EXPERIENCES
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16
Cigars & Port
Indulge in a refined evening at Ash Street Cigar Parlor, where you can savor premium cigars paired with exquisite port wines. Enjoy light bites as you relax, making it the perfect setting to start off the weekend of events.
Thursday, October 16 | 5:30 p.m. | Ash Street Cigar Parlor
Kickoff Dinners
Begin your culinary weekend with delightful kickoff dinners at David’s Restaurant and Burlingame. At David’s, enjoy the creations of chefs David Echeverri, Gilles Schreiber and Brandon Carter. Meanwhile, Burlingame features the talents of chefs Chad Livingston, Sean Blanchette and Dylan Benoit. Each venue offers a unique dining experience, showcasing the skills and creativity of these acclaimed chefs.
Thursday, October 16 | 6:30 p.m. | David’s Restaurant and Burlingame
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17
Perfect Pairings
The art of pairing food and Champagne is demonstrated to an intimate group. Chef Okan Kizilbayir and a guest sommelier share insights on Champagne characteristics, grape varieties, and pairing with the flavors of the dishes. Generous pours, delicious bites, and sparkling Champagne abound as long-held myths are debunked, and your appreciation of pairing expands.
Friday, October 17 | 2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. | The Ritz-Carlton Ballroom Foyer
Beer Hop
Hop aboard the trolley for a laid-back transfer to Center Street, Amelia Island’s historic downtown. Embark on a journey through Amelia Island’s best breweries. Enjoy curated tastings of locally brewed beers along with delicious bites, and get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Mocama’s state-of-the-art brewing facility. This event offers a unique opportunity to explore local brewing talents and enjoy an afternoon of tasting and socializing.
Friday, October 17 | 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. | Mocama Beer Company | First Love Brewing | Amelia Island Tavern
Cookbook & Chef Conversation
Join us for a flavorful afternoon on Friday, October 17, from 3–5 p.m., celebrating local shrimp and the culinary stories of Amelia Island. Enjoy a lively conversation with a featured chef, sample recipes from The Amelia Island Table: Celebrating Community with Stories & Recipes, and explore selections from new fall cookbooks. Tickets are $35 and include the program, appetizers, and a glass of Champagne or wine.
Friday, October 17 | 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. | Story & Song
The Decantery Sunset Bourbon Cruise
Experience an upscale, 2-hour sunset cruise hosted by The Decantery. With capacity for only 45 guests, this intimate event offers the perfect blend of luxury and relaxation. Savor premium bourbon selections while enjoying breathtaking views as the sun sets over the water. Ages 21+
Friday, October 17 | 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. | Fernandina Harbor Marina
Mediterranean Inspired Dinner
Join us for a memorable evening at Coquina Restaurant, where culinary artistry and cultural flair combine harmoniously for a Mediterranean-inspired dinner in a gorgeous al fresco setting with ocean views. Acclaimed chefs Philippe Haddad from PGH Hospitality Group, Bernard Guillas, Private Chef and Master Chef of France, and Papi Gonzalez from The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, collaborate to transport diners to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean. Pastry Chef Heidi Kabath from The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, and sommelier Michael Kennedy from Fraîche Wine Group will also contribute to this exceptional dining experience.
Friday, October 17 | 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Coquina Restaurant
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18
Chefs Theater
Chef Okan Kizilbayir refreshes the traditional cooking school format with an intimate gathering around the demonstration table to learn how to prepare two themed entrees and a dessert. Each dish is paired with carefully selected wines to be savored while engaging with Okan, Guest Chef Corey Chow, Master Mixologist Simon Crompton, and esteemed sommelier Kelly Schmidt.
Saturday, October 18 | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Salt Restaurant
Amelia Island Cookout
Meet and mingle with extraordinary chefs and beverage experts as they take their best work outdoors for an oceanfront cookout. With an unforgettable backdrop of dunes and ocean, enjoy sizzling seafood and grilled and slow-roasted meats and other creations from island and national chefs along with abundant wine and cocktails, desserts and live entertainment.
A portion of the event’s proceeds will be donated to the Barnabas Center.
Saturday, October 18 | 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. | The Ritz-Carlton Oceanfront Lawn
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19
Mystery Destination Lunch
Experience a culinary journey at a mystery destination lunch. Receive information about the lunch location twenty-four hours before the event. Arrive to the elegantly decorated mystery location to savor a coursed lunch prepared by accomplished Chefs complete with live music and delightful libations.
Sunday, October 19 | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Location announced 24 hours prior to event
Master Chefs Dinner
Salt Restaurant provides an exquisite setting for the weekend’s grand finale event, the Master Chefs Dinner. This opulent five-course collaboration, crafted by renowned master chefs, showcases each chef’s unique style, personal specialties, and diverse ingredients, culminating in a symphony of intoxicating flavors.
Featured Master Chefs:
Okan Kizilbayir – Salt Restaurant
Corey Chow – The Stanwich Club
Angie Mar – Le B
Ron Hsu – Lazy Betty
The evening is further elevated by the artful pairing of wines, curated by distinguished sommeliers Michael Kennedy of Fraîche Wine Group and Kelly Schmidt of Blackberry Farm, promising to captivate the senses and enhance flavors, creating unforgettable memories.
Sunday, October 19 | 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Salt Restaurant
Backyard BBQ & Oyster Roast
Wrap up the Cookout Weekend with a laid-back celebration at a brand new venue in the heart of downtown! Enjoy BBQ, fresh roasted oysters, cold keg beer, cocktails, and great music. It’s everything you love about a classic backyard party.
Sunday, October 19 | 5 p.m. | The Pavilion, Downtown Fernandina Beach