Regatta of Lights 2025

The Regatta of Lights takes St. Augustine's world-famous Nights of Lights on the water from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2025. Organized by the St. Augustine Yacht Club, sail, power, and paddle vessels of all sizes are decorated with colorful lights to create a dazzling sight for spectators along the bayfront. The best viewing is between the Bridge of Lions and the Castillo de San Marcos.

From sailboats to trawlers, from yachts to shrimp boats, the Regatta of Lights participants compete in four categories: best theme, most colorful, best in class, and best overall. The Regatta is an annual must-see event for visitors and locals during St. Augustine's Nights of Lights holiday festivities.

This event honors St. Augustine's maritime roots and rich nautical heritage, and the people who enjoy boating or working on the water. To view this nautical parade, sit along the bayfront by the seawall or enjoy the view from the many restaurants that face the bay, such as Harry's Seafood Bar and Grille and Casa Reina Taqueria & Tequila.

If you have a boat that can maintain 5 knots of forward momentum, you're encouraged to decorate your vessel and join the parade. Visit their website to register your boat, or call (904) 824-9725.

These passenger vessels have special trips for the Regatta of Lights:

• Black Raven Pirate Ship
• Florida Water Tours
• Victory II Scenic Cruise
• Schooner Freedom

A word to the wise, these Regatta of Lights trips sell out quickly.

Admission: Free

When: Saturday, December 13, 2025, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m.

Where: Along St. Augustine's bayfront between the Bridge of Lions and the Castillo de San Marcos.

Viewing from the Castillo: The Castillo de San Marcos hosts a Holiday Open House on Saturday, December 13, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. The cannon will fire off a cannon round to start the boat parade, and you can view the parade from the top of the Castillo.

Parking and Shuttle Info

We'll provide parking and shuttle information soon.