Golden Isles Issue 1 | Page 18

ISLAND TIME This region shines year-round, but here are a few signature reasons to visit each season. Winter Taking place around the island, HOLLY JOLLY JEKYLL is a magical event that takes guests on a nostalgic trip back in time with storytelling, caroling, and a winter carnival. ( Holidays ) Search for handmade glass globes hidden around Jekyll Island each winter. Better still: These ISLAND TREASURES are finders keepers! ( January – February ) A feast of oysters, low country boil, and signature dishes and desserts from dozens of local chefs, the ST. SIMONS LAND TRUST OYSTER ROAST benefits the orga- nization’s vision to protect the scenic character of the area. ( January ) Competing for the Peoples’ Choice and Judges’ Award, teams take the BRUNSWICK ROCKIN’ STEWBILEE seriously. Meanwhile, visitors enjoy the motorcycle ride, pooch parade, live music, and other fun. ( January ) 16 Christmastime at Sea Island For the area’s weekly live music schedule, go to Goldenisles.com WHISKEY, WINE & WILDLIFE on Jekyll Island artfully combines renowned beverage tastings and inspired cuisine, all with a chance to experience coastal wildlife up-close. ( February ) Called the “toughest 5K in Georgia,” the SOUTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTH SYSTEM BRIDGE RUN is also super scenic as runners travel the Sidney Lanier Bridge in Brunswick. ( February ) Four nationally renowned storytellers will keep attendees laughing all weekend at the ST. SIMONS ISLAND STORYTELLING FESTIVAL held at Epworth by the Sea. ( February ) Spring A day of races and events benefit- ting the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, Jekyll Island’s TURTLE CRAWL in- cludes a 5K, 10K and Fun Run. ( March ) Brunswick’s colorful MAYFAIR festival features the annual Blessing of the Fleet, a Portuguese tradition that blesses the decorated shrimp boats prior to the season’s start. ( Mother’s Day Weekend ) Summer GEORGIA SEA ISLANDS FESTIVAL, held each June in Gascoigne Bluff Park on St. Simons Island, celebrates African-American musical tradi- tions, crafts, and food. Don’t miss the renowned Georgia Sea Island Singers. ( June ) The prime place to celebrate our nation’s independence, the Golden Isles goes all out with 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATIONS, including events on St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island, Brunswick, and Sea Island. Visit Goldenisles. com for a detailed list of red, white, and blue happenings. Fall The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ COASTFEST in Brunswick educates all ages about the state’s coastal environment. Enjoy touch tanks, living history demonstrations, and science experiments. ( October ) The Golden Isles is considered top “dawg” for the annual Georgia vs. Florida football game. Many rivalry events take place this week, including the GEORGIA-FLORIDA GOLF CLASSIC on Jekyll Island. ( October ) The JEKYLL ISLAND SHRIMP & GRITS FESTIVAL features a cook-off, boat tours, a craft-brew fest, cooking demonstrations, arts and crafts vendors, and a fun zone for kids. ( November) Hosted by professional golfer Davis Love III, the RSM CLASSIC at Sea Island Golf Club is one of the most anticipated events on the PGA TOUR. The event features some of the biggest names in golf on one of the most beautiful and challenging courses in the Southeast. ( November )