Celebrate the holidays on Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach with festive events, coastal charm, community gatherings, and a relaxed seasonal atmosphere by the sea.
Amelia Island is a magical place to visit during the holiday season. With mild winter weather and a festive coastal atmosphere, it’s an easy escape for travelers looking to enjoy sunshine alongside seasonal cheer. Holiday events, local celebrations, shopping, and special experiences fill the island with energy, making it a lively and memorable time to visit.
Here’s a sneak peek just for you:
- Christmas Tree Lightings: Community-centered holiday kickoffs across the island, featuring music, treats, Santa sightings, fireworks, and festive settings in Fernandina Beach, at the Ritz-Carlton, and at the Omni.
- Black Friday Pajama Party: A playful downtown shopping event where locals and visitors stroll Centre Street in pajamas, enjoy hot chocolate, holiday music, deals, and a best-pajamas contest.
- Holiday Home Tour: A behind-the-scenes look at beautifully decorated historic homes, complete with architectural insights and storytelling led by knowledgeable guides.
- Holiday Home Tour: A guided look inside beautifully decorated historic homes in Fernandina Beach, with insights into local architecture, history, and holiday design.
- Lighted Christmas Parade: A free, family-friendly nighttime parade with illuminated floats, dancers, bands, and post-parade festivities including food and live entertainment.
- Holiday Shows & Performances: Seasonal concerts and theater productions ranging from classic Christmas musicals to big band shows and bluegrass holiday performances.
- Dickens on Centre: A weekend festival that transforms downtown Fernandina Beach with Victorian costumes, themed entertainment, kids’ activities, shopping, food, and holiday cheer.
- New Year’s Celebrations: Options include the family-friendly Light Up Amelia shrimp drop and fireworks or an elegant black-tie New Year’s Eve gala at the Ritz-Carlton.
At Stay Better Vacations, we offer a handpicked collection of vacation rentals across Amelia Island and the charming town of St. Marys, Georgia. From relaxed beachfront stays to homes close to history and local flavor, plus plenty of pet-friendly options, it’s easy to find a place that fits the way you want to travel.
Let’s dive right in!
1. Christmas Tree Lightings
Across Amelia Island, you can kick off the holiday season with Christmas tree lighting events that offer more than a beautiful visual moment. These festive gatherings bring the community together with music, seasonal cheer, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Here are the top Christmas tree lighting events on Amelia Island:
Christmas tree lighting in downtown Fernandina Beach
One of the island’s favorite traditions is the annual Christmas tree lighting in downtown Fernandina Beach. This beloved event features food, local vendors, live music, and even a visit from Santa. Typically held on the Friday evening after Thanksgiving, it’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season with a celebratory atmosphere and twinkling lights.
Christmas tree lighting at the Ritz-Carlton
Another must-see is the lighting of the 40-foot Christmas tree at the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. Delight in cookies and cider as you watch the tree light up with thousands of sparkling lights. Holiday music and performances fill the air, creating a magical atmosphere. The evening concludes with a spectacular fireworks display. The event typically takes place around Thanksgiving. Tickets are available in advance, and 100% of the proceeds go to support local foundations.
Holiday Lights Celebration
Located on the southern end of Amelia Island, the Omni’s Holiday Lights Celebration is another great way to celebrate the season. The festivities begin with the tree lighting, followed by cookie decorating, hot chocolate, s’mores, and live music. Be sure to snap some photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and explore the shopping village for holiday gifts!
2. Black Friday Pajama Party
Looking for something unique and fun? Don’t miss the annual Black Friday Pajama Party in historic downtown Fernandina Beach. It’s an all-day celebration where you’ll see people strolling through town in their comfiest pajamas. Enjoy shopping, savoring hot chocolate, participating in holiday activities, and spending quality time with Santa. The streets will be filled with seasonal music, creating a cheerful atmosphere.
Shoppers can enjoy great deals along Centre Street, and a few lucky attendees will win prizes in the best pajama contest. It’s a playful and laid-back way to celebrate the holiday season with a little extra comfort and cheer!
3. Black Friday Pajama Party
Looking for something unique and fun? Don’t miss the annual Black Friday Pajama Party in historic downtown Fernandina Beach. It’s an all-day celebration where you’ll see people strolling through town in their comfiest pajamas! Enjoy shopping, savoring hot chocolate, participating in holiday activities, and spending quality time with Santa. The streets will be filled with seasonal music, creating a cheerful atmosphere.
Shoppers can enjoy great deals along Centre Street, and a few lucky attendees will win prizes in the best pajama contest. It’s a playful and laid-back way to celebrate the holiday season with a little extra comfort and cheer!
4. Holiday Home Tour
If you’re curious about the stunning homes on Fernandina Beach, the Amelia Island History Holiday Home Tour is not to be missed. Step inside beautifully decorated homes, each uniquely styled by its owners with extra touches from local designers.
As you explore, knowledgeable guides will share the history of each home, its architecture, and the period details that make them so special. The tours take place in early December, so be sure to mark your calendars. Tickets are available through the Amelia Island Museum of History.
5. Lighted Christmas Parade
The Lighted Christmas Parade, hosted by America’s Youth, is a joyful way to soak up the holiday season. Starting at Central Park, the parade features bands, dancers, lighted floats, and much more. Afterward, the celebration continues into the night with vendors, music, and delicious food.
This family-friendly event is free to attend, making it a wonderful outing for all ages. Don’t miss out on this cheerful celebration of the season! For more details, including the exact date, time, and parade route, visit Fernandina Beach Main Street.
6. Holiday Shows
Scrooge: The Musical
The Amelia Musical Playhouse is bringing the holiday spirit to life with a seasonal performance of Scrooge. Based on Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, this classic musical is a must-see for the season. Get your tickets now and enjoy a spirited night out!
Mark O’Connor’s An Appalachian Christmas featuring Maggie O’Connor
Join Grammy-winning duo Mark and Maggie O’Connor for a festive performance of Christmas classics and original compositions. With their signature bluegrass flair, the pair creates a captivating blend of vocals and instruments. For tickets and more information, visit the Amelia Island Chamber Music Festival.
How the Big Band Stole Christmas
Featuring over thirty world-class performers in a classic big band setting, this family-friendly holiday show is sure to capture your heart. The full theater production includes your favorite holiday songs, along with singers, entertainers, musicians, dancers, aerialists, and actors. Expect plenty of fun surprises, including a special appearance from St. Nick! The shows will be held on a weekend in December at Amelia Community Theater. Don’t wait, grab your tickets and secure the best seat in the house.
7. Dickens on Centre
Step back in time at the annual Dickens on Centre festival in historic downtown Fernandina Beach. Throughout the weekend, enjoy Victorian-inspired entertainment, costumed characters, and holiday movies. Families can have a blast in Tiny Tim’s Kids Zone, visit with St. Nick, and shop for charming gifts. You’ll also find delicious food, drinks, and plenty of Christmas spirit. Free to the public, just check the December dates and join in the fun.
8. Happy New Year!
Ring in the New Year with Light Up Amelia, a family-friendly evening at the downtown waterfront, complete with holiday food, drinks, and festive fun. The excitement builds as the 7 pm drop of the LED-lighted shrimp signals the start of an epic fireworks show!
If a lavish night out is more your style, the Ritz-Carlton’s annual Black and White New Year’s Eve Gala offers an elegant experience. Indulge in gourmet food buffets, chef’s stations, and a tempting array of desserts. The party continues on the dance floor with live music and an open bar. The evening concludes with a dazzling fireworks display and a Champagne toast to welcome the New Year.
Extra Tips on How to Enjoy the Holidays on Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach
Mix seasonal events with everyday island life
Balance special holiday happenings with simple pleasures like beach walks, coffee stops downtown, or sunset views along the water.
Arrive early for popular events
Tree lightings and parades draw locals and visitors alike. Showing up early gives you better viewing spots and a calmer experience.
Dress in light layers
Winter evenings can cool off quickly, even after warm afternoons. Comfortable layers keep you relaxed during outdoor festivities.
Support local shops and markets
Downtown Fernandina Beach shines during the holidays. Small boutiques and local vendors offer thoughtful gifts and a more personal shopping experience.
Built-in downtime
Holiday schedules fill up fast. Leaving space for rest, beach time, or a quiet meal helps keep the trip enjoyable.
Turn everyday moments into traditions
Morning walks on the sand, evening hot chocolate, or a holiday movie night at your rental often become the most memorable parts of the trip.
The Perfect Holiday Getaway Starts Here
Specializing in boutique-style service, Stay Better Vacations offers thoughtfully curated vacation rentals across Amelia Island, Florida, and St. Marys, Georgia. As a locally owned, women-operated company, we focus on warm Southern hospitality and stays that feel personal, relaxed, and easy.
Get ready for beach days, coastal adventures, and time well spent with family or friends. Traveling with a pup? Select pet-friendly vacation rentals make it simple to include every member of the crew.
Photo Credits: AmeliaIsland.com
