Amelia Island Events Worth Traveling For

There’s always something going on around the island, but some landmark events are widely known … and for good reason. If you need an excuse to get down to the island (what, a beach where you have enough room to sprawl out and relax isn’t enough?), then this list of events is for you.

And if you want a luxury rental during your stay, we’re here for you.

Shrimp Fest (May)

Officially called the Isle of 8 Flags Shrimp Festival but locally referred to as Shrimp Fest, this is a FAVORITE. And yes, because we love our seafood here. But it’s so much more.

You get to explore a full celebration of the rich history of the island, enjoy parades, shop plenty of arts and crafts, and of course enjoy plenty of great food.

It’s like a major party that you’re invited to and everyone’s in a great mood. With shrimp and seafood.

More information here.

The Amelia Concours d’Elegance (March)

If you love cars, this is for you. And oh boy, is it amazing.

Start with this internationally-known show hosted at the Ritz-Carlton bringing hundreds of amazing collectibles – think ones you’ll find in private collections or maybe a museum – all in one place. 16,000+ attended the 2023 version of this event, which featured over 200 cars. More coverage from Jacksonville Today.

There’s other vehicle-related events that bring enthusiasts from all over the US and internationally, as well, such as The Hangar and 8 Flags Car Show.

Basically, if you love cars, you need to stay on top of what’s happening on the island (and book your stay well in advance).

Book Festival (February)

If you want to meet a New York Times-bestselling author, engage in some new local novels (some authors call the island home!), and support child literacy all at once … this is for you. Thousands pour into the island to take part with publishers and authors providing workshops, meet-and-greets, and much more.

Even better? In its first 20 years of operation, the festival has invested over $2 million in literacy and 100,000 books to Nassau County students.

It’s a book-lovers dream and it’s in quite a location! More information can be found right here.

Jazz Festival (October)

Hit up the island when it’s still warm enough to enjoy a long walk on the beach … and top acts in the jazz scene! Names such as The Manhattan Transfer, Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock, Wynton Marsalis, and Natalie Cole have taken center stage over the years for this weeklong event.

Think about it: tons of great music that puts you in a good mood, great local food and drink to supplement, and all on an island with plenty of beaches nearby.

What could be better?!

Click here for more information.

ZOOMA Amelia Island

With a course that threads through historic sections and to the oldest lighthouse in Florida, it’s one of the most popular ZOOMA races in the United States and has been voted a Top 20 Half Marathon by BibRave in multiple years.

Featuring a weekend filled with fun activities – from a post-race party to sunrise yoga, with varied options for all fitness enthusiasts – you enjoy the race and then relax on the island.

More information on the Skirts Sports site.

There’s plenty of other opportunities to travel for:

Something for everyone? Usually! There’s more worth using as a cover to vacation here checking out, depending on your hobbies and preferences:

– Tournaments for pickleball, pentanque, dog training, tennis, and much more
– Plenty of culinary experiences, from the Fish to Fork experience to craft beer and wine festivals
– Celebrations of the arts, from Dance Festival to Chamber Music Festival to plenty of outdoor concerts
– Fort Clinch has many interesting events, from re-enactments to candlelight tours

And the list goes on, of course. Want suggestions from a local’s point of view? Stop by our office or say hello!