Get ready for another week of exciting things happening on Florida’s Historic Coast. Nights of Lights is on and dozens of exciting holiday events and tours by land and sea are available to make the experience even more special.
Please check to make sure events are on schedule and the attractions you plan to visit are open and tickets are available before traveling long distances.
Daily Events, December 4 – 11
29th Annual Nights of Lights with Tours and More
During this festival of lights, downtown St. Augustine glows with holiday magic – from the ground to the rooftops. St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights features millions of tiny white lights that create a magical atmosphere in the Nation’s Oldest City, and it’s free of charge. From electric cart tours with the Grinch or a horse drawn buggy to a sightseeing train or a sailing vessel on the Bay, there are dozens of ways to enjoy a fun tour of celebrating this special time of year in Historic St. Augustine. Learn more here: www.floridashistoriccoast.com/blog/nights-of-lights-by-land-or-by-sea
Contemporary Chronicles of St. Augustine at Lightner Museum
Contemporary Chronicles of St. Augustine explores the urban fabric of St. Augustine through large-format photographs, hand drawn maps, and interactive photographic flip books. The project seeks to define St. Augustine through the residential streets and neighborhoods that have long been inhabited by the people that help support the city as a premier tourist destination. Through interactive sequential images, visitors to the exhibition will uncover the overlooked aspects of everyday life in America’s oldest city. Lightner Museum is open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily and tickets are $17 for adults, $14 for seniors and students and $10 ages 12-17, under 11 are free. 75 King St., St. Augustine.
904-824-2874 www.lightnermuseum.org
Bouke de Vries: War & Pieces at Lightner Museum
This exhibition of London-based Dutch artist Bouke De Vries’ War & Pieces has been described as a “masterwork” by art critics. The monumental artwork, crafted from thousands of fragments of porcelain, re-imagines the decorative centerpieces that adorned seventeenth- and eighteenth-century banquet tables. War and Peices will be on exhibit through December 31. Lightner Museum is open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily and tickets are $17 for adults, $14 for seniors and students and $10 ages 12-17, under 11 are free. 75 King St., St. Augustine. 904-824-2874 www.lightnermuseum.org
Handstitched Worlds: The Cartography of Quilts at Lightner Museum
Handstitched Worlds: The Cartography of Quilts invites viewers to read quilts as maps, tracing the paths of individual stories and experiences that illuminate larger historic events and cultural trends. Spanning the nineteenth to the twenty-first centuries, the exhibition brings together 18 quilts from the collection of the American Folk Art Museum, New York, representing a range of materials, motifs, and techniques—from traditional early American quilts to more contemporary sculptural assemblage. This exhibit is on display through January 20. Lightner Museum is open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily and tickets are $17 for adults, $14 for seniors and students and $10 ages 12-17, under 11 are free. 75 King St., St. Augustine. 904-824-2874 www.lightnermuseum.org
Audrey Hope: Disappointed Tourist at Lightner Museum
For her first solo museum exhibition, Audrey Hope presents a selection of collages, photographs, and mixed media sculptures. Titled Disappointed Tourist, the series is a deeply personal meditation on nature, religion, personal trauma, and creativity. In Disappointed Tourist, Hope addresses several expansive themes—the complicated relationship between nature and travel, desperation in creativity, and the magical capacity objects have for representation. This exhibition is on display through January 20. Lightner Museum is open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily and tickets are $17 for adults, $14 for seniors and students and $10 ages 12-17, under 11 are free. 75 King St., St. Augustine. 904-824-2874 www.lightnermuseum.org
The Polar Express is back in IMAX for a Limited Time!
This holiday-themed film, based on the classic Caldecott medal-winning children’s book written by Chris Van Allsburg, is directed by Oscar® winner Robert Zemeckis and stars two-time Academy Award® winner Tom Hanks. The Polar Express tells of a doubting young boy who takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole and embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. Showing through December 14, check website for showtimes. Admission is $14Adults, $13 for Seniors/Students/Military, $11 for Children under 12. World Golf IMAX, 1 World Golf Place, St. Augustine. www.worldgolfimax.com
Monday & Tuesday and Thursday – Sunday, December 5 – 8
Lighthouse Illuminations
Discover twenty-one uniquely decorated trees, each with a distinct theme, at this special after-hours event. Explore the Keepers’ House and grounds illuminated by lights and garlands, and enjoy a sensational view of the lighthouse’s night mark. Tickets are $21.95 for adults and seniors and $19.95 for children. 100 Red Cox Dr., St. Augustine. 904-829-0745
Monday – Thursday, December 5 – 8
Festival of Trees presented by St. Francis Shelter at Lightner Museum
Enjoy an amazing display of theme decorated trees and wreaths for auction, holiday music, photos with Santa, and Letters to Santa’s Mailbox. All this while supporting local unhoused families, individuals, and youth. Festival of Trees is free and will be open to the public in the foyer of the Lightner Museum. Lightner Museum admission fees will be charged to enter the exhibit areas. Hours are Monday 1-5p.m.; Tuesday and Wednesday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.and Thursday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Lightner Museum, 75 King St., St. Augustine. www.stfrancisshelter.org/festival-of-trees
Tuesday, December 6
The Wood Brothers at Ponte Vedra Concert Hall
Doors open at 7 p.m., performance starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $38.50. 1050 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach. www.pvconcerthall.com
Tuesday – Sunday, December 6 – 11
From River to Ocean: Plein Air
The St. Johns Cultural Council presents an Art in Public Spaces exhibition featuring the beauty of St. Johns County through the eyes of twenty-eight artists painting en plein air. Free and appropriate for all ages. The Rotunda Gallery is open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except on public holidays. St. Johns County Administration Building, 500 San Sebastian View, St. Augustine. 904-808-7330 www.historiccoastculture.com
Fantastic Florida at St. Augustine Art Association
The natural beauty of the Sunshine State shines here! This vivid display explores a wide range of artistic interpretations of Florida’s wild side from the plants and animals to the wilderness and waterways. The Fantastic Florida Show is on display both in-gallery and online through December 30, 2022. Admission is free and gallery hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 1-4 p.m. 22 Marine St., St. Augustine. www.staaa.org
Wednesday, December 7
Wednesday Pier Farmers Market
The Wednesday Pier Farmers Market offers oceanfront shopping at the St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park from 8 a.m.-noon. Approximately 60-80 vendors sell locally grown produce, baked goods, prepared foods, arts, crafts and more. 350 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine. 904-315-0952 www.wednesdaypierfarmersmarket.com
Luminary Night
Luminary Night is an annual tradition hosted by the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum. More than 2,000 luminaries are displayed throughout the grounds and on the streets surrounding this historic landmark, creating a magical holiday experience. Lights and holiday décor also adorn the 1876 Keepers’ House and other historic buildings on the property. For a special treat, guests can climb the tower for sparkling views of Nights of Lights from the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse. Join us for an evening community celebration for all ages. Admission is free. Hours are 6-9 p.m. 100 Red Cox Rd., St. Augustine. www.staugustinelighthouse.org
Improv Night @ Colonial Oak Music Park
First Coast Comedy veteran professionals have no plan and willingly dive headfirst into almost any challenge the audience will throw at them, resulting in unforgettably hilarious moments. This show is for everyone so bring the whole family because these improvisers ensure the show is always clean and never mean. Pay what you will, all seating is general admission. 21 St. George St., St. Augustine. www.firstcoastcomedy.com
Ana Popovic at Ponte Vedra Concert Hall
Doors open at 6 p.m., show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $35-$45. Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach. www.pvconcerthall.com
Harper and Mid Kind Perform at Café Eleven
Don’t miss Harper and Midwest Kind from 8-10:30 p.m. at The Original Café Eleven. General admission $15 advance / $20 day of show. 501 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. www.originalcafe11.com
Wednesday & Sunday, December 7 & 11
Yoga on the Lawn at Ximenez-Fatio House Museum
Enjoy yoga on the lawn at the historic Ximenez-Fatio House Museum. This one-hour vinyasa flow is perfect for all levels. Bring a beach towel or mat and water. Free parking behind the museum is available, but limited. Access the parking lot from Cadiz Street. Instructor will contact you by phone if class is canceled due to weather. Practice gets underway at 8 a.m. and lasts approximately one hour. Cost is $15 and registration is required. 20 Aviles St., St. Augustine. www.pilatesyogaloft.com
Thursday, December 8
Tree of Life and Candlelight Service of Remembrance
The annual Tree of Life and Candlelight Services of Remembrance, hosted by Community Hospice & Palliative Care, honors the memory of loved ones lost in a beautiful, inspiring program of music and reflection. This free event is open to the public and will be held at the Stephen R. Chapman Family Community Campus in St. Augustine from 5:45-7 p.m. Attendees are invited to bring a photo of their loved one to display on the memory table. The campus will be adorned with lights and evergreen trees decorated in ivory ribbons personalized with the names of loved ones. Stephen R. Chapman Family Community Campus, 1355 US 1 Highway South, St. Augustine. CommunityHospice.com
Dean Winter & the Heat at the Colonial Oak Music Park
Catch Dean Winter & the Heat at The Oak at 7 p.m. Admission is free. Food and drink available for purchase. Colonial Oak Music Park, 21 St. George St., St. Augustine. www.thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
Holiday Market at Lightner Museum
Local artisans with offerings for everyone on your holiday gift list will be on display at the Lightner Museum Holiday Market. The market takes place from 5-8 p.m., admission is free. 75 King St., St. Augustine. 904-824-2874 www.lightnermuseum.org
Seth Glier Performs at Café Eleven
Don’t miss Seth Glier performing from 8-10:30 p.m. at The Original Café Eleven. All seating is general admission and all ages are welcome. Tickets are $20 in advance/$25 day of the show. 501 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. www.originalcafe11.com
Thursday & Friday, December 8 & 9
Madness + Malice True Crime Tour
The Madness + Malice True Crime Tour is a new tour for mature audiences developed with the help of a retired law enforcement professional to give a gripping, gritty, and accurate insight into some of St. Augustine’s chilling crimes and murders! Tours are at 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday. Tickets are $35 per person. Tours depart from 76 Spanish St., St. Augustine. www.anightamongghosts.com
Friday, December 9
Fort Mose Kayak Trip
St. Johns County Parks and Rec has partnered with the State Park Service to offer a guided kayak excursion of the marshes of the Tolomato River and Robinson Creek. The trip leaves from the Vilano Beach Boat Ramp at 101 Vilano Causeway, and concludes at Fort Mose State Park where participants will have the opportunity to learn the history of the park and tour the museum. SJC Resident Providing Own Boat: $20 per person; Non-resident Providing Own Boat: $30 per person; SJC Resident Using a County Boat: $40 per person; Non-resident Using a County Boat: $50 per person. Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Pre-registration is required for a trip but does not guarantee your spot. Space on a trip is allocated on a first come, first served basis.
Villa Zorayda Candlelight Tour
A spectacular Christmas tree takes centerstage in the Court of Lions with decorations in colors of the Zorayda – red and gold. Find traditional decorations and over 100 candles among stunning watercolors, tapestries, hand-carved wood furniture, and more. Take a guided audio tour of this historic home in English, Spanish and French. Enjoy refreshments and the grand lighting of the Christmas tree. The tours start at 5:30 p.m. Adult admission is $22.99, Children 6 – 12 are $12.99. The tour is not recommended for children under the age of 5. 83 King St., St. Augustine. www.villazorayda.com
UNF Choral Ensemble Carols and Messiah Favorites at Ponte Vedra Concert Hall
Join the University of North Florida Choral Ensembles for their annual concert Singing in the Season hosted by the Friends of Ponte Vedra Concert Hall. Listen to favorites from Handel’s Messiah, memorable and timeless carols, and even sing along! A portion of ticket price supports student scholarships. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., performance begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15-$35. 1050 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach. 904-209-0399 www.pvconcerthall.com
The Front Bottoms with special guest Sydney Sprague Live from the Backyard Stage at The AMP
Gates open at 6 p.m., show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $34.99-$40. 1340 A1A S., St. Augustine. 904-209-0367 www.theamp.com
Selwyn Birchwood at Café Eleven
Don’t miss the Selwyn Birchwood performance at 8 p.m. at The Original Café Eleven, 501 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 day of show. 904-460-9311 originalcafe11.com
Friday & Saturday, December 9 & 10
Quackery: The Dark Side of Medicine
Join the tour that focuses on a time in history when the most outrageous, ridiculous, and downright deadly treatments were preformed, all in the name of medicine. Tour times 7 and 8:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday nights only. This tour is not for the squeamish or faint of heart. Adults only 18 and older. Reservations are required. Tickets are $24.95 per person. Space is limited so book your tickets in advance . The Spanish Military Hospital Museum is located at 3 Aviles St., St. Augustine. 904-342-7730 www.smhmuseum.com
Christmas on the Farm at Sykes Family Farms
Enjoy a hayride through this ¾ miles drive thru Christmas light display at Sykes Family Farms, 5995 Brough Rd., Elkton. Bring the family, sip on hot chocolate or apple cider while roasting s’mores over the large fire pit. Mr. & Mrs. Claus are visiting from the North Pole so be sure to get some great pictures. Admission is $16 for ages 3 & up, ages 2 and under are free. www.sycofarms.com/christmas-on-the-farm
Friday – Sunday, December 9 – 11
St. Augustine Scavenger Hunt
Search for clues and solve puzzles with your own group of family and/or friends on a St. Augustine Scavenger Hunt with The 13 Keys Scavenger and Mystery to find 13 locations throughout the nation’s oldest city. Choose from a History Hunt, Haunted Hunt, or a Lovely Hunt and have a blast learning more about St. Augustine while exploring. The Scavenger hunts take place between 2:30 and 4 p.m. every Thursday through Sunday and depart from 76 Spanish St., St. Augustine. Tickets are $25 per person. www.the13keys.com
Shorts & Giggles presented by A Classic Theatre
Enjoy an evening of comedy that combines wit, intellect, satire and just plain fun. A Classic Theatre presents smartly curated short plays and monologues that are unique, absurd, irreverent and an enormous enjoyment for actors and audiences alike.
Performances are held on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. at The Waterworks, 184 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine. Tickets are $22 and can be purchased at www.aclassictheatre.org
Saturday, December 10
St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market
From 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. shoppers stroll up and down the vendor-lined pathways of the St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market, browsing more than 100 tents loaded with local produce, flowers, baked goods, handmade arts and crafts and more. Admission into the market is free. 1340 A1A S., St. Augustine. 904-315-9252 www.theamp.com/farmers-market
Country Christmas on the Farm hosted by Wesley Wells Farms
Come visit the Elf on the Shelf, Santa, create your own Christmas ornaments, follow the Christmas Story Walk, explore our u-pick field, and visit our farm animals! Be sure to visit our vendors in the holiday mini-market and snag a last-minute Christmas gift or some delicious handmade treats. Storytime with Elf on the Shelf will begin every half hour. General admission is $6 per person (23 months & under are free). VIP bundle: $100 (includes 4 general admission tickets, 1 pre-picked bag of produce (our normal 5-gallon bucket size), 4 ornament-making tickets, 4 homemade cookies, plus 1-hour early entry! Tickets are limited so be sure to get them early. No tickets will be sold at the gate. Wesley Wells Farm, 2680 Ada Arnold Rd., St. Augustine. ww.wesleywellsfarm.com/a-country-christmas-on-the-farm
Santa Suits on the Loose 5K
Join this walk/jog/run starting and ending at the St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park along a flat 3.1-mile course through St. Augustine Beach neighborhoods. The race begins at 8 a.m. Registration ranges from $35-$40. Proceeds benefit St. Augustine Youth Services. 350 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. 904-814-7463 www.saykids.org Register live at www.racesmith.com
Family Seining at the GTM Research Reserve
Hosted by the GTM Research Reserve, you’re invited to join docents from 9-11 a.m. to learn how to pull a seine net. Participants will collect fish and crabs as well as learn about their habitats and role in the environment. Waders and boots provided. The program is included with regular admission to the reserve and takes place in the Environmental Education Center. 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach 904-823-4500 www.gtmnerr.org
Hastings Main Street Market
The Hastings Main Street Market will take place from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the newly restored historic Ford Motors building, 301 N. Main Street, in Hastings. The Hastings Christmas Parade begins at 10 a.m. and passes by this location. Admission is FREE. Vendors, artisans, and food trucks will be part of the event. Main St., Hastings. www.facebook.com/RotaryClubofHastingsFL/
Hastings Hometown Christmas Parade
Experience this holiday parade that takes place at 10 a.m. along Main Street in Hastings. The parade starts at the W.E. Harris Community Center and marches south on Main Street to the Library Campus and Al Wilke Field on South Main Street. 400 E. Harris St., Hastings 904-827-6970 www.sjcpls.org
Holiday in The Gardens
Visit Washington Oaks Gardens State Park to see the decorated gardens, experience the Friends of Washington Oaks plant sale and give to a worthy cause. Entry is free with canned goods or toy donation. 6400 N. Oceanshore Blvd., Palm Coast. 386-446-6783 www.washingtonoaks.org
Winter CrocFest 2022 at St. Augustine Alligator Farm
Be part of the Alligator Farm’s efforts to raise funds for conservation programs benefiting the Black Caiman in the Guyanas of South America. Black Caiman in this vast unexplored area have not been surveyed in over 50 years and is in need of finding the true status of the largest species of caiman.
CrocFest admission is $30 for adults, $10 for children 5-17. Admission includes free water, sodas and beer (beer after 4 p.m.); Dinner at 5 p.m. for all guests that have the official CrocFest wristband. 999 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine. 904-824-3337 www.alligatorfarm.com
Holiday Night Market at St. Augustine Beach
Bring the whole family to the 3rd annual Holiday Market at the Pier where vendors have something for everyone on your holiday gift list, plus gift. Capture the family fun in the Grinchy-themed photo booth, bring home delicious treats, and enjoy the vibrant light displays at St. Johns Ocean Pier Park. 350 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. 904-471-2122 www.staugbch.com/events/page/sab-events
Regatta of Lights
Join us on the bayfront north of the Bridge of Lions for the annual Regatta of Lights boat parade. Watch the brilliant displays of brightly lit boats pass by decorated in everything from whimsical to patriotic themes. The Regatta is free and open to the public and starts at 6 p.m. Avenida Menendez south of the Bridge of Lions in St. Augustine. www.StAugustineyachtclub.com
Nights of Lights Under the Sea
Have a fun evening at the St. Augustine Aquarium with Holiday Mermaids including a meet & greet and photo opportunities, a Mermaid Candy Chute, under water Santa, snow, Shark & Ray presentations with feeding & touching opportunities, and more. The event takes place each Saturday in December from 6-9 p.m. Tickets are $14.99 for Adults, $9.99 for Children 2- 12, 2 & under free. 2045 State Rd 16, St. Augustine. 904-429-9777 www.saaquarium.com
The Fab Four at Ponte Vedra Concert Hall
Experience the best Beatles tribute ever with The Fab Four-The Ultimate Tribute for two live performances! This Emmy Award-Winning tribute band is elevated far above every other due to their precise attention to detail. Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $60.50-$95. Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A North, Ponte Vedra Beach. www.pvconcerthall.com/events
Sunday, December 11
First Look, The Artisan’s Market Outdoor Bougie Market
A cool vibe Artisan’s Market featuring local art, trinkets, coffee, music, aromatherapy and more! Free Parking Available. Come and get your Sunday groove on! First Look, The Artisan’s Market takes place from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. 162 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine. www.firstlookartisans.com
Salt Run Paddle at Anastasia State Park
Join an experienced kayak guide for a nature paddle in Salt Run. This program is open to all levels of paddlers and children 9 and over with an adult present. Bring your own kayak or rent one from Anastasia Watersports. A PFD (personal flotation device) is required to be worn at all times while on the water. Space is limited and advanced registration is required. Please email Brian Murphy at murphykayak@gmail.com to reserve your spot. This program is free with regular park admission fee when you bring your own kayak. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available at Anastasia Watersports with standard rental fees. Regular park admission ranges from $2-$8. 300 Anastasia Park Rd., St. Augustine 904-461-2033 www.floridastateparks.org/anastasia
Sundays at Stetson’s at Beluthahatchee Park
Presented by The Stetson Kennedy Foundation and St. Johns County Parks, this monthly folk music concert series features artists who reflect the values, spirit, and goals of Stetson Kennedy. Shows are from 2-4 p.m. and admission is a suggested donation of $20 per person. All proceeds support the Sundays at Stetson’s concert series. Tours of Beluthahatchee (Stetson’s cottage) may be available. Beluthahatchee Park, 1501 SR 13 N., Fruit Cove. www.facebook.com/SundaysAtStetsons
The Holiday Backyard Southern Series Pop-up!
A Holiday Pop Up Dinner & Fundraiser benefiting Fostering Connections. Emceed by River City Live’s Rance Adam’s & brought to you by We Feed, Inc., this fun holiday feast begins with the Fort Mose. Lots of Barbecue and entertainment for just $49.99 adults and $20 for kids. It all takes place from 6-9 p.m. at the Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine, 4730 Dixie Highway, St. Augustine. www.facebook.com/events/566249215199215
The Outlaws – Green Grass and Yuletide Jam at Ponte Vedra Concert Hall
For more than 40 years, the Southern Rock legends, The Outlaws have celebrated triumphs and endured tragedies to remain one of the most influential and best-loved bands of the genre. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $45.50-$105.50. 1050 A1A North, Ponte Vedra Beach. www.pvconcerthall.com/events
Next Weeks Events!
Highlights of Happenings on Florida’s Historic Coast in December:
December 14: Emma Concert Association Presents Holiday Pops Concert
December 16-January 1: Venardos Circus at The AMP
December 16-18: Northeast Florida Winter Solstice Festival
December 16-1 8: EB Scrooge: A Southern Fried Carol
December 16: Homegrown Holiday Pop-Up Market
December 16: Sounds of the Season with the St. Augustine Orchestra
December 17 & 18: St. Augustine Ballet Presents Nutcraker Ballet
December 18: “Noches de Navidad” and Las Posadas at Mission Nombre de Dios
