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. Nights of Lights runs through January 31, 2022 and features millions of tiny white lights that create a magical atmosphere in the Nation’s Oldest City, and it’s free of charge. And, there are dozens of special tours and events that will make your Nights of Lights experience one to remember throughout the year. Be sure to post lots of pictures from these fun locations! #NightsofLights #FloridasHistoricCoast #StAugustine
Light Up the Beach!
Enjoy colorful light displays along A1A Beach Boulevard and St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park as the St. Augustine Beach LIGHTS UP THE BEACH this 2021 holiday season. The event takes place each evening from 5:30-10 p.m. through January 1, 2022. 350 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine. www.staugbch.com/events/page/sab-events
Picturing a Nation: American Art from the Lightner Museum
Picturing a Nation is a major installation of American paintings and sculpture from the Lightner Museum’s permanent collection. From America’s great vistas and natural wonders, to intimate scenes of St. Augustine, Picturing a Nation presents a vibrant vision of America on a local and national scale through late-19th and early 20th century American art. The exhibition runs through September 30, 2022. Lightner Museum is open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily and tickets are $17 for adults, $14 for seniors and students and $10 ages 12-17, under 11 are free. Lightner Museum, 75 King St., St. Augustine. www.lightnermuseum.org.
Tom Schifanella: Faces of the Alcazar at Lightner Museum
Faces of the Alcazar presents a compelling glimpse of life behind-the-scenes at Henry Flagler’s Alcazar Hotel. Through large-format photographs, the exhibition documents fragmentary clippings from early-20th century motion picture magazines pasted to the walls of the Alcazar staff quarters by the immigrant staff who lived and worked at the hotel. The exhibition runs through March 7, 2022. Lightner Museum is open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily and tickets are $17 for adults, $14 for seniors and students and $10 ages 12-17, under 11 are free. Lightner Museum, 75 King St., St. Augustine. www.lightnermuseum.org
Nights of Pints!
Coinciding with St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights, local St. Augustine breweries are hosting Nights of Pints with a passport for craft beer lovers and stops at local breweries. Purchase an official Nights of Pints shirt and receive one (1) pint at each participating brewery: Old Coast Ales, Ancient City Brewing, Bog Brewery or Dog Rose Brewing Company. Learn more at www.facebook.com/nightsofpints
Monday & Friday, December 6 & 10
Lighthouse Illuminations
Discover twenty-one uniquely decorated trees, each with a distinct theme, at this special after-hours event. Explore the Keepers’ house and grounds illuminated by lights and garlands, and enjoy a sensational view of the lighthouse’s night mark. Tickets are $19.95 for adults, $17.95 for children ages 12 and under. St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, 100 Red Cox Dr., St. Augustine. For more information regarding ticket availability and pricing, visit www.staugustinelighthouse.org.
Monday – Friday, December 6-10
Exposing History: Color, Textiles and Taste Exhibition at Oldest House Museum Complex
Exposing History: Color, Taste and Textiles, a solo exhibition of new work by Laura Mongiovi, Flagler College Professor of Art and Design. Mongiovi has utilized the historic features of an 18th century home, Tovar House, to present the often overlooked and under told histories related to northeast Florida enslaved labor. Crops such as indigo, sugar, cotton and rice occupied the northeast Florida landscape during colonization, bringing wealth to many through an elaborate system of oppression. In addition to agriculture, trade for fur and hide demanded the labor of indigenous people. Mongiovi’s sculptural and textile work raises awareness how needs and desires can exploit a labor system. On exhibit through December 10, Exposing History is open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Oldest House Museum Complex, 14 St. Francis St., St. Augustine. Parking available in nearby lot and street. For more information, visit www.staughs.com
The 200th Anniversary Photography Exhibition titled “From River to Ocean” will be on display 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday- Friday, through January 3, 2022. Local photographers submitted photography depicting five districts throughout St. Johns County and photos were chosen by a panel to be part of this exhibit. A total of 24 photographers were chosen, with 44 photographs on view in this display. Admission is free. St. Johns County Administration, 500 San Sebastian View, St. Augustine www.facebook.com
Tuesday, December 7
“The Lion King Jr.” Live from The AMP
Based on the much-loved animated classic, The Lion King Jr. follows young Simba on his coming of age journey from frisky cub to leader of the Pridelands. Doors open at 6 p.m., performance begins at 6:30 p.m. at The AMP, 1340 A1A South, St. Augustine. Tickets are $15, $10 for students. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/events/557776968856281
Tuesday – Sunday, December 7-12
Florida Wild Exhibition at St. Augustine Art Association
This vivid display explores a wide range of artistic interpretations of Florida’s wild side from the plants and animals to the wilderness and waterways at the St. Augustine Art Association Gallery. Admission is free. Gallery hours are Tuesday – Sunday, 1-4 p.m. 22 Marine Street, St. Augustine. www.staaa.org
Wednesday, December 8
Wednesday Pier Farmers Market
The Wednesday Pier Farmers Market offers oceanfront shopping at the St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park from 8 a.m.-noon. Approximately 60-80 vendors sell locally grown produce, baked goods, prepared foods, arts, crafts and more. 350 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine 904-315-0952 www.wednesdaypierfarmersmarket.com
Improv Night at Colonial Oak Music Park
Your First Coast Comedy veteran professionals have no plan and willingly dive headfirst into almost any challenge the audience will throw at them, resulting in unforgettably hilarious moments. And it gets better! This show is for everyone! You can bring the whole family because these improvisers play smart… to ensure the show is always clean and never mean! Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 the day of the show. Tickets can be purchased www.firstcoastcomedy.com. 21 St. George St., St. Augustine
A Peter White Christmas at Ponte Vedra Concert Hall
This holiday concert is one not to miss. A Peter White Christmas with Mindi Abair and Vincent Ingala is coming to town. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the show is at 8 p.m. Admission ranges from $66-$116.50. 1050 A1A North, Ponte Vedra Beach 904-209-0367 www.pvconcerthall.com
Wednesday & Sunday, December 8 & 12
Yoga on The Lawn
Enjoy yoga on the lawn at the historic Ximenez-Fatio House Museum. This one-hour vinyasa flow is perfect for all levels. Bring a beach towel or mat and water. Free parking behind the museum is available, but limited. Access the parking lot from Cadiz Street. Instructor will contact you by phone if class is canceled due to weather. Practice gets underway at 8:30 a.m. and lasts approximately one hour. Cost is $15 and registration is required. 20 Aviles St., St. Augustine www.pilatesyogaloft.com/wilderness
Thursday, December 9
Holiday Market at Lightner Museum
Local artisans with offerings for everyone on your holiday gift list will be on display at the Lightner Museum Holiday Market. The market takes place from 5:30-8 p.m., admission is free. Lightner Museum, 75 King St., St. Augustine www.lightnermuseum.org
Country Night at the Colonial Oak Music Park
Watch local and regional country music live at The Colonial Oak. Curated in collaboration with local country radio station, WQIK to present a hand-selected variety of North Florida’s Best Country Music every Thursday at 7 p.m. at Colonial Oak Music Park, 21 St. George St., St. Augustine. www.thecolonialmusicpark.com
Pigeons Playing Ping Pong with Electric Kif at Backyard Stage at The AMP
Gates open at 5 p.m., show starts at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $26 in advance, $30 day of show. Backyard Stage at The AMP, 1340 A1A S., St. Augustine. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.theamp.com/events
SolarNow Tree Lighting
From 6-8 p.m., the St. Augustine Distillery will host a new, sustainable holiday celebration in partnership with Florida Power & Light Company. The community is invited to attend and take part in this ceremony sponsored by FPL SolarNow, a program that brings solar energy to local communities to educate and inspire future generations about clean energy. Attendees can take photos by the tree, learn about solar energy, sip on samples of distillery specialty cocktails and enjoy an exclusive after-hours festive shopping experience. Admission is free. St. Augustine Distillery, 112 Riberia St., St. Augustine www.staugustinedistillery.com
Thursday & Friday, December 9 & 10
The Fab Four at Ponte Vedra Concert Hall
Experience the best Beatles tribute ever with The Fab Four-The Ultimate Tribute for two live performances! Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $52-$93.50. Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A North, Ponte Vedra Beach. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.pvconcerthall.com
Thursday – Sunday, December 9-12
A Christmas Story at Limelight Theatre
Take a trip down memory lane with this Christmas classic…the family’s temperamental exploding furnace; Scut Farkas, the school bully; the boys’ experiment with a wet tongue on a cold lamppost; and more. This classic Christmas film comes to life for a perfect Holiday Season treat! Tickets are $27 for adults, $25 for seniors, and $22 for students. Performances run Thursdays – Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. on the Matuza Mainstage at Limelight Theatre, 11 Old Mission Ave., St. Augustine. For more information, visit www.limelight-theatre.org.
West Side Story in IMAX!
West Side Story tells the classic tale of fierce rivalries and young love in 1957 New York City. Showing through December 15, showtimes are 7 p.m. daily. Tickets are $14 Adults, $13 Seniors (aged 55+), Students or Military, $11 for Children (aged 3-12). Showing through December 15. World Golf IMAX, 1 World Golf Place, St. Augustine www.worldgolfimax.com
Friday, December 10
Candlelight Tours at Villa Zoryada Museum
Join the Villa Zorayda’s 12th Annual Candlelight Tour! Beautifully decorated for the holidays with a spectacular Christmas Tree decorated in the colors of the Zorayda – red and gold – located center stage in the Court of Lions. Victorian and traditional decorations are found in every room for visitors to enjoy. Over 100 candles are aglow throughout the museum as your take a state of the art audio guided tour of this historic former home. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Reservations are required. Adults, $19.95; children 6-12, $8.95. plus tax. This tour is not recommended for children ages 5 and under. 83 King St., St. Augustine www.villazorayda.com/candlelighttours
Evenings on Airstream Row
Join the fun on Vilano Beach’s Airstream Row for a concert under the stars from 6-8 p.m. Airstream Row, 190 Vilano Rd., St. Augustine. For more information, visit www.vilanobeachfl.com/events.
Oak Outreach Winter Festival at Colonial Oak Music Park
Istoria, St. Augustine based blues, soul, rock and funk inspired quintet takes the stage at the Colonial Oak Music Park in support of two great local organizations: Acres No-kill Animal Shelter and St. Augustine Youth Services (SAYS). Show starts at 7 p.m. Admission is free. Food and drink available for purchase. 21 St. George St., St. Augustine 904-342-2857 www.thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
Joe Bonamassa at The AMP
Gates open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $59-$249. St. Augustine Amphitheatre, 1340 A1A S., St. Augustine. For more information, visit www.theamp.com
Friday & Saturday, December 10 & 11
Holiday Traditions by Candlelight at Ximenez-Fatio House Museum
Held during the festive Nights of Lights, this family-friendly nighttime event will feature holiday stories of the 1800s. The 45-minute tours will begin at 6 p.m., 7 p.m., and 8 p.m. Tickets are $15 per guest. Ximenez-Fatio House Museum, 20 Aviles St., St. Augustine www.ximenezfatiohouse.org/holiday2021
Christmas on the Farm at Sykes Family Farms
Enjoy a hayride through this ¾ miles drive thru Christmas light display at Sykes Family Farms. Bring the family, sip on hot chocolate or apple cider while roasting s’mores over the large fire pit. Mr. & Mrs. Claus are visiting from the North Pole so be sure to get some great pictures. Admission is $15 per person, Fridays & Saturdays, 6-11 p.m. through December 18. 5995 Brough Rd., Elkton. www.sycofarms.com/christmas-on-the-farm
Quackery: The Dark Side of Medicine
Join the first tour of its kind!! A time in history when the most outrageous, ridiculous, and downright deadly treatments were performed, all in the name of medicine. Tours are offered every Friday and Saturday nights at 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Not for the squeamish or faint of heart. Adults only 18 and older. Reservations are required. The Spanish Military Hospital Museum is located at 3 Aviles St., St. Augustine. For more information or to make your reservation, call 904-342-7730, space is limited so book your tickets now. www.smhmuseum.com
Saturday, December 11
Santa Suits on the Loose 5K
Red Suit up for this walk/jog/run starting and ending at the St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park along a flat 3.1-mile course through St. Augustine Beach neighborhoods. The race begins at 8 a.m. Registration ranges from $30-$35. 350 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach 904-814-7463 www.runsignup.com/Race/FL/StAugustine/SantaSuitsOnTheLoose5KWalkJogRun
St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market
From 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. shoppers stroll up and down the vendor-lined pathways of the St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market, browsing more than 100 tents loaded with local produce, flowers, baked goods, handmade arts and crafts and more. Admission into the market is free. 1340 A1A South, St. Augustine 904-315-9252 www.theamp.com/community/farmers-market
Polar Express at World Golf IMAX Theater
Come meet Santa, shop for the holidays, enjoy kids activities and of course the well loved Polar Express movie at the Polar Express Holiday Event in partnership with the IMAX World Golf Theater. Pre-Order tickets to the Polar Express Movie for the 9 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. showings. These two movies will sell out before the day of the event! Admission is $10. One World Golf Place, St. Augustine 904-940-4123 www.worldgolfimax.com
Family Seining at GTM Research Reserve
Hosted by the GTM Research Reserve, you’re invited to join docents from 9-11 a.m. to learn how to pull a seine net. Participants will collect fish and crabs as well as learn about their habitats and role in the environment. Waders and boots provided. The program is included with regular admission to the reserve and takes place in the Environmental Education Center. 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach 904-823-4500 www.gtmnerr.org
Hastings Hometown Christmas Parade
Experience this holiday parade at 10 a.m. that will take place down Main Street in Hastings starting at the W.E. Harris Community Center. 400 E. Harris St., Hastings 904-827-6970 www.sjcpls.org
Holidays in the Gardens
Visit Washington Oaks Gardens State Park to see the decorated gardens, experience the Friends of Washington Oaks plant sale and give to a worthy cause. Entry is free with canned goods or toy donation. 6400 N. Oceanshore Blvd., Palm Coast 386-446-6783 www.washingtonoaks.org
Holiday Night Market at St. Augustine Beach
Bring the whole family to the 2nd annual Holiday Market at the Pier. From 3-8 p.m., stroll through the market where you will find local vendors with offerings for everyone on your holiday gift list. The market will offer gift wrapping for your one-of-a-kind purchases. Capture the family fun in our Grinchy-themed photo booth, discover delicious treats to take home, all while enjoying the vibrant light displays at St. Johns Ocean Pier Park. Admission is free. 350 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine www.staugbch.com/events/page/sab-events
Nytes Of Lytes on SUPs
Join V Star Fitness from 5-8 pm, for an evening SUP tour along St. Augustine’s Bayfront. The paddle will launch from Vilano Beach Boat Ramp – come early as the boat traffic will be building for the Regatta. Participants must have a leash, PFD and a headlamp or other lighting for your board. Boards available for rental at $40/person and includes all gear and safety equipment including the underglow Nocqua Lights. There is no charge for those with their own equipment. Bring your SUPs or Kayaks all dressed out in your best Christmas theme. Paddling distance from the Vilano Beach Boat Ramp to the Bridge of Lions is approximately 1.64 miles. Total trip will be about a 3.2 miles. 101 Vilano Causeway, St. Augustine. For more information, call 904-415-1829 or www.vstarfitnessgroup.com
Regatta of Lights
Gather on the St. Augustine Bayfront north of the Bridge of Lions for the annual Regatta of Lights boat parade. Watch the brilliant displays of brightly lit boats pass by decorated in everything from whimsical to patriotic themes. Viewing the Regatta is free and open to the public and starts at 6 p.m. Boats can register for participation online www.staugustineyachtclub.com/regattaoflights.html
World Class Pianist, Maria Dolores Gaitan in Concert at Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College
Beaches Fine Art and St. Augustine Music Festival present world class pianist Maria Dolores Gaitan. In honor of the 1781 Tribute to the 240-year relationship between the US and Spain, Ms. Gaitan completes the American portion of an international tour in America’s Oldest City with an all-Spanish program from this renowned European concert pianist. This free performance begins at 7:30 p.m. at Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College, 14 Granada St., St. Augustine. Free parking and shuttles to and from the auditorium will be available from the Broudy’s Parking lot on West King St. starting at 5 p.m. (corner of US 1 and W. King), 198 & 212 W. King St. www.staugustinemusicfestival.org
Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder at Ponte Vedra Concert Hall
Doors open at 7 p.m., performance begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $39-$63. Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A North, Ponte Vedra Beach 904-209-0367
Saturday & Sunday, December 11 & 12
We Need a Little Christmas Holiday Concert
St Augustine Community Chorus Annual Holiday Concert at the Cathedral Basilica of St Augustine. Performances are Saturday 7:30 p.m. and Sunday 2 p.m. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online. 38 Cathedral Place, St. Augustine 859-492-6360. www.staugustinecommunitychorus.org
Old Dominion at The Amp
Doors open at 6 p.m., performance is at 7 p.m. Tickets are $44-$104. St. Augustine Amphitheatre, 1340 A1A South, St. Augustine. For more information, visit www.theamp.com
Sunday, December 12
Guided Bird Walk at Anastasia State Park
Anastasia State Park will host an educational Bird Walk Program from 8:15-9:45 a.m. Meet the birds at Anastasia State Park on this monthly bird walk. This fun and informative walk is open to participants of all birding levels. Participants will observe a diverse variety of shore birds, marsh birds and hammock birds by walking the beach, boardwalks, nature trails and other areas. Dress for the weather and bring binoculars, water, comfortable walking shoes and a field guide. Meet at the Island Beach Shop & Grill pavilion located at the end of the main park drive. The program is free with regular park admission, which ranges from $8-$2. 300 Anastasia Park Rd., St. Augustine 904-461-2033 www.floridastateparks.org/anastasia
Exotic Bird Expo
From 9 a.m.-4 p.m. see a large selection of birds, cages, toys, stands, feed and much more all in one place for sale to the general public. This day full of fun lets you find the right bird for you, what toys, cages or feed is best for your feathered friend. Admission $5.00 Children under 10 Free. The event takes place at the Mark Lance National Guard Armory, 190 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine www.staugustineexoticbirdfair.com
Christmas Arts & Crafts Festival
Celebrate the Holidays and shop for and-crafted items at the St. Augustine Garden Club Christmas Arts & Crafts Festival. There will be live wreaths, garland, floral centerpieces along with exquisite gift baskets, ornaments, Christmas décor, more. Cookies, jams, candies – all created by Garden Club members and available to purchase. Admission is free and the doors will be open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Garden Club of St. Augustine, 3440 Old Moultrie Rd., St. Augustine 904-686-9320 www.gardenclubofstaugustine.org
First Look, The Artisan’s Market Outdoor Bougie Market
A cool vibe Artisan’s Market featuring local art, trinkets, coffee, music, aromatherapy and more! Free Parking Available. Come and get your Sunday groove on! First Look, The Artisan’s Market is located across from the Old Jail at 162 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine. For more information, visit www.firstlookartisans.com
UNF School of Music and Friends of Ponte Vedra Concert Hall presents Hope & Anticipation
Join the UNF Choral Ensembles in singing in the season with uplifting Christmas carols, including Benjamin Britten’s Ceremony of Carols, and Charpentier’s Messe de Minuit. Featuring Sachiko Frampton, keyboard, Lawson Ensemble and Friends, and student soloists. Doors open at 3:15 p.m., show starts at 4 p.m. Tickets are $15-$25. Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A North, Ponte Vedra Beach. For more information, visit www.pvconcerthall.com
