Nights of Lights ✨ St. Augustine 2024-2025 | The Ultimate Guide
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The Ultimate Nights of Lights ✨ Guide: Unlock the Magic of St. Augustine's Dazzling Holiday Wonderland
What is Nights of Lights?
According to National Geographic it’s one of the “Top 10 Holiday Light Displays in the World”. There’s not a specific event that happens or defines Nights of Lights…..it’s just a very pretty sight to see the city lit up as businesses and parks all string up white lights which makes a very pretty scene.
From November to January, millions of tiny white lights illuminate the historic downtown, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for holiday fun. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to this spectacular event!
When is Nights of Lights?
Nights of Lights in St. Augustine happens every year in the fall from mid-November until January 31st. There’s not a specific event that happens…..it’s just a very pretty sight to see the city lit up as businesses and parks all string up white lights which makes a very pretty scene.
Want to Really Experience St. Augustine? Buy a TourPass!
Want to save money and visit all that St. Augustine has to offer? If so, then we recommend purchasing TourPass St. Augustine. You can purchase a 1-day pass which will more than pay for itself by visiting only 3 attractions.
Best Places to See Nights of Lights?
Below we’ll highlight a few places that you should checkout to get the perfect social media or Instagram post.
Plaza de la Constitucion:
This is ground zero or the epi-center of Nights of Lights. This square is ornately decorated with lights strung all over from tree-to-tree and the gazebo will have bands playing on opening night and select weekends throughout the Nights of Lights period.
Lightner Museum + City Hall:
There are opening night performances. The building is beautifully light up. An orchestra band takes the stage at with swing and big band sounds at the historic Plaza de la Constitucion Gazebo.
St. George Street
This is the main (walking only) street in St. Augustine where the majority of the Vendors, shops, restaurants and bars are located. Be sure to stroll down this street and enjoy the sites.
Want to Really Experience St. Augustine? Buy a TourPass!
Want to save money and visit all that St. Augustine has to offer? If so, then we recommend purchasing TourPass St. Augustine. You can purchase a 1-day pass which will more than pay for itself by visiting only 3 attractions.
Best Way to View Lights & Experience Nights of Lights?
Below we’ll highlight a few places that you should checkout to get the perfect social media or Instagram post.
Nights of Lights Trolley Tour: Tours depart nightly from the Visitor Center. Tours last approximately 30-45 minutes and reservations are required.
See the Lights from the Water on a Boat Cruise: Experience the Nights of Lights from the water is special! Tour Pass includes the Nights of Lights Boat Cruise that last 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Buy a TourPass: (Tour Pass St. Augustine includes daytime tour admission to the Hop On Hop Off Trolley, however it does not include Nights of Lights tour admission. The pass does include the Nights of Lights Boat Cruise and includes over 30 other daytime tours and museums to choose from.)
Special Nights of Lights Events
Lighting Ceremony (Light-Up Night): This is the official kickoff event, usually held the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Thousands gather to watch as the city is illuminated for the first time, with live music and a countdown to flip the switch.
Holiday Regatta of Lights: Held on the second Saturday of December, this festive boat parade features brightly lit vessels cruising along Matanzas Bay. It’s a must-see event that combines St. Augustine’s maritime heritage with holiday cheer.
Luminary Night at the St. Augustine Lighthouse: Usually held in early December, this family-friendly evening includes crafts, carolers, and thousands of luminaries lighting up the lighthouse grounds.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks and Beach Blast Off: Ring in the New Year with fireworks over the Matanzas River or head to St. Augustine Beach for the annual Beach Blast Off event, featuring live music, food trucks, and a spectacular fireworks display.
Where to Park & Transportation
Parking is hard to come by during Nights of Lights since it’s very busy. To avoid the peak crowds, try to visit mid-week. The parking garage at the Visitor’s Center is the best option.
Park & Ride Shuttle: You can park outside of the busy areas downtown and ride the shuttle bus in for free. Shuttles are offered on opening nights, Thanksgiving Weekend, on Saturdays in December (except Christmas Day) and the week between Christmas and New Years. For more info on the shuttle visit this page
Finding parking can be a challenge, especially on weekends and closer to the holidays. Here are some parking options:
Historic Downtown Parking Facility (HDPF) – Located at 1 Cordova Street, this is the largest parking garage near downtown with over 1,200 spaces. It’s convenient, safe, and within walking distance of most attractions.
Cost: $15 per vehicle per day.
Metered Street Parking – Limited metered parking is available throughout downtown, especially on streets like St. George Street and Cathedral Place. Meters are enforced from 8 AM to 5 PM daily, except Sundays and city holidays.
Private Lots – Various private lots are available downtown, with prices ranging from $10-$20. Look for signs around the city directing you to available lots.
Park and Ride Shuttle – On busy nights and weekends, the city offers a complimentary shuttle service from overflow parking lots. Check local websites for updated routes and schedules.
Tips for Enjoying Nights of Lights
Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes for walking, and bring a warm jacket as it can get chilly at night, especially near the water.
Plan Ahead: Popular tours, especially trolley rides, sell out quickly.
Book tickets and dinner reservations in advance.
Arrive Early: Avoid the crowds by arriving early in the evening. You’ll have more time to explore, and parking is easier to find.
Take Photos: Bring your camera or smartphone—the lights create beautiful photo opportunities, especially at twilight.
Enjoy your magical holiday visit to St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights!
Pass purchases can be refunded (minus 3% credit card processing fees) if requested within thirty-days of purchase date (for unused passes). Optional Trip Insurance can be purchased for a nominal fee at checkout which extends the refund period up to one-year from purchase date. Conditions apply. View full refund policy by clicking button below.
