It’s beginning to look a lot like vacation! If you haven’t experienced the magic of St. Augustine’s annual Nights of Lights, it’s time to add it to your bucket list. Each holiday season, the Nation’s Oldest City comes alive with millions of twinkling white lights, creating one of the country’s most memorable holiday displays. Whether you’re visiting in late November, December, or January, Nights of Lights is an unforgettable way to celebrate the season.
Experience the Magic of the Season
Each year, Nights of Lights begins in late November with the annual Light-Up! Night ceremony in the Plaza de la Constitución, when millions of white lights illuminate the city’s historic district. Visitors can experience the display on foot, by bicycle or pedicab, by trolley, or by train.
While the city traditionally ends the display in late January, we love keeping the lights glowing around Bayfront Marin House a little longer. There’s nothing quite like enjoying our complimentary happy hour on the patio surrounded by holiday lights.
Insider’s Local Tip: Though Nights of Lights is made up of predominantly white lights, legend has it that you may spot a random red light bulb. The story states that years ago, a city employee’s daughter was in a wheelchair, and each year as the employee was stringing lights for the event, he would hide a red light at a height that would allow his daughter to find it. To this day, many believe that there is a red light or two hidden among St. Augustine’s white bulbs. Keep an eye out for this special sight!
Photo Credit: Mark Krancer
May Your Days Be Merry & Bright
We’re not the only ones who have glowing things to say about this event. National Geographic named Nights of Lights one of the “Top 10 Holiday Light Displays in the World” and House Beautiful named St. Augustine “One of the Best Christmas Towns” in the country! Bayfront Marin House has also been recognized as one of the Top 10 Bed and Breakfasts for Enjoying the Holidays. It’s easy to see why so many people make Nights of Lights an annual tradition in St. Augustine.
Photo Credit: SSS Photography
Annual Nights of Lights Events
There are plenty of ways to enjoy Nights of Lights each year. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Opening Night Ceremony – Held each November, the annual Light-Up! Night ceremony marks the official start of Nights of Lights with music, entertainment, and the city’s ceremonial lighting.
- The Plaza de la Constitución – It’s one of the best places to admire the lights, enjoy live entertainment, and snap a holiday photo.
- Old Town Trolley Tour – Climb aboard and see the sights from the comfort of a charming local trolley. (This is the perfect holiday date night!)
- Wine & Carriage Tour – Savor a glass of good cheer and an old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage ride through the city. Book directly through The Tasting Tours, or ask our innkeeper about a private carriage ride that picks you up from the inn.
- Take a Walking Tour– St. Augustine is an easily walkable town, and it’s even more beautiful when lit for the holidays. Enjoy this walkable tour of Nights of Lights, highlighting our staff’s favorite spots. Insider’s Tip: VoiceMap is an app with walking tours from destinations around the world. Check out the walking tour of the lights, written and read by our inn owner, Sandy Wieber!
- Fun at Bayfront Marin House – Of course, Bayfront Marin House joins in the holiday spirit, too. Enjoy our decorations and look forward to the specials we often offer this time of year. Learn more about our fun holiday special packages. Ask about having a miniature tree in your room or ending your night with our homemade hot cocoa!
Visit the official Nights of Lights event page for the latest schedule of tours, concerts, and holiday events.
Photo Credit: Mark Krancer
