ST. AUGUSTINE, FL – Who says you need snow to have a storybook Christmas? According to HGTV, the ultimate holiday destination in the Sunshine State offers palm trees wrapped in gold rather than pine trees covered in frost.
In its highly anticipated 2025 list of the Best Christmas Towns in America, HGTV has officially crowned St. Augustine as Florida's premier holiday hotspot. The recognition highlights the unique blend of history and spectacle that defines this coastal city, proving that a "sand-over-snow" holiday can be just as magical as a winter wonderland.
Why St. Augustine Took the Crown
HGTV’s selection process looked for small towns that offer more than just a few decorations. They sought out destinations with deep-rooted local traditions, community spirit, and immersive vibes.
St. Augustine, founded in 1565, holds the distinction of being the oldest active city in the continental United States. As HGTV noted, this means no American city has been celebrating Christmas longer than this northern Florida gem. But it isn't just the history that earned the accolades—it is the sheer scale of the celebration.
The Main Event: "Nights of Lights"
The centerpiece of St. Augustine’s holiday season is the world-renowned Nights of Lights festival.
 |
| 3A1BKDB The historic old town area lit up for Nights of Lights Christmas festival in St Augustine Florida USA |
"St. Augustine goes all-out for Christmas, decorating historic streets and gardens with millions of twinkling holiday lights," HGTV writes.
This isn't your average neighborhood light display. The festival traces its origins to the Spanish tradition of lighting a white candle in the window during the Christmas holidays. Today, that single candle has multiplied into millions of white lights that drape the city’s Spanish Colonial architecture, ancient oaks, and waterfront vistas.
The display is so impressive that National Geographic has previously ranked it among the top 10 holiday light displays on the planet.
 |
| Renaissance St. Augustine celebrates Nights of Lights in America's oldest city. |
Visitor Guide: How to Experience the Magic
For travelers planning a trip to St. Johns County this December, here is what you need to know about the 2025 season:
The Schedule: The lights turn on daily at dusk (approximately 6:00 p.m.) and stay lit throughout the night.
The Duration: You have plenty of time to visit. The display runs through January 11, 2026.
The Cost: The best things in life are free. Walking the historic district to view the lights costs absolutely nothing.
The Scope: The display covers approximately 20 blocks of the historic district, stretching from the ground to the rooftops, covering the famous Bridge of Lions, and illuminating public plazas, hotels, and restaurants.
Top Photo Ops
If you are looking for that perfect Instagram shot or the backdrop for next year's Christmas card, the official tourism board recommends two prime locations:
The Plaza de la Constitución: Located in the heart of the city, this is where you will find the massive Christmas tree, framed by oaks dripping in white lights.
The Bridge of Lions: Take a walk across this historic drawbridge to look back at the city. The reflection of the millions of lights sparkling on the Matanzas Bay water creates a mesmerizing mirror effect.
America’s Holiday Spirit
St. Augustine wasn't the only winner. HGTV’s 2025 list highlighted the diversity of American holiday traditions.
Leavenworth, Washington was recognized for its Bavarian village charm.
Santa Claus, Indiana made the list for obvious reasons (it is the town's actual name!).
Frankenmuth, Michigan was nod for its year-round Christmas spirit.
Woodstock, Vermont was chosen for its quintessential New England snowy aesthetic.
However, for those who prefer a light ocean breeze over a blizzard, St. Augustine remains the undisputed king of the coastal Christmas.
Travel Tip: The Nights of Lights attracts thousands of visitors. To avoid parking headaches, consider using the city’s Park & Ride shuttle services or booking a specialized trolley tour to see the lights while resting your feet.