
Family Fun
Planning a family vacation in Florida? Try St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra Beach!
From the renowned Nights of Lights to fireworks at the beach, here are the top ways to ring in 2024 in St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra Beach.
First, take in the lights. All millions of them. Nights of Lights is one of the most dazzling spectacles during the holidays and a special way to kick off the New Year. The best part is, you can see the amazing display of lights for free. Start your walk at the holiday tree in the Plaza de la Constitucion. Along King Street, the Lightner Museum and Flagler College take holiday lighting to new levels from the grounds to the palm trees and the rooftops. Take a stroll along the bayfront from the Bridge of Lions to the Castillo de San Marcos to see the lights reflected in the waters of the Matanzas Bay. Everywhere you look, a brilliant spot for a New Year’s selfie.
There’s nothing like fireworks on the water and this St. Augustine tradition is a perennial blast. Bring a blanket and gather with thousands of your best friends and neighbors to enjoy Light up the Night! one of the most magical fireworks displays of all time at the St. Johns County Ocean Pier. Limited shuttle service will be provided from Anastasia Baptist Church to the three viewing locations on the beach. 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. Best of all, it’s free! 8:30–10 p.m.
They know how to do it up right at the Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort. This year it’s a Winter Wonderland theme complete with open bar, fantastic food, live entertainment, lots of dancing and, of course, fireworks at the pier. From 7:30 p.m. – 1 a.m. Tickets are $200 per person, adults 21+ only.
The big top returns to St. Augustine with Venardos Circus at the AMP world-class circus acts. The entire family will enjoy the Broadway musical-style performances created by former Ringling Bros. Ringmaster Kevin Venardos. Tickets available here for December 31 and January 1 at 11 a.m. and 2 and 5 p.m.
If you find yourself walking along St. George Street, you’re bound to hear music in the air. Head over to the Colonial Oak Music Park and enjoy a live performance by favorites Dewey Via Band from 7–10 p.m. on December 31. Admission is free and there’s food and drink available.
Prefer something more classical? La Bohème presented by First Coast Opera is a timeless passion of Puccini's masterpiece. Prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions, from laughter to tears, as Puccini's rich and evocative music guides you through a profound exploration of love and loss.
Of course, there’s lots more going on around town so be sure to check out our list of restaurants and attractions. We suggest you call ahead for restaurant reservations to make sure your group can be accommodated.
Family Fun
Planning a family vacation in Florida? Try St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra Beach!
Performing Arts
Get Into the Act with the Performing Arts in St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra.
History
St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches
Parking
Parking Tips for St. Augustine’s Historic District
DESCENT ≈ An Atlas of Relation at Lightner Museum75 King St.
St. Augustine, FL 32084
Lenny Foster: In the Spirit of Lincolnville48 Sevilla St
St. Augustine, FL 32084
Living Light BioTours: Kayak Bioluminescent Guana Lake at Night505 Guana River Rd.
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
Night Watchman Ghost Tour76 Spanish Street
St. Augustine, FL 32084
Fantastic Florida at St. Augustine Art Association22 Marine St.
St. Augustine, FL 32084
The Triumph of Nature: Art Nouveau from the Chrysler Museum of Art at Lightner Museum75 King Street
St. Augustine, FL 32084
Nights of Pints 202318 Cathedral Pl
St. Augustine, FL 32084
Nights of Lights - Glitter Package - Dinner Cruise3076 Harbor Drive
St Augustine, FL 32084
World Famous Nights of Lights with Red Boat Tours260 Vilano Road
Vilano Beach, FL 32084
Nights of Lights EV Ride - presented by GhoSt Augustine162 St. George St., Ste 19
St. Augustine, FL 32084
Nights of Lights - Shared Experience3076 Harbor Drive
St Augustine, FL 32084
Nights of Lights Aboard the Schooner Freedom111 Avenida Menendez
St. Augustine, FL 32084