2023-24 Holiday Events in St. Augustine & St. Johns County

The Triumph of Nature: Art Nouveau from the Chrysler Museum of Art at Lightner Museum

November 17-March 15: The Lightner Museum is excited to announce the opening of a major touring exhibition, The Triumph of Nature: Art Nouveau from the Chrysler Museum of Art. The exhibition marks the culmination of the Lightner’s 75th anniversary celebration and will be on view from November 17, 2023 through March 15, 2024. 

The Lightner Museum will celebrate the opening of this landmark exhibition from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, November 17 with a spectacular soirée inspired by all things Art Nouveau. Guests will get an exclusive first look at the exhibition while enjoying craft cocktails curated by The Treasury on the Plaza, delicious hors d’oeuvres served by Chef’s Garden, and live music by Miami’s French Horn Collective, all while immersed in lavish decor inspired by the era in our historic Alcazar Casino. Tickets for the event are available on lightnermuseum.org

Nights of Pints 

November 17-December 31: The 2023 Nights of Pints kicks off November 17 at three craft breweries in St. Augustine, Florida! The event coincides with Nights of Lights. Shirts are available through January 31. Beer cards are honored after January 31! You will be able to purchase your $35 shirt and punch card good for one free pint at each of the three participating breweries:

🍺 Dog Rose Brewing Co.
🍺 Ancient City Brewing
🍺Bootlegger Beach Brewing Jack’s BBQ
The event benefits the following local organizations:
✨Fish Island Community Alliance
✨THE PLAYERS Championship Boys & Girls Club

Ximenez-Fatio House Nights of Lights Holiday Art Tour

November 18-January 5: View artwork by area artists who have decorated 14 fireplaces at the circa 1798 Ximenez-Fatio House Museum, 20 Aviles Street, historic St. Augustine, Florida. This art exhibition is held during the Nights of Lights holiday season, with the 225-year-old history house decorated with holiday finery. The event is a collaboration with the St. Augustine Art Association. TICKETS: ximenezfatiohouse.org

✨Tours Monday-Saturday from 10 AM-5 PM

✨Tickets: $15 for Adults; $12 for Seniors, Military, and Teachers; $8 for children 17 and younger. 

“This effort has been inspired by the beautiful Christmas Extravaganza at Stetson Mansion in Deland, Florida and supported by its designer, J. T. Thompson. We do not believe this has ever been done in St. Augustine, and it provides a unique opportunity to celebrate our partner relationship with the St. Augustine Art Association, which had its beginnings at the Ximenez Fatio House in 1924,” explained Payson Tilden, Executive Director at the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum.   

Nights of Lights 

November 18-January 28: Nights of Lights begins November 18, 2023 and continues nightly through January 31, 2024. Nights of Lights has been listed among the top ten holiday light displays in the world by National Geographic, During this festival of lights, downtown St. Augustine glows with holiday magic – from the ground to the rooftops. St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights features millions of tiny white lights that create a magical atmosphere in the Nation’s Oldest City. Admission is free. Tour companies offer tours by trolley, boat, bus, golf cart and more. Details at nightsoflights.com

Old Town Trolley’s Nights of Lights Tour

November 19-January 28: In its 30th year, St. Augustine’s award-winning Nights of Lights is admired by a global audience and is well known as one of the “10 Best Holiday Lighting Displays in the World” by National Geographic Traveler. Take an Old Town Trolley Tour, complete with 3D glasses, to view the lights throughout St. Augustine, Florida. TICKETS: www.trolleytours.com/st-augustine/nights-of-lights

Lighthouse Illuminations (20+ themed trees) at the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

November 22-January 13: Visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum during Nights of Lights in St. Augustine, Florida to see Lighthouse Illuminations: Tides, Tidings, and Trees. Discover 20+ uniquely decorated trees at this special after-hours event. Explore the Keepers’ House and grounds illuminated by lights and garlands, and enjoy a sensational view of Nights of Lights from the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse and the Lighthouse’s Fresnel Lens. Spots fill up quickly with limited availability so please book ahead. TICKETS: https://store.staugustinelighthouse.org/Events.aspx

Night Watchman Ghost Tour

December 4-January 30: Stroll the streets on the Southside of town for an interactive ghost tour like no other. The Night Watchman kept watch over the city after everyone else went to sleep. Learn about the frightening things he saw, heard, smelled and felt while keeping the city safe. Stops at The Castillo de San Marcos, Huguenot and Tolomato Cemeteries. Tours leave nightly at 8 p.m. from the Treasure Chest. Tickets are $25. 76 Spanish St., St. Augustine. 407-342-1569 www.seeamericatours.net/Familytour

Nights of Lights Sunday Catamaran Sail with St. Augustine Eco Tours

December 4-January 28: See Nights of Lights from the water with St. Augustine Eco Tours, departing from the City Marina, 111 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, Florida. The Sunset Catamaran sail seats 6 passengers and provides awesome views of the illuminated City. Tours leave at 4:15 p.m. and last approximately 2 hours. Tours are $65 per passenger. 111 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine. 904-377-7245 www.staugustineecotours.com

Nights of Lights by Florida Water Tours

December 4-January 28: Meet The Island Breeze, this family-friendly 35′ pontoon boat, perfect for a BYOB experience. You can also find beer, wine, and canned cocktails in their shop! Enjoy a special 90-minute Sunset Nights of Lights Cruise from 5:15-6:45 p.m. at $49 for Adults (13+), $22 for Children (3-12), and $8 for little ones (2 and under). The 75-minute tours are scheduled for 7 & 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $39 for Adults and $19 for Children (7 and over). Note: Children under 7 are not permitted on these tours. Tours leave from Camachee Cove Marina, 107 Yacht Club Dr., St. Augustine. www.floridawatertour.com

A Peter White Christmas Concert

December 6: A Peter White Christmas 20th Anniversary Special featuring Mindi Abair and Vincent Ingala at the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the show is at 8 p.m. Admission ranges from $69-$121.50. 1050 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach. 904-209-0399 www.pvconcerthall.com

The Trouble With Traditions – A Holiday Detour at Limelight Theatre

December 7-17: The Novak family has had a decades long Christmas tradition of having a dinner on Christmas Eve. When Richard Novak finds out his family plans on skipping this year for a theatre play, he becomes desperate to keep their tradition alive. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. nightly and on Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $20. 11 Old Mission Ave., St. Augustine. 904-825-1164 www.limelight-theatre.org

Holiday Market at Lightner Museum

December 7: Local artisans showcasing their ware will be on display at the Lightner Museum Holiday Market. The market takes place from 5-8 p.m., admission is free. 75 King St., St. Augustine. 904-824-2874 www.lightnermuseum.org

The Light of Christmas – Drive-Thru Light Display

Dec. 8-10, Dec. 15-25: The annual FREE drive-through Christmas light display called The Light of Christmas is on view at Turning Point at Calvary, 3500 State Road 16, in St. Augustine. Hours are 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 8-9 and December 15-25. The Light of Christmas features more than a half million lights that create scenes and giant Christmas trees that dance to music. Guests will be asked to turn to a specific radio station to hear the holiday music as they travel the route of The Light of Christmas.  Admission is FREE. For more Information, call 904-829-9795 or go to www.tpcalvary.com

Silent Sky presented by A Classic Theatre

December 8-10: “Silent Sky” is a heartwarming and joyful account of Henrietta Leavitt, a pioneering scientist in an era when women lacked the right to vote. Hired at the Harvard Observatory in the early 1900s, Henrietta can’t touch a telescope or voice original ideas. Instead, she joins a group of women “computers,” mapping stars for a renowned astronomer. This true story explores the challenges faced by women in a time of scientific breakthroughs when their contributions often went unnoticed until men claimed them. Henrietta Leavitt’s work not only revolutionized our understanding of the heavens but also challenged societal norms. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $25. 184 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine. www.aclassictheatre.org

Villa Zorayda Museum’s Candlelight Tours

December 8, December 16, December 18, December 22, December 27 and December 30: Join the Villa Zorayda Museum this Holiday Season for their 14th Annual “Candlelight Tours”. The Zorayda is beautifully decorated for the Holidays with decorations throughout the Museum and a spectacular Christmas tree is located center stage in the “Court of Lions”. Victorian and traditional decorations are found in every room of the Museum for visitors to enjoy. Over 100 candles are aglow throughout as you take a state of the art audio guided tour of this historic former home to learn about the building’s impressive 140 years of history and its beautiful art and antique collection. A complimentary beverage and cookie to complete your Candlelight Tour. Adult admission is $24.99. Children ages 6-12 are $12.99. This tour is not recommended for children ages 5 and under. Limited availability, advanced tickets are highly recommended. Tours are at 5:30 and 7 p.m. on select evenings during Nights of Lights. www.villazorayda.com

Christmas on the Farm at Sykes Family Farms

December 8-9 and December 15-16: Experience a 3/4-mile Christmas light show on a cozy hayride. Enjoy hot cider, chocolate, or coffee. Fun activities like bounce pads, swings, and a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus await. Take holiday photos amid the lights. Roast marshmallows, watch movies, and decorate ornaments by the campfire. Fridays and Saturdays at Sykes Family Farms. Admission: ages 3 & up: $16, ages 2 and under: FREE, Military with ID and Seniors ages 65+ are $15. 5995 Brough Rd., Elkton. www.sycofarms.com/christmas-on-the-farm

Vilano Holiday Village – Elf on the Shelf author event

December 9-23: Vilano Beach will come alive and share in a one-of-a-kind Christmas VIBE with its visitors. While more than 3 million lights sparkle during Nights of Lights in downtown St. Augustine, the Vilano Holiday Village will shine with an 18-foot-tall Christmas Tree serving as the center of festive celebrations. Get your glow on every Saturday in December with holiday happenings, including a tree lighting, visits with Santa & Mrs. Claus, meet-the-authors event, holiday shopping with local artisans, Cirque Adventure’s high-flying Elf Circus Show, live music, hot chocolate and specialty coffee drinks, hotel packages, and other festive fun along Vilano Road in Vilano Beach, Florida.

Saturday, December 9: Author Book Fair Extravaganza — Vilano Road will be lined with a variety of authors for meet-and-greets. The Elf on the Shelf®: A Christmas Tradition featured author Carol Aebersold will read to the group and be available for a book signing. All are welcome to bring to their own copy of the Elf on the Shelf book or can purchase them at Metalartz Gallery. Book proceeds will go to a local children’s charity. Admission is free. Stay updated at vilanobeachfl.com/vilanoholidayvillage

SCHEDULE

3-6:30 PM Authors along Vilano Road for Book Fair

4-6 PM Santa & Mrs. Claus Appearance at The Patio at Holiday Inn Express

6-7 PM  Elf on the Shelf®: A Christmas Tradition author at Holiday Inn Express

7-8:30 PM Christmas Movie Night – ELF at Vilano Main Street Diner at Holiday Inn Express. Guests are encouraged to wear their favorite pajamas!

St. Augustine Winter Spectacular

December 9-10:  Mark your calendars for the St. Augustine Winter Spectacular 2023 at Lewis Auditorium! This family-friendly, entertaining holiday production follows a young girl’s journey home for the holidays. Expect high-kick dancers, ballerinas, acrobats, actors, and more amidst dazzling costuming and props. Performances are on Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. 14 Granada St., St. Augustine. www.staugustinewinterspectacular.com

Santa Suits on the Loose 5K

December 9: Join this walk/jog/run starting and ending at the St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park along a flat 3.1-mile course through St. Augustine Beach neighborhoods. The race begins at 8 a.m. Registration ranges from $30-$40. Proceeds benefit St. Augustine Youth Services. 350 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. 904-814-7463 www.saykids.org

Hastings Hometown Christmas Parade

December 9: Join us for the Hastings Hometown Christmas Parade, a delightful holiday event! The parade kicks off at 10 a.m., starting from the W.E. Harris Community Center. Be captivated by the festive floats and merry march down Main Street, leading to the Library Campus and Al Wilke Field on South Main Street. Don’t miss this magical celebration on 400 E. Harris St., Hastings. www.sjcpls.org

Holiday Market at St. Augustine Beach

December 9: Bring the whole family to the 3rd annual Holiday Market at the Pier. Stroll through the market where you will find local vendors with offerings for everyone on your holiday gift list. Capture the family fun in our grinchy themed photo booth, discover delicious treats to take home, all while enjoying the vibrant light displays at Pier Park. This free event takes place from 3-7 p.m. at St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park, 350 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. 904-295-2271 www.staugbch.com/events/page/sab-events

Regatta of Lights hosted by the St. Augustine Yacht Club

December 9: Experience this annual holiday parade, hosted by the St. Augustine Yacht Club, of motorized vessels and many other vessels decorated with brilliant lighted displays beginning at 6 p.m. The boats will light up St. Augustine’s Matanzas Bay between the Bridge of Lions and Castillo de San Marcos. 904-824-9725 www.staugustineyachtclub.com

Regatta of Lights aboard the Victory III

December 9: Be a part of St Augustine’s holiday lighted boat parade during the Regatta of Lights, aboard the Victory III. Tickets are $45 per person. Reservations required. Boarding is at 5:30 p.m. at St. Augustine Municipal Marina, 111 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine. www.scenic-cruise.com

Holiday Jazz Concert – 2d Marine Division Band

December 9: The US Marine Corps Big Band Ensemble of 15 exceptionally talented and professional musicians will perform their holiday-themed program. A must see! Led by CWO3 Mark Pellon and hailing from Camp Lejeune, NC, the 2d Marine Division Band is performing a FREE Community Concert to bring good holiday cheer and joy to the residents and many visitors to St. Johns County. All are welcome to the show, 6:30 – 8:30 pm. As always, bring your own chairs. 170 Cathedral Pl., St. Augustine. 571-422-0963 www.facebook.com/dannygarciawalkingman

St. Augustine Community Chorus concerts – 75th Season

December 9-10 and December 17: The St. Augustine Community Chorus will perform a concert called Christmas Joy at 7:30 p.m. December 9-10 in the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine. On December 17 from 3-4 p.m., the chorus will perform the annual Messiah sing-a-long at Memorial Lutheran Church, 3375 US-1 South. TICKETS: www.staugustinecommunitychorus.org

Kidz Entrepreneur Holiday Market

December 10: The Kidz Entrepreneur Holiday Market is happening from noon-4 p.m. at The Tringali Bar, 7310 US 1, St. Augustine. More than 40 youth vendors (ages 4-17) will offer seasonal gifts. Enjoy live music by the band Chillula, Santa & Mrs. Claus, food trucks, a DJ, and other seasonal family fun. Parents can register kid vendors by emailing weeventinc@gmail.com (limited spaces available). The Saucey Pig & Sonny’s BBQ will be there, with proceeds from The Saucey Pig supporting a local charity, and Sonny’s BBQ providing lunch to kid vendors. Admission is free.  

Ancient City Baptist Church Choir Performance

December 10:  The Sanctuary Choir of Ancient City Baptist Church will present the musical Appalachian Winter Sunday, December 10, at the 10:45 AM morning service.  Appalachian Winter is a musical created by Joseph M. Martin.The musical celebrates the legacy of early American carols and hymnody.Joseph Martin states, ”the musical is composed in the spirit of folk music combining traditional spirituals with more rustic elements, creating a blend that is fresh and pleasing.”Popular American carols like, “Away in a Manger’ and “O Little Town of Bethlehem” dance with traditional spirituals such as “Children, Go Where I Sent Thee” and Go, Tell it on the Mountain.” Sacred Harp tunes are retooled for Advent and stand alongside new versions of Shaker hymns and Appalachian melodies. The 30-voice choir is under the direction of Curtis Powell.Narrator for the program North Florida actor Isaias “Ice” Cordero. Guest soloist is Carrie Thornton. An instrumental consort and piano will accompany the choir. Ancient City Baptist Church is located in downtown St. Augustine on the corner of Sevilla and Carrera Streets.The program is free and the public is invited to attend. There is free parking for all who attend. The program will also be live-streamed at AncientCityBaptist.org

St. Augustine Amphitheatre Seasonal Night Market 

December 12: Embrace the local charm with this beloved Night Market at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, where you’ll be treated to live music, exquisite handmade arts, crafts, and goods, complemented by a delightful selection of local food trucks. From 5-9 p.m. The Night Market is free to enter and open to all ages. 1340 A1A S., St. Augustine. 904-315-9252 www.theamp.com/community/farmers-market

Jacksonville Symphony Holiday Pops

December 12: The annual Holiday Pops concert by the Jacksonville Symphony will take place on Tuesday, December 12 at 7:30 p.m. in Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College, 14 Granada St., in downtown St. Augustine. Tickets are $40 for adults and $5 for students/children. Tickets include free parking at the St. Johns County COA, with complimentary shuttle to and from the venue. Those who ride the shuttle will experience beautiful views of Nights of Lights! TICKETS: emmaconcerts.com

Santa Meet and Greet in the Plaza de la Constitucion

December 15: Bring the family to meet with Santa for free photos with Santa in St. Augustine’s Plaza de la Constitucion from 6 to 8 p.m. There will be free face painting and a photo booth available. The Plaza is located in the center of St. Augustine at 170 Cathedral Place. For more information call 904-547-1592.

Free Movie Night: Elf at The Amp

December 15: Enjoy this holiday event at The AMP with a special holiday screening of the beloved film, “Elf.” Friends and family can immerse themselves in the holiday spirit with a special visit from Santa Claus, who will be giving away free T-shirts to the first 300 children. Kids will also be treated to complimentary hot chocolate and popcorn. This is a food drive event; and guests are asked to kindly bring a non-perishable donation to fill the pantries of local food banks in need. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., show starts at 7. 1340 A1A S., St. Augustine. www.theamp.com

Nutcracker Ballet – 15th annual

December 15-17: The Sugar Plum Fairy, Clara, the Mouse King all the favorite Nutcracker characters will return to the St. Augustine stage this holiday season. Saint Augustine Ballet presents the 15th Annual Nutcracker to the community — a timeless classic featuring professional ballet dancers and dance students from St. Augustine and surrounding areas. This holiday favorite will be staged December 15-17, 2023 with four performances in Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College, 14 Granada St., downtown St. Augustine, Florida. TICKETS: saintaugustineballet.org

Unity through the Nativity

December 15-16: Discover the beauty of unity as you explore a collection of over 100 nativity scenes from diverse cultures around the world at The Village Church. Join us for a festive evening featuring a bonfire, sing-along, live nativity, photo booth, and more! Hours are Friday 5:30-8:30 p.m. and Saturday 3-8:30 p.m. Admission is free, reservations required. 4229 Pacetti Rd., St. Augustine. 904-940-6768

Apex Theatre presents Annie Jr at Ponte Vedra Concert Hall

December 15-17: Derived from the beloved comic strip and inspired by the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, “Annie Jr.” introduces us to the cherished little redhead as she embarks on her inaugural journey. Infused with a perfect blend of determination and optimism, the young orphan Annie captivates the hearts of all, even amidst her humble beginnings in 1930s New York City. Performances take place at the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall on Friday at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.; and Sunday at 2 p.m. Doors open one hour prior to showtime. Tickets are $25.1050 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach. www.pvconcerthall.com

“Noches de Navidad” and Las Posadas at Mission Nombre de Dios

December 16: “Noches de Navidad” and Las Posadas at Mission Nombre de Dios Our Lady of La Leche invites you to experience a truly silent night on the Sacred Acre, complete with a Live Nativity, Eucharistic Adoration, cookies and hot cocoa, and a 16th-Century Spanish procession of “Las Posadas” (the Inns) presented by Historic Florida Militia. Suggested goodwill donation of $5 requested for each adult, ages 12+. Reservations required. 101 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine. www.missionandshrine.org

Vilano Beach Holiday Artisans Market  

December 16: The Vilano Beach Artisans Holiday Market takes place from 4-8 p.m. along the sidewalks near the Vilano Beach Pier. Local artisan-made items, plants, home décor, datil pepper sauces, and much more. Free parking and admission. Vilano Beach Pier, 260 Vilano Rd., St. Augustine. www.vilanobeachfl.com

Live from The Waterworks: John Paul White with Hadley Parrish-Cotton

December 16: The St. Johns Cultural Council and Gamble Rogers Music Festival present a concert series honoring the legacy of legendary St. Augustine performer Gamble Rogers. This month’s performance features John Paul White with Hadley Parrish-Cotton. John Paul White’s album “The Hurting Kind” draws from 1960s Nashville orchestration but maintains a modern touch in its exploration of love, relationships, and memories. White’s journey from small-town Tennessee to his current home in Alabama has shaped his two-decade music career, including his Grammy-winning work with The Civil Wars. Embracing the diversity of his fanbase, he’s unafraid and thrilled if “The Hurting Kind” is called country, reflecting his evolving artistry. Doors at 6:30 p.m.; show starts at 7. Ticket prices are $20. 184 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine. 904-808-7330 www.gamblerogersfest.org

Deck the Halls with Holiday Stories at The Waterworks

December 17: Join the fun at this family-friendly event! Get ready to sing, dance, and immerse yourself in captivating performances. Plus, don’t miss the chance to snap a memorable selfie with Mrs. C and indulge in some delicious cookies. The show boasts an outstanding lineup of talented individuals, including: Debra Weller, known as “Mrs. Sunshine Santa Claus,” captivating audiences with her stories and songs, both locally and internationally; Natalie Beltrami, a poet, artist, and actress who graces local stages and festivals with her performances; David Fussell, a storyteller who shares heartwarming stories and historical tales; and Chris Kastle, a versatile musician, storyteller, and poet performing locally and around the world. Admission is $10, children aged 12 and under can enjoy the event for free. 184 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine. 904-540-0402 www.taletellers.org

Sounds of the Season presented by St. Augustine Orchestra

December 17: Join us for “Sounds of the Season,” a delightful holiday extravaganza featuring all your favorite classics: “Sleigh Ride,” “Frosty the Snowman,” “Carol of the Bells,” “Charlie Brown Christmas,” “T’was the Night Before Christmas,” and more. This enchanting event will take place at the picturesque Kelly Farms. Performance begins at 5:30 p.m. and tickets are $25-$100. 5895 CR 214, St. Augustine. www.staugustineorchestra.com

It’s a Wonderful Life Live from the Backyard Stage at The Amp

December 18: Apex Theatre Studio is thrilled to bring the cherished American holiday favorite, “It’s A Wonderful Life,” to the Backyard Stage at The AMP in the form of a live radio play. In this captivating rendition, “It’s A Wonderful Life” will come to life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. A talented ensemble will breathe life into the story, portraying a myriad of characters on stage. As we journey through the tale of the idealistic George Bailey, we witness his contemplation of a life-altering decision on one fateful night. Gates open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 7:30. Tickets are $25. 1340 A1A S., St. Augustine. www.theamp.com

West King Wednesday

December 20: Every third Wednesday of the month, small businesses of West Augustine collaborate to share the community and culture of West King Street businesses. Live music, artists, and more are showcased from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. West King Street, St. Augustine. www.facebook.com/WestKingWednesdays

Christmas Fantastique

December 20-21: Christmas Fantastique takes the audience along young Clara’s Christmas Eve dream as her toys come to life and she travels with a young prince to the Land of Sweets. There she meets the beautiful Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier, and a host of scintillating dancers of different genres from exotic lands. Throughout it all, the timeless music of Tchaikovsky’s score evokes the holiday spirit. Performances take place at Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College at 2 and 7 p.m. Tickets are $20-$35. 14 Granada St., St. Augustine. 904-342-5920 www.zoikasdance.com

Venardos Circus at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre

December 20-January 1: The St. Augustine Amphitheatre welcomes back the Venardos Circus! Created by former Ringling Bros. Ringmaster Kevin Venardos, the Venardos Circus wraps world-class circus acts into a Broadway Musical style format that is called “the American Circus with the heart of a Broadway Show”. Shows run through January 1 with multiple show times on weekends. Admission ranges $16.95-$49.95. 1340 A1A S., St. Augustine. 904-209-0367 www.venardoscircus.com

Jackie Knight’s Comedy Show at The Milano Room at Amici’s

December 21: Enjoy a night of laughter at Jackie Knight’s Comedy Club, where hilarious comedians take the stage at Amici’s Restaurant. Get ready for a side-splitting evening as they deliver non-stop comedy. Tickets are $25, and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early to secure your spot for a night of endless chuckles! Doors open at 6 p.m., show starts at 7:30. Enter through wood doors under green awning on North (SR-312) side of Amici building. 1915 A1A S., St. Augustine. www.milanoroom.com/public-events

Cars & Coffee at the Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine

December 23: Must love Coffee ~ Must love Classic Cars! If you do then cruise over to Classic Car Museum for Cars & Coffee from 8-10 a.m. Enjoy the morning checking out over 150 beautiful classics, and enjoy free coffee and doughnuts. Classic Car Museum offers this free event every 4th Saturday of the month. Event sponsored by Bozard Lincoln. 4730 US 1 South, St. Augustine. 904-806-4625 www.ccmstaug.com

The St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market

December 23: From 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. every Saturday morning, shoppers stroll up and down the vendor-lined pathways of the St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market, browsing more than 100 tents loaded with local produce, flowers, baked goods, handmade arts and crafts and more. Admission into the market is free. 1340 A1A South, St. Augustine 904-315-9252 www.theamp.com/community/farmers-market

Ramona & The Riot at the Colonial Oak Music Park

December 26: Enjoy live music by Ramona & The Riot, drinks from the on-site bars, and grab dinner from the adjacent St. Augustine Seafood Company! This free family friendly concert takes place from 7-10 p.m. 21 St. George St., St. Augustine. www.thecolonialoakmusicpark.com

Ancient City Poets Open Mic: Holiday Mixer

December 28: Join us for a special gathering of poets and poetry lovers at Maria Reyes-Jones Art Studio. Enjoy cookies, coffee, and conversations as we celebrate and discuss plans for the 2024 St. Augustine PoetFest. Sign up at 6 p.m., with the mic starting at 6:30. Share your holiday presentations, limited to five minutes, at the Ancient City Poets podium. Bottomless coffee is provided, and you can bring your own beverage. Let’s celebrate poetry, community, and the holiday season together! 134 Riberia St, Unit 3, St. Augustine. 904-501-0043 www.facebook.com/ancientcitypoets

The Boardwalk Bazaar at Marina Munch

December 29: Held on the last Friday of each month, the Boardwalk Bazaar at Marina Munch Food Truck Park will feature live music and local artisans from 5-8 p.m. Friday, November 24. Food trucks and The Marina Munch Cantina  will offer dinner and drinks. Marina Munch is located at English Landing Marina, 509 S Ponce de Leon Blvd., St. Augustine. 

La Bohème by First Coast Opera

December 30-31: First Coast Opera’s New Year’s Eve opera — La Bohème, on stage December 30-31 in Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College. Experience the timeless passion of Puccini’s masterpiece while ringing in the New Year. Prepare to laugh, weep, and feel the full range of human emotions as Puccini’s lush and evocative music takes you on a journey of love and loss! TICKETS: firstcoastopera.com

Light Up the NIGHT! New Year’s Eve Firework Show

December 31: St. Augustine Beach fireworks display at 8:30 p.m. at the St. Johns County Ocean Pier. Limited shuttle service will be provided from Anastasia Baptist Church to three locations on the beach: St. Johns County Ocean Pier, 10th Street and A Street. Public parking will be available at City Hall, Ron Parker Park, Anastasia Square parking lot on the side close to Pope Road, and at the YMCA after 1 p.m. Beach driving and parking will be allowed as normal from A Street South. 350 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. 904-295-2271 www.staugbch.com/events/page/sab-events

Saint Augustine Film Festival

January 11-14: Big names in film will be in St. Augustine, Florida for the 14th annual Saint Augustine Film Festival, taking place January 11-14, 2024 in St. Augustine venues. Films will screen in Lewis Auditorium and Gamache-Koger Theatre, both at Flagler College, and in the Alcazar Room, part of City Hall at Lightner Museum. Passes are on sale now at staugfilmfest.com

ONGOING EVENTS

Cafe Eleven concerts at St. Augustine Beach

December-March: Cafe Eleven at St. Augustine Beach features regional and national recording artists in an intimate listening room! See the concert lineup here. GET TICKETS: originalcafe11.com

St. Augustine Amphitheatre concerts  

The St. Augustine Amphitheatre is located at 1340C A1A South, St. Augustine. Tickets are available at the box office on site or ticketmaster. See the concert lineup here. Learn more at theamp.com

Tour the circa 1798 Ximenez-Fatio House Museum

Monday-Saturday: Located on the oldest street in America, the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum was built in 1798 by and Spanish merchant and his Minorcan wife. The house was then owned and run by women throughout the 1800s as a boarding house. Self-guided audio tours and guided tours are available Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Step back in time when you stroll through the historic house, detached colonial kitchen, gardens and grounds. More details at www.ximenezfatiohouse.org

St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market

Every Saturday: Find fresh produce, plants, bread, cheese, handmade products, fine art and crafts from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, 1340 A1A South, just south of the lighthouse. Also at the market, art classes and live music. Free parking and admission.  Stay updated at facebook.com/staugampmarket

Kayaking St. Augustine 

Daily: Experience the beautiful aquatic landscape of St Augustine! Kayaking St. Augustine provides Eco and History Kayak Tours and Stand Up Paddle tours. SUP lessons and kayak/SUP rentals also are available and can be delivered to any boat ramp in the St Augustine area. Delivery fees may apply. Reservations are required. Guides are CPR certified and all equipment is Coast Guard certified. Call 904-315-8442 or visit kayakingstaugustine.com

Oldest House Museum Complex

Daily: Tour the oldest house in Florida and other historic buildings at the Oldest House Museum Complex, 14 St. Francis Street, downtown St. Augustine. This museum and grounds is maintained by the St. Augustine Historical Society. Visit staughs.com to learn more. 

Old Town Cycle Cruise

Thursday-Sunday each week: See St. Augustine from the water on this boat cruise that allows passengers to cycle their way from Vilano Beach to the historic downtown bayfront and beyond. For those who don’t want to cycle, just choose your favorite songs and BYOB! This cycle cruise becomes for adults only at night and is the perfect way to see Nights of Lights. Details at oldtowncyclecruise.com

Live music at O.C. White’s Seafood & Spirits 

Every Monday and Wednesday-Sunday: O.C. White’s Seafood & Spirits, 118 Avenida Menendez, features a great lineup of talented local musicians each week, performing on the beautiful outdoor patio area! Free parking is available in a lot across the street while you dine. 

Magic Hideaway – Magic Experience

Every Friday & Saturday through January: Magic Hideaway, a boutique two-hour magic experience, is offered by Magician Bill Abbott each Saturday evening at the iconic Casa Monica Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection. Once guests have arrived at the Casa Monica, they choose from a menu of complimentary magic-themed welcome cocktails to enjoy in the opulent Cobalt Lounge with exclusive access to the VIP area where Bill Abbott will entertain with pre-show sleight of hand magic before everyone is ushered by House Manager Rebecca Abbott into the Magic Hideaway showroom. Styled after a vintage jazz club, the showroom is a 22-seat venue featuring glowing crystal balls, Moroccan chandelier, majestic palms, and carefully-arranged seating so everyone is within touching distance of the magic. Once the house lights dim, Bill Abbott takes the stage to perform one of the most intimate magic shows in the world featuring interactive, mind-bending illusions. Tickets and additional info are available at magichideaway.com

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