Travel with Terri to ‘Nights of Lights’ on Florida’s Historic Coast

Have you ever wondered, “Where is America’s top Christmas light displays?” Well, I discovered National Geographic has named Nights of Lights on Florida’s Historic Coast among the top ten best Christmas light displays in the entire world. This epic festival of Christmas lights has also been recognized by Conde Nast Traveler and AAA Auto Club among others. Learning these facts, I was intrigued, and on a mission, to see this legendary light display. It’s impressive and very tastefully presented. Nights of Lights was everything I expected, and more! Near 42 miles of pristine Atlantic beaches, the Nights of Lights festival is in historic downtown St. Augustine. It glows with holiday magic from the ground to the rooftops. We saw millions of tiny white lights create an epic and magical atmosphere in the Nation’s Oldest City, and it’s free of charge. For three decades, St. Augustine has marked the Saturday before Thanksgiving with Light Up! night to kick off the Christmas season festivities. We were thrilled to experience Nights of Lights. It was dreamy viewing the millions of twinkling white lights come to life and illuminate the historic and exceptional architecture found there. With the festival encompassing more than 20 blocks of the historic district, there are many ways to experience the Nights of Lights.

Historic buildings, museums, inns, hotels, restaurants, boats, carriages, trees, and more are all lit with soft white lights – there’s no bad view in town! St. Augustine has many local businesses that provide a variety of ways to enjoy the lights. Two of the most popular rides are Old Town Trolley’s Famous Nights of Lights Tour and Ripley’s Red Train Nights of Lights Tours. Riding tours are full of the holiday spirit with music, history, and cheer. For a vintage vibe, climb aboard a horse-drawn carriage and take in the lights leisurely. Rides with The Tasting Tours are offered daily. Take in the entire illuminated landscape from the sea by booking one of St. Augustine Sailing’s luxury sailboats. For a powered boat journey, hop on board with Florida Water Tours or St. Augustine Eco Tours. Soar to new heights and see the lights from above with two of the city’s most unique perspectives. First City Helicopter offers evening flights over downtown. Or climb 219 steps to reach one of the most famous views around, the St. Augustine Lighthouse, and enjoy the sweeping views from the red tower.

This year is extra special as they celebrate three decades of illuminating Florida’s Historic Coast. St. Augustine’s iconic Nights of Lights begins Saturday, November 18, 2023, and glows through January 31,
2024.

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