Free or Minimal Cost Christmas Events in the St. Augustine Area

Regatta of Lights
by Linda

Tis the season for the most festive time of year and St. Augustine offers many free activities to help celebrate the season.

 

Saturday, December 3, 9 AM - 12 PM - The St. Augustine Christmas Parade begins by the Mission of Nombre de Dios, continues south on San Marco, turns right on Cathedral Place, and then onto Cordova St., ending behind the Visitors Center on Castillo Drive.

 

Sunday, December 4, 12:30 PM - The Grinch Comes to Town at the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall. Holiday carol performances and sing-a-longs by local musicians, followed by the holiday film, The Grinch (2018, rated PG). There will be no seats so families so stretch out with beach chairs, blankets, and pillows. There will be "Grinchy-Green" beverages, buttered popcorn, and other assorted snacks available for purchase. No outside food or drinks are permitted. It is free, but an RSVP is necessary at www.pvconcerthall.com.

 

Thursday, December 8, 5 to 8 PM - The Lightner Museum will be hosting a Holiday Market. Thirty artisans and small businesses will be showcasing their products in the part of the museum where the historic Alcazar swimming pool was located. Enjoy music, drinks, and shopping!

 

Saturday, December 10, 6 - 7 PM - The Regatta of Lights, a wonderful and colorful parade of boats decorated for Christmas occurs along the bayfront in downtown St. Augustine.

 

Saturday, December 10, 8 - 11 AM - The Polar Express Holiday Event is presented by Jacksonville Business Connections at the World Golf Hall of Fame. There will be a Santa Meet and Greet, Face Painting, Bounce House, and local retailers will be open for Christmas shopping. The Polar Express Movie will be presented at the IMAX World Golf Theatre (this does require a ticket purchase).

 

Saturday, December 19, 3 - 7 PM - The Holiday Night Market at St. Augustine Beach will be held at the St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park. There will be vendors where you can do some Christmas shopping, take pictures at the Grinch-themed Photo Booth, purchase and eat some delicious treats, and enjoy beautiful light displays.

 

December 3 - January 1 - The Green Cove Springs Parade of Trees allows you to walk through a holiday wonderland at Spring Park of over 160 glowing Christmas trees every night until 10 PM.

 

Now through January 31 - The world-famous Nights of Lights sets historic St. Augustine aglow with millions of white lights. Enjoy a leisurely walk to enjoy beautiful lights and decorations or indulge in a trolley ride for a fun way to experience the lights. 

 

Our December dates are booking fast at the Inn at Camachee so call now to not only enjoy the holiday festivities but a beautiful marina or garden view!