours
The highlight of the trip, of course, was the spectacular Night of Lights Trolley Tour. This event has been running for 27 years.
We did the Old Town Trolley’s Night of Lights Tour. You should definitely go expecting traffic. It took us about 30 min to get into the parking garage. You should book your Nights of Lights tickets in advance.
There are two trolleys in the St. Augustine area. the Old Town Trolley and the Red Train Trolley Tours. They both offer special seasonal tours of the award-winning holiday lights. Both are a great way to get around the area, as they have exclusive access to pathways not available to motor vehicles.
Upon getting on the trolley, they give you special glasses to see the lights. The kid’s glasses turn the lights into dancing reindeer and the adults make them stars. Such a neat little touch.
Then the fun really began. Our driver turned on Christmas music and the whole trolley was singing.
The businesses in the area were competing for best decorations so as we drove down the streets, she would point them out and the trolley could cheer for the best holiday lighting displays.
Everything was lit up and you couldn’t help but get in the holiday spirit. Well, everyone, that is, except for that green guy from Mt. Crumpit! As if the music and the lights weren’t festive enough, we got a drive-by from the Grinch on a golf cart.
Reserve your Nights of Lights Trolley Tour here 🎄 Free cancellation
Additional Ways to View the St. Augustine Nights of Lights
While you can walk around for free and enjoy the dazzling lights, there are other ways to enjoy this annual event.
Carriage Tours
What could be more authentic than a carriage ride over the Christmas holidays? You’ll find horses and buggies throughout the area during the annual nights of lights celebration. If you’re lucky, and there’s a chill in the air, you can have a true Victorian Christmas celebration and imagine a winter wonderland!
Boat Tours
One of my favorite ways to experience the lights is by water. This particular Nights of Lights Boat Cruise has over 193 five-star reviews. Celebrate the holiday season in a way you only can in Florida, by boat. This Nights of Lights Boat tour offers both an adults-only with an on-board bar and a family-friendly BYOB scenic cruise to see the millions of brilliant white lights from the water.
Reserve your Nights of Lights Boat Cruise here 🛥️ 🎄
Guided Walking Tour
Taking a guided walking tour at night is a great way to not only find all the hidden gems and history of St. Augustine, you’ll also enjoy plenty of photo opportunities. Find a tour that gives you both the history of the nation’s oldest city and navigating through the cobblestone streets to the best lights displays.
Reserve your Nights of Walking Tour here 🎄
Golf Cart
Yes, I said golf cart. If you want a more private experience, similar to the trolley tours. While this tour isn’t exclusive to just your party, it is smaller than the larger trolley tours. During the holiday season, you can also search to find a private Nights of Lights tours.
Reserve your Private Golf Cart Tour here 🎄
Saint Augustine Nights of Lights Photography tour in a Moke
Nights of Lights in a Moke is not just a great way to experience St. Augustine, it’s an unforgettable experience! Enjoy the beautiful and historic streets of this city from the comfort of an open-air vehicle.
As you drive around, look out for the millions of dazzling lights that adorn the homes and buildings in St. Augustine during the holiday season. With its vintage charm and modern flair, the Moke perfectly complements the festive ambiance of Nights of Lights.
The Moke is a classic British automobile that has seen a resurgence in popularity over the last few years. It’s easy to spot with its iconic shape, light weight construction, and custom paint jobs. Think small open air jeep. The Moke first came into existence in the 1960s and was highly popular during the 70s.
Reserve your Nights of Lights Moke Tour here 🎄
Lightner Museum
The Lightner Museum is one of the many historic sites and attractions in St. Augustine that participates in the Nights of Lights event. During the event, the museum is decorated with thousands of lights and ornaments, which create a magical and festive atmosphere for visitors. In addition to the beautiful holiday decor, the museum typically offers special events and activities during the Nights of Lights, such as musical performances, tours, and special exhibits.
One popular event hosted by the Lightner Museum during the Nights of Lights is the Candlelight Tours, which take visitors through the beautifully decorated museum after dark. These tours provide a unique and intimate experience of the museum and its collections, while also offering a chance to see the stunning holiday decor in a new light.
**As of early Fall 2023, no holiday events are listed at the Lightner Museum. Please check for updates.
Overall, the Lightner Museum is a must-see destination during the St. Augustine Nights of Lights, offering visitors a chance to experience the beauty and history of the city in a magical and festive setting.
Best Ways to See the Lights
Now that you know where to find the lights, let’s talk about the best ways to see them up close and capture those unforgettable moments.
Taking it All In
Arriving early or staying a bit later can be the key to avoiding the crowds. The early evening hours tend to be less crowded, allowing you to savor the experience without the hustle and bustle.
For families with young children, consider visiting during the weekdays when the crowds are smaller. This provides a more relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere.
Also consider visiting early in the season or late in the season. Obviously more people want to experience the lights the closer to Christmas it gets. Start your holidays early or keep them going well into the end of January.
Photography Tips
If you’re a photography enthusiast, Nights of Lights offers a fantastic opportunity to capture stunning holiday shots. To make the most of your photography experience:
- Use a Tripod: A stable platform is essential for capturing those long exposure shots. It helps avoid camera shake, resulting in sharper images.
- Adjust Your Settings: Switch your camera to manual mode to control settings like shutter speed and aperture. Yes, you can do this on cell phones too! A slower shutter speed (around 2-5 seconds) can create those beautiful light trails.
- Frame Your Shot: Experiment with different angles and compositions. Include elements like the lit-up trees, buildings, and reflections in your frame.
- Capture the Details: Don’t forget to focus on the smaller details, like close-ups of individual lights or ornaments.
- Golden Hour: For a softer, warmer glow, try shooting during the “golden hour,” which is the hour just before sunset.
Grabbing a Warm Drink
As you explore the enchanting streets of St. Augustine, be sure to keep warm with a cozy drink in hand. Many local establishments offer hot cocoa, spiced cider, and mulled wine. Sipping a warm beverage while enjoying the lights adds an extra layer of comfort and joy to your experience.
Insider Tips for the Perfect Visit
Now that you’re well-prepared to experience the magic of St. Augustine Nights of Lights, let’s cover some insider tips to ensure your visit is nothing short of perfect.
Planning Ahead
- Accommodations: Given the popularity of Nights of Lights, it’s wise to book your accommodations in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the weekends or peak holiday periods. Check our choices for places to stay during the St. Augustine Christmas Lights season.
- Parking: St. Augustine can get quite crowded during the festival. Consider using public transportation, ride-sharing services, or arriving early to secure convenient parking.
- Tickets: While the festival itself is free, some guided tours and events may require tickets. Be sure to check ahead and purchase tickets if necessary.
Special Events During Nights of Lights
Throughout the Nights of Lights season, St. Augustine hosts various special events and performances to enhance your experience. These events range from music festivals to holiday markets, providing entertainment and unique shopping opportunities for your family.
History and Tradition
To truly appreciate the magic of Nights of Lights, it’s essential to understand the event’s history and significance. The tradition of lighting up the city dates back to the Spanish colonial period and has evolved into the beloved holiday tradition it is today.
Where to Park for St. Augustine Night of Lights?
The city of St. Augustine has a small parking garage, near the trolley tours. Since this is the oldest city in the US, I suggest paying the parking fees and using the garage. The small city and cobblestone streets do not lend themselves to parking convenience.
The Historic Downtown Parking Facility is at 1 Cordova St. It’s easy in and out and close to many of the historic downtown attractions.
While our visit was in January, it was still fairly busy. I’d recommend getting an early afternoon start, enjoying the shops and dining, then heading back towards the trolleys for a St. Augustine Night of Lights Tour.
More things to do in St. Augustine – Food, Drink, & Activities
We visited the city perusing St. George’s Street going in all the shops and experiencing the unique foods.
We stumbled into Auggie’s Tap Room. What a treasure! It was like frozen yogurt but for adults. In this taproom, you get a card and can try any of the beers on tap. They charge by the oz. It was actually super cheap and the beer is changed frequently so you could go back and have a different experience.
Now, the burgers at this place were insane! They have double patties, tons of bacon, and unique toppings. They even offer a burger with egg. We ate like kings and queens and walked away fat and happy! Good thing we walked about 7 miles that day.
Of course, we visited The Oldest Schoolhouse and took pictures in The Old Jail. There were street performers on each corner adding a sweet touch to the atmosphere.
There is a reason we support small businesses as often as we can. We stopped in Gypsy Moon Boutique & Soap Shop to pick out some handmade soaps that smelled delectable.
But my favorite part of that shop was the lady who offered our youngest son his own soap at no charge. The girls and I got soaps and he wanted one that was called Monkey Farts. Let me add here; he’s 7. She wanted him to have his own so she cut a piece off and wrapped it up! She was so sweet and it made his whole day. This was one of the best hidden gems in St Augustine.
That leads me to Hyppos Gourmet Ice Pops. I never knew a popsicle could taste so good. We sat in the courtyard just to eat and my middle daughter dropped hers after about 2 bites. They were quick to replace it without even blinking an eye.
Small businesses, my friends. They have a vested interest in happy customers. And these places had a family of 5 leaving as thoroughly satisfied and happy customers.
If you have more time in St. Augustine, look into these Living History events that happen year round.
San Sebastian Winery
To finish off our trip, we made a trip to San Sebastian Winery. This beautiful winery is loaded with charm and history. The Cellar Upstairs has amazing food and they have music playing on the weekends. We chose their sparkling wine, Blanc de Fleur, to toast my birthday with a Bistro Cheese and Meat Board and Fresh Baked Brie.
The way I described my weekend as we drove home into a stunning sunset is like the star in the movie Stardust. She glows when she’s most happy. This weekend, I was spoiled and I was glowing like a star.
Best Place to Stay for St Augustine Nights of Lights
Because the Nights of Lights take place, well, at night, you’ll want to plan at least one overnight stay.
The best place for a downtown stay for an immersive experience is the Casa De Solana on Aviles Street.
Casa de Solana is a historic bed and breakfast located in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, just a short walk from many of the city’s popular attractions, including the Nights of Lights displays. The bed and breakfast is housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century building, offering guests a chance to experience the history and charm of the city in a unique and authentic setting.
During the St. Augustine Christmas lights, many visitors choose to stay in the historic district in order to be within walking distance of the holiday displays and festivities. Casa de Solana’s central location makes it a convenient option for those looking to experience the event without having to deal with traffic or parking issues.
Additionally, as a bed and breakfast, Casa de Solana offers guests a personalized and intimate experience, with individually decorated rooms and a focus on hospitality and guest comfort. This can make for a cozy and memorable stay during the holiday season.
🏩 Check Casa De Solana rates and availability here.
Check the availability of Home Rentals, St. Augustine hotels, and Bed and Breakfasts here:
If you want to stay just outside the night of lights celebration, I highly recommend The Local St. Augustine. This is a charming hotel, with complete contactless entry, perfect for the whole family. And did I mention there’s a pool?
Where to Stay – Camping Edition
We stayed at Compass RV Resort. This quaint little resort was the perfect weekend getaway.
It has a heated pool, ping pong, corn hole, and beautiful leveled sites with fire pits, and its laundry and restroom facilities were clean.
The staff was friendly and helpful with lots of great tips to offer. They even delivered our firewood to our site by golf cart It was a camping feel with a close-to-the-city locale.
Find other campgrounds and campsites in St. Augustine here at Campspot. 🏕️
Search all the campgrounds in one convenient location.
Final Thoughts Saint Augustine’s Nights of Lights
Is St. Augustine Nights of Lights worth it?
I mean, it’s free, so the obvious answer is yes. However, if you can make a family event of the holiday lights, it is definitely worth it in our opinion.
As a busy family seeking a memorable holiday experience, St. Augustine Nights of Lights offers the perfect blend of tradition, enchantment, and photography opportunities. With this expert guide in hand, you’re well-prepared to create cherished memories during this holiday season. Plan your visit, embrace the magic, and immerse yourself in the captivating Nights of Lights in St. Augustine.
So, pack your ugly sweaters and your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through a city that truly knows how to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.
Read More:
St. Augustine
Review of The Local Hotel in St. Augustine
Best places to stay for St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights
When does St. Augustine Nights of Lights start?
St. Augustine Nights of Lights typically begins in mid-November and runs through January 31st.
Is there an admission fee to see the lights?
No, the festival itself is free to attend, and you can enjoy the lights throughout the city at no cost.
What are the best viewing times for Nights of Lights?
Early evening and weekdays tend to be less crowded, providing a more relaxed experience.
Where are the best spots to see the lights in St. Augustine?
Key locations include The Plaza, The Bridge of Lions, and the waterfront, but the entire historic district is beautifully lit.
Can I book accommodations near the festival?
Yes, it’s advisable to book accommodations in advance due to the festival’s popularity.
Is there parking available during Nights of Lights?
Parking can be challenging, so consider arriving early or using public transportation or ride-sharing services, or the city’s parking garage.
