This Weekend in St. Augustine: Events & Things to Do
Looking for something to do this weekend in St. Augustine & Ponte Vedra?
1. Colonial Night Watch
Date: December 7th, 2019
St. Augustine is known for its rich history during the colonial period. As a tribute to these past historical events, the St. Augustine Garrison and The Colonial Quarter annually recreate the Night Watches in Spanish colonial garrison towns. The event begins with a flag raising at the Castillo de San Marcos and continues with reenactments of Spanish, French, British and Native American soldiers. The evening finishes with a Torchlight Parade down St. George Street to the Governor's House.
2. Christmas Parade
Date: December 7th, 2019
Each year, more than 2,000 people participate in the Christmas Parade through the downtown streets of St. Augustine. This cheerful parade includes floats, marching bands, cars, horses and the arrival of Santa Claus. If you'd like to join in the fun, the parade starts at the Mission Nombre de Dios at 9 AM.
3. Surf Illumination
Date: December 7th, 2019
Celebrate the holidays Florida-style with an oceanside tree lighting! The Surf Illumination is a free holiday event at St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park. Join the community in arts, crafts, music, pictures with Santa, and a ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree by the City Commissioner.
4. Holiday in the Gardens
Date: December 8th, 2019
Let the holiday celebrations continue with the Holiday in the Gardens. This daytime festival takes place in the scenic Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, which will be decorated for the holidays and festive photo ops. You'll also have the opportunity to purchase plants and local art from vendors.
5. Regatta of Lights
Date: December 14th, 2019
The Regatta of Lights is an annual boat parade in St. Augustine that serves as a local holiday tradition. Taking place on the second Saturday of December, this parade is a stunning holiday display as boats ride across the bay covered in lights and decorations. Claim your spot along the bayfront north of the Bridge of Lions to get the best views of this parade!
The most festive 5K in town is back for its 8th year in a row - the Santa Suits on the Loose 5K. As you can tell from the name, participants wear Santa suits or shirts during the 5K, making for a hilarious holiday race. The event benefits St. Augustine Youth Services, so come support a good cause, get some exercise, and hop in a Santa suit all in the name of holiday spirit!
7. Santa Paws Holidog Pawty
Date: December 21st, 2019
Dogs want to celebrate the holiday season too! Bring your pup out to Guy Harvey Resort St. Augustine Beach for the Santa Paws Holidog Pawty, where you might help break the record for the most Santa Dogs at one event. For the humans, there will be cocktails from St. Augustine Distillery and plenty of photo ops for you and your Santa Dog. For the dogs, there will be prizes for the Best Dressed Santa and lots of fun games.
8. Hennessy Holiday Ball
Date: December 21st, 2019
For just one exclusive night, Corazon Cinema will be transforming into a pop-up holiday bar. The Hennessy Holiday Ball is a night of drinking and dancing in the local movie theater, complete with an awesome DJ. Guests are encouraged to dress up in festive formal or cocktail attire.
For more upcoming events in St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra, check out our events calendar.
