Greetings! It’s time to forcibly gather the family like Clark Griswold and delve into one of these ten tinsel-tinted events curated by your discerning friends here at the St. Johns Citizen.
CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE AT ANCIENT CITY – FRIDAY, NOV. 29 – SUNDAY, DEC. 22
This festive event at the Ancient City Farmstead in St. Augustine features North Florida’s only outdoor ice skating rink and the tallest living Christmas tree in the state. Enjoy kids’ games, food trucks, and a chance to meet Santa in a rustic holiday setting. 395 St. Marks Pond Blvd, St. Augustine – Adults :$25 Children: $15
NIGHTS OF LIGHTS – SATURDAY, NOV. 23 – WEDNESDAY, JAN. 26, 2025
The classic. St. Augustine’s historic district is illuminated with over three million white lights, creating a magical holiday experience. Downtown St. Augustine – FREE
NIGHTS OF LIGHTS HOLIDAY MARKET – WEDNESDAY, NOV. 23 – MONDAY, JAN. 1, 2025
The inaugural Nights of Lights holiday market offers unique gifts and local crafts, perfect for Christmas shopping. There will be an ugly sweater contest and a perfect family photo op with snow. Colonial Quarter 33 St. George St., St. Augustine – FREE
FERNANDINA BEACH PJ PARTY AND TREE LIGHTING – FRIDAY, NOV. 29
On Black Friday, shoppers are invited to wear their favorite PJs and stroll South 2nd St. for deals before the annual tree lighting ceremony, which will feature music, dancers and kid-friendly activities. 12 South 2nd S., Fernandina Beach – FREE
HASTINGS FALL FESTIVAL OF ART – SATURDAY, NOV. 30 – SUNDAY, DEC. 1
The Hastings Fall Arts Festival brings together live music, food trucks, and a Cottage Artisan Market with unique local vendors. Visitors can also enjoy storytelling performances from the Tale Tellers of St. Augustine. North Main St. in downtown Hastings – FREE
JACKSONVILLE LIGHT BOAT PARADE – SATURDAY, NOV. 30
The Jacksonville Light Boat Parade features boats festooned with holiday lights, sailing along the St. Johns River. The event culminates with a breathtaking fireworks display, including a “waterfall” of lights effect from the Main Street and Acosta bridges. St. Johns River, downtown Jacksonville – FREE
DECK THE CHAIRS – FRIDAY, NOV. 27 – MONDAY, JAN. 1, 2025
At Jacksonville Beach, creatively decorated lifeguard chairs serve as a whimsical tribute to the holiday season. This free public art exhibit also features a musical light show. Seawalk Pavilion and Latham Plaza in Jacksonville Beach – FREE
GLOWING GARDENS – FRIDAY, NOV. 29 – SUNDAY, DEC. 29
Glowing Gardens at the Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens offers a tranquil holiday experience with vibrant light displays set amidst beautifully illuminated trees and foliage. 1445 Millcoe Rd, Jacksonville – Adults: $22 Children: $19
COLORS OF THE WILD – SATURDAY, NOV. 29 – SUNDAY, DEC.1
This holiday light show at the Jacksonville Zoo combines animal exhibits with 1,000 illuminated Asian lanterns from towering cherry blossoms to panthers and manatees: “Step inside a magical realm where artistry and nature intertwine.” 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville – Adults and Children: $32
PETESGIVING NEPTUNE BEACH BLOCK PARTY – THURSDAY, NOV. 28
The Neptune Beach Block Party, hosted by the historic Pete’s Bar, is a fun Thanksgiving morning event that features drinks, games and camaraderie. The block party has been a cherished local tradition for nearly 40 years. 117 First St., Neptune Beach – FREE
