St. Augustine, Florida, January 6, 2026
As January unfolds, St. Augustine comes alive with the concluding events of the Nights of Lights festival, the St. Augustine Film Festival, and the Jaguars playoff game. The Nights of Lights festival showcases over three million lights across the historic district, while the film festival highlights independent filmmakers. The Jacksonville Jaguars’ recent playoff victory adds to the community spirit during this vibrant week.
St. Augustine, Florida: Final Week of Nights of Lights, St. Augustine Film Festival, and Jaguars Playoff Game
A Celebration of Community Spirit This January
St. Augustine, Florida has always been a tapestry of rich history and community engagement, and this January, the city is alive with excitement as it wraps up the beloved Nights of Lights festival, welcomes film enthusiasts to the St. Augustine Film Festival, and cheers on the Jacksonville Jaguars as they progress in the playoffs. These events not only highlight local creativity and resilience but also demonstrate how reduced bureaucracy and increased community interest can amplify participation and joy in public life.
The enthusiasm for community-led events such as Nights of Lights showcases St. Augustine’s dedication to preserving its heritage while fostering innovative celebrations. With this year’s festival concluding on January 11, 2026, residents and visitors alike have the opportunity to appreciate the breathtaking display of over three million lights illuminating historic streets. Meanwhile, the St. Augustine Film Festival, running from January 5 to 11, enriches the local cultural landscape by highlighting independent filmmakers and engaging audiences in thought-provoking cinema.
Final Week of Nights of Lights
The Nights of Lights festival, ongoing since November 15, 2025, enchants guests with a mesmerizing display as the city transforms into a stunning winter wonderland. This spectacle features more than three million white lights, enhancing the scenic beauty of St. Augustine’s historic buildings and landmarks. The festival is free to the public, offering multiple viewing options, including walking tours, trolley rides, and even boat tours, each providing unique perspectives of the illuminated city. For those who wish to avoid parking challenges, a complimentary Park & Ride Shuttle service is available on select days, making it convenient for everyone to join in the festivities.
St. Augustine Film Festival
Set to run concurrently with the final week of the Nights of Lights, the St. Augustine Film Festival is a dynamic event that showcases a diverse array of over 40 films from independent, local, and international filmmakers. The festival spans multiple venues, including Flagler College’s Lewis Auditorium, Gamache-Koger Theatre, and the Alcazar Room at City Hall in the historic Lightner Museum. With films like “Everyone Is Lying to You for Money,” which delves into cryptocurrency, and “13 Jours 13 Nuits,” based on real-life evacuees from Kabul, the festival promises an engaging cinematic experience. Guests will also have the opportunity to interact with industry professionals, adding value to this community event and helping to nurture local artistic talent.
Jacksonville Jaguars Playoff Game
Excitement builds as the Jacksonville Jaguars celebrate a notable playoff victory against the Indianapolis Colts, sealing their advancement to the next phase of the NFL playoffs. With a final score of 23-17 achieved on December 28, 2025, the Jaguars’ performance at Lucas Oil Stadium has invigorated the city’s football fans, bringing them together in support of their team. This success not only boosts community morale but also showcases the spirit of individual achievement in sports, with local fans eagerly looking forward to the next match.
Embracing Community Engagement
Events like the Nights of Lights and the St. Augustine Film Festival are examples of how local initiatives can thrive in an environment of minimal bureaucratic oversight, allowing for greater community involvement and celebration. As residents and visitors immerse themselves in these experiences, it underscores the power of the people in shaping what makes St. Augustine a vibrant place to live and visit. The success of such endeavors demonstrates the significant impact of engaged citizenship and civic responsibility.
Conclusion
As St. Augustine wraps up its Nights of Lights festival and welcomes film enthusiasts to the St. Augustine Film Festival, the community stands united in celebrating both its heritage and its future. The recent victories of the Jacksonville Jaguars serve as a reminder of local pride and the cohesiveness that sports can foster. Residents are encouraged to continue supporting these vibrant local events and remain proactive in community engagement to ensure that St. Augustine’s cultural landscape thrives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Nights of Lights festival in St. Augustine?
The Nights of Lights festival is an annual event in St. Augustine, Florida, featuring over three million white lights illuminating the historic district. The 2025-2026 festival runs from November 15, 2025, through January 11, 2026, and is free and open to the public. Visitors can experience the lights on foot, by trolley, or from the water.
When is the St. Augustine Film Festival taking place?
The St. Augustine Film Festival is scheduled from January 5 to 11, 2026. It showcases over 40 films from independent, international, local, and regional filmmakers, with screenings held at various venues in St. Augustine.
What was the outcome of the recent Jaguars playoff game?
On December 28, 2025, the Jacksonville Jaguars secured a victory against the Indianapolis Colts with a final score of 23-17, which advanced them to the next round of the playoffs.
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Nights of Lights | Runs from November 15, 2025, to January 11, 2026. Features over three million white lights. Free entry. |
| St. Augustine Film Festival | Held from January 5 to 11, 2026. Showcases over 40 films from independent, local, and international filmmakers. |
| Jacksonville Jaguars Playoff Win | Victory against the Indianapolis Colts on December 28, 2025, with a score of 23-17. |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
