The St. Augustine Yacht Club will host the 44th Annual Regatta of Lights starting at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13. This popular community event will illuminate the city’s historic bayfront with a dazzling parade of decorated boats, marking one of the highlights of St. Augustine’s nationally recognized Nights of Lights celebration, which runs through Jan. 11.
Residents and visitors will enjoy an evening of holiday spirit as up to 30 sail and power boats parade along Matanzas Bay. Spectators can view the event from the bayfront and seawall, the Castillo de San Marcos, the Bridge of Lions and from the eastern shore of the bay. Participants will compete for trophies in categories including Most Colorful, Best Theme, Best in Class and the Grand Prize for Best Overall. Boat categories include Private/Under 25 Feet, Private/25 Feet & Over, and Commercial.
The Regatta of Lights is organized by the St. Augustine Yacht Club in partnership with the St. Johns County Tourist Development Council, the St. Augustine Port Waterway & Beach Commission, and the Florida Inland Navigation District. These organizations have provided essential funding and support to help make this festive event possible.
“The Regatta of Lights is not only a beautiful celebration of the holiday season,” said event chairman Roger VanDusen, “but also a reminder of St. Augustine’s deep connection to the sea and the maritime heritage that continues to define our community.”
The deadline for applications for entry is Friday, Dec. 12. A mandatory skipper’s meeting for participants will be held at the St. Augustine Yacht Club at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13.
For more information, contact the St. Augustine Yacht Club at 904-824-9725 or go to the club’s website or social media pages for event updates.
