ST. AUGUSTINE’S MAGICAL HOLIDAY CELEBRATION RUNS FROM SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2023 THROUGH JANUARY 28, 2024.
Each year, St. Augustine’s holiday season officially kicks off with the annual Light Up! Night—the official opening ceremony for St. Augustine Nights of Lights. This event takes place in the Plaza de la Constitución (just across the street from The Treasury on the Plaza) as more than two million twinkling lights illuminate the city of St. Augustine.
This unique spectacle has been named by National Geographic as one of the top 10 places to see holiday lights in the world.
The holidays are such a magical, romantic season in St. Augustine, so it’s no surprise that many couples choose to say “I do!” during this time of year. The city truly shines and the weather is beautiful. Additionally, brides and grooms will find no shortage of exciting things going on for guests to enjoy while in town for a wedding.
There are so many fantastic opportunities to incorporate the Nights of Lights festivities into your wedding celebration. Here are 5 splendid ways to take advantage of Nights of Lights when planning a holiday wedding in St. Augustine.
Photo by Bow Tie Photo
Photo by Ashley Steeby Photography
1. WEDDING PHOTOS DURING NIGHTS OF LIGHTS
There are few things that can make your wedding photos more magical than the twinkling of millions of holiday lights! The dreamy lighting displays are spread across approximately 20 city blocks of historic downtown St. Augustine, giving you ample location options for your wedding portraits.
From the grand façade of the Lightner Museum to the iconic Bridge of Lions and all of the quaint cobblestone streets in between, your wedding photos will have a magical quality like none other. Another bonus: there’s no need to schedule your wedding day timeline around “Golden Hour.” The glow of millions of white sparkling lights creates a dazzling backdrop for wedding portraits after the sun goes down.
Life and Love Studios
Tribble Shoot Photography
Angelita Esparar Photography
Angelita Esparar Photography
2. A GLITTERING GRAND EXIT
Planning a picture-perfect fairytale wedding exit? A horse and carriage ride amidst the magical glow of the historic district makes the perfect exit from your wedding reception! You and your new spouse will have time to view the spectacular light displays while sharing some quiet moments together.
Reservations are available through Country Carriages.
Lisa King Photography
Richard Fleming Photography
3. GROUP NIGHTS OF LIGHTS TROLLEY TOURS
Are you looking for something fun and festive to do with your wedding party after your rehearsal dinner? Take them on a dazzling tour of downtown St. Augustine!
In addition to learning about the history of this incredible city, your friends and family can take in the magic of the season.
For the ultimate holiday experience, Old Town Trolley’s famous Nights of Lights Tour promises caroling, complimentary hot cider, and homemade cookies!
Monarch Studio
4. PRIVATE WATER TOURS
The reflection of the twinkling lights off of the water along the Matanzas River creates a dreamy sense of romance that amplifies this amazing spectacle. Enjoy the city’s maritime history while celebrating the holidays by taking a boat tour!
A local favorite, the Schooner Freedom offers private charters for pre- and post-wedding get-togethers, complete with cozy blankets and complimentary refreshments. Florida Water Tours also offers private tours for 14+ guests, with catering available.
Tony Giese Photography
5. FOOD AND DRINK EXPERIENCES
Many of St. Augustine’s local bars and restaurants get in on the festive holiday spirit for the annual Nights of Lights.
Nights of Pints, a bar-hopping special event offered by four St. Augustine breweries, makes the perfect post-wedding or bachelor/bachelorette party activity for beer lovers. For those who prefer a delicious martini, bay-front cocktail bar Tini Martini Bar has one of the most spectacular lighting displays in the downtown area.
Looking for the perfect restaurant to host a pre- or post-wedding meal? The Columbia, The Bayview Room at A1A Ale Works, Harry’s Seafood, and Michael’s Tasting Room are located right in the downtown historic district.
Casablanca Inn & Tini Martini Bar
The Columbia on St. George Street
A1A Ale Works
Light Up Your Wedding
From the amazing weather to the stunning holiday decorations, St. Augustine is the best choice for an unforgettable winter wedding!
The Treasury on the Plaza is ideally situated to appreciate the unique spectacle of St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights. Our central downtown location will put you within easy distance of the best photo locations and our Southern hospitality will leave you breathless at every turn.
Contact us today to schedule a tour or take a virtual tour for a sneak peek at your wedding venue.
Rob Futrell Photography
