In the Florida Lowcountry, the holiday season is a blend of coastal charm and traditional Southern hospitality. Where palm trees dressed in twinkling lights illuminate the warm December nights. And a variety of festive gatherings reflect the spirit of the coast. Here are just a few of the ways you can connect with family and friends near Wildlight.
Wildlight’s Winterfest
Head to Winterfest on December 7th from 2–5 pm, when Tinker Street will fill with holiday cheer. We’ll have festive crafts, local food trucks. Horse-drawn carriage rides. And the magic of honest-to-goodness snow (yes, really). VIP guests Santa and Mrs. Claus will be making a special appearance. And since it’s the season of giving, we invite attendees to bring donations of arts and crafts supplies for Micah’s Place.
Festive Tree Lightings
If you love seeing a giant tree come to life with holiday lights, you’re in luck. Because there are two near Wildlight. One right across the street from our community, at the Nassau County Courthouse — held this year on December 6th, and featuring food trucks, a holiday vendor market, photo ops with Santa and more. And The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island’s grand tree lighting on November 27th — a 25-year tradition that includes the lighting of a 40-foot tree, live holiday music, fireworks, and the arrival of Santa Claus.
Parades (Two Ways)
Nothing says holiday cheer quite like a Christmas parade, and there are two we think are especially worth noting. Fernandina Beach’s Lighted Christmas Parade (December 7th) will be a spectacular sight, with Illuminated floats, local marching bands, and community groups parading through downtown. And if you’re looking for a furrier festivity, the Parade of Paws at Fernandina Beach (December 14th) features four-legged friends to prance through Fernandina Beach in their best holiday attire, vying for prizes in different categories — you can even register to participate!
Hey Santa
The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island offers a lineup of enchanting Santa experiences at all times of the day. Start the morning at Breakfast with Santa. Attend Santa’s Storybook Tea, where you can gather to hear holiday tales and enjoy treats. Or make reservations for Santa’s Magical Dinner, where kids can share their holiday wishes over a delicious meal.
Dickens on Centre
Step back in time with the Dickens on Centre festival from December 12-15, where the streets of Fernandina Beach transform into a scene from a Charles Dickens novel. Expect carolers in Victorian dress, vibrant market stalls, and delicious holiday treats — all in an atmosphere that feels like Christmas from another era.
New Year’s Eve Shrimp Drop
New Year’s Eve in the Florida Lowcountry has a charm all its own, especially with Amelia Island’s family-friendly Shrimp Drop on Fernandina Beach’s waterfront. The highlight? When the giant illuminated shrimp drops, followed by fireworks lighting up the sky. And don’t worry — the event is coordinated with Greenwich Mean Time, which means “midnight” will actually be at 7pm!
Rockin’ Around the Neighborhood
Drive or stroll through Wildlight and you’ll see a dazzling display of holiday lights and decorations as residents go all out to compete in the beloved Deck Your Porch contest — decking their homes with everything from classic holiday lights to imaginative displays. For those lucky enough to call Wildlight home, there’s even more holiday fun to be had, with exclusive events planned by our Lifestyle Director.
Happy Holidays from Wildlight
Celebrating the season in the heart of the Florida Lowcountry is a unique blend of coastal charm, warm hospitality, and vibrant community spirit. And when you live at Wildlight, you’re in the heart of this holiday magic. Enjoy every festive minute of it.
At Wildlight, we believe in building more than just homes — we believe in creating a community where neighbors support neighbors, and we show our appreciation to our dedicated and hardworking military service members, teachers, nurses, firefighters, EMS workers and law enforcement officers.
As a small way to show our gratitude for your selfless service, our builder and rental partners are offering special incentives* designed to make your journey toward finding a home in Wildlight a little easier.
Pulte Homes and Del Webb
The 2024 Hometown Heroes program from Pulte Homes and Del Webb offers a $2,000 incentive that can be used at their design center when you purchase a Pulte Homes bungalow or Del Webb home. Active teachers, nurses, EMS, police and firefighters are eligible, as well as active duty and retired military. See full details at DelWebb.com/Jacksonville.
Riverside Homes
Purchase a Riverside Homes residence, and take advantage of preferred lender incentives — including loan rate pricing that is lower than conventional rates.
Exchange at Wildlight
For the month of November 2024, the Exchange at Wildlight is offering waived application and administrative fees for active duty military and veterans.
The Lofts at Wildlight
Firefighters, educators, healthcare workers, law enforcement, childcare employees and military personnel receive 3% off their monthly rent (rates subject to change – waived application and administration fees for military personnel).
Hamlet Wildlight
Members of the military receive half off their application and administrative fees and up to $1,000 off move-in cost for the month of November 2024.
Wildlight YMCA
To offer support and help military families navigate unique challenges, the Wildlight Y provides discounted memberships, camp programs and a Military Back-to-School bash with free school supplies to members of our armed forces.
Whether you’re looking to buy a home, rent, or find programs that support your family, Wildlight has options tailored just for you. We are proud to support you as you continue making a difference in the lives of others, and we can’t wait to welcome you home.
*The incentives mentioned in this blog are offered by individual builders, rental partners, and neighborhood partners, and are subject to their own terms and conditions. Wildlight is not responsible for the availability, modification, or fulfillment of these incentives. Please contact the respective providers directly for further details and eligibility requirements.
Morning coffee on mom’s porch. A bike ride to baking cookies at grandma’s. A trail hike with Papa. And … let’s talk about a biggie … free babysitters, right in the neighborhood. When the whole family lives at Wildlight, everyone can find the home, along with community events and amenities, that best suits their needs. Along with the best feature of all — relatives right down the street.
Your closest relatives, close by
There’s something special about being just a short walk or bike ride away from family. No need to schedule a family dinner weeks in advance. No rushing through weekend visits. No long drives or fighting traffic. Here, grandparents are close enough to attend every school program — or meet up for an impromptu ice cream cone down in the Village Center. At Wildlight, spontaneous family time is the norm, not the exception. And when you’re just blocks (or a trail) away from one another, the physical proximity can make you feel that much closer. It’s like you’re all living under the same roof … but with the perfect amount of breathing room.
Gathering spots that feel like home
When you live at Wildlight, the community itself feels like an extension of your home. Planning a big family picnic? Head to one of our parks. Don’t feel like cooking? Meet up at one of the restaurants. Love trivia? Mocama hosts weekly themed trivia nights. There’s no shortage of places throughout the neighborhood where you can enjoy the company of those who matter most. (And even get a side of fries or craft beer while you’re at it.)
And then there’s the year-round events that provide more ways to play. Do a family 5K or 10K at the annual Run Wild race. Check out the weekend market place. Even play in the snow (yes, snow) at Winterfest. There’s always something going on here, which means making plans (and memories) just got easier.
Yep, there’s a club for that
Okay, so you can’t spend ALL your time with family. Which is why there are lots of ways to meet your neighbors, too. Whether you’re into games or gardening, books or cooking, there’s a club for almost every interest. Get together for Bunco night. Get in on the pickleball craze. Stay fit while making friends (and exploring the trails of Wildlight) with the Run/Walk club. If you have a hobby, there’s probably a club for it. (And if there’s not, well, we’d love for you to start one!)
So where will everyone live?
At Wildlight, it’s easy to find a home that fits your needs. Families with kids love Riverside Homes single-family homes — with plenty of space to grow, and an easy walk or bike ride to Wildlight Elementary. Dostie Homes’ Village Homes are modern and stylish — and low-maintenance. The new Pulte Homes bungalows in Hawthorn Park are perfect for those just starting out, or empty nesters who are settling down. And if you’re 55+, Del Webb Wildlight is a gated community with its own exclusive clubhouse that offers everything from a pool to a fitness center to a craft room to a bar & grill. In other words, everyone gets the home that suits their life, but they’re all still just a hop, skip or jump (or bike ride) away from each other.
Healthcare and wellness just around the corner
One of the perks of living in Wildlight is that your health and wellness needs can be handled right in the community. UF Health is right in the neighborhood, making doctor’s and physical rehabilitation appointments easy. The Wildlight Y has everything from fitness classes and equipment to an indoor running track to keep you moving. There’s a dance studio to help kids get some creative energy out. And when it’s tooth-cleaning time, Family Dental at Wildlight can take of your smile.
For the school-aged family members
At Wildlight, a great education is a given. Kids can start out at St. Clare Early Learning Center or KinderCare, both ready to help get them prepared for school. And then it’s on to Wildlight Elementary — a top-rated school right in our community. Carpooling just got that much easier.
A whole new kind of family friendly
No matter how big your family, or how old its members, everyone has a place here at Wildlight. We can’t wait to help you find it. (All of you.)
Wildlight is a town in nature. And while a whole other blog could be spent talking about the ‘town’ part — from the go-to restaurants to the must-have conveniences — this blog will be spent on the ‘nature.’ Because, there is oh-so-much of it.
Here’s a little peek into our parks.
Coin Toss Park
Wildlight’s newest park is now open. And no matter how you toss this coin, it always comes up fun. It’s the place to be if you want to play pickleball, sand volleyball and basketball. Let the dog run off leash and the kids climb on the play structures. Or relax by the water. This fenced-off park is a residents-only spot, which means chances are good you just might run into a neighbor there.
Whistling Duck Pond
Like to kayak? How about paddleboard? Or, if you’d rather stay near the water, rather than on it, how about reading a book by the shore, walking around the pond, or enjoying a picnic on the lawn? Whistling Duck Pond is the biggest water feature in our community, providing plenty of opportunities to rest, relax and reap the benefits of finding yourself in nature.
Four O’Clock Park
The hammocks say it all. This is a place to hang out, any time of day (don’t let the name fool you). Of course, we know that some people prefer active fun over the passive kind. So working out on the outdoor fitness equipment is always a good idea. (Don’t worry, you can relax by the pond after.)
Waterbug Park
Hear the phrase “community park” and one like Waterbug Park probably comes to mind. It has the pool. The kids’ playground. The cornhole and bocce ball and ping pong. In other words, Waterbug Park has it all. It’s a cool place to hang out on hot days. And an awesome way to meet your neighbors. Get ready, get set, and go have some water-filled fun.
Can’t wait to get out into the great outdoors? Visit these parks, or head out onto one of the trails that connect them to our neighborhoods and village center. Welcome to nature, the Wildlight way.
The kids are out of school — and full of energy. Good thing we know where they can get some of it out of their systems. The YMCA at Wildlight has programs and services for everyone to participate in.
Summer Camps
One of the most popular is the camps for kids ages 5–12. The YMCA has a wide range, including half-day specialty camps and full-day options — all offering the opportunity to learn new skills, find new hobbies and make new friends. The Y also offers swim lessons and swim tests for kids and adults alike. Active duty military? The Wildlight Y has a camp for kids of active-duty members through their Operation Hero program.
Sports Programs
The YMCA fun goes beyond camps. The Y has youth sports programs to get the kids moving, with youth basketball at the McArthur Family YMCA, and flag football and soccer at the YMCA at Wildlight. These leagues are another great way for kids to build camaraderie with their peers and develop friendships that will last beyond even the summer. (And the games are fun to watch, too!) And teens don’t need to feel left out of the fun. There are awesome opportunities to be camp counselors. (Just ask Autumn Franks.)
Fun for All Ages
The YMCA at Wildlight also has opportunities for the entire family to get out of the house, like the Families Unplugged series. It’s a chance to unplug and connect outside the house, without technology. (Kids not on phones … remember what that’s like?) And if you want to have a date night, Parent’s Night Out lets you go out together, and know that the kids are safe and staying occupied, having fun with games and arts & crafts.
It’s going to be a busy summer, and thanks to the Y, boredom won’t be a thing. Interested in becoming a member or learning more about the programs and services they offer? Stop by the Wildlight Y in person (it’s right in the community!), or visit online at fcymca.org.
The Horizon Club at Del Webb Wildlight is now open. And it has everything residents of the 55+ neighborhood could want to make their days feel more delightful. In fact, you could say that Horizon Club is where relaxation meets activation — and this 16,000-square-foot space has room for it all. (Even dogs get their very own park.)
Here, you can start your day with yoga on the event lawn, or soak in the sun by the resort-style pool. (Want to get a few laps in? There are lanes for that, too.) For the fitness-minded, a fully equipped workout center features top-of-the-line machines, weights and equipment. And outside, pickleball and tennis courts serve up fun for beginners and more seasoned players alike. Green thumbs (or those striving to be) can hone their skills in the community garden. And an arts & crafts room provides an outlet for creativity — whether your passion is painting or pottery.
Consider yourself a social type? There are plenty of spaces to gather as well — like an event ballroom for bigger get-togethers and an outdoor firepit for impromptu happy hours. Speaking of happy hours … the onsite bar and grill just might become your new favorite hangout (if, of course, you don’t want to head to Wildlight’s Village Center for a burger, tacos or sushi).
With all this space to play, relax and meet new friends and neighbors, don’t be surprised if spending time at Horizon Club feels like a little vacation — there’s even plenty of golf cart parking.
Homes in Del Webb Wildlight start in the $300s. Located conveniently between Amelia Island and Jacksonville, the architecture captures the charm of the Florida Lowcountry. Del Webb model homes are open daily.
Wildlight’s newest neighborhood, Hawthorn Park, doesn’t have a pond. It has three. But that’s not the only nature you’ll find here. This enclave by Pulte Homes backs to a preserve and has trail connections right outside your front door. And if you want to stroll to sushi or the hair salon, or bike to a craft beer at Mocama, you can do just that, because those trails will lead you to the Village Center.
Want to experience even more of the great outdoors? Whistling Duck Pond will be opening nearby soon (hint: start looking for a kayak or canoe). And Four O’clock Park, Coin Toss Park and Waterbug Park offer even more ways to spend your days — from sports courts and an event lawn to bocce ball and a playful pool. Even the furry family members of the four-legged kind have their own opportunity to expend some energy, at their very own off-leash area. If you’re thinking that sounds like a pretty perfect place to live, well, you’re absolutely right.
New homes … and a new kind of home
Hawthorn Park has two kinds of single-family homes by Pulte Homes. New-to-Wildight bungalows, with front porches and alley-load garages (many with homesites facing the pond). And the Village Homes, with thoughtful features like family-friendly gathering spaces and oversized kitchens. Whatever stage in life you’re at, or whichever floorplan you prefer, you’ll find the home that suits you best in this exciting new neighborhood.
Ready to find your new home at Hawthorn Park? Prices start in the $300s.
March 9th was a big day. As in big fun. A big run. And a big donation to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Nassau County.
Let’s start at … well, the starting line. Where over 923 runners participated in our second annual Run Wild 5K, new 10K and Family Fun Run. The course took place on the trailways and through the neighborhoods of Wildlight, where mile paces were met and personal records were set. And spectators had a great time lining the streets and cheering on friends, family — and complete strangers, too.
Across the finish line (where runners 21+ were greeted by a finisher beer from Mocama Beer Company), there was a lot more fun waiting. Like food trucks with crepes and refreshing Italian ice. A local vendor marketplace. A kids’ zone with rock wall, face painting, balloon animals and more. Massages for the runners. And live music by The Band Be Easy for a little post-run dancing.
A big shout-out to everyone who participated — and helped Wildlight raise $3,000 for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Nassau County. The volunteers who made everything run (pun intended) seamlessly. And our top men’s and women’s finishers: Eden Kendall (24:24) and Cayden Driggers (19:29) in the 5K and Marin Bograd (45:00) and Zach Wrobel (40:43) in the 10K. (Check out the full list of participants and finish times here.)
We’ve included some of our favorite pics from the day. But if you want to see more (or see what you missed), you can find more photos here and a video here.
After two years of successful races, we’d say we’re sufficiently warmed up for another Run Wild next year. Stay tuned!
The benefits of living in Nassau County
Living in Nassau County has countless benefits. And call us biased, but Wildlight is one of them. Beyond the variety of homes to fit every kind of family, we’re also proud to have a top-rated school right in the community. Read on to see why our part of Northeast Florida just might be the right move for you.
A lower cost of living
When you look at the price of a home in Nassau County vs. neighboring St. Johns County, the numbers are a welcome change. According to The Jacksonville Business Journal, the median price in Nassau County is $458K compared to St. Johns’ $510K. Meaning you can either get the same size home for less money—or get more bang for your buck. And because much of the land here is still being developed, your options for variety when searching for a new home are greater, too. (You can start your home search at Wildlight right here.)
Beaches, jobs and a small-town feel
Nassau County has been gaining popularity because it puts you close to beaches. Close to employment centers. Near the airport and activity of Jacksonville. But with a noticeably less crowded feel than some of the surrounding areas. In fact, at the end of 2023, the population of Nassau County was 102,000—about a third of St. Johns’ 327,000 residents. In other words, a little breathing room.
A great education at Wildlight
Students who live in our community get to learn in one of the best school districts in the state. The Nassau County School District is ranked #2 out of 67, thanks to high graduation rates, impressive test scores and consistent “A” ratings. Combine that with a low 16:1 average student-teacher ratio, a diverse variety of sports and extracurriculars, academically rigorous courses and a focus on incorporating the latest technology in classrooms, and you can see why kids here are set up to succeed. And if you have a child in elementary school, you’ll be happy to know that U.S. News & World Report just ranked our very own Wildlight Elementary 4th out of all the public elementary schools in Northeast Florida. Which means your kids can not only learn at one of the best schools in the area … they can walk there, too.
Interested in living in Northeast Florida? Find your new home at Wildlight from the $500s. Find your home.
Under beautiful blue skies and warm temperatures on Feb. 1, more than 50 people joined Pattillo Industrial Real Estate and the Nassau County Economic Development Board for the official announcement of the opening the Wildlight Commerce Park located at Wildworks Avenue and SR 200.