As we head into the holidays in St. Augustine, FL, I can’t help but feel grateful—for the people we’ve helped buy and sell homes this year, for our vibrant coastal lifestyle, and for the amazing locally owned shops that make Saint Augustine, Florida feel like a true community.
This season, our focus is on shopping small, living local, and making the most of everything this historic city has to offer—from twinkling lights at the Lighthouse Illumination and Vilano Holiday Village to cozy Christmas markets and creative community events.
12 Days of Shopping Local for the Holidays 🎁
Our holiday highlight this year is the 12 Days of Shopping Local for the Holidays series (see the photos from Day 1 and 2 on page 2). We’re spotlighting unique, locally owned businesses that are perfect for gift-giving—and for getting to know the heart of St. Augustine Florida living.
Day 1: Christmas Shoppe
Kick off your holiday shopping at the Christmas Shoppe, where it’s festive all year long. From classic ornaments to coastal-inspired décor, it’s a must-visit for anyone living in St. Augustine or just in town enjoying Florida vacation rentals. Whether you’re decorating a new home or refreshing a long-loved condo, you’ll find pieces that make your space feel like a winter wonderland—Florida style.
Day 2: Rocking Chair Records
Music lovers will feel right at home at Rocking Chair Records, our Day 2 feature. Browse vinyl, pick up a new turntable, or find a rare album for that hard-to-shop-for friend. It’s the kind of place that gives living in St. Augustine Florida its laid-back, artsy vibe and reminds you why supporting local is one of the best things about living in Florida.
Stay tuned—more shops are coming in the next installments of our 12-day series, and they’re perfect inspiration if you’re moving to St. Augustine FL and want to plug into the local scene quickly.
What Do Locals Really Think About Living in St. Augustine?
On page 5 of the newsletter, you’ll see a fun video thumbnail asking, “What do locals think?”—and that’s exactly what we dive into in our latest vlog.
If you’re wondering about the living in Florida pros and cons, especially here in St. Augustine FL, we cover it all:
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What it’s like to live in a walkable, historic city
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How close we are to beaches, Palm Coast, and Vilano Beach
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The real-world pros and cons of Florida life, beyond the postcards
Whether you’re moving to St. Augustine Florida for a primary home, eyeing vacation rentals or Florida vacation rentals as an investment, or just curious what day-to-day life feels like, this locals-only perspective is for you.
Local Holiday Events in St. Augustine
Here’s your guide to what’s happening around town. For events already in full swing, we’ve updated the start date to today: November 28, 2025, so you know you can jump right in.
🎄 The Christmas Market – St. Augustine
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Location: Colonial Quarter, 33 St. George St., St. Augustine, FL 32084
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Dates: Nov. 28, 2025 – Dec. 24, 2025 (currently underway)
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Time: 4:00–9:00 PM
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Admission: $5
Wander through festive stalls in the Colonial Quarter, pick up handmade gifts, and soak in the holiday cheer. It’s a perfect evening outing for new residents exploring downtown or visitors staying in nearby vacation rentals.
✨ Lighthouse Illumination
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Location: St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, 100 Red Cox Dr., St. Augustine, FL 32080
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Dates: Nov. 28, 2025 – Jan. 10, 2026 (currently underway)
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Time: Select days at 6:00 PM
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Admission:
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Adults: $26.95
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Children 12 & under: $22.95
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Seniors: $24.95
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The photos on page 6 show just how magical this event is—thousands of lights, historic charm, and sweeping views of the coast. If you’re debating living in St. Augustine versus simply visiting, nights like this make a strong case for calling it home.
🎅 Vilano Holiday Village – Vilano Beach
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Location: 101 Vilano Rd., St. Augustine, FL 32084
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Dates: Nov. 28, 2025 – Dec. 20, 2025 (currently underway)
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Time: 3:00–9:00 PM
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Admission: FREE
The vibrant photo of the illuminated “VILANO” letters on page 6 captures the spirit of this waterfront celebration. If you’ve ever considered Vilano Beach real estate, this is a great time to see the neighborhood at its most festive.
🎨 Kaleidoscope: Community Creative
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Location: Limelight Theatre, 11 Old Mission Ave., St. Augustine, FL 32084
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Date: Sunday, Nov. 30, 2025
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Time: 7:00–9:00 PM
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Admission: FREE
This artsy evening is a wonderful snapshot of the creative community here—ideal for anyone who wants their move to St. Augustine Florida to include plenty of culture, theater, and local talent.
🎭 Holiday Hootenanny
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Location: Third Space Improv, 200 Malaga St., St. Augustine, FL 32084
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Date: Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025
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Time: 8:00–10:00 PM
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Admission: $15 advance / $20 at the door
Laugh your way into the holidays with an improv show that captures our city’s quirky, friendly personality. Events like this are part of why St. Augustine real estate is so attractive—there’s always something to do just minutes from home.
Thinking About Moving to St. Augustine FL?
If this roundup has you picturing yourself strolling the Christmas Market, cheering on local chefs, or walking your dog along the bayfront at sunset, you’re not alone. Many people start as visitors and end up searching St. Augustine homes for sale after experiencing the lifestyle.
As your local St Augustine realtor, our team helps you:
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Navigate St. Augustine real estate and St. Augustine Florida neighborhoods
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Compare living in Florida pros and cons so you can decide if this move fits your lifestyle
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Explore options from historic downtown cottages to beachside condos, Vilano Beach real estate, and homes near Palm Coast
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Strategize whether a primary residence, second home, or vacation rentals investment makes the most sense for you
If you’re curious about st. augustine real estate, ready to tour properties, or just want to talk more about living in St. Augustine, contact us to help you find your perfect place in this coastal city.