This December Amelia Island innkeepers will open the doors to seven of the island's Grand Dames for a rare glimpse into their treasure-filled interiors. Step through the lavishly decorated doorways of these regal mansions and stately coastal inns, all of them adorned in their full holiday regalia. Innkeepers will warmly welcome you as you tour and discover the unique character and history of each home, as well as the town they reside in. Sample scrumptious tidbits, compliments of favorite local restaurateurs. Holiday songs offer a musical backdrop as you take in every detail of the finely appointed rooms. Connect with an era of gracious living, fine lodging and neighborly kindheartedness.
Florida House Inn (Photo by Jan
Johannes) Tour dates are Saturday Dec. 9 and Sunday Dec. 10. from 2 to 6 p.m. Tickets are $20. In addition to the seven mansions and coastal inns, this year's tour features: • Hometown Holiday Houses offer a sneak peek into a select number of historic private residences • Historic 1880 St. Michael's Academy, including a rare opportunity to climb the spiral staircase to the famous rooftop cupola • Historic 1892 County Courthouse decorated in holiday style • Historic 1912 Downtown Post Office and Federal Courtroom • Strolling carolers dressed in Dickens-style costumes and storytellers regaling you with tales of the past • Refreshments and music from local favorites at participating inns • Complimentary old-fashioned trolley, offering service from downtown inns to beachfront inn • Christmas Tree Decorating Competition Display, compliments of local youth groups • Luminary and twinkle-lighted Historic District, including a 50' Christmas tree Child-care services will be offered for the first time for tour guests from 2 to 6 p.m. through St. Michael's Catholic Church Youth Group. Space is limited. Please contact the church at 261-3472 for cost and reservations. For the latest information on the tour visit www.ameliaislandinns.com.
Hoyt House (Photo by Jan Johannes) Other Hometown Holiday Events planned for Dec. 8-10 include: • Old-Fashioned Christmas Party: Official Kick-Off Party. Friday Dec. 8. Hosted at the privately-owned historic Bailey House, 28 S. 7th Street. 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. For information and ticket locations, please call 904-261-7378. Sponsored by the Amelia Island Museum of History. • Ghost Walking Tour: Friday Dec. 8. Learn hauntingly good ghost stories through the skillful storytelling of your local guide. Tour begins at 6 p.m. Meet in the cemetery behind St. Peter's Episcopal Church at 801 Atlantic Ave. Tickets available at the museum. $10 adults / $5 students. • Holiday Luminary Tours: Friday and Saturday Dec. 8-9. Stroll down our national historic district's main thoroughfare and hear fascinating anecdotes of the families and industries that shaped Fernandina. Please call the Amelia Island Museum of History at (904) 261-7378 for reservations. • 80 Glorious Years of Queen Elizabeth II Exhibition: Saturday Dec. 9 and Sunday Dec. 10 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. A collection of authentic regalia and antique memorabilia of Queen Elizabeth II, including a life-size replica of the crown jewels. Entrance is complimentary for tour ticket holders ($10 value). For information, contact the Hampton Inn & Suites at (904) 491-4911. • Holiday Paws on Parade: Saturday Dec. 9. Bring your canine best friend dressed in their best holiday attire - prizes will be awarded! Line-up begins at 10 a.m. at 8th and Centre St. Stroll starts at 11 a.m. Sponsored by Redbones Dog Bakery. 321-0020. • 4th Annual Lighted Holiday Parade: Saturday Dec. 9. Parade starts at 6 p.m. in downtown Fernandina Beach. All entries feature some type of lighting! For more information, call 904-261-3248.
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