Every winter, St. Augustine transforms into a glowing, shimmering storybook scene during the world-famous Nights of Lights celebration. With more than 3 million twinkling white lights draped across nearly 20 blocks of the nation’s oldest city, it’s truly one of the most dazzling holiday experiences you can find. Whether you're visiting for a romantic getaway, a festive family adventure, or a friends’ trip filled with cozy cocktails and holiday cheer, we’ve curated a perfect 4-day itinerary to help you soak up every magical moment.
And if you still need a place to stay, we’ve got you covered — Mulberry Oasis is the ideal home base for your Nights of Lights experience, with a heated pool, walkability to downtown, and room for the whole group. More on that below!
Let’s jump into your festive adventure…
Kick off your holiday escape with one of St. Augustine’s cutest seasonal traditions — the Paladar Christmas Pop-Up, running November 15–January 11. Located at 47 Cordova Street, this collaboration between Paladar Cuban Eatery and The Tasting Tours feels like stepping into a warm, cozy holiday market tucked inside the historic district. Enjoy homemade snacks and sweets, sip hot cocoa or coffee, and browse festive treats while soaking in all the cheerful décor.
To make the experience extra special, Paladar offers golf cart rides with holiday characters — including The Grinch — along with charming horseless carriage rides through the lights. It’s the perfect soft launch into the joyful spirit of Nights of Lights, especially for first-night excitement without diving straight into the busiest attractions.
For your first meal in town, make your way to St. George Restaurant, located right in the heart of downtown at 1 St. George Street. This inviting spot blends beautiful ambiance with fresh, delicious dishes — and they serve brunch, lunch, and dinner depending on when you arrive. The location is perfect for strolling the shops before or after your meal, and it’s a long-time local-expert favorite for its consistency, service, and cozy atmosphere.
Your second day is all about settling into the full holiday glow. A must-do for any Nights of Lights visit is the Old Town Trolley’s Nights of Lights Tour, where you’ll experience the city’s millions of sparkling lights with narration, Christmas music, and a festive atmosphere that feels straight out of a movie. Guests receive complimentary “magical viewing glasses”, which transform the lights into dazzling shapes for a fully immersive experience.
Enjoy the holiday carolers, glide through nearly 20 blocks of illuminated streets, and then wrap up the tour with warm apple cider and sugar cookies. It’s nostalgic, cheerful, and a perfect way to see the historic district decked out in its brightest holiday best.
After the tour, take some time to wander around the historic district — the glow of the lights is even more magical on foot. Pop into local boutiques, grab a warm drink, or stroll the waterfront as the reflections sparkle across the bay.
A unique way to experience the celebration is from the water. Several local companies offer Nights of Lights boat tours, and we highly recommend trying at least one. Most tours last 1–2 hours and give you a peaceful, beautiful perspective away from the crowds. Seeing millions of lights shimmer across the water while floating under the stars is one of the most breathtaking views in St. Augustine during the season.
Whether you prefer a quiet eco-style tour, a guided historic cruise, or a more lively party-style boat, there’s an option for every vibe. Be sure to bring a light jacket — evenings on the water can be chilly!
Next, head to The Christmas Market at 33 St. George Street — a 40-day holiday extravaganza running November 15 through December 24. During the day (11am–3pm) admission is free, and in the evenings (4–9pm) it’s only $5 for adults; kids under 14 are free. Enjoy festive small bites, sip a Christmas-themed cocktail, and make the most of the many photo ops — this spot was practically designed for holiday Instagram moments.
With 21 rotating vendors daily, there’s always something new to see, whether you're shopping for gifts, sampling treats, or soaking in the seasonal atmosphere. Locals can even snag an affordable season pass!
On your final day, treat yourself to something fun and nostalgic at Carnival Sweets — a bright, whimsical dessert shop inspired by old-fashioned carnivals. Located on San Marco Avenue just minutes from the historic district, it’s perfect for grabbing delicious milkshakes, fresh-squeezed lemonade, slushies, hand-scooped ice cream, popcorn, handmade chocolates, and more.
It’s a lighthearted way to wrap up your trip and leaves you with that warm, childlike joy the holiday season is all about. We highly recommend stopping in for a sweet treat before heading home.
If you go before 4pm you can also check out some of our wonderful antique shops in town. Check out Spinster Abbott's, and Great Cross of our Lady Leche to find some unique pieces to bring home with you!
Before you leave town, take one final walk through the historic district or along the bayfront. The mornings during Nights of Lights are peaceful and picturesque — a lovely way to savor the last moments of your holiday getaway.
Make your stay truly special by booking Mulberry Oasis, one of our most popular iTrip St. Augustine vacation homes for the season. This property features:
It’s the ideal blend of comfort, convenience, and festive proximity.
View Mulberry Oasis here: https://www.itrip.net/st-augustine-vacation-rental/mulberry-oasis
If you’d like to browse more availability or explore additional homes, check out all our properties here:
https://www.itrip.net/vacation-rentals/usa/fl/st-augustine