The historic city of St. Augustine, Florida transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the Nights of Lights Celebration. Millions of twinkling white lights adorn the streets and buildings, creating an enchanting ambiance for visitors. Beyond the captivating display, this annual event offers a range of festive experiences – from a jolly holiday trolley ride to seasonal treats and caroling. By seeing St. Augustine’s rich history and cultural traditions, guests can discover why this beloved celebration has become a must-see holiday destination. What else can visitors expect to enjoy during this enchanting event?
Key Points
- The Nights of Lights Celebration in St. Augustine offers a 10-hour guided trolley tour showcasing millions of white lights and historic landmarks.
- Participants can enjoy caroling, hot cider, and homemade cookies during the immersive holiday experience in the oldest city in the U.S.
- The tour highlights the Spanish tradition of displaying white candles during Christmas, which has been celebrated in St. Augustine for 448 years.
- The tour is limited to 10 participants and provides roundtrip transportation, with a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
- The historic district is transformed into a winter wonderland, allowing visitors to explore the city’s rich history and festive traditions.
Event Overview
The Nights of Lights Celebration in St. Augustine offers a unique and enchanting experience.
Visitors can enjoy this event from $89.73 per person, with a duration of 10 hours and a small group size limited to 10 participants. The tour is led by a live guide in English, and cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Highlights include riding the Holly Jolly Holiday Trolley, exploring the historic old town district, and experiencing the magical atmosphere created by millions of tiny white lights.
The event’s historical significance is rooted in the Spanish tradition of displaying a white candle in the window during Christmas, reflecting the city’s 448-year history.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in St Augustine Florida.
Experience Highlights
Visitors can embark on a captivating journey through the sparkling lights of St. Augustine during the Nights of Lights Celebration.
They’ll ride on the Holly Jolly Holiday Trolley, exploring the historic old town district. Along the way, they’ll enjoy the magical atmosphere created by millions of tiny white lights.
The experience also includes caroling, hot cider, and homemade cookies, providing a delightful way to take in the city’s rich history and festive traditions.
With a live tour guide leading the way, guests can fully appreciate the unique charm and holiday spirit that make this celebration so special.
Historical Significance
St. Augustine, the oldest inhabited city in the United States, is the setting for the Nights of Lights celebration. This annual event traces its origins to the Spanish tradition of displaying a white candle in the window during the Christmas season.
The lighting reflects the city’s 448-year history, showcasing its rich heritage and cultural traditions. Millions of tiny white lights create a magical atmosphere, transforming the historic old town district into a winter wonderland.
The Nights of Lights celebration isn’t just a visual delight, but a celebration of St. Augustine’s enduring legacy, connecting the past to the present through the warm glow of twinkling lights.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The Nights of Lights Celebration in St. Augustine includes round-trip transportation, driver-guide assistance, tickets for the Holly Jolly Holiday Trolley, hot cider, and homemade cookies. However, the tour does not cover food and drinks not mentioned, nor gratuities.
Inclusions | Exclusions |
---|---|
Roundtrip transportation | Food and drinks not mentioned |
Driver-guide assistance | Gratuities |
Holly Jolly Holiday Trolley tickets | |
Hot cider and homemade cookies |
Guests can reserve their spot without payment and check availability for starting times. They’ll need to contact the tour operator the day before for pick-up location and time, and should wear comfortable clothes without any large bags.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyBooking Information
Guests can reserve their spot without payment and check availability for starting times.
The tour operator should be contacted the day before to get the pick-up location and time. No luggage or large bags are allowed, so guests should bring only comfortable clothes.
This Nights of Lights Celebration in St. Augustine offers flexible booking options, allowing visitors to secure their place on the tour hassle-free.
With a small group limited to 10 participants, this experience provides an intimate and personalized way to explore the city’s sparkling holiday lights and historic old town district.
Traveling to St. Augustine
Visitors traveling to St. Augustine for the Nights of Lights Celebration will find the historic city easily accessible. Located just 40 miles south of Jacksonville, FL, St. Augustine is well-connected by major highways.
Visitors can drive themselves or opt for roundtrip transportation included in the tour package. The tour operator provides pick-up locations and times the day before the event, allowing for a seamless start to the evening.
With millions of twinkling lights adorning the streets and buildings, the Nights of Lights celebration creates a magical atmosphere worth experiencing.
Attendees should wear comfortable clothing and leave large bags at home, as the tour involves walking through the picturesque old town district.
What to Expect on the Tour
On the Nights of Lights Celebration tour, attendees can expect an immersive experience showcasing the city’s festive charm.
Guests will hop aboard the Holly Jolly Holiday Trolley to explore the historic old town district ablaze with millions of twinkling white lights. Along the way, they’ll enjoy caroling, hot cider, and homemade cookies, creating a magical atmosphere.
The tour highlights the origins of this Spanish tradition, dating back to the city’s 448-year history.
With roundtrip transportation and a knowledgeable driver-guide, the tour provides a seamless way to experience the renowned Nights of Lights in St. Augustine.
Additional Information
For those interested in the Nights of Lights Celebration, the tour operates daily throughout the holiday season.
Reservations can be made in advance, with the option to pay later. Guests should check availability for starting times and contact the tour operator the day before for pick-up location and time.
No luggage or large bags are allowed, so travelers should dress comfortably.
The tour includes roundtrip transportation, driver-guide assistance, tickets for the Holly Jolly Holiday Trolley, and complimentary hot cider and homemade cookies.
Food and drinks not mentioned, as well as gratuities, aren’t included in the price.
With a small group size limited to 10 participants, the Nights of Lights Celebration in St. Augustine promises an intimate and memorable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?
Guests can bring their own snacks and drinks, but they aren’t included in the tour. The tour provides hot cider and homemade cookies, so additional food and beverages may not be necessary.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour is suitable for children, as it includes festive activities like caroling, hot cider, and homemade cookies. The small group size and live guide ensure a personalized and engaging experience for families.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
The tour company offers discounts for seniors and students, though the specifics are not provided in the information given. Customers should inquire about any available discounted pricing when booking their Nights of Lights tour.
Can I Request a Specific Pick-Up Location?
Yes, you can request a specific pick-up location when booking the tour. The tour operator will work with you to accommodate your preferred pick-up spot within the tour’s coverage area.
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Yes, photography is allowed during the tour. Guests are encouraged to capture the magical atmosphere and sparkling lights to create lasting memories of the experience.
Recap
The Nights of Lights Celebration in St. Augustine offers a truly enchanting winter experience, with millions of twinkling white lights illuminating the city’s historic streets and buildings. Visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere, enjoy holiday treats, and explore the city’s rich cultural heritage, making it an unforgettable holiday outing for all. Whether seeking a romantic getaway or a family-friendly adventure, the Nights of Lights Celebration is a must-visit destination.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in St Augustine Florida
- St. Augustine: Ghosts and Gravestones Old Town Trolley Tour
- Saint Augustine: Bourbon History and Tasting Experience
- St Augustine: Nights of Lights Tour by Electric Cart
- St. Augustine: The Black Raven Rum Runners Pirate Show (21+)
- St. Augustine: Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise
- St. Augustine: Treasure Hunt Cruise With Onboard Show
Not for you? Here's more things to do in St Augustine Florida we have recnetly reviewed
- 3 Best Guided Tours In St Augustine Florida
- 5 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In St Augustine Florida
- 6 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In St Augustine Florida
- 22 Best Tours In St Augustine Florida
- Saint Augustine: Outdoor Art Tour by Electric Golf Cart
- 4 Best Dolphin Watching Tours In St Augustine Florida
- 3 Best Historical Tours In St Augustine Florida
- 4 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In St Augustine Florida
- 2 Best Drinking Tours In St Augustine Florida
- 4 Best Walking Tours In St Augustine Florida
- St. Augustine: Adults-Only Walking Ghost Tour
- St. Augustine: True Crime Guided Pub Crawl