St. Augustine’s most illuminating season is nearly here! Nights of Lights returns Saturday, Nov. 21, 2026, with Light Up! Night, and runs every evening through Monday, Jan. 18, 2027. Listed amongst numerous lists as one of the best holiday light displays in the world, it’s a beloved local tradition. We’ve rounded up the best ways to enjoy Nights of Lights this year.

Park, Ride and Walk

The City of St. Augustine offers free park-and-ride service that takes the stress out of driving. Park at the free satellite lot on West King Street, and take the free shuttle that drops off right in the heart of downtown. A helpful app shows available parking, shuttle times and more. Once there, don’t miss these must-see spots:

• Plaza de la Constitución: Right in the center of St. Augustine, the tall, stately trees are draped in lights – keep an eye out for the single red bulb hidden amongst the thousands of white ones. The Plaza also features a large, decorated tree with presents, perfect for a photo op.

• The Lightner Museum: The historic architecture of the Lightner Museum, formerly Henry Flagler’s Alcazar Hotel, gets even better when it’s framed by warm twinkling lights. They go one step further, lighting the manicured bushes and tall palm trees to create a spectacular space to wander through.

• Bridge of Lions: Take a moment to walk to the top of the Bridge of Lions to look up and down the Historic Bayfront.

• Aviles Street: Visit the United States’ oldest street and walk down the bricked avenue surrounded by lights.

Florida Water Tours

Drive right past downtown and head to the base of the Vilano Bridge, where you’ll find plentiful parking and Florida Water Tours’ three boats, ready to take you out for a night on the water. They offer Sunset Nights of Lights, Nights of Lights and Nights of Lights Holiday Jazz cruises, with family-friendly and adults-only options, plus onboard bars serving beer, wine, canned cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks. They also offer curated charcuterie boxes to order. The cruises head down the Tolomato River to the Matanzas River and along the St. Augustine bayfront, where you can admire the lights, take photos and get into the holiday spirit. All cruises include 3D glasses for a unique perspective and a nice warm cup of cocoa.

Meehan’s Irish Pub and Seafood House

Eat, drink and catch amazing views of the lights at Meehan’s Irish Pub and Seafood House. Snag a seat on the first-floor patio or upstairs balcony for a panoramic view of the illuminated bayfront. The upstairs balcony even has firepits to cozy up around. They serve Irish specialties like bangers and mash and shepherd’s pie, juicy burgers, fresh-caught seafood and oysters. Don’t forget to finish the night with a dram of their housemade Irish crème.

Old Town Trolley’s Nights of Lights Tour

Hop aboard the iconic green and orange trolley for a narrated tour around downtown St. Augustine. These pros know the best spots and have the routes down. Guests are greeted with sugar cookies and warm apple cider and receive complimentary magic glasses for the ride. They even play joyful holiday music to really set the mood. You can reserve a private row for you and your family, or purchase VIP Experience Passes for priority boarding and preferred seating.

How will you choose to see Nights of Lights this year? Whether you’re looking to move to Northeast Florida or are just curious what your home could be worth, call Davidson Realty at 904-940-5000, or email at info@davidsonrealtyinc.com, and speak with one of our expert Realtors.