Holiday seasons in St. Augustine, Florida, are a magical affair. Known for its history and the festivity of being there, this city is going to host one more wonderful season of events to add on – the 67th Annual Christmas Parade. A beloved tradition to both the people and visitors living and passing by, locals and tourists alike, music, floats, and even a dash of holiday magic all for Christmas spirit.
A Tradition Over 60 Years Old
The Christmas Parade has been an institution for the holiday season in the City of St. Augustine since the early days of post-war. Over the years it’s grown into one of Northeast Florida’s largest and most eagerly anticipated parades. The parade is an extravagant celebration of community: it’s filled with floats, music, marching bands, festive decorations, and of course a visit from Santa Claus.
This year, the 67th Annual Christmas Parade will take place on Saturday, December 7, 2024, between 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. It is an event where people of all ages are welcome to join in for a family-friendly activity that is sure to bring in the colorful procession down the historic streets of St. Augustine. For first-timers or long-time residents, it is a time for fun and festivity in enjoyment for everyone involved.
Also read: AC/DC 2025 Concert Tour to Detroit Ford Field: Power Up Tour April 30, 2025
Christmas Parade Route
The Christmas Parade starts at the Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche at Mission Nombre de Dios, 27 Ocean Avenue. It will then continue south down the heart of historic downtown St. Augustine. It will then end at the Visitor Information Center, 10 West Castillo Drive.
The best views are often available along the west side of San Marco Avenue where one gets to view the parade really great since it turns right onto Cathedral Place and another right on Cordova Street. Excellent places for families seeking comfortable views of the parade as they have much room to spread out and be saturated with holiday cheer.
What to Expect at the Parade
The St. Augustine Christmas Parade is a production that cannot be matched. It is a show that always features the participation of various local schools, organizations, and neighborhoods. There’s a variety of floats going by with participants dressed to the hilt in some of the most festive of their wardrobes. Marching bands will fill the air with holiday tunes, and festive vehicles will cruise down the street adorned in sparkling decorations. You’ll also spot adorable dogs in Christmas costumes, community groups spreading cheer, and, of course, Santa Claus himself, who will be making his grand entrance.
Santa’s sleigh will be one of the highlights of the parade, as he waves to the crowd, spreading joy and excitement. But the fun does not end there. This is the best time to have a picture with the jovial old man and a magical moment in your holiday memories.
Parking and Traffic Information
Attendance is relatively easy at the St. Augustine Christmas Parade, but plan. Parking in the historic district is often limited with such a large crowd going to the parade. Additional convenience for parade-goers can be had by way of the Seasonal Park and Ride Shuttle, which starts operation at 8:00 a.m. December 7.
There is a possibility that more traffic may be stopped due to the parade route passing through here. The streets will be closed at 8:15 a.m. to allow for the safe passage of runners and spectators. San Marco Avenue south of May Street, South Castillo Drive/Avenida Menendez, Cathedral Place, and Cordova Street north of King Street will all be affected. So plan your travel schedule to avoid any disruption.
Related Events in St. Augustine
If you’re planning to attend the St. Augustine Christmas Parade, consider staying to enjoy other holiday events around the city. One of the events is that it lights the city with millions of twinkling lights that look like a magic winter wonderland. You could also go to the SEA Rails to Trails Festival from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. or watch history live in Colonial Night Watch where you will watch reenactors defend St. Augustine from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. There’s another wonderful opportunity to feel a touch of local culture and history through the Gullah Geechee Heritage Festival between 12:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Conclusion
The St. Augustine Christmas Parade 2024 is an event not to be missed, ushering in the holiday season with all its joy, laughter, and festive cheer. You are coming for the floats or the music or the possible glimpse of Santa himself. But this event has all of that and more and will bring you and all your family and friends who are coming along to help you kick off your Christmas season.
