The holiday season is officially here and Amelia Island is getting “lit”. Literally. There’s something about Christmas lights that gives everyone the warm fuzzies and if you’ve had a year of crazy, warm fuzzies sound pretty good. So, we’ve compiled a list of the top places to see the best holiday light displays. Some are right here in our own back yard, others are a short drive away, and some are a little bit further than that. Whichever way you go, get ready to be wowed.

Centre Street to Ash Street, historic downtown Fernandina Beach: For the iconic, small town, Hallmark channel kind of Christmas scene, you’re going to want to drive down Centre Street to the docks and then up Ash Street and basically all over the downtown area. Centre Street is lit from top to bottom – think trees, storefronts, rooftops, and many of the historic homes/bed & breakfast inns are decorated in their best greenery, finery and lights. This will get your season started.

North Ridge Lane, Fernandina Beach: Year after year almost ALL of the fine folks that live in the Oak Ridge subdivision in the central part of Amelia Island, decorate their homes and lawns with santas, angels, trains, stars, trees, grinches, and thousands of lights. It has become many islanders’ holiday family tradition to drive through this neighborhood. Come see for yourself and get in the spirit! 

South End Resorts, Fernandina Beach: Both The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island and the Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa are decked out for the holiday season. The drive up to the Ritz sparkles with thousands of twinkling white lights, but be sure to park and step inside to marvel at the stunning Christmas tree on the oceanfront lawn. For a touch of old-world Florida charm, visit the Resort Shopping Village at the Omni, where holiday cheer meets timeless elegance.

Colors of the Wild, Jacksonville Zoo: Experience a captivating blend of lanterns, wildlife, and wild places as over 1,000 intricately designed lanterns illuminate the night. From the majestic cherry blossoms of Asia to Florida’s native panthers and manatees, each lantern shares a unique story. As dusk falls, the Zoo transforms into a glowing wonderland, alive with vibrant colors and dazzling lights. Let yourself be transported to distant lands and meet extraordinary creatures through these breathtaking displays. Held on select nights through February, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. 30 miles from Amelia Island

Holly Jolly Jekyll, Jekyll Island, Georgia: Want to go back in time to experience the holidays? If so, head two islands north on I-95 to the Jekyll Island Club on Jekyll Island, Georgia where you can experience the Holly Jolly Light Tour. Throughout the month of December, drive through Jekyll’s historic district to see it decorated in all it’s holiday grandeur. Or, take a trolley tour around the island to see all the beautiful lights this coastal wonderland displays at Christmastime. It’s oh so beautiful.
60 miles from Amelia Island

Night of Lights, St. Augustine, Florida: For over 30 years, the Nations Oldest City has put on an unbelievable light show – and until January 26, 2025, you can take part in it. St. Augustine’s Night Of Lights has been listed among the top ten holiday light displays in the world by National Geographic. “Spanning several blocks and covering every building, this dazzling display of over 3 million lights ignites the historic downtown area with holiday cheer! It is a holiday favorite amongst locals and visitors alike.”
74 miles from Amelia Island

Okefenokee Swamp Light Show, Waycross, Georgia: Where can you see alligators and Christmas lights all at the same time? The world famous Okefenokee Swamp! Each year, people from all over flock to this iconic park to take part in the Holiday Light Show. Bring a blanket and bundle up for a train ride through 1.25 miles of thousands of twinkling lights. It’s a beautiful sight to see under the south Georgia stars and it’s only a little over an hour’s drive from Amelia Island. Santa will be there, too! Tickets: $14/adults; $12/kid; under 3 are free. 76 miles from Amelia Island

Happy Holidays, y’all!