When it comes to celebrating Christmas in Florida, you probably picture St. Augustine’s internationally famous Nights of Lights. This spectacular winter festival is one of the reasons Southern Living recently named us the Ultimate Southern Christmas Town.
But while the downtown historic district gets most of the attention, don’t overlook festive Vilano Beach. Although Vilano is only two miles from the historic district, it is worlds apart in terms of vibe.
While businesses in the historic downtown are restricted to using warm white lights to highlight architectural details, Vilano leans into its doo-wop architecture and art deco flourishes. The sparkly colored sidewalks are reflected in the colored lights strung on palm trees and lining buildings. Our Vilano Beach Cottages are decorated with blue lights–perfect for their coastal location.
In addition to the decorations, Vilano hosts some fun events throughout the holiday season. Check them out below, and see our tips for enjoying your holiday visit to Vilano Beach:
Saturday, November 15: Vilano Marketplace
Get a head start on your holiday shopping at the Vilano Marketplace, where artisans, craftspeople, and small businesses sell their wares. The Marketplace can be found lining Vilano Main Street (walkable from the cottages) from 4pm – 8pm on the third Saturday of the month. In addition, don’t miss the stores in the Publix town center. We especially love the one-of-a-kind gift options in MetalArtz–from wall art to handmade jewelry, you’re sure to find something for everyone.
Saturday, November 22: Tree Lighting
The community tree (pictured above) turns on each night at dusk. In addition to the tree, you’ll enjoy the decorated palm trees throughout the town center.
Saturday, December 20: Vilano Marketplace
For shoppers who like to wait until the last minute, the December Marketplace is a perfect last chance to buy gifts or get your final stocking stuffers. Open from 4pm – 8pm.
Wednesday, December 31: FIREWORKS!
Last year was the first year Vilano set off fireworks to welcome the new year. Details are pending–we’ll update this blog as soon as the plan is finalized.
A couple of final tips for those who want to stay at our Vilano Beach cottages:
Parking. Traffic can be BAD on weekends in December. The gridlock starts as it’s getting dark–usually around 5:30 or 6:00. To avoid the frustration, head downtown around 4:00 or 4:30. We generally find traffic to be better by driving through town–come right down San Marco and drive towards the inn.
Park in our lot–we have spaces at 154 Cordova Street, in the Cordova Apartment parking lot. All of our cottage guests receive a parking pass to park downtown for free (your parking pass includes directions to the Cordova Street lot).
Happy Hour. We serve happy hour at the inn from 5pm – 6pm each night. Join us for small bites and a drink before you head out into town–either for dinner, or just to walk around and enjoy the lights.
Enjoying the Lights. Wander at will or follow our printed Nights of Lights walking tour. Or, if you’d prefer not to walk, take the Holly Jolly Old Town Trolley (buy tickets in advance–they almost always sell out!), enjoy a horse and carriage ride through town, or take a tour with Gold Tours golf cart tours. Don’t miss the display at Colonial Quarter (on St. George Street), or the nightly tree lighting at Villa Zoraya. They’re some of our favorite things to do!
Don’t wait to reserve your room–they fill up quickly this time of year!
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