St. Augustine, America’s oldest continuously occupied city, is a place where history, culture, and coastal charm come together in unforgettable ways. Beyond its iconic landmarks, centuries-old architecture, and pristine beaches, the city offers a vibrant year-round events calendar that keeps both visitors and locals entertained. From music festivals to food celebrations and cultural gatherings, the city’s annual events highlight its unique character.
If you’re planning a trip, timing your visit around these festivals adds an extra layer of excitement to your itinerary. This guide takes you season by season through the most notable St. Augustine festivals, giving you insider tips on what to expect and how to make the most of your experience. Along the way, you’ll also discover the best ways to complement these events with dining, shopping, and other engaging things to do in St. Augustine.
Spring
St. Augustine Celtic Music & Heritage Festival
Kicking off in March, the Celtic Music & Heritage Festival transforms downtown into a celebration of Celtic culture. Visitors can expect everything from Highland games and authentic Celtic foods to traditional bagpipes and high-energy performances from international bands.
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade, often considered one of Florida’s largest, adds even more energy to the event. Families will love the colorful floats, dancers, and costumed marchers, while adults can sample regional beers and shop for artisan goods.
For anyone curious about the Celtic influences woven into St. Augustine’s history, this festival is both educational and entertaining!
St. Augustine Lions Seafood Festival
Also taking place in spring, the Lions Seafood Festival is a longtime community tradition. For over 40 years, the event has delighted visitors with fresh local seafood, live music, and a vibrant arts-and-crafts fair. From fried shrimp baskets to crab cakes and seafood paella, the food offerings are plentiful and affordable.
The festival also includes carnival rides and a kid zone, making it a great choice for families. Proceeds go toward charitable programs, meaning your attendance supports the community while you enjoy the festivities.
Summer
Music by the Sea
Running weekly from May to September, Music by the Sea is a free concert series at the St. Johns County Ocean Pier. Each week highlights a different local band and food vendor, giving regular attendees something new to look forward to. Musical genres range from jazz and country to reggae and classic rock, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Concertgoers are encouraged to bring beach chairs, picnic blankets, or even coolers, making it an affordable and relaxing evening on the oceanfront. Parking is free, and the family-friendly vibe makes it a beloved summer tradition.
Independence Day Fireworks Over the Matanzas
Every Fourth of July, St. Augustine hosts one of Florida’s most spectacular Independence Day celebrations. Beginning with a free concert at the Plaza de la Constitución, the night concludes with a breathtaking fireworks display launched over the Matanzas River.
The reflections over the water create an unforgettable view, and the historic skyline serves as a dramatic backdrop. Restaurants, rooftop bars, and riverfront spots fill up quickly, so it’s wise to plan ahead. Arriving early lets you enjoy shopping and dining downtown before securing your viewing location.
Fall
St. Augustine Spanish Wine Festival
In September, the Spanish Wine Festival celebrates the city’s deep Spanish heritage with tastings, pairings, and spirited gatherings. Events include the Grand Tasting, featuring wines from around the world, and the Batalla de Vino, a playful “wine battle” where participants get delightfully messy.
The festival is also a charitable effort, with proceeds supporting local nonprofits. It’s a chance to sip, savor, and celebrate while giving back to the community.
Sing Out Loud Festival
Also in September, the Sing Out Loud Festival fills the city with free live music across multiple venues. This month-long event has evolved into Florida’s largest free music festival, attracting both emerging talent and nationally recognized performers.
Expect a diverse range of genres, from indie and hip-hop to Americana and folk. Many shows are set in intimate venues, offering an up-close and personal experience that larger festivals can’t match. It’s a can’t-miss event for music lovers.
Halloween & Haunted History Tours
As October arrives, St. Augustine embraces its reputation as one of America’s most haunted cities. Ghost tours, haunted pub crawls, and lantern-led walks through centuries-old cemeteries create spooky fun for visitors. Some tours even combine history lessons with paranormal tales, adding depth to the ghostly experiences.
Families can find more lighthearted activities, too, such as pumpkin festivals and safe trick-or-treating events at local attractions. With so much history packed into its narrow streets, Halloween here feels uniquely authentic.
Winter
Nights of Lights
From mid-November through late January, Nights of Lights transforms the city into a dazzling holiday wonderland. Millions of white lights drape the historic district, earning the event recognition as one of the top holiday light displays in the world.
Visitors can take in the lights from horse-drawn carriages, trolleys, or even boat tours along the bayfront. Whether you stroll on foot or view from the water, it’s a festive experience that captures the city’s historic charm.
St. Augustine Film Festival
Held each January, the Film Festival attracts independent filmmakers, actors, and movie buffs to historic venues throughout the city. Screenings include international features, short films, and documentaries, providing attendees with the opportunity to see works that rarely make it to mainstream theaters.
Panel discussions and Q&A sessions provide behind-the-scenes insight, while after-parties let guests mingle with creatives. It’s a cultural highlight for winter visitors who appreciate the arts.
Old City Pirate Fest
Closing out the season, the Old City Pirate Fest is an energetic weekend event that celebrates St. Augustine’s pirate past. Reenactors, costumed performers, and live entertainment bring the streets alive with swashbuckling fun.
Kids can enjoy games and treasure hunts, while adults explore artisan markets and food vendors. The event showcases the adventurous spirit that has long been part of the city’s identity.
Book Your Trip
With a packed event calendar all year long, there is never a bad time to visit Saint Augustine. Browse our variety of rentals to find the right one for your stay!
Book Your St. Augustine Rentals with Saint Augustine Vacation Rentals
When planning your festival experience, where you stay matters. Choosing Saint Augustine Vacation Rentals ensures comfort, convenience, and proximity to all the action. With options ranging from roomy St. Augustine vacation house rentals perfect for family gatherings to cozy St. Augustine rentals for couples, you’ll find a property that suits your travel style.
Our vacation rentals offer more space than hotels, plus the flexibility to cook meals, host gatherings, and truly feel at home. After a day of parades, concerts, or fireworks, returning to a private rental allows you to relax and recharge.
Booking early is highly recommended, especially for popular weekends like Nights of Lights or Independence Day. With the right rental, your trip to St. Augustine will be both memorable and comfortable.
