While there have been plenty of event cancelations throughout the pandemic, it seems that St. Augustine’s 27th Nights of Lights Festival promises to be a bright spot with live musical performances and trolley tours that have not been derailed. Although this illuminating event may look a little bit different this year – with trolley seating separated by Plexiglas, more tours requiring reservations and lots of hand sanitizer handouts – it is far more than just millions of beautiful twinkling lights. It’s an annual economic boost that – even though the city is fortunately bouncing back nicely – is surely anxiously awaited by local businesses.
A sight to behold, St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights has made National Geographic’s list of top ten holiday light displays in the world. And it is no wonder, with over 3 million twinkling lights draped throughout our nation’s oldest city. Visitors will also find a Christmas tree, lit up in full holiday splendor, at the center of the plaza and shouldn’t miss the sparkling reflection of lights along the water over the Bridge of Lions. This magnificent light display, spanning the entire 20 blocks of St. Augustine’s charming historic district, is scheduled for November 14th to January 31st.
And that’s not all! The St. Augustine Nights of Lights Festival can be viewed so many enjoyable ways. Aside from the trolley tours which are always a crowd-pleaser, you can take Santa’s Red Express, get a view from above at the St. Augustine Lighthouse or aboard a helicopter, learn about St. Augustine’s history and folklore on a guided walking tour or a harbor boat tour, take a small group luxury golf cart tour or heat things up with a romantic horse and carriage tour.
Just remember that, this year, the parking situation may differ from years before and, no matter how you decide to enjoy this amazing spectacle, it is a good idea before you head out (as with just about anything right now) to check and see if additional changes have been made where scheduling is concerned.