There’s lots of press going around about the annual Concours d’Elegance – a huge annual event on Amelia Island – but accommodations are sold out, so what’s a fun-seeker to do? Beat the crowds and take advantage of a jam-packed February festival schedule, that’s what! There’s still plenty of February left.
Many of our island visitors are familiar with our annual Chamber Music Festival, but did you know that there is a Winterfest component going on this year? There are still a few concerts left, including a romantic Valentines Weekend Romantic Virtuosi on Saturday. While you’re there, check out the schedule for the spring dates, and make your reservations at your favorite bed and breakfast now.
The weekend of the 21st brings three events worth a look (and a book). There will be some very tough choices, indeed. The Amelia Island Book Festival has grown from its humble beginnings to an event that now showcases almost 100 authors, including this year’s headliner, David Baldacci. There are workshops for writers and book signings for readers, as well as many opportunities to mingle and learn. With events running Thursday through Saturday, you’re sure to find many to suit your taste and budget.
Next up on the weekend of the 21st is the annual Amelia Island Chili Cook-Off. Honestly, you don’t have to be anywhere near it to enjoy it; the scent of 20 different kinds of chili cooking wafting throughout the town is enough to bring a smile to locals and visitors, alike. But you sure will enjoy it more if you head down to Second Street on Saturday afternoon to sample the fare and help select a winner. Entertainment is always in store, as well, at this fun and delicious annual fundraiser for the Amelia Island Montessori School.
Are you crafty? The third event of the weekend is the 2014 Quilts By the Sea show and sale. Amelia Island is known for its great artists and writers, but did you know about our thriving craft community? This group boasts over 70 members and is representative of the talent and fellowship found throughout the crafting community on the island. Philanthropic efforts play a big role, as well, and you’ll have a chance to take part by purchasing raffle tickets for the benefit of a local not-for-profit. You can also see some of the quilts donated to these organizations. The Quilt Festival runs on Friday and Saturday 9-5 at the Peck Center, a very short drive from the downtown inns.
By the end of the weekend, you should be able to curl up with a good book in a beautiful quilt with a belly full of chili at your favorite bed and breakfast! Rooms are still available, but are booking up, so make your plans now.
If you can’t make it to the island until the weekend of February 28th, fear not for it’s the weekend of the Amelia Island Film Festival. This four-day event starting Thursday, February 27, features shorts, documentaries, international offerings and full-length features. An in-town event, all venues are “walkable” from the in-town bed and breakfasts. Films will be shown beginning at 11:30 am, running through a few midnight screenings. There will be a beer garden, VIP events and an Oscar night party with awards on… Oscar night, March 2nd.
There is always something going on here, on Amelia Island, but the next few weeks offer an abundance of choices. Come join us!
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