[Updated 11/20/18]
Ranked one of the “Happiest Seaside Towns in America” by Coastal Living, St. Augustine always has plenty for locals and visitors to explore. It’s no surprise that the weeks leading up to the holidays are jam-packed with festive fun.
Here are a few activities that deserve a spot on Floridians’ calendars:
Nights of Lights - named one of “Top 10 Places to See Holiday Lights” by National Geographic, St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights begins Saturday, November 17, and runs through January 31, 2018 . The lights can be enjoyed on foot, trolley, train, horse-drawn carriage, or even aboard a boat. This is one attraction you don’t want to miss.
Christmas Tour of Homes - don’t miss the chance to explore six gorgeous homes during the 49th Annual Garden Club of St. Augustine’s Christmas Tour of Homes. The tour runs Sunday, December 2 from 12-5pm and the event usually sells out, so get your tickets early.
Add Some Color to Your Holiday Shopping
If getting a bargain is on your to-do list for Black Friday and the holiday weekend, St. Augustine is a prime shopping destination for turkey-stuffed deal seekers of all ages. Whether shopping for yourself (hey, you were extra good this year) or trying to cross everyone off your list, the area’s outlets and shops have you covered.
Some stores offer expanded holiday hours, so be sure to check store websites for details.
Popular stores at St. Augustine Premium Outlets include:
- Ann Taylor Factory Store
- Banana Republic Factory
- Calvin Klein
- Carter’s
- Coach
- Kate Spade New York
- Le Creuset
- Tommy Hilfiger
Popular stores at St. Augustine Outlets include:
- Dooney & Bourke
- Michael Kors
- Talbots Outlet
- Cole Haan
- Bath & Body Works
- Fossil
For more unique holiday gifts, be sure to check out some of the shops in the historic district:
53rd Annual St.Augustine Art & Craft Festival- Thanksgiving weekend is the perfect time to jump start your holiday shopping. November 25 and 26, a dollar donation gets you into the St. Augustine Art Associations's 53rd Annual Fall Art & Crafts Festival full of local wares that make un-regiftable gifts.
Sandy by the Sea Designs - discover custom jewelry and home decor inspired by the beach for those hard-to-please names on your list. All items are made from natural elements, so these green products are something both the giver and receiver can feel good about.
Minorcan Datil Pepper Products - tasty gifts made from the datil pepper are made locally in small batches to pay homage to the Minorcan way of life in St. Augustine. These handcrafted condiments and sauces are sure to make their mark on your palate and your Christmas list.
Whatever you’re in the mood for, the nation’s oldest city has plenty of ways to renew your holiday spirit.
To learn more about new homes in the nearby Nocatee community, explore Nocatee.com, visit the Nocatee Welcome Center or call 1-800-NOCATEE.
