Holiday Events at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

Celebrate a Season of Wonders by the Sea

Discover the magic of the festive season where ocean breezes meet refined luxury. At The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, holiday traditions, culinary artistry, and oceanfront serenity create a seasonal escape infused with warmth, coastal charm and timeless joy.

’Tis the Season for Coastal Cheer

Celebrate the season at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. Gather for the Thanksgiving Grand Feast in November, then embrace holiday traditions amid twinkling lights, coastal décor and a breathtaking Christmas tree overlooking the Atlantic. Enjoy festive dining, including select holiday experiences at Michelin-recommended Salt and the debut of the all-new Coast restaurant this December.

Festive Immersions
Christmas tree with lights on it.

Christmas Tree Lighting

Guests and neighbors gather for the snowy arrival of Santa Claus by Christmas train and the lighting of our 45-foot Christmas tree, illuminated by hundreds of twinkling lights. The evening also features festive programming, live performances, and entertainment for all ages. Proceeds from the event benefit local charities, helping make the season brighter throughout our community. November 25 | 5:30 p.m.

Holiday Buffet with Santa

Santa’s Magical Dinner

Guests are invited to join Santa for a magical holiday wonderland experience, where children can share their Christmas wish lists and receive a commemorative photo. Enjoy a lavish buffet-style dinner featuring favorites for both adults and kids, along with a decadent holiday dessert buffet. The whimsical evening is inspired by the enchanting theme of The Nutcracker. November 25 | 6:45 p.m.

Thanksgiving Feast at Amelia Island hotel

Thanksgiving Grand Feast

Gather with loved ones in the elegant Talbot Ballroom for the ultimate holiday culinary celebration. Savor traditional favorites and festive trimmings, indulge in decadent desserts, and delight in seasonal touches. Children will enjoy holiday crafts and games, making it a joyful experience for all ages. November 26

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Nutcracker Tea

Experience the enchantment of the season with a delightful Nutcracker Tea and performance by The Florida Ballet. Enjoy a charming afternoon tea, amidst holiday cheer and festive treats, including an exquisite presentation of tea sandwiches, pastries, holiday cookies and savory bites. Don’t miss this perfect opportunity to celebrate the season and create cherished memories for the whole family.

Child with gingerbread house Amelia Island hotel

Build-A-Gingerbread House

Gingerbread houses are a Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island tradition featured throughout the resort during the festive season. Families look forward to experiencing the joy and magic of creating their own Gingerbread house with guidance from a pastry chef eager to share their secrets and expertise. The completed gingerbread house is yours and carefully packed and prepared for safe transport home.

Holiday Breakfast with Santa

Breakfast with Santa

Gather in The Lobby Lounge for a festive morning where children of all ages can share their holiday wishes with Santa Claus while the whole family enjoys an extravagant breakfast buffet amid magical gingerbread displays and festive holiday creations. December 5 | December 19 | 8:30 a.m.

Reading with Santa

Santa's Storybook Tea

Experience an enchanting holiday afternoon in The Lobby Lounge, where Santa Claus brings beloved stories to life in a storybook reading. Set amidst sparkling holiday décor and exquisite gingerbread displays, this elegant tea experience features a lavish selection of pastries, sweets, cakes, and finger sandwiches, complemented by a treasured keepsake photo with Santa. December 5 | December 19 | 12 p.m.

new year celebration with champagne

16th Annual New Year’s Eve Black & White Gala

Ring in the New Year at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island’s 16th Annual Black & White Gala. Indulge in exceptional cuisine and decadent desserts in the elegant Ritz-Carlton Ballroom. Dance the night away with live entertainment, enjoy an open bar, marvel at a spectacular fireworks display, and toast to 2027 with Champagne at midnight. Guests must be 21 years of age or older to attend. December 31 | 9 p.m.

Offers & Packages

Coast Dining Room Rendering

Holiday Restaurant Dining

Festive traditions take on new meaning at MICHELIN Recommended Salt and the newly reimagined Coast Restaurant. Whether you're seeking an elegant fine dining experience, a festive family-style feast, or a lavish holiday buffet, discover special culinary events throughout Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's and reserve your table today.

Spa Scrubs and Treatments

Merry & Bright Rejuvenation

Treat yourself this season at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island Spa, where oceanfront views and soothing serenity come together to inspire relaxation, renewal, and a touch of holiday sparkle.

Reserve Your Holiday Stay by the Sea