There is now better place to celebrate the holiday season than St. Augustine, Florida. The holiday decorated Old City makes it easy to get into the Christmas spirit and make holiday shopping a pleasure. The winter weather is usually very mild, and the old city puts on a great holiday celebration with the Night of Lights festivities, a Winter Wonderland, a Christmas Parade, Regatta and much more.
During the nearly 250 years when St. Augustine served as the capital of Spanish La Florida, the residents marked the holiday season with a single white candle burning in a window at each home. Today, the Nights of Lights continues that happy tradition in a grand style that reflects the city’s 446 years of history
The iconic Bridge of Lions will once again provide an incredible display of lights. For the past five years, the bridge has been dark during the Nights of Lights due to a complete renovation and re-construction. This year, the bridge and the two new parks will be a welcomed addition to the holiday season. Together they will add tens of thousands of lights to the spectacular lighting display in St Augustine.
Here are some of the events:
LIGHT- UP! NIGHT
Nov. 19, 2011
Past Mayors of the city of St. Augustine meet in the historic Plaza de la Constitucion to “flip the switch” to light up the Nights of Lights celebration on Nov 19, 2011. The festivities begin at 4:00 p.m. with spirited holiday performances in the Plaza’s Gazebo. Then at 6:30 p.m., all attending this festive event will be asked to participate in the countdown to the lighting.
MAYOR’S HOLIDAY LIGHTING GALA
Nov. 19, 2011
You can be a part of St. Augustine Mayor Holiday Lighting Gala. The fun begins with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres at the Government House at 5:30pm. At 6:30 p.m., from the King’s Balcony, the Mayor will welcome the crowds in the Plaza de la Constitucion, for the Nights of Lights Lighting Ceremony. Following the Lighting Ceremony, the Mayor and Gala participants will be led by a 1740 Color Guard to the Courtyard of the historic Lightner Museum, located at 78 King Street, for dinner catered by Casa Monica Hotel, dancing to the music of The Committee and a silent auction. Tickets are $150.00 per person. All proceeds benefit the St. Francis House Building Fund. Phone: 904.825.1004
ST. AUGUSTINE MARATHON WEEKEND
Nov 19 & 20, 2011
This is the first year for the marathon which promises to be a recurring holiday event. Where else can you participate in a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K through the streets of the nation’s oldest city during the Nights of Lights. Winners will get to drink from the Grail of Endurance filled with fresh spring water from the world famous Fountain of Youth.
On Saturday there will be a 10K run at 7 a.m.; a Family 5K Run at 7:15 a.m.; and the St. Augustine’s Kids Race at 9:30 a.m. Then on Sunday at 6:05 a.m., the St. Augustine Full Marathon & Half Marathon wheelchair participant starts and at 6:15 a.m. the St. Augustine Full Marathon & Half Marathon starts. The Marathon course will be USATF certified. Each run take place at various locations between St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach and Crescent Beach. For more information and registration, visit www.StAugustineMarathon.com or call 305.716.1111 .
Magnificent view from the lighthouse
HISTORIC WEAPON FIRING DEMONSTRATIONS AT CASTILLO DE SAN MARCOS
Have a blast at St. Augustine’s Castillo de San Marcos when authentically-clad re-enactors demonstrate how Spain’s famed artillerymen fired their cannons in the 1740′s. The cannons will roar at 10:30 & 11:30 a.m., 1:30, 2:30 & 3:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 11:00 a.m., 1:30, 2:30, & 3:30 p.m. on Sundays. Firing times are subject to change depending on weather conditions. Admission is $6; free for children under 16.
Phone: 904.829.6506
SUNSET/MOONRISE TOUR
Nov. 22, 2010 – Jan. 31, 2011
Get the best view of St. Augustine from the top of the lighthouse and enjoy viewing the sunset and moonrise from the most unique perspective in all of St. Augustine! This special event includes a champagne toast, provided by San Sebastian Winery, atop the tower and an informative overview of the history of the St. Augustine Light Station. The tour takes place from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the St. Augustine Lighthouse located at 81 Lighthouse Ave. in St. Augustine. The fee is $25 for non-museum members and $20 for members. Reservations are required. Phone: 904.829.0745
HOLLY JOLLY HOLIDAY TROLLEY
Nov. 20 – Dec 31, 2011
Rest your feet and explore the city in the cozy comfort aboard the Holly Jolly Trolleys. Guests will delight at the festive wonderland of the historic area glittering with over 2 million lights. Caroling, hot cider, homemade cookies and complimentary magical viewing glasses, handcrafted by Santa’s elves add to the magic of your evening. The Holly Jolly Trolley departs continuously between 6 and 8 p.m. from the Visitors Information Center, 10 West Castillo Drive. Tickets are $7 for adults and $4 for children 6 – 12. Phone: 904.829.3800
SANTA’S BIG RED CHRISTMAS TRAIN TOURS
Nov 20, 2011 – Jan 1, 2012
Get into the holiday spirit as our Big Red Trains transport you through our magical city to view the Nights of Lights celebration nightly from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 6 -9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $7 for adults ages 12 and over and $3 for children ages 3-1. Ticket includes complimentary magical glasses that make the light displays extra amazing. December 2nd through 24th tours include stops at Santa’s Village and Prancer’s Putt-Putt for only $1 each! 904.824.1606 www.redtrains.com
CANDLE LIGHT TOURS OF VILLA ZORAYDA
Nov 25 – 26, Dec 2 – 3, 9 – 10, 16 – 17, 23, 27, 30
Experience the Villa Zorayda Museum, beautifully decorated for the Holidays, during a special “Nights of Lights” Candlelight Tour. Our docent will lead by candlelight as you explore this gilded age house museum built by Franklin Smith in 1883 and view it’s astounding art and antique collection while learning of the Villa’s 127 year history. Refreshments of Christmas cookies & beverages start at 6:30 pm with the Candlelight Tour starting at 7 pm. Tickets are $15.00 for adults, children ages 7 -12 are $7.00. No charge for children ages 4 – 6. Tour is not recommended for children under the age of 3. Reservations suggested. Villa Zorayda Museum is located at 83 King Street.
Phone: 904.829.9887
44TH ANNUAL FALL ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL
Nov 26 – 27, 2011
See art created from lace to limestone and crayons to crystal. Enjoy unplugged entertainment, plein air artists at work, and the Kids Art Zone. One of the region’s most prestigious juried art festivals, it takes place at Francis Field behind the St. Augustine Downtown Historic Parking Facility located on West Castillo Drive in St. Augustine. The festival is sponsored by the St. Augustine Art Association and is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is a $1 donation.
Phone: 904.824.2310
WINTER WONDERLAND
Nov. 26, 2011 – Jan. 02, 2012
Winter Wonderland comes with lots of activities for both young and old. This is the only place where you can experience snow and ice. Winter Wonderland features a real ice skating rink, ice slide, Elf Express train rides, The Elf Village, sleigh rides and even real SNOW! There are also scheduled visits from Santa.
Admission is free with activity participation fees. Read more about Winter Wonderland here.
UPTOWN SATURDAY NIGHT
Nov. 26, 2011
Galleries, antique stores and unique shops on St. Augustine’s San Marco Avenue between Ripley’s Museum and the Mission of Nombre de Dios remain open from 5 to 9 p.m. and feature book signings, live music, refreshments and other activities. The Mission of Nombre de Dios provides FREE PARKING.
Phone: 904.823.9263
FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK
Dec 2, 2011
Enjoy the latest exhibits, music, entertainment and refreshments at more than 20 St. Augustine art galleries. Park for free at the San Sebastian Winery, 157 King Street, where sightseeing trains and trolleys offer free round-trips to the heart of the art district – or go on your own self-guided art walk. Galleries are open from 5 to 9 p.m. For more information, call 904.829.0065 or visit www.artgalleriesofstaugustine.com.
Phone: 904.829.0065
BRITISH NIGHT WATCH OPENING EVENTS
Dec. 2, 2011
Publicly declare your support for King George III in an authentic St. Augustine celebration from 1776. At 4 p.m., gather in the Plaza de la Constitucion and receive the news of the heinous Declaration of Independence. Join the loyal St. Augustine Garrison and townsfolk as they hang the traitors John Hancock and Sam Adams in effigy and march them to and fro. Meet beneath the balcony of Government House to learn of the rebellious acts of the “patriots” in northern colonies. Redcoats will be on alert to quell any dissention from the crowd. Experience a colonial mob firsthand! For the latest information, go towww.britishnightwatch.org
Phone: 904.819.2629
ST JOHNS COUNTY FESTIVAL OF TREES AT WORLD GOLFVILLAGE
December 2 – 11, 2011
The St. Johns County Convention Center and Renaissance World Golf Village Resort will showcase trees and wreaths decorated and donated by local businesses, organizations, families and friends from the community. The display will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the final day. Admission is free. The trees and wreathes will be part of a silent auction and visitors will also be encouraged to fill out a ballot indicating the number of votes (in minimum $1 bids) they would like to cast for their favorites. Proceeds will benefit the St. Augustine Record’s Empty Stocking Fund and the United Way of St. Johns County. The World Golf Village is located at Exit 323 off I-95 in St. Augustine. For more information, visit the events calendar atwww.WorldGolfHallofFame.org.
Phone: 904.940.4015
Dec. 04, 2010
ST. AUGUSTINE BEACH SURF ILLUMINATION
Light up your evenings when the Surf Illumination complements the seasonal lighting of A1A Beach Boulevard. The event includes the ceremonial lighting of the seasonal tree by the Mayor. Food and beverages are offered by local restaurants and many local arts and crafts vendors provide convenient shopping for the holiday season. Santa, musical performers and traditional carolers make it fun for all. This season’s lighting will be expanded to illuminate four buildings and most of the trees at Pier Park, creating St. Augustine Beach’s winter wonderland
Phone: 904.347.8007
57TH ANNUAL ST. AUGUSTINE CHRISTMAS PARADE
Dec. 3, 2011
The Annual Christmas Parade has grown to be one of the largest parades in north Florida and includes floats, marching bands, cars, horses, and the arrival of Santa. The parade will start promptly at 10 a.m. at the Mission Nombre de Dios; continue through the downtown streets of historic St. Augustine and end behind the Visitors Center on West Castillo Dr.
Phone: 904.824.4997
BRITISH CAMP OPENS
Dec 3, 2011
At 9 a.m., enter St. Augustine’s Francis Field and experience Colonial Market Days featuring 18th century musicians and itinerant travelling performers that will delight all ages. Marvel at the skill of a Colonial Conjurer, watch a Punch and Judy Puppet Show, and enjoy the balancing act of Signora Bella. At 1 p.m., learn about Colonial Clothing of the era, when the Parade of Fashion is presented at 1 p.m. Then witness British Redcoats drill, meet a British Army Surgeon, interact with Townsfolk concerned about their liberty, immerse yourself in 18th lifestyles & politics of St. Augustine. For more details, go to www.britishnightwatch.org .
THE GRANDE ILLUMINATION PARADE
Dec 3, 2011
March to the fifes and drums down the same St. Augustine streets marched through by British troops over 200 years ago. Then form up for the parade at 7:45 p.m. in front of Government House. The parade proper starts at 8:00 p.m. Saturday, December 3rd. Non-reenactors and other persons who wish to march along with the parade are invited to fall in behind the Civilians and Distaff. Candles will be made available for a donation from 18th Century Folk in the west garden of the Cathedral Basilica. For further information and updates, go to www.britishnightwatch.org
3rd ANNUAL GARDEN CLUB CHRISTMAS TOUR OF HOMES
Dec 4, 2011
Enjoy the St. Augustine Garden Club’s annual tour that showcases a selection of St. Augustine’s most outstanding private homes. These beautiful decorated historic Florida style homes, welcome you to enjoy a taste of nostalgia in the colorful floral decorations and floral arrangements composed of natural materials designed and hand crafted by members of The Garden Club of St. Augustine. In addition, your ticket includes a delightful tea. The tour takes place from noon to 5 p.m. Admission is $20. For more information, and to purchase tickets, visit www.gardenclubofstaugustine.org.
ST. AUGUSTINE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA PERFORMS HOLIDAY FAVORITES
Dec 9 & Dec 11, 2011
Come enjoy an orchestral presentation of Holiday Favorite music. St. Augustine Orchestra celebrates its 50th concert season with stellar performances in St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra Beach. On Friday, the Orchestra will perform at 8 p.m. at Lightner Museum, 75 King Street in St. Augustine and at 3 p.m. at Ponte Vedra United Methodist Church, 76 Roscoe Boulevard in Ponte Vedra Beach. For more information, visit www.staugustineorchestra.org.
REGATTA OF LIGHTS
Dec 10, 2011
Regale your eyes with a holiday parade of boats from 15 to 85 feet in length – sailboats, trawlers, shrimp boats, and many other vessels all-a-glitter with brilliant lighted displays ranging from patriotic to whimsical. Awards will be made for the best theme, most colorful, best in class, and best overall. Beginning at 6 p.m., the boats will light up Matanzas Bay between the Bridge of Lions and Castillo de San Marcos. The Regatta of Lights is sponsored by the St. Augustine Yacht Club. For more information, call 904.824.9725 or visitwww.sayc2000.com.
SUNSET/MOONRISE TOUR
Dec 10, 2011
Enjoy the sunset, moonrise and Night of Lights from the most unique perspective in all of St. Augustine – the top of the Lighthouse! This special event includes a champagne toast, provided by San Sebastian Winery, hors d’oeuvres from The Reef and an informative overview of the history of the St. Augustine Light Station. The tour takes place from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the St. Augustine Lighthouse located at 81 Lighthouse Avenue. The fee is $25 for non-museum members and $20 for members. Reservations are required. For more information, visit www.StAugustineLighthouse.com, or to reserve a spot, call 904.829.0745
ST. AUGUSTINE COMMUNITY CHORUS, SING WE NOW OF CHRISTMAS
Dec 10 & 11, 2011
Enjoy this concert of English Carols and selections from “Messiah” presented by St. Augustine Community Chorus. Sing We Now of Christmas will take place at the Cathedral Basilica on St. Augustine’s Plaza de la Constitucion. The concerts will take place Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. For tickets and information, visitwww.staugustinecommunitychorus.org.
18TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY TOUR OF BED AND BREAKFAST INNS
Dec 10 & 11, 2011
Tour St. Augustine’s historic Bed and Breakfast Inns, all decorated in Holiday finery. This year’s tour theme is “Ghosts of Christmas Past” This year the innkeepers invite tour guests to peek into the past and learn about the sentimental stories or supernatural secrets that have inhabited their historic homes for decades, many for 100 years or more. In addition to being able to enjoy each Inn’s dazzling Christmas season displays, tour participants will be able to enjoy taste treats throughout the Holiday Tour: Each Inn unites with one of St. Augustine’s leading restaurants and confectioners, who serve complimentary samples. The tour takes place from 1 to 5 p.m. each day; half of the inns welcome visitors on Saturday, and half on Sunday. Ticket purchased online are $25. After November 20, tickets are $35. Proceeds from the Holiday Tour will benefit the St. Augustine Record “Empty Stocking Fund”. For more information, visit www.staugustineinns.com
EMMA CONCERT SERIES: JACKSONVILLE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA HOLIDAY POPS
Dec 14 & 15, 2011
Once again the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra will regale St. Augustine with the ever popular Holiday Pops concerts. The concerts will be conducted by Mathew Kraemer, Associate Conductor of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. The concert takes place at 8 p.m. both evenings at the Flagler College Auditorium, 14 Granada Street in St. Augustine. Tickets are $30 per person. For more information, visit www.EmmaConcerts.com or call 904.797.2800 .
ST. AUGUSTINE BALLET PERFORMS THE NUTCRACKER
Dec 17 & 18, 2011
Bring the children along to enjoy this delightful traditional holiday ballet. The performances will take place at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and at 2 p.m. on Sunday. Performances are at the Flagler College Auditorium, located at 14 Granada Street in St. Augustine. Tickets are $20, $25 and $30. For more information, visit www.saintaugustineballet.com or call 904-810-5670 .
OLD TOWN ART & CRAFT SHOW
Dec 28-29, 2011
Enjoy this juried art and fine craft show featuring artists and craftsmen from St. Augustine and from around the nation. Paintings, pottery, glass, metal, jewelry, mixed media, fiber art, photography, wood working and much, much more will be featured! The show takes place each day from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at St. Augustine’s Francis Field, 14 W. Castillo Drive. Admission is free. For more information, go towww.holidayartshows.com/old-town-art-craft-show.html or email lynn@holidayartshows.com.
BEACH BLAST OFF 2011
Dec. 31, 2011
Kick off 2012 in seaside style at this special St. Augustine Beach event! Enjoy a blast of flavor, icy sculptures, and fireworks when several of St. Augustine’s favorite restaurants serve up chili for tasting and judging at the Fire and Ice Chili Cook-off from 4 to 8 p.m. After things cool off from the chili – the Fireworks begin at 8:30 p.m. This display will delight visitors and help usher in the New Year! Admission is free. The Beach Blast takes place at St. Johns County Fishing Pier and Pavilion, 350 A1A Beach Boulevard in St. Augustine Beach. For more information, call 904.829.5681 or visit www.beachblastoff.com
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