Good morning, St. Augustine.

Denny's is closing nearly 20 Florida locations as part of its plan to shutter 150 underperforming restaurants nationwide by year-end following a $620 million sale agreement; a new Naples location opened in May and 107 Florida sites remain in operation.

Local business owners led by Irving Kass pushed to extend Nights of Lights until Jan.

25 to help boost business and protect jobs. City Manager David Birchim explained that contracts for shuttles and services end Jan. 11 (preventing an extension), so the event remains scheduled to end on Jan. 11.

Zora’s Sojourn, the refurbished former residence of Zora Neale Hurston on West King Street, opened Dec.

9 as a museum and guest suites that preserve local heritage + support cultural preservation through nonprofit proceeds.

Floridians can purchase fresh real Christmas trees from local lots and major retailers this holiday season.

Prices range from about $50 — nearly $200, and families can visit tree farms like Severt’s in St. Augustine and nearby cities to embrace a tradition that began in Germany.

Ax and the Hatchetmen Live Concert

6-7:30 p.m. — Colonial Oak Music Park — Tickets available via UNATION — Experience the energetic performance of Ax and the Hatchetmen in a charming outdoor venue.

Family Seining Adventure

9-11 a.m. — Guana River Dam — $3 vehicle parking — Experience hands-on learning as you catch and discover local aquatic life at Guana Lake.

St. Augustine Bird Expo

9 AM – 3 PM — Renaissance World Golf Village Convention Center — Entry fee likely required — Discover a wide array of supplies, birds, and fun for bird enthusiasts.

Performances of The Nutcracker

2-5 p.m. — Lewis Auditorium, Flagler College — $35.00-$50.00 — Experience the holiday classic with local dancers and guest artists in a festive performance.

Night Under the Stars

5-7 p.m. — St. Johns County Equestrian Center — Free entry — Explore the night sky and learn about constellations with the Ancient City Astronomy Club.

Light Up the NIGHT! Fireworks Show 2025

8:30-10:00 p.m. — St. Johns County Ocean Pier & Courts Park — Free entry — Ring in the New Year early with a spectacular seaside fireworks celebration.

Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy: Chapter Two

6-10 p.m. — Odd Birds Cocktail Lounge and Kitchen — $ — Experience a chilling night of storytelling with cocktails inspired by Edgar Allan Poe's haunting tales.