In 2011, St. Augustine made the National Geographic Top 10 List of Places to See Holiday Lights. This year marks the 19th annual celebration, set to commence on Saturday, November 17! Pre-event entertainment on Saturday will include the Showtime USA Chorus in front of the Lightner Museum at 4 pm, and then at 5:30 pm, the All Star Orchestra will take the stage at the Plaza’s gazebo until Light-Up-The-Tree time at 6:30 pm.
From November 17 thru January 4, hop onboard Ripley’s Big Red Christmas Train for an evening tour of the lights. Your train ticket will include free magical viewing glasses and admission to Santa’s village where children of all ages can make holiday crafts, receive a gift from Santa, play games, take home a cup of snow, and enjoy a snack. For an additional $1, you can add a round of mini golf at Prancer’s Putt-Putt. Tickets: Adults $7, children $3 ages 3-11. Visit www.Ripleys.com/holidays PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS AT CASA DE SOLANA BED AND BREAKFAST!
The St. Augustine Art Association’s 47th Annual Art & Craft Fair on November 23 and 24 features family fun, with award-winning artists, art demos, Kids Art Zone, cultural exhibits, great food, and live entertainment. Jewelry, pottery, glassworks, paintings and much more. Francis Field on West Castillo Drive, 824.2310, www.staaa.org
The Candlelight Tour at Villa Zorayda is something you absolutely will not want to miss! The Villa is beautifully decorated for the holidays with a spectacular Christmas Tree decorated in red and gold. Candles are aglow throughout the museum as you experience by way of guided tour this historic former home. Refreshments included! Reservations recommended,829.9887, www.VillaZorayda.com
On November 23, Winter Wonderland will open its doors to an ice skating rink, Igloo Ski Lounge, Frost Kingdom Express Train, Blizzard Bounce/Obstacle Course, Elf Village, visits from Santa, sleigh rides, games, and even snow! Admission is free, but you’ll pay $12 to skate; $3 for one ride on the ice slide $3 (or $10 for 4); $10 for sleigh rides ($5 for children); $2 per game ticket or $10 for 6; and $2 for the blizzard bounce. St. Augustine Amphitheatre at www.winterwonderlandflorida.com
Not to be left in the dust of all the holiday hub-bub, Casa de Solana is proud to offer you the following holiday extras!
Cozy Casa $99 (+ room rate)
Enjoy 2 mugs of homemade holiday cider (with a plate of warm gingerbread cookies made just for you) while sitting by the fire in our NEW PARLOR, followed by a romantic evening horse and carriage ride with pick-up at our front gate! Valid November 1 thru December 31, 2012.
A Very Merry Casa Christmas! $99 (+ room rate)
- A fresh holiday floral arrangement for your room
- Holiday dipped and decorated chocolate strawberries
- 2 special holiday mugs with Casa’s homemade hot cocoa mix
- 2 Holly Jolly Trolley Tour Tickets
Valid November 17 thru December 31, 2012
I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus $99 per couple (+ room rate)
Exclusive use of our NEW PARLOR from 7 to 8 pm for you and yours. Candle light, firelight, softly-playing holiday music, a bottle of sparkling cider, a holiday goodies plate, and a keepsake couples’ photo. Reservations required 24 hours in advance, based on availability, December 1 thru December 31, 2012.
If you want to come join the fun last minute, we still have Montejurra, Francesca, Isabella, and Catalina available!