Places to Celebrate Christmas in St. Augustine

Introduction

 

When it comes to holiday getaways, St. Augustine in Florida might not be your first thought. But trust me, it’s a must for your Christmas plans! This town goes all out with millions of twinkling lights, tree ceremonies, boat rides, and dazzling shows, making it the ultimate spot in Florida for Christmas.

Moreover, NatGeo even ranked it in the top 10 places worldwide for Christmas lights, and CNTraveler recently featured it, too (yay for my hometown!). With so much to do, here are the top things you can’t miss during a St. Augustine Christmas!

 

Nights of Lights Grand Illumination

 

From around mid-November until early February, St. Augustine gets decked out in MILLIONS (yes, millions!) of cozy, twinkling Christmas lights. The whole downtown area becomes this magical winter scene that goes on for blocks. Furthermore, the Nights of Lights start with the Grand Illumination, a big celebration with live music, entertainers, and tons of fun! For the best experience, head to Cathedral Plaza to enjoy it all!

 

St. Augustine’s Christmas Parade

 

Families love the St. Augustine Christmas Parade! It’s packed with floats, performers, horseback riders, dancers, and guess who? Santa, of course! It’s also a fantastic morning event for families and friends who want to join in with the local community.

Additionally, the parade goes along the Bayfront and through the Plaza. It usually kicks off around 9 AM, but if you’re driving in, give yourself LOTS of time to find parking. It’s even better if you can walk or take an Uber from your hotel instead of driving.

 

Surf Illumination

 

In St. Augustine, a special part of their white Christmas involves the sandy beach! At St. Augustine Beach, you’ll find bright lights decorating the Pier and holiday-shaped lights along A1A.

In addition, the Pier is where the beach’s lights shine, with colorful palm trees, a Christmas tree, and tons of fun activities like a Holiday market, live music, and more!

 

Schooner Freedom Sails

 

One of the coolest ways to see St. Augustine’s Christmas lights is by hopping on the Schooner Freedom for a sail. They offer free drinks, warm mulled wine, hot chocolate, cozy blankets, Christmas treats, and lights twinkling all over the boat. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the lights from the water. Make sure to book ahead because these sails fill up fast! You can find more info here!

 

Christmas Lights on the Bayfront

 

My top spot for enjoying St. Augustine’s Christmas lights is along the Bayfront! You can see them from the water, and the businesses there go all out with their decorations. Moreover, Tini Martini is a local favorite spot to soak in the festive lights, and it’s one of my personal top Christmas places in St. Augustine!

 

Lighthouse Illumination

 

I always loved going to the Lighthouse Illumination when I was a kid. It’s magical, with lots of Christmas trees all lit up, pretty lights along the paths, tasty hot chocolate and cider, Santa visiting, and singers performing holiday songs. It also feels like the beginning of a wonderful Christmas movie, minus the cheesy plot. Furthermore, this event is a fantastic way to celebrate Christmas in St. Augustine!

 

The Red Light

 

Look out for a special red bulb hidden around town! It’s like a fun treasure hunt that everyone enjoys, and I just found it for the first time this year! The bulb could be hiding anywhere, so keep a close eye out if you want to spot it!

 

Tini Martini: The most lights to see at a bar for Christmas in St. Augustine

 

Tini Martini Bar leads the way with lots of twinkling lights along the Bayfront. It’s a local hotspot that’s popular all year round, so make sure to add it to your must-visit spots during your Christmas trip to St. Augustine and even when you’re vacationing in Florida!

During Nights of Lights, this bar glows with more lights than you can imagine, and their cocktails are just as fantastic as the bright decorations! Therefore, try their pomegranate martini for a delicious and festive red drink. One order is so generous that it fills about two and a half martini glasses, as they serve you the entire shaker! Locals and visitors both love this spot for its beautiful Bayfront views, great drinks, and dazzling Christmas lights in St. Augustine!

 

Holly Jolly Shopping Spree

 

Experience a delightful way to support local businesses in St. Augustine while enjoying festive deals and treats during the Holly Jolly Trolley event. Join in the morning fun by hopping on one of the Trolley Trains. After checking in, grab a free Christmas cocktail and embark on a ride to uptown St. Augustine. Once there, explore the shops, each offering special discounts, yummy snacks, cocktails, hot chocolate, and brunch! The proceeds go to a local charity, making it a heartwarming way to give back. Whether you’re checking off your Christmas shopping list or simply soaking up the holiday vibes, the Holly Jolly Trolley is a must-try experience!

 

Cathedral Plaza

 

One of the most famous spots in town is the Cathedral Plaza, where the old Oak trees are all lit up with dazzling lights. Although officially called the Plaza de la Constitucion, locals like us often just call it the Cathedral Plaza. When you stroll through, you’ll see decorated gazebos and wreaths on the light poles.

Additionally, this is where you’ll find St. Augustine’s special Grand Christmas tree! It might not be huge, but it’s one of the few places in town with colorful lights. Don’t miss the Plaza! Keep an eye out for exciting events happening here during the Christmas season—it’s also a fantastic spot to kick off the festive cheer with the Grand Illumination!

 

St. Augustine’s Regatta of Lights

 

For folks who love boats and the Floridian Christmas vibe, the Regatta of Lights is a must-see! It’s a boat parade where different boats from the area join in and compete in fun categories.

Moreover, these boats are all lit up and decked out in themes as they cruise along the Bayfront near the Bridge of Lions. Also, keep a lookout—you might even spot Santa sailing by!

 

Light Up!

 

A fresh spot to enjoy Christmas lights in St. Augustine is on West King Street! For the first time, this area just outside the Historic District is all aglow with over 3,000 sparkling lights. Live music and a dozen businesses are shining bright for the holidays, making it a must-see new event in St. Augustine!

 

The Nutcracker

 

One of the things I love during the holidays is watching The Nutcracker! It’s a ballet about a Christmas party where Clara gets a special Nutcracker from her magician uncle and then falls into a magical sleep. The music is amazing, and in St. Augustine, you can see different performances by local ballet schools. I also recommend checking out The St. Augustine Dance Conservatory’s show—it’s the same school I danced with for years!

 

Prestigious Restaurants

 

Lastly, don’t forget about the outstanding Christmas restaurants in St. Augustine! If you ever get the chance to experience Christmas in St. Augustine, make sure to check out to stay in our prestigious restaurants that are situated in the heart of Florida. They have a completely Christmas-themed cocktail menu, tasty recipes, and more Christmas decorations than you can imagine.

 

Visiting Cedar House Inn, Casa De Solana, and Victorian House Inn during this time of year is a must—it’s the most Christmassy restaurant in St. Augustine.

 

Don’t forget to try the hot drink; it’s perfect for warming up during a chilly Nights of Lights stroll!

 

Contact us for more details.

 

Cedar House Inn

 

Call US: +1(904)829-0079

St. Augustine, Florida

Best Places to Celebrate New Year in St. Augustine

Introduction

 

As the New Year approaches, St. Augustine beckons with its rich historical charm, offering a unique backdrop to ring in the new beginnings amidst centuries-old architecture and stories of the past.

 

Here’s a guide to the best historic places to celebrate New Year’s Eve in St. Augustine and we will also suggest the best staying place that is very near to these spots. Moreover, you can also enjoy Romantic Bed and Breakfast here:

 

Nights of Lights

 

First, look at all the lights – there are millions of them! Nights of Lights is a super bright and beautiful show during the holidays and a special way to start the New Year. The best part? You can also see this amazing light display for free. Begin your walk at the holiday tree in the Plaza de la Constitucion.

Moreover, walk along King Street, and you’ll see the Lightner Museum and Flagler College all lit up, from the ground to the palm trees and the rooftops. Also, take a stroll along the bayfront from the Bridge of Lions to the Castillo de San Marcos, and you’ll see the lights reflecting in the water of the Matanzas Bay. However, everywhere you look is a perfect spot for a New Year’s selfie!

 

Light up the Night! Beach Fireworks

 

Get ready for a fantastic show! Fireworks over the water in St. Augustine is a tradition that everyone loves. Grab a blanket and join thousands of people for “Light up the Night!” It’s also an incredible fireworks display at the St. Johns County Ocean Pier. Furthermore, you can catch a shuttle from Anastasia Baptist Church to the three viewing spots on the beach.

Additionally, there’s parking at City Hall, Ron Parker Park, Anastasia Square parking lot near Pope Road, and at the YMCA after 1 p.m. And guess what? It won’t cost you a thing!

Party at the Embassy Suites

 

They’re making things extra special at the Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort. This time, it’s a Winter Wonderland party!

In addition, they’ve got an open bar, delicious food, live music, dancing, and fireworks at the pier.  The tickets cost $200 each, and it’s for grown-ups 21 and older.

 

Over the Top at the Circus

 

The circus is back in St. Augustine with the Venardos Circus at the AMP! It’s a fantastic show with amazing circus acts for everyone in the family. Created by Kevin Venardos, a former Ringling Bros. Ringmaster, it’s like a Broadway musical with circus acts.

 

Font Bay

 

Travel back in time to this old fort! On New Year’s Eve, they usually have cool tours, live music, and beautiful views of the bay. You can cheer for the New Year while inside the strong walls that have been here for ages.

 

St. George Street:

 

Join the excitement on this famous stone street. As midnight gets closer, the street fills up with music, dancing, and local celebrations. Enjoy the old-time feeling with live shows and lots of fun!

 

If you’re strolling on St. George Street, you’ll hear music around. Go to the Colonial Oak Music Park to watch a live show by the Dewey Via Band. It also won’t cost you anything to get in, and there’s food and drinks to enjoy.

 

Live Music in the Air

 

If you’re taking a stroll along St. George Street, you’ll probably hear some music around. Stop by the Colonial Oak Music Park to enjoy a live show by the Dewey Via Band. It’s free to get in, and you can also grab some food and drinks while you’re there.

 

A Classic Evening

 

Like classical stuff? First Coast Opera is putting on “La Bohème,” a timeless and passionate masterpiece by Puccini. Get ready for a ride of emotions, from laughing to crying, as Puccini’s beautiful music takes you on a deep journey of love and loss.

 

Set Sail with Black Raven

 

The Black Raven is a local pirate ship known for its unique tours. To kick off the year 2020, they’re throwing a New Year’s Eve party of “Piratical Proportions.” The event is for adults only, so if you’re under 21, you’ll have to “walk the plank.”

However, the Black Raven sets sail from the downtown dock at 10:00 pm sharp, located at 111 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084, cruising along the Matanzas River.

 

Moreover, once on board, you can enjoy interactive and live entertainment, catch views of famous St. Augustine landmarks, participate in contests with prizes, savor delicious party food, and receive complimentary party gear that will add excitement to the celebration. Moreover, it’s well known that other boats on the Matanzas River often light up the sky with fireworks, providing a spectacular view from the Black Raven. And, of course, just before midnight, champagne bottles are popped in anticipation of a New Year’s toast!

 

ROMANTIC Bed and Breakfast FOR TWO

 

If you want a tasty start to New Year’s Eve in St. Augustine, check out the city’s amazing food spots. Book a romantic Bed and Breakfast at Cedar House Inn with special New Year’s menus. Ice Plant Bar offers cocktails and a set menu, plus a fun balloon drop at midnight!

 

Moreover, you can also stay here. With us, you can enhance your enjoyment with a romantic Bed and Breakfast.  

 

No matter where you go, you’re in for a treat!

 

Contact us for more details.

 

Cedar House Inn:  79 Cedar Street, Saint Augustine, FL 32084

 

Call us: +1 (904) 829-0079  info@CedarHouseInn.com

May Specials – 20% OFF

Cedar House Inn Floridian Room Deck

Book your stay for any weekdays in May, 2019 for 20% off of regular rate for any room available during month of May, 2019.

Cedar House Is A Great Place To Ride

The Cedar House Inn was recently featured in a local business TV ad that starred a couple of our guests! Tim & Annmarie are motorcycle enthusiasts that like to experience the Florida Coast on two wheels and our Inn is their favorite stop-over during their travels. Adamec Harley-Davidson chose the two for the latest edition in the #AdamecFavoriteRides series. Keep an eye out for this ad on Jacksonville TV and on the jumbotron at the Jacksonville Jaguar games.

Air Tour Of St. Augustine

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

I love it when guests come to the Inn with a new idea for appreciating the Ancient City! Jason & Jessica recently sent me photos of their St. Augustine-By-Air tour with St. Augustine Bi-Planes. They got airborne with expert pilot Dave in his fully restored 1935 Custom Cabin Waco Bi-Plane! An incredibly exciting way to spend a Sunday afternoon!
The plane seats up to 4 passengers, so you can bring along a loved one, a pal, or bring the kiddos! The Waco is a true time machine and this is the world’s only company offering rides in a Custom Cabin Waco Biplane. If you love St. Augustine from the ground you will appreciate it even more from the air. Where else can you fly in a true piece of aviation history over one of the most historic places in the USA!

 

St. Augustine: Where History and Hospitality Meet

St Augustine Cedar House Inn GettyImages-629268934

Imagine, for a moment, a land where you can step back into time; where explorers roamed and legends began. Welcome to St. Augustine, Florida: the oldest European settlement in the United States. Over the centuries, many countries have fought over this city, each leaving their unique mark and story. The city offers a glance through time as a popular tourist spot today. So let’s go exploring.The settlement of St. Augustine was established by the Spanish in 1565, forty years before the English colony of Jamestown. It was settled to stop the French from moving into the area and to help secure the sea for Spanish fleets.

Both the French and English attacked and destroyed St. Augustine multiple times in its early history. This led to the creation of the fort Castillo de San Marcos in 1672. The industrious builders used a mortar made of ancient shells called coquina. This interesting mix made the fort strong and fireproof, keeping it from falling into enemy hands. Castillo de San Marcos took 23 years to build and still stands today as the oldest fortification in the U.S., and lives as a testament to the strength and creativity of those who built it.

Read more at Resnexus.com

Best of St. Augustine 2017 Readers Poll

Best of St Augustine

Do your St. Augustine memories include a particularly great meal? A delightful shopping experience? A great attraction or excursion? The voting has started for The St. Augustine Record‘s 2017 #BestofStAugustine readers poll.

We consider this poll another opportunity for our guests to share/recommend some of the local businesses they’ve encountered during their visit to the Ancient City. It’s also a great resource to include while planning your next St. Augustine getaway.
 
Cedar House Inn has been blessed to be recognized in this poll for many years and we would love to have your vote this year. You can find us in the PROFESSIONAL SERVICES category of the poll.
 
Many Thanks & Happy Summer!
Cyndi

Cedar House Inn named Trip Advisor’s #1 Bed & Breakfast in America!

Trip Advisor Travelers Choice 2017
Trip Advisor Travelers Choice 2017

St. Augustine, Florida’s Cedar House Inn Bed & Breakfast was today recognized as the overall winner in the ‘B&B and Inn’ category of the 2017 TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award, ranking first in the US out of 25.

Cedar House Inn is a classic Victorian home built in 1893 which features the antiquity of the era enhanced with modern conveniences.  Located in the iconic historic district of America’s oldest city, the impressive property offers eight romantic guestrooms, wrap around porches, and a daily sumptuous two course gourmet breakfast. The Inn, situated within walking distance of St. Augustine’s many attractions and world-class restaurants, is ideally located for exploring Florida’s historic First Coast.

Cyndi Humphrey, the current owner/operator of Cedar House, credits this award to a shared commitment by a 5-star team dedicated to creating once-in-a-lifetime memories for their guests as well as the guests who have contributed reviews to TripAdvisor.

“I’m thrilled that the Cedar House Inn has been recognized as another feather in the cap of our historic, beautiful city. We’re privileged to carry on the legacy of the previous owner’s vision for the inn and proud to be part of a business community that makes the City of St Augustine an incredibly popular place to live and visit,” says Humphrey, a former executive of The Ritz Carlton, The Four Seasons, and SVP for a major league baseball team owner.

“TripAdvisor relies on the experiences and opinions of our travel community to determine the winners of the Travelers’ Choice awards for hotels,” said Barbara Messing, chief marketing officer for TripAdvisor. “Travelers planning 2017 trips can find inspiration for some of the best places to book around the world from this diverse group of outstanding accommodations.”

Cedar House Inn’s accolades also include the St. Augustine Record’s “Best of St. Augustine, Bed & Breakfast” for the past 8 years.  Historic St. Augustine, Florida is known for its history & romance, boasting 26 unique bed & breakfasts as well as numerous attractions, events and activities.

To see TripAdvisor traveler reviews and opinions of Cedar House Inn go to bit.ly/2iK7Dv5

For all of the 2017 Travelers’ Choice Hotel winners, visit tripadvisor.com/TravelersChoice-Hotels

Travelers can also follow the conversation on Twitter at #travelerschoice.

Cedar House Inn 8th Anniversary Offer

Cedar House Inn Cyndi Portrait

[UPDATE: This offer has ended, but thanks SO much for everyone that even considered a summer stay with us. Keep an eye on our blog for more special offers like this one.]

Today I celebrate my 8th anniversary as the owner of Cedar House Inn!

It has been an amazing eight years…I have welcomed hundreds of fantastic guests, cracked thousands of eggs, and gathered plenty of evidence that as your host, I am the luckiest person on earth! As a special “Thank You”, I have created an exclusive summer opportunity for those treasured guests who have joined me at the inn time and time again.

Through the end of June, you can book a new 2-Night reservation between June 15th – September 30th (excluding Labor Day and 4th of July Weekends) and it will be my pleasure to provide one of the nights “On The House”!  Call me or use Promo Code [EXPIRED] when making your reservation and we’ll take care of the rest!

My repeat guests have always been my best resource for ideas on fantastic things to do when in town. Looking for things to see / do / eat / drink while in St. Augustine? Check out these recommendations from our guests.

Come see me soon!

Cyndi

St. Augustine Summer Recommendations

st augustine summer
St augustine summer – cedar house inn

Have you been reading about the Trip Advisor #1 Bed & Breakfast in the USA and ready to make plans to stay at Cedar House Inn? Great! I’d love to have a look at the beautiful city of St. Augustine through your eyes.

Our repeat guests have always been my best resource for ideas on fantastic things to do when in town.  Suggestions abound for locations within walking distance where you can enjoy a delicious and innovative meal, visit one of our distinctive art galleries or historic attractions, and partake in a once in a lifetime experience like zip lining over alligators!

The “Guest Favorites” links listed below represent why so many visitors continue to make their way to the beautiful City of St Augustine again and again. Some are well known, and some are hidden gems, but all have been endorsed by Cedar House visitors and will make for the perfect additions to your “To Do” list this summer.

Guest favorites for food & drink: Collage RestaurantPreserved Restaurant — The Bunnery Cafe — The Ice Plant Restaurant — The Floridian — Prohibition Kitchen — Café Alcazar — Gaufre’s & Goods

Guest Favorites for Places To See/Things To Do: Summer Concerts in The Plaza — Alligator Farm Zoological Park — The St Augustine Distillery — Castillo de San Marcos — Old Town Trolley Tours — Eco Tours — The Lightner Museum — Anastasia State Park — Concerts at St. Augustine Amphitheater

Have you found a hidden gem in St. Augustine that you’d recommend to St. Augustine visitors? I’d love to hear about it. Drop an email: info@cedarhouseinn.com.

Come see me soon!

Cyndi.