Top Spots in Jacksonville to See Holiday & Christmas Lights
November 3, 2025 | amandasearlerealtor
By Amanda Searle, Realtor® in Jacksonville • #HolidayLightsJax
As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better way to soak in the festive spirit of the First Coast than cruising or strolling through Jacksonville’s best light-displays. Whether you’re entertaining clients, inviting families to explore their future neighborhood, or simply capturing “life in Jax” moments for your social feeds, here are five must-see holiday light locations in Jacksonville, plus a bonus sixth location that brings historic charm and community spirit
Blackhawk Bluff (Girvin Road area):
Why go: This neighborhood display is a local legend. Located off Girvin Road, Blackhawk Bluff brings together tree-hung star lights, house-to-house decorations, and a real sense of festive community.
What to expect: Free drive-through (or slow cruise) display from Thanksgiving through year-end. Traffic can build as the season progresses, so earlier evenings often mean smoother access.
Deck the Chairs – Jacksonville Beach (Seahawk Pavilion)
Why go: A fun, free and family-friendly holiday event right on the beachfront. The lifeguard chairs are adorned with lights and designs by local students and organizations, creating a unique coastal-holiday vibe.
What to expect: Display runs from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. Free admission, lots of photo opportunities, and a walkable beachside location.
James Weldon Johnson Park (Downtown)
Why go: In the heart of downtown, the large holiday tree and surrounding festive lighting make this a central and accessible holiday destination.
What to expect: Tree-lighting ceremonies, evening walks under holiday lights, downtown ambiance with restaurants and cafés nearby.
Glowing Gardens – Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
Why go: This immersive walk-through light experience combines nature and holiday magic — winding trails lit up, interactive installations, and photo-worthy moments.
What to expect: Ticketed admission (time-specific), lush landscape turned into a holiday lights playground.
Neighborhoods & Residential Displays (Bonus Drive-thru)
Why go: Sometimes the most charming displays are found in private-residence efforts. For example:
The display in the Beauclerc neighborhood in Jacksonville, noted for a walk-through display of over a million lights.
Smith’s Lights on Rue in Mandarin: a “walk-through light path” with fun inflatables.
What to expect: Free displays, community spirit, perfect for a quick stop with kids or evening stroll. Check local listings for street & timing.
BONUS: Luminaria Lights: Riverside-Avondale Historic Neighborhoods
Why go: This is a historic, heritage-rich and community-rooted event in the Riverside–Avondale historic district — thousands of luminarias (candle-lit bags) line sidewalks, along with live music, caroling and neighborhood charm.
What to expect: Usually one evening in December (dusk start), free event, great for walking shoes, neighborhood stroll, capturing lifestyle photos.
Holiday Tip:
Bring a thermos of cocoa, play your favorite carols, and make a night of it! These festive events capture what makes Jacksonville such a warm and neighborly place to call home.
