Nights of Lights Tours 2026 - 2027

During the holiday season, the City of St. Augustine becomes a festival of twinkling white lights as it hosts the annual Nights of Lights display. The festivities start at Light Up Night on Saturday, November 21, 2026, and continue through January 18, 2027.

The wonderland of lights begins at the Plaza de la Constitución, with its holiday tree in the center and every live oak strung with hundreds of white lights. St. Augustine's Historic District—bed and breakfasts, museums, restaurants, historic sites, and shops all sparkle with millions of twinkling white lights. Rachael Ray Magazine named St. Augustine's Nights of Lights as one of the nation's "twinkliest," and National Geographic Magazine listed it as one of the "Top 10 Cities in the World for Holiday Lighting Displays."

There are many ways to view the Nights of Lights, including walking in Historic Downtown and visiting pubs, restaurants, and ice cream shops. For those who want a different perspective on the lights, numerous tours are available throughout the season, some every night and some just on select nights. Walk one day and take a tour (or two) on another while experiencing the lights and the festive atmosphere with song, ice cream, a skilled train or trolley conductor, in an open carriage, or on a golf cart with the Grinch.

Insider Tip

These Nights of Lights Tours are popular and may sell out. We cannot guarantee that you will be able to purchase tickets for all tours listed here.

Ways to view the Nights of Lights:

• By Land

  • Ride a train or trolley
  • Take a tour in an electric vehicle
  • Specialty tours: Carriage Rides and Guided Walking Tours

• By Sea

  • Large sail and power vessels
  • Smaller, more intimate sail and power vessels

• By Air or From Up High

  • Climb the Lighthouse steps

By Land

Ride a Train or Trolley

Old Town Trolley's Famous Nights of Lights Tour

• What: A 30- to 45-minute ride through Historic Downtown aboard an Old Town Trolley; includes magic glasses, an entertaining driver, and seasonal songs on the speakers, plus cider and a cookie after the ride.
• Admission: Tickets are sold by the row that seats up to four people, starting at $72.99 per row. Tickets are only sold by the row. Prices are higher on peak evenings. Children three and younger may sit on an adult's lap and ride at no charge. Old Town Trolleys offers VIP tickets, which let you arrive anytime on the day you booked the tour.
• When: From Sunday, November 22, 2026, through Monday, January 18, 2027, starting at 6:00 p.m. Tours start every 15 minutes, and hours may vary by day.
• Where: Departing from the Visitor Information Center, 10 West Castillo Drive.
• Contact: Call (904) 829-3800 or see their website for more information and to reserve seats.

Nights of Lights Tours by Ripley's

• What: A 30-minute "lightseeing" tour aboard a Ripley's Red Train through Historic Downtown; includes magic glasses and the opportunity to sing holiday songs along the way.
• Admission: Tickets are sold by the seat and start at $24.99 per seat for all passengers. 
• When: From Sunday, November 22, 2026, through Sunday, January 18, 2027, starting at 6:00 p.m. 
• Where: Departing from Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum, 19 San Marco Avenue.
• Contact: Call (904) 824-1606 or visit their website to learn more and book tickets.
• Special Information: Nights of Lights Tour guests may also attend a free holiday movie-of-the-week at 6:00 p.m. each evening at the museum.
• Dog Friendly: Ripley's Red Train Tours are dog-friendly. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome in all Ripley's attractions.

Take a Tour in an Electric Vehicle

GhostAugustine Nights of Lights Tours

• What: A 40-minute tour in an electric vehicle, for up to six people. You can book individual seats or the entire vehicle. Each guest receives a free pair of special glasses to view the lights.
• Admission: If booked in advance: $39.00 per person; if booked on the same day: $49.00 per person. Book the full cart in advance: $225.00. Book the full cart on the same day: $275.00.
• When: Daily, on the half-hour from 6:30 to 11:30 p.m., from November 21, 2026, through January 18, 2027.
• Where: Meet at Beerhammer's Haunted Spirits Store, 162 St. George Street, Suite 19. If Heritage Walk is closed, meet at the entrance at 162 St. George Street.
• Contact: Call (904) 687-1118 or go to their website to book tickets.

Gold Tours Private Nights of Lights Tours

• What: During this private 45-minute Nights of Lights Tour, Gold Tours includes city history information with the views.
• Admission: $200.00 for a private tour. Reservations are required. All guests must be at least seven years old.
• When: Sunday through Thursday, from November 16, 2025, through January 11, 2026, at 6:00 and 7:15 p.m.
• Exceptions: No tours on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Eve.
• Where: Departing from the parking lot behind the Lightner Museum at 69 Granada Street.
• Contact: Call (904) 325-0547 for more information, or book a tour online.

First Coast Nights of Lights Tours

• What: First Coast Tours offers a shared tour in a premium electric cart that holds up to seven passengers. Call (904) 690-1890 to book a private tour
  Admission: $43.00 per person. Children aged 3 and over are welcome at the regular price. They must sit in a seat and wear a seatbelt. Dogs are welcome. Larger dogs must have a ticket.
  When: Daily, from November 22, 2026 through January 17, 2027. Tours leave every half hour, starting at 6:15 p.m. The last tour departs at 9:30 p.m.
  Where: The tour starts at 88 Riberia Street in the lot at the Solla-Caraba Cigar Factory. There is no parking available there. 
  Contact: Book tickets online for the Nights of Lights Holiday Tour and the combo tour with the Historical Food Tour.

St. Augustine Land & Sea Nights of Lights Tours

• What: St. Augustine Land & Sea offers private or shared 45-minute electric cart tours for up to 10 people. This company offers tours in English and Spanish, and uses a language app for guests who speak other languages.
• Admission: Prices vary by day and time, and start at $39.00 per passenger ages two and older. Prices are subject to change.
• When: Saturday, November 21, 2026, through January 18, 2027, every hour between 6:00 and 10:00 p.m.
• Where: 22 Artillery Street, St. Augustine, Florida, 32084
• Contact: Call (904) 679-9880 or book through their website. Call to reserve a private tour.

Explore Tours Nights of Lights Tours

• What: Explore Tours offers a  45- to 60-minute ride in an open-air electric vehicle with no set route. Book a row of three for a shared tour or book a private group of up to 10 passengers. The guide offers insights into Nights of Lights and St. Augustine's history. 3-D glasses are included, and the driver plays holiday music on the sound system. Explore Tours and Pickups welcomes well-behaved dogs.
• Admission: $120.00 for a row, seating up to three people. $250.00 for a private tour for up to nine people.
• When: Nightly, on the hour, at 6:00, 7:00, and 8:00 p.m., from November 22, 2026, through January 18, 2027.
• Exceptions: No tours on Thanksgiving (November 26), Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Eve.
• Where: At 143 Cordova, in the lot behind the Lightner Museum. Parking is not included and may not be available in the lot. See the information below about parking and shuttles.
• Contact: Call (904) 853-1500 or book on their website.

Pineapple Ride and Tour Nights of Lights

• What: A 45- to 60-minute tour of downtown St. Augustine during Nights of Lights. 3-D glasses and a blanket for warmth are included. Reserve the 3D glasses when you book your tickets.
• Admission: Pricing is by the row, which seats up to three people (or two people and a dog), and ranges from $120.00 to $150.00. Private tours for up to 10 people range from $300.00 to $350.00. In a pedicab, book a row for up to three people for $120.00.
• When: Daily, from November 21, 2026, through January 18, 2027. Tours leave on the hour, beginning at 6:00 p.m. The last tour starts at 11:00 p.m.
• Where: The tour starts at Pineapple Ride and Tour at 135 Riberia Street, St. Augustine, Florida, 32084. Park there at no charge during the tour.

• Contact: Call (904) 615-5515 to book your tickets.

  

Nights of Lights Model T Tour

• What: A one-hour tour of downtown St. Augustine during Nights of Lights in Pastime Tours' Model T replica, for up to 4 passengers.
• Admission: $125.00 for the one-hour tour.
• When: Daily, from November 21, 2026, through January 18, 2027. Tours leave every 90 minutes, starting at 5:30 p.m.
• Where: Meet the tour at 11 A Aviles Street, St. Augustine, Florida 32084
• Contact: Call (904) 584-5417 or visit their website to book a tour.

Specialty Tours: Character Tours, Carriages, and Walking Tours

Tasting Tours Nights of Lights Tours

Unmerry Grinchmas Ride

• What: A 35- to 45-minute un-merry ride through town with the Grinch aboard a nine-passenger EV.
• Admission: Daytime at $45.00 per person regardless of age. $360.00 for a private tour for up to nine people. Nighttime at $55.00 per person and $440.00 for a private ride for up to nine people.
• When: Grinch tours operate from November 22, 2026, through January 18, 2027.
• Exceptions: There are no tours on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, or New Year's Day.
• Where: Departing from 47 Cordova Street.
• Contact: Call (904) 325-3911 or go to their website to book a tour.

Nights of Lights Ride with Santa

• What: The Tastings Tours presents a shared or private 35- to 45-minute tour of downtown in an electric vehicle with Santa on board.
• Admission: $45.00 per person for a shared ride or $360.00 for a private ride for up to nine people.
• When: On Wednesday through Sunday, from Saturday, November 21, through Thursday, December 24, 2026. The rides start at 6:15, 7:15, 8:15, and 9:15 p.m.
• Exceptions: There are no tours on Thanksgiving.
• Where: Departing from 47 Cordova Street.
• Contact: Call (904) 325-3911 or book a tour on their website.

Bah Humbug Ride with Scrooge

• What: A shared or private 35- to 45-minute tour with The Tastings Tours, hosted by Ebenezer Scrooge. He's grouchy, grumpy, and funny on this adult-friendly tour featuring his version of "A Christmas Carol."
• Admission: $45.00 per person for a shared ride, or $360.00 for a private ride of up to nine people.
• When: Scrooge is evidently busier than Santa; he only rolls his ride on select days from November 27 through December 30.
• Where: Departing from 47 Cordova Street.
• Contact: Call (904) 325-3911 or visit their website to book a tour.

Christmas Carol Sing-along Walking Tour

• What: A Tasting Tours walk and dance of two to three blocks in downtown St. Augustine. You are welcome to enjoy the jaunt in your wheelchair or mobility scooter, as long as you let them know in advance.
• Admission: $35.00 per person. 
• When: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, from November 27, 2026 through December 20, 2026, with tours leaving on the hour, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.
• Where: Departing from 5 Palm Row.
• Contact: Call (904) 325-3911 or visit their website to book a tour.

Magical Ride with Captain Mayhem

• What: A shared or private 35- to 45-minute tour of downtown in a Tasting Tours electric vehicle with Pirate Captain Mayhem. (Expect shenanigans.)
• Admission: $45.00 per person for a shared ride or $360.00 for a private ride for up to nine people.
• When: Several days from Saturday, December 26, through Sunday, January 17, 2027. Rides start on the quarter hour from 6:15 p.m. through 9:15 p.m.
• Where: Departing from 47 Cordova Street.
• Contact: Call (904) 325-3911 or visit their website to book a tour.

Pinkmas Nights of Lights Tours

• What: Two Tours, both in pink Barbie-themed electric vehicles that seat seven guests.
  • The Grinch steals Pinkmas in this 45-minute shared ride in a pink electric vehicle that exudes "pink-themed joy." He then exudes sarcastic disgust at the holiday while showing you the lights and the sights.
  • The Pinkmas tour features "Barbie-inspired" storytelling for a new take on St. Augustine's history and photo opportunities.
• Admission: Both tours start at $45.00 per person. All riders must be at least three years old.
• When: From November 21, 2026, through January 18, 2027. Daytime tours run hourly from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Nighttime tours run on the hour and the half-hour from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. On November 21, tours start at 5:00 p.m.
• Where: Tours leave from the Pink House at 101 Orange Street. There is no parking at the house; leave enough time to find parking.
• Contact: (407) 361-9969 or book through their website.

VIP Nights of Lights Historic Walking Tour - FREE

• What: A free one-hour walking tour, focused on St. Augustine's lights and history.
• Admission: This tour is free to all. Reservations are required.
• When: 6:00 p.m. on every Saturday from November 28, 2026 through January 16, 2027.
• Exceptions: No tour will be conducted on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve.
• Contact: To book your spot on the free tour, call Tours St. Augustine at (904) 825-0087.

Private VIP Nights of Lights Historic Walking Tour

• What: A private one-hour walking tour, focused on St. Augustine's lights and history.
• Admission: $100.00 for a private group of up to 25 people. Reservations are required.
• When: Available nightly from November 22, 2026 through January 18, 2027.
• Contact: Call (904) 825-0087 to schedule your tour. Reservations are required.

St. Augustine Experiences History Under the Lights Walking Tour

• What: A 90-minute "History Under the Lights" historic walking tour
• Admission: $30.00 per person
• When: 5:30 to 7:00 p.m., daily from November 21, 2026, through January 17, 2027.
• Exceptions: No tours on Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year's Day
• Where: Historic Downtown. Plan to meet on Aviles Street, south of the Plaza de la Constitución. You will receive the gathering spot with your confirmation.
• Contact: Call (904) 599-7391 or book online on their website.

By Sea

Large Sail and Power Vessels

Scenic Cruise Nights of Lights Tours

• What: Two cruises: The 90-minute Sunset with Nights of Lights Cruise departs at 4:30 p.m. The one-hour Nights of Lights Cruise departs at 6:30 p.m. Both are aboard a large boat with covered seating on the first level and open-air seating on the top level. Complimentary hot cocoa and cookies are included. Leashed dogs are welcome. 
• Admission: Sunset Cruise—$47.92 for teens and adults and $23.96 for children ages 5 through 12. Nights of Lights Cruise—$34.61 for teens and adults and $17.31 for children ages 4 through 12. 
• When: Sunset Cruise—4:30 p.m., from Sunday, November 22, 2026, through Saturday, January 9, 2027. Nights of Lights Cruise—6:00 p.m. on November 21, 2026, and at 6:30 p.m. on December 18, 2026, through January 2, 2027.
• Exceptions: No tours on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
• Where: Departing from the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, 111 Avenida Menendez. Only metered parking is nearby, and it fills quickly; please allow time to park and walk to the marina.
• Contact: Call (800) 542-8316 or go here to learn more and to order tickets. You can also purchase tickets at their office at the marina office.
• Regatta of Lights: The Victory III will take passengers on the Regatta of Lights on December 13. Go here for tickets.

The Black Raven's Nights of Lights Tours

• What: This two-hour Nights of Lights Cruise aboard the pirate ship Black Raven offers great views of the lights and fun with pirates singing Christmas carols.
• Admission: $59.95 per person for ages 13 to 55, $54.95 for children ages 3 to 12, $27.95 for toddlers and infants ages two and younger, and $56.95 for seniors older than 55.
• When: On Light Up! Night, November 21, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and from November 22, 2026, through January 8, 2027, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.
• Exceptions: The pirates take a break on Thanksgiving and Christmas. There are no cruises on December 18 or on January 4 - 7, 2027.
• Where: Departing from the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, 111 Avenida Menendez. Even if you have tickets, please go directly to the Pirate Store for your boarding passes. The boat leaves the dock precisely at 4:15 p.m., and there is very limited metered parking in the area. Please use a shuttle if possible, or allow 60 minutes to find parking. (See more about parking below.)
• Contact: Call (904) 826-0000 or go here to purchase tickets and learn more. You can purchase tickets at their ship's store at the marina, at 111 Avenida Menendez.
• Special Cruises: The Black Raven Pirate Ship offers special cruises for the Regatta of Lights on December 12 and to view the Fireworks on New Year's Eve ($99.95 per adult). Learn more and purchase tickets on their website.

Florida Water Tours Nights of Lights Tour

• What: Florida Water Tours offers 75- and 90-minute Nights of Lights tours on multi-passenger vessels — the 49-foot Great Blue Heron, the 45-foot Osprey, and the 35-foot Island Breeze. All their Nights of Lights trips include 3-D glasses, one cup of hot cocoa, and holiday music.
  • Three Sunset/Nights of Lights Cruises combine the sunset cruise with the Nights of Lights:
    • From 5:00 to 6:30 p.m.—Adults-only cruise aboard the Great Blue Heron
    • From 5:15 to 6:45 p.m.—Family-friendly cruise aboard the Osprey
    • From 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.—Family-friendly, BYOB cruise aboard the Breeze
  • After dark, the Osprey, with an onboard bar, has two trips:
    • At 7:00 p.m. on a family-friendly cruise.
    • At 8:30 on an adults-only (21+) cruise.
  • The Great Blue Heron has a bar on board and offers three evening cruises:
    • At 6:45 p.m. on a family-friendly cruise.
    • At 8:15 p.m. on an adults-only (21+) cruise
    • At 9:45 p.m. on an adults-only (21+) cruise.
  • The Island Breeze, the BYOB boat, departs for two cruises
    • At 7:15 p.m. on a family-friendly cruise, BYOB
    • At 8:45 p.m. on an adults-only cruise, BYOB
  • Nights of Lights Holiday Jazz Cruise on December 4 and 11, and January 1, 8, and 15
    • 7:15 to 8:45 p.m. on an adults-only cruise
    • 9:00 to 10:30 p.m. on an adults-only cruise
• Admission:
  • Sunset Cruises: Tickets are $49.00 for adults and teens age 13 and older. On family cruises, infants and children age 12 and younger are $22.00.
  • Nights of Lights Cruise: Tickets are $39.00 for adults and teens age 13 and older, and $22.00 for infants and children age 12 and younger. No one under age 21 is allowed on the adults-only cruises.
  • Holiday Jazz tickets are $59.00.
• When: November 21, 2026, through January 18, 2027. See their website for tickets and more information.
• Where: Departing from the docks at the Camachee Yacht Harbor, 107 Yacht Club Drive.
• Contact: Call (904) 827-7728 or go here to learn more and book tickets.
• Special Cruises: Florida Water Tours offers special cruises for the Regatta of Lights on December 12 and to view the Fireworks on New Year's Eve. Learn more and purchase tickets on their website.

St. Augustine Boat Tours Nights of Lights Tours

• What: This intimate, one-hour boat tour, aboard an open platform boat that holds 20 people, starts in Salt Run and cruises along the waterfront for great views of the lights. When there is time, the captain takes the boat under the Bridge of Lions for views of the brightly decorated bed-and-breakfast properties south of the bridge. St. Augustine Boat Tours operates a smaller boat that has a shallow draft and can get close to shore.
• Admission: $35.00 for tweens, teens, and adults and $15.00 for children younger than eight years old.
• When: At 6:00, 7:30, and 9:00 p.m., from November 21, 2026, through January 18, 2027.
• Exceptions: There are no tours on Christmas Day.
• Where: Departing from the Conch House Marina, where there is free parking.
• Contact: Call (904) 687-8297 to book a cruise, or go to their website to book a cruise, learn more about the boat, or charter a private cruise.

Red Boat Tours

• What: Three tours aboard the Pelicano, starting with the 90-minute Sundown/Lights-Up Cruise, which departs at 5:15 p.m. and is family-friendly. Or choose from two 75-minute Nights of Lights tours: The first, at 7:30 p.m., is for families with children 8 and older, and the second, at 9:15 p.m., is an adults-only tour. The Red Boat Tours serves hot chocolate, cookies, and candies. All tours are BYOB. The vessel is wheelchair-accessible, and they have free parking.
• Admission:
  • The 90-minute Sun Down/Lights Up Cruise starts at 5:15 p.m. and is family-friendly. Tickets are $49.00 for adults, $22.00 for ages 3 - 12, and $8.00 for infants up to two-year-olds.
  • The 75-minute 7:30 Nights of Lights Cruise is BYOB. Tickets are $40.00 for teens and adults, and $16.00 for children ages 8 to 12. This tour is available only to those aged eight or older.
  • The 75-minute 9:15 tour is also BYOB. This is an adults-only cruise, and tickets are $40.00.
• When: On most nights from November 21, 2026, through January 18, 2027, at 5:15, 7:30, and 9:15 p.m.
• Exceptions: There are no tours on Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• Where: Meet the Red Boat at the Vilano Fishing Pier, 260 Vilano Road.
• Contact: Call (904) 436-3566 or go here to learn more and book a cruise.

Fury Water Adventures

• What: Fury Water Adventures offers four cruises a night departing from two locations in Vilano: The 65-foot Fury Sailing Catamaran departs from Beaches Marina, and the 45-foot Fury Corinthian power catamaran departs from the floating dock on the Vilano Pier.
  • From Beaches Marina, 250 Vilano Road:
    • A Sunset Nights of Lights Sail with live music aboard the sailing catamaran from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Enjoy complimentary snacks, holiday cookies, and select drinks on board. This is a family-friendly cruise. Tickets range from $39.00 to $77.00.
    • Nights of Lights Sail with live music aboard the Fury sailing catamaran from 8:00 to 9:30 pm, on select days. Enjoy complimentary snacks, holiday cookies, margaritas, champagne, beer, wine, hot chocolate, and soft drink options. This is a family-friendly cruise. Tickets range from $39.00 to $72.00.
  • From the Vilano Pier floating dock, 260 Vilano Road:
    • A 90-minute Sunset and Nights of Lights Cruise on a 45-foot power catamaran from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Complimentary sodas and water are available, and you can purchase beer, wine, and hot cocoa. This is a family-friendly cruise. Tickets range from $28.00 to $42.00. 
    • A 75-minute Nights of Lights Cruise on a 45-foot power catamaran from 7:15 to 8:30 p.m., on select days. Complimentary soda and water are available, and you can purchase hot cocoa, beer, wine, and champagne. This is a family-friendly cruise. Tickets range from $27.00 to $40.00
  • Admission: 
    • The Sunset Nights of Lights Sail is $77.00 for ages 11 and older, $39.00 for children ages four to 10, and free for kids three and younger.
    • The Nights of Lights Sail is $72.00 for ages 11 and older, $39.00 for children ages four to 10, and free for kids three and younger.
    • The Sunset Nights of Lights Cruise is $43.00 for ages 11 and older, and $28.00 for babies and children ages 10 and younger.
    • The Nights of Lights Cruise is $40.00 for ages 11 and older, and $27.00 for babies and children ages 10 and younger. 
  • When: The Sunset Nights of Lights trips both run nightly from November 21, 2026, through January 18, 2027. The later Nights of Lights trips both operate on all weekends and select weekdays.
  • Where: The sailing catamaran departs from Beaches Marina, 250 Vilano Road. The power catamaran departs from the floating dock at the Vilano Pier, 260 Vilano Road.
  • Contact: Call (844) 831-5397 or visit here to learn more and book a cruise.

Beaches Water Tours

• What: Three 90-minute cruises, two family-friendly cruises, one at 4:30 and one at 6:30 p.m., and an adults-only BYOB cruise at 8:30 p.m. Beaches Water Tours operates a stable, 53-foot covered pontoon boat, with ample seating and room for dancing.
• Admission: $49.00 for teens and adults; $15.00 for children ages 12 and younger. 
• When: Daily, from November 21, 2026, through January 18, 2027. Family-friendly tours leave at 4:30 and 6:30 p.m., and the adults-only cruise leaves at 5:30. 
• Exceptions: No tours on Thanksgiving or Christmas. 
• Where: Beaches Marina, near Beaches at Vilano. 250 Vilano Road, St. Augustine, Florida 32084
• Contact: Call (904) 429-9189 or visit their website to book your tickets.

Old Town Party Boat Nights of Lights Party

• What: A 90-minute Nights of Lights water tour aboard a party boat with festive music, a comfortable place to relax, and a dance floor.
• When: From November 15, 2025 through January 11, 2026, at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.
• Where: Departing from the Beaches Marina at 250 Vilano Road.
• Contact: Call (904) 599-9492 or see their website. 

Schooner Freedom Nights of Lights Sail

• What: This two-hour Schooner Freedom Sunset/Nights of Lights Sail takes place on a 41-passenger schooner, decorated from stem to stern with lights.
• Admission: $75.00 per person plus tax.
• When: The Sunset Nights of Lights cruise leaves the dock at 5:15 p.m. on Light Up! Night, November 21. The ship leaves the dock at 4:15 p.m., from November 22, 2026, through January 18, 2027.
• Exceptions: There are no tours on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, or Christmas Day. Select days are blocked due to private charters.
• Where: Departing from the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, 111 Avenida Menendez. There is limited metered parking nearby. Please allow plenty of time to park your vehicle or ride the shuttle downtown.
• Contact: Call (904) 810-1010, or go to their website to purchase tickets. You can also purchase tickets at their ticket office at the marina.
• Special Trips: The Schooner Freedom takes passengers on the Regatta of Lights for $80.00 per person.

Sea Love Charters

• What: A 90-minute cruise during Nights of Lights aboard Sea Love Charters' 64-foot power vessel, with a 60-passenger capacity. The cruise departs on the San Sebastian River south of the city, letting you avoid city traffic. 
• Admission: $55.00 for teens and adults, $15.00 for children ages 3 to 12, and free for children under 3. $160.00 for a four-pack regardless of age. Discounts for military, first responders, and students.
• When: On select days from November 21, 2026, through January 17, 2027. Tours leave on the hour, beginning at 6:00 p.m. The last tour starts at 11:00 p.m.
• Exceptions: No cruises on Mondays through Wednesdays, except for January 11 - 23, 2027
• Where: 220 Nix Boat Yard Road, St. Augustine, Florida 32086. This is off US 1, south of the city.
• Contact: Call (904) 824-3328 to book your tickets, or visit their website.

Adventure Boat Nights of Lights Tours

• What: A one-hour cruise aboard a stable pontoon boat with a covered top and relaxing music. You may bring drinks and snacks
• Admission: $44.00 for adults ages 19 and over, $19.00 for ages 18 and younger
• When: November 21, 2026, through January 18, 2027
• Where: Vilano Public Pier, Vilano Beach
• Contact: (904) 759-2758. See Adventure Boat Tours for more information.

Smaller, More Intimate Sail and Power Vessels

Eco Tours Nights of Lights Boat Tours

• Catamaran Sailing Tour

  • What: A two-hour sail aboard an open catamaran that holds two to six passengers. Leave the dock at dusk and enjoy the views and wildlife. Sunset over St. Augustine, followed by the holiday lights along the bayfront, offers magical views.
  • Admission: $75.00 per passenger; $400.00 for a private tour for up to six passengers.
  • When: Daily, from November 22, 2026, through January 18, 2027, from 4:15 to 6:15 p.m.
  • Exception: No tours on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, or Christmas Day

• Sunset Eco Tour

  • What: Cruise aboard an open power boat. This 90-minute ecotour includes information about the rivers, marshes, and the creatures that live there. As the day ends, enjoy the sunset and the lights on the bayfront.
  • Admission: $55.00 for passengers ages 13 and older, and $40.00 for those 12 and younger. Private tours for up to six people are $300.00, and $600.00 for seven to 12 passengers.
  • When: Daily, from November 22, 2026, through January 18, 2027, from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.
  • Exception: No tours on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, or Christmas Day

• Nights of Lights Boat Excursion

  • What: A one-hour cruise after dark aboard a 12-passenger powerboat. This small, comfortable open boat offers great views and photo opportunities.
  • Admission: $55.00 for passengers ages 13 and older; $35.00 for ages 3 to 12; and $25.00 for infants and toddlers age 2 and under. Private tours for up to six people are $300.00, and $600.00 for seven to 12 passengers. Book on their website.
  • When: Daily, from November 22, 2026, through January 18, 2027, departing at 6:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
  • Exception: No tours on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, or Christmas Day

Where: All Nights of Lights St. Augustine Eco Tours depart from the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, 111 Avenida Menendez. This location is downtown, with limited metered parking nearby. Please allow enough time to park and take the free shuttle, or to look for parking.

Contact: Call (904) 377-7245 or go to the website for more information.

Gone2Sea Boat Rentals Nights of Lights Cruise

• What: A private 90-minute Nights of Lights cruise for one to twelve people on a comfortable pontoon boat by Gone2Sea Boat Rentals. Bring your own drinks and snacks. 
• Admission: $175.00 for up to 6 people; $200.00 for up to 12 people.
• When: Book a tour for 5:30, 7:15, or 9:00 p.m., from Saturday, November 21, 2026, to Monday, January 18, 2027.
• Where: Departing from Windward Shipyard Marina, 117 Dockside Drive. Free parking on site. Use the restroom at the marina. There are none on the boat.
• Contact: Call (508) 847-9857 or go to their website to book a tour. 

Cruisin' Tikis St. Augustine

• What: Enjoy the lights of the bayfront from a Cruisin' Tiki, on a BYOB one-hour cruise aboard a floating tiki bar for up to six passengers
• Admission: $65.00 per person. BYO drinks and snacks.
• When: From November 21, 2026, through January 18, 2027, at 6:15 and 7:30 p.m.
• Where: Departing from Camachee Yacht Harbor, 3737 Harbor Drive, St. Augustine, Florida, 32084
• Contact: Call (904) 980-8454

St. Augustine Sailing Nights of Lights Charters

• What: St. Augustine Sailing offers private or shared cruises aboard a luxury sailboat. You can order special food and wine for any cruise.
• Admission by One of Four Packages:
  • Glitter Package —  A three-hour exclusive cruise for up to six passengers, with a four-course meal, starts at $549.00 per person, based on a party of six.
  • Sparkle Package — A two-hour cruise for up to 10 passengers, with a curated selection of sweet and savory bites and a glass of sparkling wine, starts at $129.00 per person, based on a party of six.
  • Twinkle Package — A 75-minute cruise with a dessert and festive beverage, beginning at $99.00 per person, based on a party of six.
  • Shared Nights of Lights Cruise — A 75-minute cruise, aboard a 35-foot sailing vessel, with up to six passengers on board. You can purchase beverages and snacks before departure. Starts at $129.00 per person.
• When: From November 15, 2025, through January 11, 2026. Schedules vary.
• Where: Camachee Yacht Harbor, 3076 Harbor Drive, St. Augustine, Florida 32084
• Contact: Call (904) 829-0648. See the St. Augustine Sailing website for more details.

By Air from Up High

From the Top of the Lighthouse

• What: During the season, the lighthouse, keeper's house, and museum grounds are decorated with festive garland, twinkling lights, and holiday decor, and 21 themed Christmas trees are placed around the grounds and in the building. Each tree has a unique twist—such as the "Old Florida Tree," the "Nutcracker Folklore Tree," the "Sweet Treats Tree," and the "Vintage Toys Tree." Climb the lighthouse and view the lighted displays and 21 uniquely decorated trees throughout the property. See the Nights of Lights—from the top of the lighthouse.
• Admission: $26.95 for adults and teens, $24.95 for seniors, and $22.95 for children 12 and younger. For their safety, only those who are at least 44 inches tall may climb the lighthouse. There is much for everyone to enjoy at ground level, and if they are under 44 inches tall, they receive free admission.
• When: On select days from November 20, 2026, through January 16, 2027. Check the dates and book your visit.
• Where: St. Augustine Lighthouse, 100 Red Cox Road, St. Augustine, Florida 32080

In a Helicopter for Up to 3 Passengers

• What: View the lights from a helicopter on a five- to ten-minute ride. 
• Admission: $99.00 per person. The helicopter holds 2 to 3 passengers, with a total passenger weight limit of 580 pounds.
• When: Monday, Thursday, and Friday between 5:00 and 9:00 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday between 5:00 and 10:00 p.m.
• Where: The Northeast Florida Regional Airport
• Contact: Call (904) 257-3877 or visit their website to book a tour.

About Nights of Lights

St. Augustine's Nights of Lights festival traces its origin to the Spanish tradition of displaying a white candle in the window during the Christmas holidays. The tradition continues in 2026, with more than three million white lights twinkling on the historic buildings and landmarks along the bayfront and throughout the city's brick streets.

Nights of Lights Free Parking and Shuttles for 2026/27

Learn about how the free park-and-ride shuttles, the STAR beach circulator, and the parking garage operate during Nights of Lights.

We don't have all the information for the 2026/27 season

We'll keep adding information as it becomes available.

Free Parking and Free Shuttles

Free parking and free shuttle rides to and from your car are available on select days and nights during Nights of Lights. 

On Anastasia Island, the STAR Beach Shuttle operates for Nights of Lights. That shuttle runs on a loop on Anastasia Island, picking people up and dropping them off on the east side of the bridge.

Parking Lots and Shuttle Rides 

See below for information about the STAR Beach Shuttle for Nights of Lights. That shuttle runs on Anastasia Island and drops people off on the east side of the bridge.

How Does it Work?

Park for free in one of the lots outside of town, take a free bus to the Visitor Information Center, enjoy all Nights of Lights has to offer, and take a free bus back to your car. 

When Does it Operate in 2026/27?

• From 1:00 to 9:00 p.m., on 23 days of Nights of Lights, and on December 5 (the day of the Christmas Parade) from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
• November: 21, 27, and 29
• December: 4, 5, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, and 30
• January: 1 and 2

Where Will You Park? 

Three lots will be open when the shuttles operate on those 23 days:

• Broudy's Lot, 198 West King Street, St. Augustine, off U.S. 1
• North San Marco Lot, 301 San Marco Avenue, St. Augustine
• St. Johns County Health Department, 200 San Sebastian View, St. Augustine, off U.S. 1

Why Use the Lots and Shuttle Service?

• It's free.
• It's easy. You avoid the hassle of driving around (and around) the city streets looking for a parking spot.
• Third, Nights of Lights is a walking event and a tour event. Leave your car in a free lot, take a free shuttle to the Visitor Information Center, walk around town, and ride a trolley, a red train, a golf cart, or a pedi-cab.
  • When the shuttles are operating, the parking garage charges $40.00 after 1:00 p.m. Before 1:00 p.m., and on any day the shuttles don't operate, the garage charges $20.00 for the day.
  • This fee does not apply to St. Johns County residents who have registered with ParkStAug. Residents are encouraged to register online or at the city office on Bridge Street before Nights of Lights starts. Having the ParkStAug app does not guarantee you a space in the garage.

STAR Beach Shuttle for Nights of Lights

During the Nights of Lights Season, the STAR bus circulates on an Anastasia Island route, beginning at 5:00 p.m. 

• The shuttle heads from the Bridge of Lions on A1A to The Quality Inn & Suites, 901 A1A Beach Blvd., stopping at several locations on the way. 
• At the Quality Inn, the shuttle turns back toward the Bridge of Lions, stopping at other locations along the way. 
• All passengers disembark near the Bridge of Lions, and the shuttle turns back to make another loop.
• Things to know about the loop:
  • Most stops don't have public parking, but are within walking distance of parking either in a lot or on a street.
  • The stop near the Bridge of Lions is a 5- to 10-minute walk from the bridge. To get downtown, you have to walk across the bridge. It's a great opportunity to view the lights.
  • The bus will not make additional stops. You cannot flag it down and have to get on or off at a designated stop.

The STAR Circulator does not operate on New Year's Eve due to the fireworks on St. Augustine Beach.