Holiday Events Near Shearwater

November 28th, 2017

The most wonderful time of year is finally here! It’s time to gather with loved ones, hang the lights and bake some cookies. Shearwater residents have had a busy few months celebrating the holidays, but there’s more to come!

October included the spooktacular S’mores and More event, which included a community campout, haunted maze, songs around the campfire, kids’ crafts, lawn games and plenty of sweet treats. The Harvest Gathering in November celebrated the changing season with a community potluck, a petting zoo, live music, pumpkin painting, bounce house and lawn games. And just around the corner, residents are looking forward to the Winter Festival where they can meet Santa and take a family photo, decorate cookies and write a letter to the North Pole.

With so many festivals and events going on this time of year both in the community and the surrounding area, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are our top picks of the season, all just minutes from Shearwater.


St. Augustine Christmas Parade

Kick off the holiday season by watching the 63rd annual St. Augustine Christmas Parade! Stake out your spot early, because this parade has become one of the largest and most popular parades in Northeast Florida. The whole family will love seeing everything from floats to marching bands to horse-drawn carriages, all decked out in their holiday finest.

Saturday, December 2nd at 9 am
Downtown St. Augustine
27 Ocean Ave
St. Augustine, FL 32084


Holiday Regatta of Lights

For a holiday tradition you can only find in St. Augustine, look no further than the Holiday Regatta of Lights. Watch from the Bayfront as boats of every shape and size cruise by showcasing their brilliant light displays. From sailboats to trawlers to yachts, this is a must-see for any nautical enthusiast or Christmas lights lover.

Saturday, December 9th at 6 pm
Viewing along the Bayfront in downtown St. Augustine
11 S. Castillo Dr.
St. Augustine, FL 32084


Nights of Lights

An evening walk through historic St. Augustine during Nights of Lights is sure to put anyone in the holiday spirit. For two months this award-winning light display dazzles locals and tourists alike. Get in some shopping, have a romantic dinner or just grab a drink to sip as you wander the streets in awe of the nearly three million twinkling lights.

Throughout November and December
Plaza de la Constitucion
1 Cathedral St.
St. Augustine, FL 32084


Jacksonville ZOOLights

Experience the Jacksonville Zoo in a new way during ZOOLights! Thousands of lights transform the zoo into a winter wonderland filled with moving sculptures and animal silhouettes. Parents will love soaking in the atmosphere and listening to holiday music while the kids explore the zoo, roast s’mores and ride the carousel.

Throughout December
Jacksonville Zoo
370 Zoo Parkway
Jacksonville, FL 32218


Holiday Showings at the Florida Theatre

Looking to support the arts this season? Take a look at the Florida Theatre’s calendar of events. Have a romantic date night and see a live performance of The Nutcracker, or take the whole family for an afternoon showing of Elf, complete with crafts and snacks. If you’re feeling adventurous, try seeing the high-energy Hip Hop Nutcracker, or keep it traditional with A Charlie Brown Christmas.

Throughout December
Florida Theatre
128 E. Forsyth St.
Jacksonville, FL 32202


Shearwater is located in St. Johns County, providing easy access to endless recreation and entertainment options. Interested in learning more about this highly sought-after community? Join our Interest List to receive news and updates.