Start making plans for your visit to see one of the best holiday displays around the world. The spectacular Nights of Lights in St. Augustine will be on from November 23rd through January 26th, this year . That gives everybody lots of time to include them in their holiday plans. and to enjoy this special time of year on Florida’s Historic Coast.
The festival kicks off with Light-Up! Night on November 23rd.
The City of St. Augustine is offering a Free Park & Ride Shuttle on select days during the Nights of Lights Season. Multiple pick up and drop off locations available.
Where can you see the lights?
White lights drape the city’s unique Spanish Colonial architecture and glow from the downtown sidewalks to the rooftops, over the Bridge of Lions, along historic buildings, public spaces, hotels, restaurants, and inns throughout approximately 20 blocks of the Nation’s Oldest City’s historic district.
The top two spots to visit for the best views and Nights of Lights selfies are:
1. The Plaza de la Constitución
Get the perfect holiday selfie in front of the Christmas tree in the center of the plaza.
2. The Bridge of Lions
Walk the bridge to gaze back at the sparkling reflection of the lights along the water.
How much does Nights of Lights cost?
Nights of Lights is a free event open to everyone! There’s no need to order tickets to enjoy the displays.
The Top 8 Ways to See Nights of Lights
1. Tour the Lights by Trolley
Climb aboard the Old Town Trolley’s Famous Nights of Lights Tour. Tours depart nightly beginning at 6 p.m. from the Visitor Information Center.
2. Tour by Train
Get on track for Nights of Lights on the Santa’s Red Express Tours. The tour begins at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum.
3. See the Sparkle from the Water
Nights of Lights shines from the water, too. St. Augustine Eco Tours harbor tour of the Nights of Lights provides a peaceful way to experience the illuminated city aboard 6 or 12-passenger boats. Take in the view of Nights of Lights from the sea aboard the Schooner Freedom on the ship’s Sunset Sail. Florida Water Tours, Scenic Cruise, St. Augustine Boat Tours, St. Augustine Sailing and Red Boat Tours also offer Nights of Lights boat cruises, and the Black Raven offers light show views plus an entertaining pirate show.
4. See the Lights from Above
For a completely different perspective, climb 219 steps to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum. The sight of the entire city dressed in tiny white lights is a view to behold. Or, enjoy a bird’s eye view of St. Augustine during Nights of Lights aboard First City Helicopters. It’s a breathtaking view unlike any other
5. Enjoy A Wine & Carriage Tour
Step aboard an old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage and meander the historic streets on this 45-minute group ride. Enjoy the sparkling scenery as well as a bottle of delicious boutique wine to share! Ride Includes: VIP Boarding, complimentary wine to enjoy on the carriage ride and souvenir wine glasses. The Tasting Tours offers nightly excursions. Private Carriage Rides are also available, as well as ‘family oriented’ Roadster Rides with the Grinch!
6. Go On a Guided Tour
On most Fridays and Saturdays in December and January, Ancient City Tours guides lead a 90-minute walking tour where participants can enjoy St. Augustine’s history while learning about unique colonial folklore and holiday traditions amid the backdrop of the glow of the city’s white lights. Sites include the opulent Lightner Museum courtyard, Plaza de la Constitución, and the enchanting Bayfront.
7. Take A Group Tour by Luxury Golf Cart
For a smaller group, Pineapple Ride and Tour offers intimate EV and pedicab Nights of Lights tours, while St. Augustine Land & Sea Tours provides tours in a luxury 12-seat golf cart with a knowledgeable guide.
8. Cuddle Up For A Romantic Ride
Enjoy a romantic horse and carriage tour. Tours depart from the Bayfront near the Castillo de San Marcos daily. Rates vary from $150 for a group of 4 and up. Reserve your carriage with Country Carriages.
Where can I park during Nights of Lights?
Parking is at a premium during the peak days of Nights of Lights. Find more parking information and transportation information. To avoid the peak crowds, try visiting midweek. You may also hop on a trolley or train to enjoy the lights without worrying about parking.
Is there a free Park & Ride Shuttle for Nights of Lights?
Don’t worry about parking and traffic. Ride the FREE Nights of Lights Park and Ride Shuttle. Shuttles will be offered on on Light Up! Night (November 23); Thanksgiving Weekend, on Saturdays in December and December 26 & 27.