December 2025

The Grand Tradition:
Dazzling Displays & Historic Tours
The cornerstone of the St. Johns holiday season remains the spectacular celebration of light and history

December 1: St. Augustine Holiday Parade. Kick off the month with a classic. Watch festive floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus stroll through the heart of the Historic Downtown St. Augustine. www.staugustine.com


December 14th: St. Augustine Tour of Homes: "Mistletoe & Ivy." Experience holiday elegance with this captivating walking tour from noon to 5 p.m. Marvel at six beautifully decorated homes enhanced by exquisite live floral arrangements by the Garden Club of St. Augustine. Don't miss the Tea & Boutique at the stunning River House (179 Marine St.). Tickets are $50. www.gardenclubofstaugustine.org


December 24: Old Town Trolley's Nights of Lights Tour. Secure your seat on an open-air trolley to experience the city's famed holiday lights twinkling across the historic district. Various St. Augustine pickup locations. www.trolleytours.com


December 13: Luminary Night. Stroll through the romantic, candle-lit gardens and ancient monuments, creating a moment of peaceful tranquility. Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. www.fountainofyouthflorida.com


Boat Parades & Coastal Celebrations
The water surrounding St. Johns County gets dressed up, too. Don't miss these sparkling coastal spectacles.


December 6th: Palm Valley Light Boat Parade, 6 p.m. An annual tradition where illuminated vessels glide along the Intracoastal Waterway, starting one mile south of the Palm Valley Bridge and traveling north seven miles (6 Roscoe Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach). 770-827-9318. www.palmvalleyboatparade.com

Local Finds & Community Flavor
These events offer unique gifts, food, and the chance to support local vendors and non-profits.


December 6th, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.: Friends of Alpine Winter Festival. Join the fun on the banks of the beautiful St. Johns River. Featuring crafters, food trucks, free house tours, and Santa. Proceeds support restoration efforts at Alpine Groves Park.


December 6th: Holiday Market by Coastal Home Group at Clean Juice Nocatee. Find unique gifts and treats from local Christmas vendors, enjoy photos with Santa, and dance to a live DJ (250 Pine Lake Drive, Ponte Vedra, FL).


December 6th & 20th: World Golf Village Family Farmers Market; 6th (Christams Crafts & Fun) 10am-3pm; 20th (Photos with Buddy the Elf & christmas fun), 10am-2pm at The Village Church, 4229 Pacetti Road 32092. www.lancefamilyfarmersmarket.com


December 8: Fruit Cove Christmas Craft Fair. Support local artisans and find unique handmade gifts in a festive indoor environment. Fruit Cove Baptist Church. www.fruitcovebaptist.com


December 13th, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.: Silver Leaf Whobilation. Get ready for a Whoville-inspired holiday spectacle featuring over 90 vendors, a Kid's Corner (bounce house, face painting), and special guests like the Grinch! Open to the Public.

Seri Kertzner, Founder, The Social Society

​Cultural & Social Escapes
Whether you crave high art or a stylish night out, these options keep your social calendar sharp.


December 12th & 13th: The Community Nutcracker. See over 200 local dancers bring the enchanting classic story to life, with all proceeds benefiting local charities. Performances on Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday at 1:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The Florida Theatre, Jacksonville. www.jaxnutcracker.org


December 8th, 7–8 p.m Social Society  Sip & Wrap: Learn how to ‘Present’ your Presents. ($30 + tax) Learn the techniques to wrap like a total holiday pro so your gifts steal the show before they're opened. www.thesocialsociety.com


December 11th, 7–8 p.m.: Social Society Winter Mixology Night. (Age 21+, $50 + tax) Shake off the hustle with a jolly evening of mixing, sipping, and holiday cheer at The Social Society, crafting signature winter beverages. www.thesocialsociety.com


December 18th, 7–8 p.m.: Social Society Rated R(eading) Book Club. (Age 21+, $10 + tax) The Social Society’s new book club dedicated to the bold and the romantic. They’re reading Merry Christmas, You Filthy Animal by Meghan Quinn. www.thesocialsociety.com


Movement & New Year's Glamour


December 13th, 8 a.m.: Santa Suits on the Loose Run/Walk/Jog. This festive run benefits St. Augustine Youth Services (SAYS), providing crucial support to foster kids during the holiday season. [email protected]


December 31: St. Augustine Beach Blast Off. Ring in the New Year with live music, food trucks, and a spectacular fireworks display over the ocean. St. Augustine Beach Pier. www.staugustinebeach.org


Take a deep breath and dive into the spirit of the season. The St. Johns area offers an abundance of opportunities to connect, celebrate, and give back. Enjoy every enchanting moment!