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

Nights of Lights Packages

Inspired by an ancient holiday practice brought here by the Spanish of displaying lit candles on window sills, The Annual Nights of Lights is set to brighten up the holidays in The Ancient City Saint Augustine once again! To experience the glow of the season and the more than 3 million sparkling white lights adorning every corner of the city, stretching for nearly 20 blocks, take a ride on a trolley or a boat with your loved ones! The Night of Lights packages are available between Nov 20th 2023 and Jan 31st 2024.

We offer below Nights of Lights packages to experience the glowing historic city by means of your choice.

Nights of Lights by Trolley: $269

Experience over 3 million lights adorning every corner of Saint Augustine’s historic district. This package includes following:

A bottle of champagne & Cedar House Inn Flutes on arrival
Chocolate covered strawberries on arrival
Night of Lights Trolley Tour Ticket (a reserved private row upto 4 people)
Romantic and intimate dinner at one of the top St. Augustine Restaurant ($75 gift certificate value)

Nights of Lights by Boat: $349

Experience over 3 million lights adorning every corner of Saint Augustine’s historic district. This package includes following:

A bottle of champagne & Cedar House Inn Flutes on arrival
Chocolate covered strawberries on arrival
Night of Lights Boat Tour Tickets for two ( 2 Hour Sail in the evening)
Romantic and intimate dinner at one of the top St. Augustine Restaurant ($75 gift certificate value)

Please contact our front desk at +1 904-829-0079 to book the package before they are sold out.

Note: Trolley ticket reservation and boat tour reservation is subject to availability so we encourage you to book in advance.

Old Town Trolley Passes

We’ll set you up with a pair of 1-day or 2 -Days Old Town Trolley Tours passes so you’ll have the convenience of departing and re-boarding the trolley at any time for duration of the ticket. History has a story to tell when visiting the twenty-three different stops throughout St. Augustine.

Starting from $35*

* 1 Day Old Town Trolley Tour pass for 2 : $70 ($35 each)

2 Day Old Town Trolley Tour pass for 2 : $112 ($56 each)

There are following tour tickets available as well. Please check at front desk for more information on how to buy these tickets.

Old Town Trolley – Fountain of Youth Package
Old Town Trolley – Ghost and Gravestones Package
Old Town Trolley – Ghosts and Gravestones Tour
Old Town Trolley – St. Augustine Combo Package
Old Town Trolley – St. Augustine Scenic Cruise – Adult
Old Town Trolley – St. Augustine Scenic Cruise – Senior 60+
Old Town Trolley – The Old Jail After Dark

Birthday Celebration

A special birthday party for that special person that includes a birthday cake for two and all the trimmings. We’ll add a chilled bottle of sparkling wine or cider and your special memory is complete. If you want it to be a surprise, we promise that mum’s the word.

$69, plus 6.5% tax

Anniversary Package

Commemorate a special occasion, be it the anniversary of your wedding, first date, or the day you both said “I Love You.” We’ll provide a delicious cake, fresh flowers, chilled bottle of sparkling wine or cider and two Cedar House Inn keepsake flutes.

$119, plus tax

Picnic Basket For Two

Country Fried Chicken, Southern Potato Salad, Cole Slaw, Baked Beans, Dinner Rolls, Dessert and a Bottle of Red, White or Sparkling Wine with Keepsake Flutes presented to a fully equipped portable picnic basket.

$89 plus tax

Deluxe Horse & Carriage

Spoil that special someone with a romantic jaunt through St. Augustine’s historic district. Your journey begins when you step through our front door to a beautiful Horse & Carriage and a coachman will entice you with exciting narratives of old St. Augustine. All the while you’ll sit back and enjoy a chilled bottle of sparkling wine or cider in your Cedar House Inn keepsake champagne flutes.

Note: Deluxe Horse & Carriage ride is subject to availability and only available for same day booking.

Starting $179

Romance and Roses

This romantic package makes for a perfect weekend stay at the inn. Your stay will include a chilled bottle of sparkling wine or cider, two Cedar House Inn keepsake flutes, a box of St. Augustine’s finest chocolates, a dozen long stemmed roses, and private Horse & Carriage ride for two.

$219, plus 6.5% tax

Vow Renewal

The ultimate romantic gesture; you’ve already committed to the perfect partner, now renew your bond at the Cedar House Inn! This package includes the officiant, the Cedar House Specialty Decor package, music/sound system, Classic Wedding Cake, Champagne Toast w/ two keepsake Cedar House champagne flutes, and snapshot photos. We’ll make it a gorgeous scene in your choice of our Gazebo, Garden, Fireplace, or Tiffany Window Parlor settings.

Specials