Picture This
Imagine saying "I do" on America's oldest street while millions of twinkling lights transform historic St. Augustine into a winter wonderland. Your wedding photos capture not just your love, but the magical glow of one of the nation's most spectacular holiday light displays.
What Makes Nights of Lights Special
For over three decades, St. Augustine has celebrated Nights of Lights, transforming the entire historic district into an illuminated wonderland. From mid-November through late January, over 3 million sparkling white lights adorn the streets, buildings, and landmarks throughout the Ancient City.
What began as a small community celebration has grown into one of the top 10 holiday light displays in the nation, drawing visitors from around the world who come to experience the magic of our historic city bathed in golden light.
Why It's Perfect for Your Wedding
Built-In Romantic Ambiance
The millions of lights create an automatically romantic atmosphere that would cost thousands to recreate artificially. Your wedding photos will feature the warm glow of holiday lights reflecting off historic coquina stone walls and cobblestone streets – a backdrop money simply can't buy any other time of year.
Incredible Guest Experience
Your wedding guests aren't just attending a ceremony – they're experiencing a destination celebration. During their visit, they can:
- Stroll through illuminated historic streets and plazas
- Take romantic carriage rides through the lights
- Enjoy special holiday concerts and events throughout the city
- Experience unique shopping in decorated historic shops
- Dine at festively decorated restaurants with holiday menus
- Tour decorated historic landmarks and museums
Perfect Weather for Celebrations
Unlike northern winter weddings, St. Augustine offers comfortable temperatures during Nights of Lights season. Average highs in the 60s and 70s mean your guests can comfortably enjoy both indoor and outdoor spaces without heavy coats or worrying about snow.
Unforgettable Photo Opportunities
Your wedding photographer will have endless creative opportunities. The lights provide natural illumination for evening photos, creating a warm, golden glow that's flattering and romantic. Popular photo locations during Nights of Lights include:
- The illuminated Bridge of Lions
- Plaza de la Constitución with its decorated trees
- St. George Street aglow with holiday lights
- The historic Lightner Museum courtyard
- Flagler College's stunning Spanish Renaissance architecture lit up for the holidays
- And of course, Aviles Street itself – America's oldest street transformed by lights
How 9 Aviles Enhances the Experience
Our intimate venue is perfectly positioned to take advantage of Nights of Lights magic:
Prime Location
Located on Aviles Street in the heart of the historic district, your guests can walk directly from our venue into the illuminated streets. No need for transportation – the magic is right outside our door.
Historic Architecture
Our Spanish colonial architecture beautifully complements the holiday lights aesthetic. The warm glow from Nights of Lights enhances our venue's timeless features, creating a cohesive, enchanting atmosphere.
Planning Your Nights of Lights Wedding
Key Dates to Know
Nights of Lights typically runs from mid-November through late January. The lights are illuminated daily from dusk until midnight, with the Grand Illumination ceremony kicking off the season the Saturday before Thanksgiving.
Best Weekends for Weddings
While the entire season is magical, certain weekends offer unique advantages:
- Early December: Experience full holiday ambiance without major holiday conflicts
- First Two Weeks of January: Beautiful lights with less tourist crowds and better hotel availability
- New Year's Weekend: Perfect for couples who want a spectacular celebration to ring in the new year
Accommodation Considerations
Because Nights of Lights is such a popular event, we recommend securing hotel room blocks for your guests as early as possible. Many of St. Augustine's charming bed and breakfasts and historic hotels book months in advance for peak weekends.
Real Couples' Experiences
"We chose to get married during Nights of Lights, and it was the best decision ever! Our guests loved being able to walk through the illuminated streets after our reception. Our photos are absolutely magical – the lights created such a romantic glow. It felt like we were in a fairy tale!"
— Sarah & Michael, December 2023 Wedding
Making It Your Own
While the lights provide stunning ambiance, you can enhance the experience with:
- Elegant white and gold wedding colors that complement the warm light glow
- Twinkling candles and romantic uplighting inside the venue
- Hot chocolate or mulled wine stations for a cozy touch
- Custom maps for guests highlighting the best light viewing spots
- Welcome bags with tickets to special Nights of Lights events
Beyond Your Wedding Day
The magic doesn't end when your reception does. Many couples choose to:
- Extend their stay for a mini-honeymoon among the lights
- Schedule a professional photo session the next day in different illuminated locations
- Host a farewell brunch before guests depart, giving everyone one more chance to enjoy the holiday atmosphere
- Create an annual tradition of returning to St. Augustine during Nights of Lights for your anniversary
Start Planning Your Lights-Filled Celebration
A Nights of Lights wedding at 9 Aviles offers something truly special – an intimate celebration enhanced by one of America's most beloved holiday traditions. You'll give your guests an experience they'll remember forever while creating your own magical beginning surrounded by millions of twinkling lights on America's oldest street.