With pristine beaches, breathtaking natural beauty, world-class resorts, eclectic dining options, shops galore, 99 holes of golf and so much more, Amelia Island is the perfect game day headquarters for players and fans of the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl. Even if your team isn’t playing, book a stay and make a New Year’s weekend out of it. The excitement of watching a college game in person is second to none and is a great day out for everyone.

Then, ring in the new year in whatever way suits you… family-friendly, luxurious, or rocking out. Whatever you like, we’ve got you covered!

TaxSlayer Gator Bowl

Each year in early December, the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl announces two of the best teams in college football for an epic match-up in the Sunshine State. On Friday, December 29 at noon, the ultimate cat fight begins when the Wildcats of Kentucky take on the Tigers of Clemson in this gridiron classic held at Bill Gay Grounds at TIAA Bank Field.

Since we’re an easy 40 minutes from the stadium, you can pair up game day excitement with great north Florida weather and still be back to the island in time for a fabulous dinner and nightcap. 

New Year’s Eve

There’s nothing better than ending an old year and welcoming in a new one. Luckily, Amelia Island has no shortage of New Year’s Eve celebrations to choose from. Check out the highlights below and start planning!

New Year’s Eve Black & White Gala — Ring in the New Year in style with the Thirteenth Annual Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island New Year’s Eve Gala. Dine on lavish food buffets, chef’s stations of seafood, sushi, seared scallops, lobster, lamb loin and an array of scrumptious desserts. Dance the night away to live music while enjoying an open bar and a Champagne toast with midnight fireworks. Even better if you purchase an overnight room package and start the New Year off in there lap of luxury. Festivities begin at 9pm. The gala is $399 per guest, service charge included. 21 and older only. Reserve tickets on Eventbrite.

Salt New Year’s Eve — If a low-key but glamorous night is more your style, get all dressed up and dine out in style in The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island’s Salt restaurant. Chef Okan’s luxe and unforgettable five-course menu will start your new year off with a full belly and heart. $315 for tasting menu. $150 for wine pairings. No a la carte menu available. 5pm – 9pm. Reservations required.

Coast New Year’s Eve — Relax and celebrate the new year with your family at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island’s Coast restaurant. Enjoy a new year’s eve Lowcountry dinner that Chef Victor perfectly prepares in a four-course family-style dining experience. $195 for adults (10 and up) $95 for children (4 – 9). 20% service charge included. Tax not included. 5pm – 9pm. Reservations required.

Local’s and Sadler Ranch New Year’s Eve Parties — Get ready to party and welcome in 2024 with line dancing at Sadler Ranch and a DJ spinning the best dance music at Local’s. These fun bars are located right in the middle of the island and are always poppin’. Huge balloon drop at midnight will be amazing!

New Year’s Eve Shrimp Drop — Light Up Amelia and The City of Fernandina Beach host a unique, family-friendly New Year’s celebration at the Downtown Waterfront. Ring in the new year in conjunction with the Greenwich Mean Time stroke of midnight (7PM.) Enjoy music, holiday food, drink and party favors all leading up to the dropping of the LED-lighted shrimp followed by fireworks! Marina Parking Lot B. 6pm – 9pm.

A Jazzy New Year’s Eve in Italy with The Les DeMerle Band — Swing into 2024 with the jazzy sounds of Les DeMerle and his band. Held at Story & Song Center For Arts & Culture, The Dynamic Les DeMerle Band featuring Bonnie Eisele will have your feet tappin’ and hands clappin’ as they put on a spectacular show to celebrate the new year! $75 tickets include heavy hors d’ oeuvres and a champagne toast. 5pm – 7pm.

Verandah New Year’s Eve — Enjoy a delectable four-course dinner at the Verandah restaurant at Omni Amelia Island Resort. The first course features chef’s amuse-bouche, followed by an appetizer, main plate and dessert of your choosing. No à la carte items available. $129 per person. Reservations required. 5pm – 11pm.

Oceanside New Year’s Eve — Start the new year with a great meal at Oceanside restaurant at Omni Amelia Island Resort. Enjoy prime rib, fried Fernandina shrimp, salt roasted potato and roasted root vegetables for $54 per person or, southern saltwater turkey with mashed potatoes and bacon-oyster stuffing for $44 per person. Reservations required. 5pm – 10pm.

GO CATS AND WELCOME 2024!