The oldest city in the United States is attracting global attention, but not for its rich history, beautiful beaches, chic accommodations or award-winning cuisine. Instead, tens of thousands of visitors annually are traveling to the historic coastal city of St. Augustine, Florida for a dose of holiday magic. 

November through January the city’s historic downtown district transforms into a whimsical winter festival called Nights of Lights, a city-wide event featuring millions of twinkling lights so fantastic that Clark Griswold would stop in wonder. From the sidewalks to the rooftops holiday displays decorate historic buildings, public spaces, hotels, restaurants, and small businesses. And most notably, these magnificent light displays are all free for the community to enjoy.

Now in its 31st year, the festival showcases an eclectic mix of displays, each hoping to be the biggest and brightest display in town. Residents and visitors alike dressed for the season adding to the ambiance of the festival. Golf carts playing Christmas tunes, driven by the Grinch himself roll down Aviles Street. Horse-drawn carriages pass with couples bundled together on a chilly Florida night sipping cups of mulled wine. Almost every inch of the city, every business, every hotel, showcasing their own personality with themed trees and custom decorations inside and out. 

From walking tours to scenic sails, there are many ways for visitors to enjoy the Nights of Lights festivities. Consider adding these tour experiences to your upcoming itinerary.

Golf cart tour with St. Augustine Land and Sea Tours

St. Augustine Land and Sea Tours offers one of the best ways to experience the festival that covers more than 20 blocks of the city’s historic district. Guests are welcomed by their personal driver, dressed for the occasion, to board the open-cabin electric golf cart. Small groups are treated to family-friendly holiday music and relaxing viewing opportunities as they leisurely make their way around the city. These golf carts are an easy and comfortable way to navigate otherwise tight streets and congested areas of the event. This particular tour is recommended for families with young children as well as those with mobility concerns. Each electric golf cart can accommodate up to 9 guests for this approximately 45 minute tour.

Private carriage rides from The Tasting Tours

Ready to star in your own Hallmark Christmas movie? Private horse-drawn carriage rides from The Tasting Tours are excellent for couples looking for a bit of that movie worthy romance. But not just for couples, these old-fashioned carriage tours are also great for adult groups of 4 or less looking for a more personalized, intimate and luxurious viewing experience of the historic downtown district. Passengers are treated to friendly staff, festive carriage decor and offered glasses of wine as they embark on a charming guided tour of the city’s lightscape. These 35-45 minute excursions are booked by appointment and subject to availability.

Walking tours from St. Augustine Experiences

Not to be overlooked, the guided walking tours from St. Augustine Experiences might just be the experience you are looking for. Walking tours can elevate your status from standard tourist to knowledgeable local insider, exploring the nooks, crannies and unique locations otherwise missed by travelers. Guests are greeted by a friendly tour guide ready to cater to their pace and interests as they explore the expansive winter festival by foot. The tour guide effortlessly blends the city’s deep history and folklore with contemporary events and notable light displays. Not wanting guests to miss a festive moment, the tour guide shares more about happenings to visit on foot like the 7:00 pm “snow” and self-serve drafts at Auggie’s Draft Room in addition to offering a tailored list of stops to add to a Nights of Lights itinerary. An excellent tour experience for travelers looking to see the lights, but also capture the magic of the city’s incredible history. These 90 minute tours are offered 7 days a week, rain or shine.

Sunset sail with Schooner Freedom Charters

Sailing daily from the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, the family-owned and operated Schooner Freedom Charters offer the perfect sunset sail for viewing the lights from the bay. The 76-foot ship welcomes its passengers with open arms. Before setting sail they offer a helpful safety lesson, immediately followed by a champagne (or soda) toast. The on deck atmosphere is relaxing and stunning, entertaining couples, groups and even families with young children. Families are welcomed to help raise the sails, and children offered a chance to “steer” the boat. The crew serves unlimited bar drinks and shares more about the sites and wildlife. Once the sun fades away the Schooner lights up in its own holiday display while the crew passes around Christmas candies and plays festive music. The ship sails various parts of the shoreline so guests can have the best seat in the house to view the lights. The approximately 2 hour tours set sail at 4:15 pm November 23 through January 12th.

Other not-to-miss holiday events and activities

After travelers view the stunning lights, they should also plan to attend one of the many holiday events happening during the winter festival. Other events to enjoy include the Luminary Night at the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, the Christmas Experience at Villa Zorayda, and the annual holiday boat parades in Palm Valley and Matanzas Bay to name just a few. Many local hotels, inns and restaurants will also be offering special dinners, tours and menus specially curated for the season. Travelers looking to plan a visit to Nights of Lights should explore the St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau website for more resources.

Without doubt St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights is one of the best winter light festivals free to the public in the United States. With something for everyone, this event is certain to dazzle groups, couples, families and the “Grinchiest” of travelers.