September 2, 2010

Scaring Up Some Fun on Amelia Island

This Halloween weekend, Amelia Island will welcome fun-loving families with painted faces and crazy costumes – and that’s just for the football game! On October 30-31, the inaugural Great Southern Tailgate Cookoff will take place along the waterfront in historic downtown Fernandina Beach . Rabid football fanatics will gather to celebrate one of the biggest rivalry games in all of college football: the national champion Florida Gators versus the Georgia Bulldogs in Jacksonville. The game will no doubt provide plenty of tricks and treats, but Amelia will be hosting some more traditional Halloween activities, too. On Friday, October 30, the Amelia Island Museum of History will lead their popular ghost tour, retracing the footsteps of the island’s piratey past. From 4 to 8 p.m. the annual Halloween Carnival at Amelia Island Plantation will feature a costume contest, games and prizes, and the “spooktacular” hayride. Visitors who book the “Ghosts of Amelia” package at the Williams House may enjoy a carriage ghost tour, in addition to a number of other amenities. And you may want to stop in at Florida’s oldest operating hotel, the Florida House Inn, a popular haunt since 1857.

Holiday Cookie Tour Through Amelia’s Unique B&Bs

The Annual Amelia Island Bed and Breakfast Association Holiday Cookie Tour puts visitors in the holiday spirit with themed decorations and sweet treats. The 2009 Holiday Cookie Tour takes place on Saturday, Nov. 21 from 1 to 5 p.m. During the self-guided walking tours, visitors can sample a signature cookies, while collecting recipes along the way. Guests leave with full tummies, recipes to stock their family’s cookie jar, as well as inspiration for holiday decorating. For more details, call (800) 226-3542 or visit ameliaislandinns.com.

Plan an Island-Style Family Reunion or Gathering

There may be no place like home for the holidays, but there is truly no place like Amelia Island for an unforgettable family get-together. For a special holiday gathering, family reunion, or other special celebration, Amelia is the perfect home-base for seaside family fun. With 13 miles of beach, and an array of outdoor activities like hiking, biking and kayaking, the island offers a variety of options for guests of all ages. The island is also home to a unique collection of upscale resorts, multi-room condos, boutique hotels and quaint bed and breakfast inns, giving every family plenty of choices on where to stay and play. Some include special amenities like kid’s camp and “teens-only” rooms and programs. No matter how unique your family’s tastes may be, Amelia Island has something to suit your needs. Start planning your next family gathering at www.ameliaisland.com.

Fall and Winter Season Means Big Value

As summer melts into fall, Florida’s Amelia Island welcomes visitors with a wide variety of value packages. With affordable family beach vacations, romantic weekend escape for two, and golf and spa getaways for the girls or guys, travelers will find Amelia Island very accommodating this fall. Amelia Island Plantation is offering Family Value Days , with free meals, golf and tennis to younger guests; a Rise & Shine Golf Package; and a Fourth Night Free promotion. The Williams House is offering a Thanksgiving Package that includes a historic carriage ride. And the island’s newest hotel, the Residence Inn, has a new Best of Amelia and Food and Wine package available, too. For a complete listing of special fall offers, visit www.ameliaisland.com.

Amelia Puts Teachers at the “Head of the Class”

In appreciation of Florida’s hard-working educators, Amelia Island is offering special rates and discounts to all teachers in the Sunshine State. Three accommodators are offering deals that put teachers at the “head of the class.” Contact the Residence Inn, Hoyt House, and Amelia Hotel at the Beach  for specific details. Class dismissed!

Amelia Cruizer’s Car Show

The 13th Annual 8 Flags Car Show , presented by Amelia Cruizers, will roll into town on October 17. This fun, free event attracts car enthusiasts from across the country to display and enjoy the vintage and restored automobiles in downtown Fernandina. These sparkling beauties form a sparkling corridor of chrome up and down Center Street, as local vendors serve up plenty of food and fun. All proceeds from the event go to charity. For more information, visit www.ameliacruizers.org.

Dining Spotlight: PLAE

Are you ready to PLAE? If you are looking for a fun dinner location on Amelia Island, PLAE is a great option. Located at the Amelia Island Plantation , PLAE stands for People Laughing And Eating. Head Chef Richard Groove has created a delectable menu certain to make your mouth water. With menu items such as Ahi Tuna Tartare with Avocado Wassabi Dip, Duck Breast, and Flourless Chocolate Torte, patrons have a selection of delicious items to choose from. Additionally, the restaurant’s lounge offers guests live entertainment every evening. For more details on PLAE, visit www.plaefl.net.