Celebrate the Holidays in Fernandina Beach
Feelin’ Festive through November and December
Head into the back of your closet and pull out your favorite ugly sweater—the holiday season is finally here! We don’t know about you, but we love to mix in festive classics with new traditions every year: here are a few ways to celebrate the holidays in Fernandina Beach.
Annual Ritz-Carlton Christmas Tree Lighting
Kick off the season at the Ritz-Carlton, where they will be lighting their 40-foot Christmas tree covered with thousands of lights! Attendees will nosh on fresh baked cookies and cider while enjoying a musical performance from special guest, electric violinist Emily Simone, from Amelia Island Music. Stick around for an appearance from none other than Santa Claus, himself, and a firework show to cap the evening.
Also, the McArthur YMCA will be holding their annual “12 Gifts of Christmas” raffle at the lighting. All proceeds will go directly to the Boys & Girls Club of Nassau County, The St. Mary’s Riverkeeper, Micah’s Place and The Amelia Island Sea Turtle Watch.
The tree lighting begins at 5:30PM on Wednesday, November 24th. A $10 donation is required for all guests ages ten and older.
SS Amelia Gingerbread Pirate Ship Unveiling
All aboard the SS Amelia Gingerbread Pirate Ship! The swirling scent of gingerbread is set to take over the Ritz-Carlton this holiday season, starting on November 24th. Be sure to visit the holiday Hearties on the Pirate ship but try not to walk the plank!
Omni Turkey Trot
Want to feel less guilty about eating all the turkey you can on Thanksgiving? Head to the Omni Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning! Enjoy a morning run or walk through the scenic 5K route. The “race” will start at 8 AM at Omni Amelia Island Plantation’s Racquet Park. The award ceremony will commence at 9:15 AM, with medals being awarded to top overall male, female, zombie, and survivor, and top three male and female age groups.
Entry fees before November 19th are $25 and for children under ten are $15. If you pre-register, there is a better chance of getting a complimentary t-shirt, too! It is a rain or shine event, so dress accordingly. No bikes or animals are allowed on the course.
Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town
Santa’s made his list and he’s checking it twice, but before he decides who’s naughty and nice, he’s going to make a few stops at the Ritz-Carlton. Visit Santa for breakfast, story time, and to build a gingerbread house with the Man with the Bag! Eat delicious treats from the buffet of pastries, candies, cakes, and finger sandwiches. You can also have a keepsake photo taken with Santa Claus to commemorate the day!
Seating is limited and events are anticipated to sell out, so make your reservations now. Dates include. November 28th, December 5th, 12th and 19th. Tickets are $55 for guests over 2 years old.
Image courtesy of Osman Rana via Unsplash
Dickens Enchanted Village
Have you ever wondered what living in a snow globe is like? Your childhood dreams are about to come true at Dickens Enchanted Village! Enjoy a delicious charcuterie picnic in one of six holiday themed domes with room for up to six people.
Each reservation begins with a base price of $150, which includes two adults, with optional add-ons for wine and cupcake decorating. This one-of-a-kind event will run from December 10th through December 12th.
Gainesville Santa Crawl
It’s the most wonderful time of the year to dress up like Santa and enjoy a Santa Crawl! The 11th Annual Gainesville Santa Crawl will take place at Celebration Pointe on Saturday, December 11th. Admission is $25, which benefits the Catholic Charities Weekend Hunger Backpack program. Ticket purchases can be made in person or in advance. Each venue will have specialty holiday shots and drinks, and a costume contest with prizes! You must be 21 years old or older to participate.
70’s Christmas Party
Ready to party like it’s 1970? The Ocean Coast Hotel At The Beach is breaking out their bell-bottoms and platform shoes to disco their way through the holidays at their 70’s themed Christmas Party! Put on your dancing shoes on December 17th at 7:30 PM. Tickets cost $20, but if you donate a children’s book, you will receive a $5 refund at the door. Masks are required to attend the event.
Image courtesy of Kateryna Hliznitsova via Unsplash
New Year’s Eve Pearls and Diamonds Gala
End 2021 with a bang at the 7th Annual Pearls and Diamonds Gala at the Ritz-Carlton! Between the open bar, delicious food, live music, and fireworks, it is sure to be a grand time. Treat yourself to luxurious buffets, from sushi and seafood to living salad and antipasti, before starting your New Year’s Resolutions.
Black and white attire is recommended. Masks will be provided, or you can bring your own. Tickets cost $295, including service charges, with premium seating available.
Timoti’s Seafood Shak
If you’re looking for some holiday fuel to keep the festivities rolling through November and December, stop by Timoti’s for wild-caught seafood and homemade soups sure to please every member of the family.