st augustine holiday lights tour

Nights of Lights

Quick Details

• Clock Times: 6:45 p.m., 8:15 p.m., 9:45 p.m. , 7 p.m. , 8:30 p.m.
• Hour Glass Duration: 75 minutes
• User Ages: Family Friendly & Adults Only available

To make the holidays even more memorable, Florida Water Tours offers world-class yacht charter services for the annual Nights of Lights festival in St. Augustine, FL. Join us to view the millions of tiny white lights that create a magical atmosphere in the nation’s oldest city.

Join Us for Nights of Lights, a Holiday Festival of Rich Tradition

The festival traces its origins to the Spanish tradition of displaying a white candle in the window during the Christmas holidays. The spectacular lighting reflects the city’s 450-year history and illuminates the beautiful setting for lasting holiday memories.

From the Saturday before Thanksgiving to the end of January, St. Augustine glows with holiday magic from the ground to the rooftops. One by one, tiny white lights make the city twinkle in the night. Selected by National Geographic as one of the 10 best holiday lighting displays in the world in 2014, the festival is an unforgettable sight!

• Complimentary 3D glasses to enhance your experience.
• One cup of free hot cocoa will be served on board to each passenger as always.
• Expertly guided commentary.
• Holiday Music to get you in the spirit!

Cruise Options:

Sunset nights of lights cruise.

This is a great way to begin your evening with a glorious sunset nights of lights combo! As the sun sets over the historic city, you’ll embark on a journey that combines the serene beauty of a coastal sunset with the dazzling spectacle of the city adorned in millions of twinkling lights. This is a 90 minute cruise, and we have two options. Go here for more info!

• $49 and is for Adults Only 21+
• $49 for Adults 13+, $22 for Children 3-12, and $8 for little ones 2 and under .

Nights of Lights Cruise

• The  Osprey is our 45′ pontoon boat and has a  bar on board , including Irish cream, mimosas, sangrias and an excellent variety of beer, wine and canned cocktails for those 21+! No outside alcoholic beverages permitted on this vessel.  Water, soft drinks and snacks are also available for purchase. Cash or card accepted.
• The 6:45 p.m. tour time is for all ages . Prices are $39 for Adults , $19 for Children and $6 for 2 and under . Everyone, no matter the age, must have a ticket to board.
• The 8:15 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. tour times are strictly for Adults Only ages 21+. $39
• Each cruise is 75 mins. The tour is guided by our fantastically entertaining crew!

ISLAND BREEZE

• The  Island Breeze is our 35′ pontoon boat and is Family Friendly!  This boat is BYOB, please feel free to bring your favorite beverages on this vessel. We sell beer, wine and canned cocktails in our shop!
• The 7pm and 8:30 tour times are 75 minutes- $39 for Adults , $19 for Children 7 and over. (*under 7 not permitted*)

Kiddie Option

We are excited to accommodate our families with little ones on a Nights of Lights cruise! The 5:15pm Sunset/Nights of Lights Cruise on the Island Breeze, or the 6:45pm Nights of Lights Cruise on the Osprey are for all ages!

Private Yacht Nights of Lights Cruise

Enjoy the Nights of Lights on your very own luxury motor yacht!

• 2 Hours – $695 plus tax and gratuity. This is a private experience for up to 6 passengers, and all ages are welcome.
• The 5pm – 7pm tour time is a Sunset Nights of Lights Cruise Combo, or book the 7:30pm – 9:30pm cruise for a great way to see the lights!
• Ask about our catering packages to enhance your experience.

Food & Drinks:

• Graze Boxes are available for Pre-Order! You can order during checkout, or call/email up to 12 hours before your cruise. Your box will be ready for pick-up in our marina shop during check in. Floating Food Co has a variety to choose from, including their Nights of Lights special: Star Grazer Box – *Includes cheese and charcuterie, gourmet nuts, olive & pepper medley, chocolate covered strawberries and a variety of decadent desserts. Serves 2-4.
• King Fish Grill is located in the marina and offers you 15% off if you show them your confirmation email!
• Also located In the marina, check out Odd Birds Cafe, or Vinny’s Pizza-  open for lunch and dinner!
• Our in-house cafe inside our marina shop will be offering some gourmet hot cocoa and coffees for sale. Stop in before or after your cruise!
• We also have alcoholic beverages and soft drinks for sale in the shop to purchase and bring aboard the Island Breeze vessel. Osprey has a bar on board.

More To Know:

• You will get 3D glasses to enjoy the lights in a different way!
• Groups up to 8 people can be purchased online, if you have more than 8 people in your party, please call or email to book. We do not accept groups of more than 14 on our public cruises. If you are interested in booking a Private Cruise please fill out our contact form or give us a call for more details!
• Although the season here stays pretty mild, we suggest you dress appropriately and keep in mind it’s always a bit colder on the water! We have windows that can go up or down, so on those colder evenings we can lower the windows for extra warmth. Pro-tip: bring a small blanket to cozy up with for those chilly evenings. Blankets along with other goodies and gifts are for sale in our marina shop!
• Shoes: Heels or black soled shoes are not permitted. We recommend rubber soled shoes or non-skid.
• After booking, your confirmation email will have detailed instructions about our location! We have plenty of free parking in the marina, however, spaces fill up quickly on weekends and holidays. We recommend carpooling or arriving early!

Special Cruises during Nights of Lights

Light up ceremony.

• The very first Nights of Lights Cruise is called the Light Up Ceremony on November 18th, 2023! This is a special 2 Hour Cruise from 5:30 – 7:30 for adults and children 5 and older. We’ll be serving 1 glass of complimentary champagne (for those 21+), as we bring you right up to the bay-front to view the lights turn on for the very first time!! On this cruise, Adults are $49 and Children are $39 (no children under 5). Please choose between the Island Breeze (BYOB) or the Osprey (Bar on Board).

Regatta of Lights!

• The Regatta of Lights is a special 2 Hour Cruise on December 9th 2023. Please click here for more info and to book your cruise!

New Years Eve!

• Pro tip: Book our 8:15pm Nights of Lights Cruise on December 31st for a chance to see the Fireworks that are displayed during the ‘Beach Blast Off’!’ Each year, the Beach Blast Off takes place at the St. Johns County Pier in St. Augustine, to welcome the New Year! The fireworks are set to go off at 8:30pm, and we stay out about 15 minutes longer for this cruise to allow for more time to watch, then cruise downtown to view the Nights of Lights. Complimentary champagne toast will be served to those 21+!

This season, we will be closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

• Chevron down Cancellations and Weather

-Cancel at least 48 hours before your scheduled tour in order to receive a full refund. -No refunds for cancellations within 48 hours of your scheduled cruise, or no-show’s. -A rescheduling fee of 50% of your payment will be charged if rescheduling within 48 hours of your cruise.

– Your trip is 100% refundable if cancelled by us due to unfavorable or unsafe weather conditions. – We make every effort to contact you a reasonable amount of time before the tour (we will call, email, and text you) but sometimes we do not cancel until the last minute due to unpredictable weather here in Florida. If we do not contact you, please head to the tour as normal. – Our Master Captains are professionals and safety is our number 1 concern.

Please note: We have a minimum requirement of 12 passengers for every tour. If in the rare occasion we do not meet our minimum, we will contact you at least 2 hours before your tour. You are then entitled to a full refund, or you can reschedule with no expiration.

– Reschedule at least 48 hours prior to your cruise to avoid fees. – A rescheduling fee of 50% of your payment will be charged if rescheduling within 48 hours of your cruise.

Related Boat Tours

• Special Cruise 12/09/2023
• Hour Glass 120 minutes
• Clock 5:30 p.m.

[December 9th, 2023] Florida Water Tours will be taking part in this traditional Night of Lights parade, where all kinds of boats with all kinds of holiday decorations glide by along St. Augustine’s bay front.

• Best Seller!
• User All ages
• Hour Glass 90 minutes
• Clock Daytime

Dolphin and Wildlife Adventure

Combining sightseeing and learning, our Dolphin and Wildlife Adventure appeals to nature enthusiasts! Enjoy the wetlands, coastal marshes, and wildlife with a bit of history on this tour great for any age.

• Only one in St. Augustine!
• User Ages 21+
• Clock Early Evening

Wine Tasting Cruise

Sample 6 delicious wine as we take you on an adventure to the bayfront, where our experienced guides give you a tour of the local nature, wildlife, and historic landmarks.

Below are step by step instructions on how to purchase AND **how to redeem** a Gift Card. Gift Cards can be used on any of our tours, any time!

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Old Town Trolley Tours St Augustine 4.6

Nights of Lights Tickets

Celebrating 30 years, This tour is a holiday tradition for locals and visitors alike and is sure to become one of your favorite holiday memories.

Your Nights of Lights Tickets Includes:

• Celebrating 30 Years!
• Experience over 3 million lights adorning every corner of the city’s historic district
• Complimentary magical viewing glasses for an enhanced, fully-immersive holiday experience
• Enjoy caroling to holiday favorites with friends and family
• Complimentary sugar cookies and warm apple cider
• Open air sightseeing, perfect for taking pictures
• Reserved private seating
• Reservation system eliminates long lines – Book today! Sell outs are common
• 100% Satisfaction Guarantee

The holidays are popular for enjoying time-honored traditions like gift-giving, bonding with family, and decorating your home in the spirit of the season. Here in America’s Oldest City, we take the latter to a whole different level. 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 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 Old Town Trolley’s Nights of Lights Tour!

Spend less time waiting in line and more time with your loved ones by reserving a private row for you and your family or for that special someone. Your Nights of Lights Trolley will be waiting for you when you arrive…and don’t forget to ask for your magical glasses.

At the end of the tour, join us for some homemade cookies and warm apple cider for what’s sure to become your new holiday tradition.

TIP: Due to the popularity of the city’s Nights of Lights, be sure to give yourself enough time to park and check in as traffic can be heavy. For wheelchairs and scooters, a minimum of twenty-four (24) hour notice is recommended. Please call (904) 829-3800 for scheduling. This will allow us time to ensure that a properly equipped vehicle will be made available for your use. Wheelchair accessible trolleys are scheduled on a first come, first served basis.

Nights of Lights Tour

November 19, 2023 – January 28, 2024

Tours depart from the Visitor Information Center, 10 West Castillo Drive.

Approx. 30-45 minutes. Times vary by date. See calendar for times.

Admission Reservations: Reservations are required. Reservation based tickets are non-refundable. You may reschedule up to 24 hours in advance of tour time by calling 904-337-3780. Maximum of 4 guests per row.

Due to the popularity of the city’s Nights of Lights, be sure to give yourself enough time to park and check in as traffic can be heavy.

Parking: 24 hours a day parking is conveniently available at the adjacent Historic Downtown Parking Facility. The cost is $20 per vehicle, per entry. Cash, credit, and debit cards are all accepted. For more information on parking in St. Augustine, please visit the City of St. Augustine website. Please be aware that there are several privately owned lots throughout the city with their own pay stations. Discount parking for trolley guests is available at the nearby Old Town Trolley Welcome Center, 27 San Marco Ave., on a first come, first served basis.

*This is 1 private row for your use with a maximum of 4 people per row. Book online to reserve your row today! Age Requirements: Children 3 years and younger may be considered a lap child. Toddler carriers and children ages 4 and older are required to have their own seat and must remain seated at all times.

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Ultimate Guide to Nights of Lights 2023-2024

Helpful tips and tricks to help you navigate the festivities.

This is the 30th Annual Nights of Lights celebration in the city of St. Augustine. This dazzling display of some three million white lights has become one of the most popular destinations during the holidays in North Florida. The lights are on from November 18, 2023, to January 28, 2024.

Nights of Lights has made St. Augustine one of the '" Twinkliest Towns " in the nation according to Rachel Ray Magazine. It was also listed on National Geographic's "Top 10 Places in the World" (yes, as in "Planet Earth," "the Globe," "everywhere where any Christmas lights are found") to view holiday lights in 2012 and 2013, listed on "7-Over-The-Top Holiday Light Displays You Gotta See" by HuffPost in 2015, and on the "Top 20 Spots Across America to See Amazing Holiday Light Displays" by Country Living in 2014. By the time 2016 rolled around, we stopped watching the media lists because when it comes to insanely awesome light displays, St. Augustine reigns supreme, and ain't no one gonna dethrone us any time soon.

If you're already feeling overwhelmed, don't be! If you're new to the event, all the excitement can feel like a bit much, but that's why those of us here at VisitStAugustine.com have put together this Ultimate Guide to St. Augustine Nights of Lights —so that people can get in, have fun, and get out in one piece, as opposed to coming out tangled up in a ball of Christmas lights (that only happened once).

And speaking of tangled up, if getting tangled up in traffic isn't your game, the City of St. Augustine offers Free Park and Ride Shuttle service on select days for Nights of Lights.  Learn more about where to park and the Free Park and Ride Shuttle schedule.  

A complete list of Nights of Lights tours and all the other holiday events going on in St. Augustine .

Know the history.

St. Augustine's Nights of Lights first started in 1993, and it's been lighting up the nation's oldest city ever since.

St. Augustine's Nights of Lights comes from the traditional Spanish practice of displaying a candle in windows during the Christmas holidays. Candles in the window allude to the biblical story where Mary and Joseph could find no room at the inn. When the Spanish put candles in their windows, they were symbolically making room in their homes and hearts for Jesus. It also reflects the welcoming attitude of the holiday season, welcoming guests to our home. The stunning lights reflect the city's more than 450 years of history and illuminate the beautiful cityscape for lasting holiday memories. The city of St. Augustine has been celebrating Nights of Lights for 29 years, and this year is sure to be another one for the books.

Arrive early.

Don't forget about the metered spots along the bayfront south of the Bridge of Lions.

Traffic and parking is a little more difficult than usual, as flocks of people come from all over the region to view the lights. There's a parking garage located near the Visitor Information Center which you can get to by turning onto Castillo Drive from US 1. Parking at the garage is $20.00 per day. 

Locals who live nearby or who own a bike should consider walking or biking to Nights of Lights. Just make sure your bike is equipped with its own set of lights and reflectors.

Grab some food.

Shrimp and scallops from Harry's Seafood Bar & Grille.

Make plans to have dinner and walk around. There are plenty of restaurants within walking distance of the main plaza, and they'll all be open ready to serve Nights of Lights visitors.

• A1A Ale Works : This St. Augustine restaurant overlooks the Plaza de la Constitución where the lighting ceremony takes place. Sit on their New Orleans-style balcony and enjoy dinner entrees under the comfort of their outdoor heaters.
• Harry's Seafood : Just around the corner from the plaza, this sit-down restaurant has a lovely patio that is lit up year-round to get you in the Nights of Lights mood.
• For other restaurants, see the restaurant directory for Historic Downtown . 

Get something warm.

Hot cocoa at Kookaburra.

The nights can be cold (for Florida, which means around 65 degrees Fahrenheit, 18 degrees Celsius), so even if you don't feel like sitting down for a full meal, it'll be a good idea to grab something warm to eat or drink. If you want to grab a quick snack or drink to go, stop by these local favorites. They're all within walking distance of the City's plaza, so you will be right in the heart of the historic district.

• Kookaburra : This Australian coffee shop serves up caffeinated beverages, hot chocolate, and their meat pies. Order a Hot Aussie if you're looking for a sweet drink to keep you warm.
• Gaufre's and Goods : This Polish and Greek restaurant on Aviles Street serves hot Belgian waffles that come with a variety of toppings, such as Nutella, whipped cream, and bananas.

Take in an epic view.

You wanna be in a great spot when the lights are on for St. Augustine's Nights of Lights. Here are a few of the places you can stand to watch the lights come on.

The Plaza de la Constitución is where most of the light-up action takes place. There's a central gazebo, and lights are strung along all the trees in the plaza. There's also a huge Christmas tree that makes a perfect background for holiday photos (also see below).

The Bridge of Lions

You can stand along the sidewalks on the Bridge of Lions to get a view that allows you to see the whole bayfront, the tops of the trees in the plaza, and all the illuminated buildings.

I'm not suggesting you grab an inner tube and jump in the Matanzas River, but if you own a boat or want to book one of the Nights of Lights water tours, you can get a great view of the lights from the water without worrying about any crowds. It's comfortable, unique, and you can avoid the no open container law that applies to sidewalks and enjoy a drink from the ship. See here for some great choices for water tours including those hosted by Florida Water Tours .

Take photos.

There are so many great opportunities to take photos. Get the family by the Christmas tree in the main plaza for a free Christmas photo. Take shots of the buildings or the trees to post on Instagram .

If you do post on Instagram, mention @VisitStA .  You may get reposted!

Tips for the perfect Nights of Lights photo:

• Pick the right time of day -- especially around sunset.
• If you have a digital camera, change the white balance to 'tungsten.'
• If possible, use a tripod or place the camera on a hard surface. 
• Focus on something closer to make the lights become soft, out-of-focus orbs, a technique called "bokeh."
• (If you have an iPhone) Plug in your iPhone headphones and use the volume button on the cord with the camera app open in order to take a still shot in low lighting without shaking the camera.
• Post on Instagram and mention @VisitStA.

Grab a drink.

The Tini Martini Bar at the Casablanca Inn.

Stop at one of these bars and relax with a seasonal drink while taking in the lights.

• Tini Martini Bar : Known for their decked out balcony, Tini Martini Bar at the Casablanca Inn on the bayfront serves delicious dessert martinis for the holiday sweet tooth, such as the After Eight, made with chocolate vodka, peppermint schnapps, Godiva chocolate liqueur, and Starbucks cream liqueur.
• Meehan's : Sit on the balcony for views of the Bridge of Lions lit up on the water while sipping an Irish coffee.

Walk in a lit-up wonderland.

Stroll through the plaza, down the bayfront lined with lights and decorated palm trees. There's also the Lightner Museum and Flagler College down King Street which are both adorned with lights. If you can't see everything, then no worries. The lights are on every night through January 28, 2024.

For the best time to see the lights...

Many people come for Nights of Lights on the weekend, so if you're looking to avoid the crowds, coming mid-week is a good idea. It's a great way to get on a trolley or train without a long wait, and since many of the hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts in St. Augustine offer lower rates mid-week, it makes it easier to plan on staying overnight. That way, you can enjoy the lights at your leisure. And don't forget ... the lights stay on through the end of January!

This article was originally written by Alex Pooler in 2014. It has been updated with current information for the 2023 - 2024 Nights of Lights season.

Alex Pooler

As Content Editor for VisitStAugustine.com, Alex writes and edits everything from articles to business profiles to events. She likes manatees, orange juice, and getting into a hot car on a scorchingly hot Florida summer day after being in AC for hours.

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• Dolphin and Wildlife History Boat Tour
• Sunset Boat Tour
• Nights of Lights Boat Tour
• Private Charter & Small Boat Tours

St Augustine at Night Nights of Lights Boat Tour

Sparkly lights, $34 adults / $15 kids under 8, time varies according to sunset. available daily from nov. 20 – jan 31..

Our evening boat tours from Nov 20 through Jan 31, celebrate the beauty and festivity of the Old City’s Nights of Lights. St. Augustine in the evening is already a beautiful scene, but the city puts on a glowing show for the holidays, dressing up downtown with thousands of white lights that look stunning from a waterfront view. We cruise the waterfront to enjoy the light show, while also taking in the landmarks that make the city so very special. You can have some fun viewing the lights with our special 3D glasses.

Nights can be on the cool-side, so make sure to dress appropriately for the weather. This trip lasts approximately 1 hour. We depart from the Conch House Marina on Anastasia Island, just a short distance from historic downtown across the Bridge of Lions.

Tip: Nights of Lights also makes a fantastic private charter for your group!

Other Tours

$34 per person

Dolphin/wildlife.

$27 adults / $15 kids / $5 infants

Come see the sparkle.

• Dolphin and Wildlife Tour
• Private Charter

Nights Of Lights Tour

Guided Nights Of Lights Tour with A Twist of History!

⭐️Open Air Electric Golf Cart

😎 3-D Glasses for viewing the lights included

🎶 Holiday mu sic playing

Light History commentary; Full Guided Historical Tours during the day

45 Minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic

Private Tour (Up to 9 People): $200

Per Row (1 row is 3 seats): $75 Email/Website message for per row option- This will not always be available ​ .

Meeting Locati ons

143 Cordova Street Parking (public parking behind the Lightner Mus eum; South End ) We do not offer parking at the depar ture location.  Picture for reference: ​

The City Gates; 1 St. George Street (There are benches to sit and wait at. We will pull off the road in the loading area right in front of the benches) We do not offer parking at the departure location.  Picture for reference:

Personable guided tours with a twist of history to show off the annual holiday light display. Our vehicles seat up to 9-10 guests  (10 upon request)  and are not restricted to a set route. Venture down the smaller streets such as Aviles Street, and Cedar Street which display beautiful holiday decorations at the famous bed & breakfasts. Tour the elaborate light displays seen at Flagler College, the Lightner Museum, and all through out the historic district! Holiday glasses will be available for a unique viewi ng experience for all!

Important Information

Please, plan accordingly as parking can be very difficult (could take up to 45 minutes once you arrive in downtown).

We can almost guarantee it will take up to 45 minutes to find parking on Friday or Saturday nights, and almost all nights in December. The week after Christmas (everyday after Christmas Eve) is the BUSIEST week of the year for downtown St. Augustine! Please, plan to park at least an hour before your tour begins. If you do not have parking we recommend utilizing the cities parking faci lity @ 1 Cordova Street, St. Augustine, Fl 32084 "Park Once" Its worth every penny! Come early! The garage does and WILL fill up by 3:00pm, specially on weekends near big holidays and events. There are public and private lots throughout the downtown area that are priced per day and/or per hour; worth every dollar. If you find on street parking throughout the area,  read all street signs advising where you can not park. They will tow your vehicle if you do not park legally. Read all signs that give warnings where you can and can not park.

The traffic will back up 1 mile out of the immediate downtown area before even entering into downtown- This includes coming from A1A at the Lions Bridge, A1A at the Vilano Bridge, and North & South of US-1. Coming from anywhere; Orlando, Jacksonville, Daytona, Ponte Vedra, Anastasia Island, and St. Augustine beach. Once you pass that traffic you will need up to 45 minutes to navigate through the immediate downtown area to find parking; if you do not come early! This is all very important for those coming on Fridays and Saturdays or nights in December. The week days are a lot calmer, but can still be very busy. The week following Christmas Eve is the busiest week of the year for St. Augustine! Everyday is like a busy Saturday. Traffic slows down significantly after the first week of January.

Google /Apple Maps

Use Google /Apple Maps to zoom into the immediate downtown area of St. Augustine. When you zoom into the immediate downtown area you can see where marked parking areas are located. There are businesses and schools who will also come out to sell parking during the busy nights through-out the downtown area. Ketterlinus Elementary School off of Orange Street will sometimes sell parking for different fundraisers. It is a great location, and your dollars will be put towards good use in our community. All parking lots are worth the money for parking. Most lots are 5-10 minute walks to the most popular areas. We can not tell you which lots to park in a few minutes before your tour as it is impossible for us to know whether the lots are filled or not when you are arriving. We can only try to give you as much information now, so that you may plan accordingly. ​

What to Bring

Prepare appropriately for current weather conditions and bring what you will need to stay comfortable. We welcome warm drinks on the cart, just no glass please. We will have our 3-D glasses for viewing the lights, and holiday music!

Full refund if cancelled more than 24 hours in advance. No refund if cancelled less than 24 hours before tour. Rebook at no extra cost if you rebook more than 24 hours in advance. If you cancel last minute and we are able to resell your seats we will give a 100% refund. If there is extreme flooding/weather which prohibits us from operating we will give a full refund and/or reschedule. We do not refund if you do not make it to the tour due to parking, not arriving on time, or dinner reservations running late.

Length Of Tour

Tours are about 45 minutes long. They will almost always be closer to 1 hour when there is heavy traffic. Please plan for at least an hour. If your tour is only 45 minutes this is still a full tour, but traffic was light enough to complete the tour in a timely manner.

Annual tour of the holiday light display!

     Personable  tours with a twist of history to show off the annual holiday light display. Our vehicles are not restricted to a set route. Venture down the smaller streets such as Aviles Street, and Cedar Street which display beautiful holiday decorations at the famous bed & breakfasts. Tour the elaborate light displays seen at Flagler College, the Lightner Museum, and all through out the historic district! Holiday glasses will be available for a unique viewing experience for all. One of the best parts.... No long lines or waiting with us! Simply book online, call or email us to reserve!

Related Activities

Guided Historical Tour

An extensive and educational tour of St. Augustine. Explore the cultural events that made St. Augustine a key component in World History! Find out where to wine & dine, and things to do while you visit and EXPLORE!

Tour the famous holiday light display's with a twist of history! Venture down the smaller streets; off the beaten path. Holiday glasses are given for a unique viewing experience!

Private Events

Complete that special event by arriving and being picked up in style! Weddings, conventions, and special events, Explore Tours will make sure your experience is smooth and on time.

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Nights of Lights

Nights of Lights begins November 23, 2024 and continues nightly through January 26, 2025.

Nights of Lights has been listed among the top ten holiday light displays in the world by National Geographic. During this festival of lights, downtown St. Augustine glows with holiday magic – from the ground to the rooftops. St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights features millions of tiny white lights that create a magical atmosphere in the Nation’s Oldest City, and it's free of charge.

Para información sobre Nights of Lights en español, presiona aquí .

When is Nights of Lights?

Nights of Lights is still on this year! The 2023-2024 Nights of Lights will take place every evening from November 23, 2024 to January 26, 2025.

The festival kicks off with Light-Up! Night on November 23 at 4 p.m and the official lighting ceremony beginning at 6:30 in the Plaza de la Constitucion. 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.

#NightsofLights #FloridasHistoricCoast

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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.

What are the best ways to see the light displays?

Since Nights of Lights covers such an expansive area of St. Augustine, there are plenty of ways to view the lights.

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 , Going Coastal 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.

One of The Top 10 Holiday Light Displays in the World! National Geographic

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

Small groups can book a Nights of Lights tour with St. Augustine Land & Sea Tours . Enjoy St. Augustine's Nights of Lights in the comfort of a luxury 12-seat golf cart, attended by a knowledgeable tour 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.

What events take place during Nights of Lights and the Christmas season?

Tens of thousands of people visit this city-wide holiday display each year, but not just for the stunning lights. There are also plenty of events that go on during the Nights of Lights on Florida's Historic Coast. Don't miss out on the annual holiday boat parades in Palm Valley and Matanzas Bay, Luminary Night at the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, or the Christmas Experience at Villa Zorayda. For more detailed listings of events during the holiday season, please click below:

• Nights of Lights Events
• Special Nights of Lights Tours
• Christmas Events in St. Augustine

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 the week between Christmas and New Years .

Parking Info

Find parking information for Nights of Lights.

Find special lodging deals and offers for Nights of Lights.

February 2025

Grammy Award-Winning Jazz and Blues Artists Confirmed Over the Two Week Series

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Nights of Lights Tickets

Celebrating 30 years, This tour is a holiday tradition for locals and visitors alike and is sure to become one of your favorite holiday memories.

• Celebrating 30 Years!
• Experience over 3 million lights adorning every corner of the city’s historic district.
• Complimentary magical viewing glasses for an enhanced, fully-immersive holiday experience.
• Enjoy caroling to holiday favorites with friends and family.
• Complimentary sugar cookies and warm apple cider.
• Open air sightseeing, perfect for taking pictures.
• Reserved private seating.
• Reservation system eliminates long lines – Book today! Sell outs are common.
• 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.

The holidays are popular for enjoying time-honored traditions like gift-giving, bonding with family, and decorating your home in the spirit of the season. Here in America’s Oldest City, we take the latter to a whole different level. 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 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 Old Town Trolley’s Nights of Lights Tour!

Spend less time waiting in line and more time with your loved ones by reserving a private row for you and your family or for that special someone. Your Nights of Lights Trolley will be waiting for you when you arrive…and don’t forget to ask for your magical glasses.

At the end of the tour, join us for some homemade cookies and warm apple cider for what’s sure to become your new holiday tradition.

TIP: Due to the popularity of the city’s Nights of Lights, be sure to give yourself enough time to park and check in as traffic can be heavy. For wheelchairs and scooters, a minimum of twenty-four (24) hour notice is recommended. Please call (904) 829-3800 for scheduling. This will allow us time to ensure that a properly equipped vehicle will be made available for your use. Wheelchair accessible trolleys are scheduled on a first come, first served basis.

November 19, 2023 – January 28, 2024

Tours depart from the Visitor Information Center, 10 West Castillo Drive.

Approx. 30-45 minutes. Times vary by date. See calendar for times.

Admission Reservations: Reservations are required. Reservation based tickets are non-refundable. You may reschedule up to 24 hours in advance of tour time by calling 904-337-3780. Maximum of 4 guests per row.

Due to the popularity of the city’s Nights of Lights, be sure to give yourself enough time to park and check in as traffic can be heavy.

Parking: 24 hours a day parking is conveniently available at the adjacent Historic Downtown Parking Facility. The cost is $20 per vehicle, per entry. Cash, credit, and debit cards are all accepted. For more information on parking in St. Augustine, please visit the City of St. Augustine website. Please be aware that there are several privately owned lots throughout the city with their own pay stations. Discount parking for trolley guests is available at the nearby Old Town Trolley Welcome Center, 27 San Marco Ave., on a first come, first served basis.

*This is 1 private row for your use with a maximum of 4 people per row. Book online to reserve your row today! Age Requirements: Children 3 years and younger may be considered a lap child. Toddler carriers and children ages 4 and older are required to have their own seat and must remain seated at all times.

Important - Please Read

Nights of Lights

Swash-buckling fun meets holiday cheer on Black Raven's Nights of Lights!

Quick Details

See St. Augustine’s World Famous Nights of Lights from the point of view of a pirate ship! Starting the weekend before Thanksgiving through the end of January, the Black Raven sails north towards historic downtown to put its own spin on the holidays.

Join in with the crew for sing-a-longs of their best sea shanties as well as your favorite Christmas carols, and now through the month of December, Old St. Nick visits Old St. Augustine to visit his favorite pirates! Grab a seasonal drink at the bar, sing, dance, and be merry! Finally, end the trip with a front row seat as millions of holiday lights illuminate the beautiful and historic bayfront! Yo Ho Ho and Happy Holidays from the Black Raven!

**IMPORTANT: All passengers have to check-in at Black Raven’s Ship Store prior to proceeding to the ship. You will NOT be able to board the ship without the boarding passes. The store is located in the St. Augustine Municipal Marina building.**

**Due to the bridge opening times, Nights of Lights leaves at 4:15PM EXACTLY. We CANNOT wait for latecomers. If you are not on the ship by 4:15PM, we will do our best to accommodate you on another show provided you call or visit the ship store to make arrangements. We will NOT accommodate no show/no call passengers.**

**Parking Information: We DO NOT have a parking lot and parking in St. Augustine is limited. Please allow yourself at least 45-60 minutes to find parking. We WILL NOT issue refunds for parking issues.**

**WEATHER POLICY: In case of inclement weather or otherwise unsafe sailing conditions, the cruise will be delayed, rescheduled or canceled as per the captain’s decision. If canceled by the company, all customers will have the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.**

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Black Raven’s Tropical Sunset Cruise

Take a pirate ship ride into paradise on Black Raven’s Tropical Sunset Cruise, inspired by the sights and sounds of the Caribbean islands!  Fully stocked bar, music, dancing, dolphins, views of historic downtown, the Castillo de San Marcos, the Lighthouse, and much more!

4th of July Fireworks

Enjoy the ultimate 4th of July fireworks celebration in St Augustine with our fun pirate cruise for adults! Songs, skits and appetizers are all included.

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Ripley's Red Train Tours St. Augustine

Great experience to know about the history of St. Augustine and to have fun at the same time. Thanks to our tour guide Alex, he made the tour better with his jokes and his knoledge.

- Janet Llambias Estrada

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19 San Marco Avenue St. Augustine, FL 32084

All Aboard the Red Express

Put the map down and kick up your heels on this narrated journey highlighting the city's unbelievable story, going back hundreds of years!

Choo-Choose Discovery

 travel through time, seasons of fun.

Climb aboard the all-new Red Express and take in the sights and charms of St. Augustine, discovering more than 100 points of historical interest, including the extraordinary Castillo de San Marcos National Monument.

Laugh and gasp alongside energetic and knowledgeable drivers on this fully guided, one-hour experience!

Check out seasonal adventures and special themed tours—from holiday lights to twisted history—throughout the year.

Enhance Your Amazing Experience

Explore the world of Ripley’s with a combo ticket and save! Experience the excitement of four unbelievable family attractions in St. Augustine, Florida!

Ripley's Believe It or Not! St. Augustine

Combo and save

Get hands-on and have fun exploring hundreds of rare and unusual artifacts, incredible art, animal oddities, pop-culture memorabilia, interactive games, and stories of people and places you have to see to believe!

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Venture inside the most haunted building in Florida and use state-of-the-art ghost-hunting equipment to investigate paranormal activity!

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Get ready to make memories and experience the excitement of Ripley’s Red Train Tours St. Augustine, your one-stop destination for family fun!

Plan Your Unforgettable Visit

We've got all the info you need to plan an extraordinary day the whole family will remember!

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Wonders You Have to See to Believe

Continue your adventure on social, spark your sense of curiosity.

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Cartoon of the Day

In 2024, Sophia Hayden, from Washington State, successfully wore 45 sweaters...at once!

Robert Ripley began the Believe It or Not! cartoon in 1918. Today, Kieran Castaño is the eighth artist to continue the legacy of illustrating the world's longest-running syndicated cartoon!

Early bird booking available. Book now!

• only runs November-January

Nights of Lights EV Ride

For ages 6+!

Quick Details

• User Ages: 6+
• Clock Duration: 40 Min

Light things up and get into the holiday spirit with us!

Want a break from the dark side of our haunted city? Light things up and get into the holiday spirit with us! Glide in our brand-new comfortable Electric Vehicle through the hundreds of thousands of holiday lights adorning the nation’s oldest city.

Enjoy complimentary magical glasses! The glasses will turn all the lights into sparkling beautiful holiday themed shapes. Feel free to sing-along with the classic Yuletide songs streaming through our premium sound system!

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• Clock 1.5 Hours

Get to hear the stories of the forgotten, oldest, darkest, and most dead part of the town! We will be touring — rain or shine — for a good amount of time, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes ready for running away from ghosts. Book online!

• World Famous

NIGHTS OF LIGHTS TOURS

ONE OF A KIND HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE IN ST. AUGUSTINE, FL

Quick Details

• Tags Ages: All ages
• Hour Glass Duration: 1 hour
• Users No. of Passengers: Up to 6 passengers

Come float with us!

See the world famous Nights of Lights from the best vantage point available – on the water. Float with us for one hour on a one-of-a-kind holiday experience.

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In this historic setting on this Independence Day – Come along with us for a ride to witness the splendor of the 4th of July fireworks show, away from the crowds and on the water.

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Feel like kickin’ back with a drink in your hand and your toes in the sand? Then hop on for a three hour (3 hours) excursion that includes some serious chill time at the Anastasia Island sandbar.

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