St. Augustine Nights of Lights
Visitors can experience millions of holiday lights illuminating historic streets, rooftops, and the downtown waterfront. Excursions are offered across multiple formats, including open-air trolleys, trains, electric carts, pedicabs, horse-drawn carriages, guided walks, and water cruises. Depending on the route chosen, guests can admire close-up views of decorated landmarks or enjoy panoramic sights along the illuminated bay.
What to Expect
Guided excursions by trolley, carriage, boat, and foot through festive holiday displays.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Historic District
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
St. Augustine, Florida
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Holiday-light seekers and sightseeing families
Vibe
Festive and historic
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Free; no ticket is required to enjoy the lights.
- Hours: Light-Up! Night: live entertainment starts at 4 p.m.; the official lighting ceremony is at 6:30 p.m.
- Parking: Downtown parking is limited and seasonal traffic is heavy. Visitors are encouraged to park in designated satellite lots and use the free Park & Ride Shuttle into downtown. The City of St. Augustine will offer the shuttle on select days during the season; a free shuttle will also operate on Light-Up! Night. Parking areas, routes, and schedules will be posted closer to the event date. The page also recommends using crosswalks and sidewalks, parking only in designated areas or using the shuttle, and allowing extra travel time.
- Accessibility: Accessibility policies vary by tour operator, so visitors should review individual tour listings before booking.
Tips & Advice
- Leave the car at a satellite lot and take the free Park & Ride Shuttle, since downtown parking is limited and seasonal traffic is heavy.
- Download the Nights of Lights app before you go for parking and shuttle details, interactive maps, event schedules and tips for getting around downtown.
- Allow extra travel time on weekends and holidays, when crowds are largest, so you don't feel rushed or tempted to park illegally.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, because this is not a drive-through and the lights cover about 20 blocks of the historic district on foot.
- Walk the Bridge of Lions to see the lights reflected on the water, then take a selfie by the Christmas tree in the Plaza de la Constitución.
Special Events & Promotions
- On opening night, Light-Up! Night brings live entertainment and the official lighting ceremony to the Plaza de la Constitución.
- A free Light-Up! Night Park & Ride Shuttle runs on opening night.
- St. Augustine City Walks runs a free one-hour guided walking tour of the lights on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
- Family Roadster Rides with the Grinch and Santa are offered alongside the carriage tours.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive through to see the lights?
No. Nights of Lights is not a drive-through event and is meant to be seen on foot. You walk the historic streets, see the lights up close and stop at shops and restaurants along the way.
Where should I park?
Downtown parking is limited and seasonal traffic is heavy. Park at one of the designated satellite lots and take the free Park & Ride Shuttle into downtown. The shuttle runs on select days during the season and on Light-Up! Night.
Where are the best spots for photos?
The two top spots are the Christmas tree in the center of the Plaza de la Constitución and the Bridge of Lions. From the bridge you can look back at the lights reflected on the water.
What are the ways to tour the lights?
You can ride the Old Town Trolley or Santa's Red Train. You can also take a boat cruise, a horse-drawn carriage from the Bayfront, a guided walking tour, or a golf cart or pedicab tour. Another option is to climb the 219 steps of the St. Augustine Lighthouse for a view from above.
Is there an app for Nights of Lights?
Yes. The Nights of Lights app has parking and shuttle details, interactive maps, event schedules and tips for getting around downtown safely.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.