The holiday season is here, and it’s the perfect time to gather with family and enjoy festive events. Whether you’re looking for dazzling lights, ice skating, or holiday shopping, there’s something for everyone. Check out these top 10 events happening this weekend!
1. Christmas Experience at Ancient City (Nov. 29 – Dec. 22)
Head to the Ancient City Farmstead in St. Augustine for a magical holiday experience. This event features North Florida’s only outdoor ice-skating rink and the tallest living Christmas tree in the state. Enjoy kids’ games, food trucks, and a visit with Santa in a rustic setting.
📍 395 St. Marks Pond Blvd, St. Augustine
💲 Adults: $25 | Children: $15
2. Nights of Lights (Nov. 23 – Jan. 26, 2025)
St. Augustine’s historic district shines bright with over three million white lights. This breathtaking display turns the city into a winter wonderland and is a must-see holiday tradition.
📍 Downtown St. Augustine
💲 FREE
3. Nights of Lights Holiday Market (Nov. 23 – Jan. 1, 2025)
Shop for unique gifts and local crafts at this brand-new holiday market. Take part in an ugly sweater contest, snap festive family photos with artificial snow, and enjoy the holiday atmosphere.
📍 Colonial Quarter, 33 St. George St., St. Augustine
💲 FREE
4. Fernandina Beach PJ Party & Tree Lighting (Nov. 29)
Wear your favorite pajamas and stroll through South 2nd Street for Black Friday shopping deals. The event ends with a tree lighting ceremony, live music, and fun activities for kids.
📍 12 South 2nd St., Fernandina Beach
💲 FREE
5. Hastings Fall Festival of Art (Nov. 30 – Dec. 1)
This festival features live music, food trucks, and a Cottage Artisan Market filled with local vendors. Storytelling performances by the Tale Tellers of St. Augustine add to the entertainment.
📍 North Main St., Downtown Hastings
💲 FREE
6. Jacksonville Light Boat Parade (Nov. 30)
Watch boats covered in holiday lights sail along the St. Johns River. The night ends with a stunning fireworks display, including a waterfall effect from the Main Street and Acosta bridges.
📍 St. Johns River, Downtown Jacksonville
💲 FREE
7. Deck the Chairs (Nov. 27 – Jan. 1, 2025)
At Jacksonville Beach, lifeguard chairs are transformed into creative holiday displays. This public art exhibit also includes a musical light show.
📍 Seawalk Pavilion & Latham Plaza, Jacksonville Beach
💲 FREE
8. Glowing Gardens (Nov. 29 – Dec. 29)
Enjoy a peaceful holiday walk through the Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, where trees and foliage are lit up with colorful lights.
📍 1445 Millcoe Rd, Jacksonville
💲 Adults: $22 | Children: $19
9. Colors of the Wild (Nov. 29 – Dec. 1)
Visit the Jacksonville Zoo for an unforgettable holiday light show. Over 1,000 glowing Asian lanterns create stunning displays, from cherry blossoms to panthers and manatees.
📍 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville
💲 Adults & Children: $32
10. Petesgiving Neptune Beach Block Party (Nov. 28)
Join the historic Pete’s Bar for a lively Thanksgiving morning tradition in Neptune Beach. Enjoy drinks, games, and a fun community gathering that has been a local favorite for nearly 40 years.
📍 117 First St., Neptune Beach
💲 FREE
No matter what kind of holiday fun you’re looking for, these events will make this weekend one to remember. Gather your loved ones and celebrate the season!