Looking to head out on a fun holiday vacation with your loved ones? Amelia Island is the perfect destination. There’s a little something for everyone in the group, from beautiful nature to mouthwatering food and fun events year-round. The Amelia Island area especially comes alive around Thanksgiving and Christmas.
One of the best ways to mingle with the locals in Amelia Island is by attending one of the Christmas tree lightings. Every year, these events happen the day before, the day after, and the Saturday after Thanksgiving Day.
These events create the perfect opportunity for you to get into the Christmas spirit. Here are the three best Christmas tree lightings in the area, all near our vacation rentals on Amelia Island.
Wednesday Christmas Tree Lighting at The Ritz-Carlton
The first Christmas tree lighting of the season is the 23rd Annual Christmas Tree Lighting held at the Ritz-Carlton. This free event brings together locals and visitors alike to witness the island’s largest Christmas tree and the launch of the world’s largest gingerbread pirate ship! Come listen to the Amelia Island Chamber Music Festival Brass Quintet, enjoy warming refreshments, and watch Santa arrive with an incredible firework show over the ocean.
This event will take place on Wednesday, November 27th, 2019, from 5:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. The Ritz-Carlton is located at 4750 Amelia Island Parkway in Fernandina Beach.
Friday Christmas Tree Lighting at the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort
Just a couple days later, you can see another fabulous Christmas tree lighting at the Holiday Lights Celebration at Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort. Of course, you’ll be able to see the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at this festival, but there’s so much more to do than just that. You can browse the wares of local artisans, treat yourself to a festive culinary creation, and enjoy fun crafts, inflatables, and s’mores with your family. Activity wristbands cost $20 per person, and a portion of your proceeds will benefit the Say Goodnight to Hunger initiative. You can also come just to watch the Christmas tree lighting for free.
This event will take place on Friday, November 29th, 2019 from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. The Shops of Omni Amelia Island Plantation is located at 6800 First Coast Highway.
Saturday Christmas Tree Lighting in Downtown Fernandina Beach
The last of the three Christmas tree lightings will take place in downtown Fernandina Beach, just a 10-minute drive from our Amelia Island condo rentals. This Christmas tree lighting is perfect for all ages and is a free event to help keep your budget intact. Come spend the afternoon sampling goodies from the food vendors, browsing the merchandise, and letting your kids play in the bounce houses and meet Santa Claus. The night will end with the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting.
The Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting will take place on Saturday, November 30th, 2019 from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. It will take place adjacent to the Downtown Marina, and there will be plenty of Fernandina Beach parking available.
These three Christmas tree lightings are some of the most exciting annual events in Amelia Island, and you will find both locals and tourists coming out to enjoy the holiday fun. At all of these events, you’ll also be able to browse the nearby shops to get an early start on your Christmas shopping! Visiting the Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach areas around this time of year is the best way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life while still getting in the holiday spirit and enjoying time with loved ones.
At the end of the night, you’re just minutes away from each of our vacation rentals on Amelia Island. We are proud to provide a cozy and welcoming space for you and your family to enjoy the evenings during your Amelia Island vacation. Our experienced and friendly staff is always available to help you with booking or to solve any issue with your rental. For more information about spending the holidays in Amelia Island, contact us today!