Mark your calendar for the weekend of June 15-17, 2007 when the Jekyll Island Foundation presents the Sixth Annual Family Weekend. This three-day fundraising celebration highlights the best of Jekyll Island with activities and events for the entire family. Proceeds benefit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and ongoing conservation and preservation efforts of Jekyll Island.

This year’s Family Weekend marks a special milestone with the grand opening of the world class Georgia Sea Turtle Center. The first of its kind in Georgia, the center is a $3 million dollar facility dedicated to the rehabilitation, treatment and research of sea turtles and also has an impressive, interactive museum component to educate the public on these magnificent creatures that are some of the most famous residents of coastal Georgia.

The weekend fundraiser introduces patrons to all of the wonders of Jekyll Island through specially designed activities for families. During the day, golf tournaments at Jekyll Island’s Pine Lakes Golf Course, as well as an abundance of nature-based activities, such as fishing, kayaking, dolphin watching or a leisurely stroll through the National Historic Landmark District, explore Jekyll’s treasures.

Saturday evening swings with a 1920s-style gala taking place on the grounds of the National Historic Landmark District near the Hollybourne Cottage. Dress for the gala is “island casual” or “1920’s era.” A live auction of 10 themed-lots will happen throughout the evening. Guests will sample an array of delicious costal cuisine featuring the region’s fresh, ocean catches while listening to the smooth jazz sounds of the Phil Morrison Quartet. During the gala, children will have their own special gathering featuring music and cultural storytellers. The evening will be full of surprises when historical references come alive and a collection of talents attract both adults and children.

Space for the weekend is limited, and registration is required. From individual to family to corporate group packages, various sponsorship levels are allowing everyone to participate. The Jekyll Island Foundation is also offering Saturday Single Activity tickets this year. Each ticket allows you to join in an activity, such as the 18-hole morning golf tournament, a two-hour shrimp trawling educational voyage aboard the UGA Research Vessel ‘Georgia Bulldog’, a dolphin watching cruise, or a near-shore four-hour fishing trip boarding at the Jekyll Island Marina. Single Activity tickets are also available for the Saturday evening Gala, the weekend’s most popular event.