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People at Dickens on Centre dressed in Victorian costumes
Deremer Studios LLC/AMELIA ISLAND
FLORIDA
Celebrate the Ghost of
Christmas Past
Dickens on Centre—the Victorian Christmas market and holiday festival on Amelia Island—is the place to party like it’s 1899.
By Spencer Carney
You are invited to the annual Dickens on Centre Christmas market and holiday festival in downtown Fernandina Beach on beautiful Amelia Island, Florida.
For more than a decade, this family-friendly event has charmed visitors and locals in a weekend celebration inspired by Charles Dickens’ Victorian London. Step into the 1800s and warm your heart at a gathering full of costumed characters from Oliver Twist to Ebenezer Scrooge. Here are some of the weekend’s highlights:
Illuminated walking parade
Join a “de-light-ful” procession
The festivities begin Thursday, Dec. 11, at 6:15 p.m. with a free illuminated walking parade. Gather with something that glows or twinkles (no open flames) and stroll through Fernandina’s historic district for a night of fun, capped by a surprise finale over the riverfront. Local food trucks will be on North Second Street with food for purchase.
Downtown Fernandina Beach is transformed into a Victorian-era Christmas village.
Shop a little (or a lot)
The Christmas market is open to holiday shoppers Friday through Sunday. Head to Peddler’s Village for all manner of baubles and trinkets, make your way to Artists Alley for beautiful treasures, and satisfy your hunger with something tastier than gruel at Oliver’s Eats.
See a classic holiday film
Catch your breath at the Old Vic Theatre movie alley with favorites such as “The Santa Clause,” “Elf” and “The Polar Express.” Movies play at select times Friday through Sunday.
Get a portrait with St. Nick
Tiny Tim’s Kid Zone is the site of Santa’s workshop. After putting letters in Santa’s mailbox for delivery to the North Pole, let your little ones visit the jolly old elf himself and capture the excitement with a keepsake photo.
Reserve an hour of fun in one of the festival’s ten “snow globes”
Step inside a snow globe
The forecast calls for snow! The Enchanted Village features 10 different life-size snow globes that can be reserved for a fun gathering of family and friends. A paid reservation secures your snow globe for 75 minutes (each fits up to six people) and includes bottled water, an adult beverage package and a choice of snack bites.
Have a doggone good time at the pet parade
See some furry friends steal the spotlight Saturday in the festival’s Parade of Paws. The 90-minute procession begins at Centre and Fourth streets at 10 a.m. and winds through the market. Costumed pets compete for prizes in categories including Best Victorian, Most Original and Looks Most Like Owner.
You can enjoy food, shopping and entertainment while attending Dickens on Centre.
Enjoy Dickens after dark
Treat yourself to a 21-and-older costume party Saturday night. Marley’s Masquerade takes place at The Pavilion on North Second Street and features stilt walkers, jugglers, live music, dancing and more.
Travel Tip: Avoid downtown parking difficulties by taking the trolley to the festival. Complimentary parking and trolleys will be available from the Nassau County School Board lot on Atlantic Avenue across from Central Park. Visit the event website for trolley operating hours
Let AAA guide your stay
Wrap yourself in comfort and enjoy your visit to Amelia Island when you lodge at Hampton Inn & Suites—Amelia Island Historic Harbor Front, a AAA Three Diamond property one block from Centre Street. Members save up to 10% and earn Honors points when booking AAA rates. Or pamper yourself at the AAA Five Diamond Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island—an island gem that features balconied rooms and Southern elegance you’re sure to love. Enjoy special member savings plus Marriott Bonvoy™ points when booking AAA rates.
Diamond Spotlight — AMELIA ISLAND
The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island
RITZ-CARLTON
Nestled on 13 miles of immaculate Florida shoreline, The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island is a sanctuary of refined luxury and southern charm. This resort offers a perfect coastal escape, especially during the holidays when it transforms into a wonderland of festive cheer and twinkling lights.
Guest room with balcony
Each room provides a private balcony with stunning ocean panoramas. Guests can find serenity at the spa or play a round on the exclusive moss-draped oak golf course. Holiday festivities include a magnificent Thanksgiving Grand Feast and other seasonal events.
Dining is an experience in itself. Savor culinary artistry at the Five Diamond restaurant Salt enjoy local seafood at Coast or relax at the casual Tidewater Grill. For a luxurious holiday getaway that combines beachfront serenity with festive elegance, The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island is an exceptional choice.
Visit AAA.com/TripCanvas to plan your trip to Amelia Island.
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