Amelia Island, known for its gorgeous beaches and historic charm, has a host of holiday events happening this year! The island, which is north of Jacksonville, has everything from a Victorian inspired Festival to stunning fireworks. Locals and visitors alike can embrace the holiday spirit! With a lively historic downtown and fantastic restaurants to choose from, Amelia Island during the holiday season is a must-visit.
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Dickens on Centre
Dickens on Centre transports visitors back in time from December 10 -13, 2020, in historic downtown Fernandina Beach. Free to the public, this holiday festival is a Victorian inspired events that features costumed characters, themed entertainment and live performances. Taking inspiration from Charles Dickens’ story A Christmas Carol, the festival features a variety of vendors with seasonal offerings and is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit. Saint Nick will visit the downtown that transforms into a classic English village, making for a special holiday moment!
Amelia Island Museum of History Holiday Home Tour
One of the most anticipated events of the year is the annual Amelia Island Museum of History Holiday Home Tour. Taking place on December 6 and December 7, 2020 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., this tour takes visitors on a walk through of the gorgeous Victorian homes that find their home in the historic downtown area. Local florists and decorators deck each house out in lights and decorations to capture the holiday spirit! You’ll learn a little about local history and enjoy some beautiful sights on this tour.
Lighted Christmas Parade
Scheduled for December 5, the lighted Christmas parade is an annual event hosted in Fernandina Beach. It goes down Center Street and features walker’s, dancers, floats, and a marching band. Participants decorate cars with Christmas lights and other decorations for the festive parade. And Santa Claus is a special feature.
Shrimp Drop
If you’re looking to round out the New Year’s with a unique event, check out the New Year’s Eve Shrimp Drop 2020! Held at marina parking lots A and B on either side of Brett’s Waterway Cafe on December 31, this free event is a lovely way to ring out the new year. A family-oriented event, vendors, food, kids games, live music and more are all here. Celebrate the New Year’s in true Amelia Island Style.
Holiday Stay Packages
If you are on the lookout for holiday stay packages offered by resorts and B&Bs located in historic Fernandina beach, look no further. The Hoyt House offers a discounted holiday rate for a 2-night stay during the Dickens on Centre weekends. The Omni Amelia Island Plantation offers exclusive savings for Florida and Georgia state residents. If you’re looking for a private balcony with a view of a gorgeous Christmas tree, the Ritz-Carlton in Amelia Island also offers a holiday package for visitors. For more information on specific packages, be sure to check out the hotels and B&B’s websites.
Window Decorating Contest
If you’re visiting Fernandina Beach during the holidays, don’t miss the window decorating contest. Many stores and businesses located in the historic distract take part in the contest. They break out the holiday decorations and set up gorgeous decorated windows for visitors to see as they stroll through the historic district. Lights, festive decorations, and more are all visible in the local windows, offering a unique opportunity.
Whether you’re passing through Amelia Island for a day trip or looking to spend a little bit longer there, the holiday season is a lovely time to visit. History buffs, fans of Christmas, and every day visitors will all find something enjoyable to do during the holidays. Whether you are a tour type of person or you’re looking to enjoy some gorgeous holiday lights, Amelia Island during the holidays has something on offer for everyone.