September 30, 2026
We’ve given you the quirky side of summer, and because we’re downright giddy with cooler temps, it’s time, once again, to embrace the fun, the unusual, and the quirky side of fall!
We’ve scoured the calendar to bring you a list of offbeat national holidays that will add a sprinkle of excitement to your fall months. From French toast and scallops to candles and sloths, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here on Amelia Island.
Celebrate National Fried Scallops Day with a taste of the sea at Down Under Restaurant. Their Cast Iron Seared Scallops are served with lemon butter sauce, and you can take them up a notch with a crab or Rockefeller crust. Because on Amelia Island, even a quirky food holiday deserves a delicious coastal twist.
National Inner Beauty Day is a great reminder to take a little time for yourself. Treat yourself to a relaxing spa treatment at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Amelia Island, or The Spa at Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa, or spend a leisurely afternoon shopping the boutiques of historic downtown Fernandina Beach. A little pampering never hurts—and neither does a new outfit!
Have a sweet tooth? National Chocolate Cupcake Day gives you the perfect excuse to indulge. Stop by Nana Teresa’s Bake Shop or A Will & A Whisk Bakery for something delicious, or head to Thirteen Desserts for a selection of amazing gluten-free sweet treats. Just remember: calories don’t count on National Cupcake Day.
Celebrate International Sloth Day by slowing down and embracing island time. Spend the day doing as little as possible – or as much as feels relaxing. Linger over lunch, stroll the beach, or simply find a shady spot and enjoy the view. On Amelia Island, slowing down isn’t being lazy; it’s practically a vacation requirement.
Set the mood for fall with National Scented Candle Day and a little downtown shopping. Wander through historic Fernandina Beach and browse the candles and unique finds at Twisted Sisters, Hudson & Perry, and The Lavender Store. Or, drop into mid-island’s Coastal Cottage of Amelia for a little something that reminds you of your Amelia Island getaway long after you’ve gone home.
Start National Sandwich Day off at Aloha Bagel & Deli for delicious and eclectic breakfast bagel sandwiches made just right. Lunch at 4th Street Deli or Lazy Jack’s Sandwich Shop is where the art of the sandwich has been perfected. Think mounds of pastrami, turkey, roast beef, and cheese…. Then spend the afternoon exploring – because a great sandwich tastes even better when you’re on vacation.
Trade the hiking boots for comfortable shoes and explore Amelia Island’s natural side. Take a walk through Fort Clinch State Park, explore Egans Creek Greenway, or simply stroll along the beach. No boots or mountains required—just beautiful scenery and plenty of fresh coastal air.
Make breakfast the highlight of National French Toast Day at Garden Street Bistro, where the Stuffed French Toast features two slices of French toast stuffed with limoncello cake and homemade cream, then topped with fruit and powdered sugar. It’s decadent, delicious, and definitely worth getting out of bed for.
There you have it. The quirky side of fall! Pack your bags and come see us.
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