Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find information that might help you understand how to find things or learn about information you might need to know about your city or town.
Nights of Lights
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Nights of Lights
The Nights of Lights is an annual holiday event in St. Augustine, Florida, where the entire downtown historic district is illuminated by approximately 3 million white lights. It runs nightly from mid-November (starting with the Light-Up! Ceremony) until mid-January.
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Nights of Lights
Viewing the lights is free! Strolling through the streets and enjoying the display is free of charge. Costs apply to parking, paid tours, food, and accommodations.
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Nights of Lights
The free shuttle service typically operates on peak days only—generally every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from Light-Up! Night (mid-November) through early January, plus daily service December 19 through January 4.
For people living or stay on Anastasia Island there is the Beach Star Circulator which runs nightly from 5 PM to 11 PM from the St Johns County Pier and St Augustine Beach City Hall. Check with your hotel for the closest pick up location.
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Nights of Lights
The City of St. Augustine's shuttle fleet is ADA compliant.
- Wheelchairs/Scooters: The shuttles are equipped with ramps/lifts. Be aware that due to high volume during the event, you may experience a wait time while an accessible shuttle is dispatched to your location.
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Nights of Lights
Yes, strollers are allowed on the free shuttle, but must be folded/collapsible.
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Nights of Lights
Only trained service animals (as defined by the ADA) are permitted on the free shuttles. Pets, emotional support animals, and comfort animals are generally not allowed due to the high volume of riders. If you are taking a private commercial tour (trolley/carriage), you should contact that specific company for their pet policy.
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Nights of Lights
The main shuttle service runs from designated perimeter parking lots directly to the downtown area (the Visitor Information Center). The lots include:
- Broudy's Lot (near U.S. 1 and W. King St.)
- San Marco Lot (on San Marco Ave.)
- St. Johns County Health Department (on San Sebastian View)
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Nights of Lights
The Parking Garage is the closest option, but on days when the free shuttles are running, the fee is significantly increased (to $40 per vehicle if entering after 1:00 PM). This fee increase is designed to encourage visitors to use the free Park & Ride shuttles to help reduce traffic congestion downtown. Please note that the St Johns County Resident Discount Rate is still honored and Handicap Parking is always free with a valid placard as long as space is available. We recommend that you check the Nights of Lights mobile app to see if spaces are available or if the garage is temporarily closed.
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Nights of Lights
Nights of Lights is best experienced on foot. You can walk the historic streets, enjoy the display at the Plaza de la Constitución, and walk across the Bridge of Lions. Alternatively, you can book a paid tour (trolley, train, or carriage ride).
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Nights of Lights
No, booking a tour is not necessary to see the lights, as the public streets and squares are free to explore. Tours offer a guided experience, reserved seating, and often cover a wider area.
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Nights of Lights
No, the lights are typically illuminated from dusk until 2 AM throughout the season.