Surf Illumination at St. Augustine Beach: 2026 Guide

Surf Illumination typically kicks off the holiday season at St. Augustine Beach on a Saturday in late November, usually the weekend after Nights of Lights opens downtown. The 2026 date has not been officially announced yet.

• When: Typically a Saturday in late November, 4 to 8 PM, 2026 date TBA
• Where: St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park, 350 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine Beach
• Cost: Free

What to expect

A ceremonial lighting of the St. Augustine Beach Christmas tree anchors the evening, usually around 5:45 PM, run by the St. Augustine Beach Civic Association. Around it: Santa and Mrs. Claus, a balloon twister, face painting, live music, and more than 20 local vendors selling holiday-themed arts and crafts. It is the beachside answer to downtown's Nights of Lights, giving beach communities their own season opener without crossing the Bridge of Lions.

Before you go

Pier park lots fill for the lighting. We will update this page once St. Augustine Beach confirms the 2026 date.

Check for the official date at staugbch.com