Historic City activities in St Augustine

Historic City News readers will find plenty of activities in St Augustine this weekend, and over the next few day; the beginning to a fun-filled December for residents and visitors to America’s oldest city.

There’s always something interesting happening in St Augustine from live music and concerts, art walks and galleries, to theater shows and festivals. The following sampling of activities will give you a taste of what’s in store for you.

First Friday Art Walk

Enjoy the latest exhibits, music, entertainment and refreshments at over 20 participating galleries. St Augustine Sightseeing Trains and Old Town Trolleys offer a complimentary shuttle service to most of the galleries. First Friday of every month from 5 to 9pm. Free. For more information, call 904.829.0065.

First Saturday Sunset Celebration at Vilano Beach

See a spectacular sunset from across the bay at the Vilano Beach Pier and Pavilion, plus enjoy artistic performers, local arts and crafts and great restaurants. The event is from 3pm until dusk on the first Saturday of the month.

Uptown Saturday Night

From 5 to 9pm on the last Saturday of each month, experience live music, refreshments, new exhibits, book signings and much more at the galleries, antique stores and unique shops on St. Augustine’s San Marco Ave. Free parking at the Mission.

Nightly Walking Tours

Themed walking tours featuring tales of ghosts, romance, pirates, adventures, explorers and more. For a list of walking tour operators, call 800.418.7529.

Farmer & Craft Market – every Wednesday

Held at St. Augustine Beach Pier Park from 8am-12.30pm and featuring fresh produce, plants, baked goods, fine art, jewelry and more. For more information, call 904.347.8007.

Old City Farmers’ Market – every Saturday

Features fresh produce, arts, crafts, baked goods and plants directly from the producers. Open from 8.30am until 12.30pm at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, 1340 A1A South. For more information, call 904.471.3733.

Lincolnville Farmer’s Market – every Sunday

Located on Riberia St the market offers farm-fresh vegetables, meats/fish, cheese, bread, treats, arts & crafts, prepared food, jewelry and more. There are also picnic areas and a playground. Takes place 11am-3pm.

The Holly Jolly Nights of Lights Trolley 2013 – Nov 24-Jan 4

Explore the Nights of Lights in the comfort of the Holly Jolly Trolley. Tours depart nightly 6pm-8pm (and later on weekends). Complimentary hot apple cider and homemade cookies, visits with Santa, and magical viewing glasses. Stops at the Old Drugstore and the Colonial Quarter. Tickets: Fri-Sat, $12 adults, $4 children. Sun-Thurs, $9 adults, $4 children. For information, call 904.829.3800.

48th Annual Fall Arts and Craft Festival – Nov 30-Dec 1

See art created from lace to limestone and crayons to crystal at this Thanksgiving weekend arts festival at Francis Field. The festival takes place Sat 10-5pm, Sun 10-4.30pm. Admission is $1 donation. For information, call 904.824.2310.

Discover First America! Program – Dec 5

This program provides educational and entertaining information on St. Augustine’s history through presentations, re-enactments, music, dance, and sometimes even food! It takes place at Flagler College Lewis Auditorium. Admission is free.

39th Annual British Night Watch – Dec 6-7

This celebration of the 250th anniversary of Florida’s designation as a British colony features tours of an army camp, demonstrations, and the popular Night Watch parade through the streets of St. Augustine. The encampment will be open at Francis Field 11-6pm Friday, 10-6pm Saturday. The colorful Grande Illumination Parade begins at 8pm at the Plaza de la Constitucion followed by Christmas caroling.

59th Annual St. Augustine Christmas Parade – Dec 7

St. Augustine’s Christmas Parade is one of the largest in North Florida and includes floats, marching bands, classic cars, horses, and the arrival of Santa. The parade starts promptly at 10am by the Mission de Nombre De Dios. Pictures with Santa will follow at the Plaza de la Constitucion. For information, call 904.824.4997.