Christmas Lights in Jacksonville, FL 2024-2025

Even without snow, Jacksonville transforms into a festive wonderland each holiday season, offering a variety of spectacular light displays and events that bring the Christmas spirit to life. From the enchanting lights of the Jacksonville Arboretum’s Glowing Gardens to the free-to-visit Blackhawk Bluff Neighborhood Lights, there’s no shortage of dazzling displays. The Deck the Chairs event in Jacksonville Beach showcases over 40 decorated lifeguard chairs, while the Luminaria Festival in Riverside Avondale invites visitors to stroll through a sea of glowing luminarias. Whether exploring illuminated gardens or neighborhood lights, Jacksonville offers a cozy and magical holiday experience for all.

Jacksonville Light Boat Parade (November 30, 2024)

If you’re visiting Jacksonville in late November, don’t miss the city’s favorite holiday tradition—the Jacksonville Light Boat Parade. This festive event returns on Saturday, November 30, 2024, lighting up the St. Johns River in downtown Jacksonville. Running for over 30 years, the parade features vessels of all sizes, decked out in dazzling holiday decorations, cruising along the north and south banks of the river. The event kicks off at 6 pm and draws both locals and visitors to the North and Southbank Riverwalks for a night of holiday magic. The evening concludes at 8 pm with a stunning fireworks show, including the much-anticipated “waterfall” fireworks cascading from the Main Street and Acosta bridges.

In addition to the vibrant light displays, participants in the parade are judged in several categories, including Vessels Under 30’, Vessels 30’ and Over, Sailboats, and Corporate entries. As always, admission is free, making it a perfect way to celebrate the holiday season along the scenic St. Johns River.

Jacksonville Beach Deck The Chairs (November 27, 2024–January 1, 2025)

Another beloved and free holiday light show takes place at Jacksonville Beach, near the Seawalk Pavilion, as part of the annual Deck the Chairs celebration. This coastal-themed event is a local favorite, featuring more than 40 American Red Cross lifeguard chairs decorated with festive lights and creative designs. Located just 20 miles (32 km) east of downtown Jacksonville, the display is set against the stunning backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can enjoy the illuminated chairs nightly from 5 pm to 1 am, with special weekend performances at 6 pm, 7 pm, 8 pm, and 9 pm. The event is free, open to the public, handicap accessible, and dog-friendly.

Throughout the holiday season, Deck the Chairs offers a variety of stage performances, including local dance and arts groups, special movie nights, and holiday concerts. Highlights include the “Let Young Hearts Shine Jax” programs on select dates, Moonlight Movies on December 6, and the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl Pep Rally on December 27. The festivities close on January 1, 2025, at 9 pm, offering one last chance to witness this unique coastal holiday tradition.

Blackhawk Bluff Christmas Lights display on Girvin (November 29, 2024–January 1, 2025)

The neighborhood of Blackhawk Bluff, located off Girvin Road in Jacksonville, is home to one of the city’s most beloved holiday light displays. From Thanksgiving weekend through New Year’s Day, this quiet community transforms into a stunning, free drive-through Christmas wonderland. Residents of Blackhawk Bluff decorate their homes and yards with intricate strings of lights, glowing stars, and shimmering ornaments, creating a magical atmosphere for visitors. The lights are not only on both sides of the street but also hang above, creating a unique tunnel of festive cheer.

The display draws thousands of people each holiday season. While the event is completely free, be prepared for heavy traffic, especially as the season progresses. It’s recommended to visit early in the season to avoid the crowds.

Glowing Gardens at Jacksonville Arboretum (November 29–December 29, 2024)

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens with Glowing Gardens, a captivating new light show. This immersive event invites visitors to stroll through a dazzling 3/4-mile display featuring illuminated sculptures, glowing stars, and enchanting ground displays. Highlights include Crystal Currents, an artistic overlook, and whimsical light sculptures inspired by the Arboretum’s natural beauty. Tickets are $22 for adults and $19 for children ages 3-13.

Luminaria Festival (December 8, 2024)

The Luminaria Festival, taking place on December 8 from 4 pm to 9 pm at the Garden Club of Jacksonville, offers a delightful evening of holiday festivities. Attendees can enjoy luminaria tours by Go Tuk’n, holiday music, beverages, small bites, and lawn games while taking in the glowing luminaria displays. A pop-up market will showcase handmade goods, plants, artwork, and more, providing a chance to support local artisans. Earlier in the day, from 3 pm to 5 pm, Budding Gardeners: Shell Holiday will offer children in grades 1-6 the opportunity to create seashell decorations. This event is free and open to the public, with registration beginning on October 1, 2024.