Northeast Florida is known for its spectacular holiday lights, but none shine brighter than historic St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights celebration. In fact, Rachael Ray magazine named St. Augustine one of the Nation’s “Twinkliest Towns” in 2014. National Geographic also dubbed St. Augustine one of the Top 10 Places in the World to view holiday lights in 2012 and 2013.
This year’s event looks to be just as “twinklie” as previous years with more than 3 million lights going up through the town. The celebration will run from November 19 through January 31, 2017.
Plenty of events will accompany the splendor throughout the season! Here are just some in November and December.
Light Up! Night
When: Saturday, November 19, Countdown to lighting at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Plaza de la Constitucion
Information: Come early for live music before the big countdown!
48th Annual Fall Art & Craft Festival
When: November 26-27, Saturday 10-5, Sunday 10-4:30
Where: Francis Field
Information: $1 admission supports the St. Augustine Art Association programs
Reindeer Run
When: Saturday, December 3, 8:55 a.m.
Where: Starting on Castillo Drive near Ripley’s
Information: The one-mile run traces the St. Augustine Christmas Parade route just before the parade begins. $10 entry fee. For information, call 904-669-0107.
63rd Annual Christmas Parade
When: Saturday, December 3, 9 a.m.
Where: Starting near the Mission of Nombre de Dios (101 San Marco Avenue) and ending at the Visitors Center on Castillo Drive.
Information: Arrive early! The parade starts promptly at 9 a.m.
St. Augustine Winter Spectacular
When: Saturday, December 3, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Where: Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College
Information: The family-friendly production follows a young girl’s journey home for the holidays. Ticket prices $15-$20 in advance online and $20-$25 at the door depending on seat location.
Luminary Night at the St. Augustine Lighthouse
When: Wednesday, December 7, 7-9 p.m.
Where: St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
Information: Enjoy a free evening of children’s holiday crafts, warm refreshments and live music.
Santa Suits on the Loose 5K
When: Saturday, December 10, 8 a.m.
Where: Starts and finishes at the St. Augustine Beach Pier
Information: The race follows a flat 3.1-mile course through St. Augustine Beach neighborhoods. Registration is $30 before race day and $35 on race day. Proceeds benefits St. Augustine Youth Services!
Holiday Regatta of Lights
When: Saturday, December 10, 6 p.m.
Where: Bayfront St. Augustine
Information: This spectacular parade of decorated boats is held every year just north of the Bridge of Lions.
St. Augustine Ballet “Nutcracker” Performance
When: December 17-18 (Saturday and Sunday), 1:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Where: Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College
Information: Admission is $25-$30. For ticket information, call 855-222-2849.
Beach Blast Off
When: Saturday, December 31, 4-10 p.m.
Where: St. Augustine Beach Pier
Information: This annual event features a kid zone, food vendors and live entertainment. Don’t miss the fireworks at 8:30 p.m.
There are lots of other events throughout St. Augustine during the Nights of Lights celebration! Check out http://www.floridashistoriccoast.com/ for more information.