Amelia Island Cookout 2025 Brings Island-Wide Culinary Celebration   

Amelia Island is set to turn up the heat this fall as the 3rd Annual Amelia Island Cookout returns, bigger and bolder than ever. Hosted by The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, the festival runs from October 16–19, 2025, transforming the island into a culinary playground with award-winning chefs, mixologists, pitmasters, and epicurean events that promise indulgence at every turn.

What started as a single-property affair has blossomed into a four-day, island-wide showcase of food, wine, and Southern hospitality. At the helm is Chef Okan Kizilbayir, Culinary Director and Chef de Cuisine of Salt, who has curated a stellar roster of more than 30 culinary talents from across the nation. The expanded format includes dynamic experiences that blend fine dining with local flavor, giving food lovers plenty to savor.

The weekend kicks off Thursday with cigar and port pairings at Ash Street Cigar Parlor and wine dinners at David’s and Burlingame in downtown Fernandina Beach. On Friday, the spotlight shifts to creativity in pairings, from a Champagne class led by Chef Kizilbayir to a Sunset Wine Cruise with The Decantery. Guests can also sample Amelia Island’s craft beer scene during a lively trolley hop, while Coquina hosts an al fresco Mediterranean dinner under the stars. Friday, chefs Dean Max and Dylan Benoit discuss the role cookbooks play in the culinary world at Story & Song Bookstore Bistro at 3-5 p.m.

Saturday takes center stage with Chef’s Theatre demonstrations and the festival’s crown jewel—the Amelia Island Cookout. This signature event features live music and culinary artistry from top names including Dean Max, Tank Jackson, Tony Biggs, Sharon Pinkhasov, and local favorites Omar Collazo, David Echeverri, and Chad Livingstone. Adding star power, chefs from luxury brands like St. Regis Buckhead, The Ritz-Carlton Dallas, and Prime Kitchen, Grand Cayman will delight with dishes crafted for the occasion.

The celebration wraps on Sunday with a mystery pop-up brunch and a trio of decadent closing dinners: the Master Chefs’ Gala at Salt, a Bourbon Tasting Dinner at Lagniappe, and a Backyard BBQ & Oyster Roast at The Pavilion. Guests can choose individual experiences or opt for curated packages, such as the Ultimate Epicurean Tickets Package, which offers VIP access to six signature events.

For those seeking an elevated getaway, the festival has partnered with ACC Aviation, pairing private charter flights with oceanfront accommodations and all-access culinary passes for a seamless luxury escape.

With its expanded programming, world-class talent, and immersive experiences, the Amelia Island Cookout 2025 promises to be a feast for the senses and an unmissable highlight for food enthusiasts across the country.

For tickets and the full schedule, visit AmeliaIslandCookout.com.

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