Southwest Florida Holiday Events To Celebrate the Season
Christmas in Southwest Florida is truly a magical time with unique touches that bring out the tropical holiday spirit. Palm trees wrapped in twinkling lights, vibrant decorations, and balmy evenings make it a special experience. From tree lightings and boat parades to a visit from Santa, there are dozens of festive activities for the entire family to enjoy. Here’s a list of the most popular events that both residents and visitors can look forward to.
Edison and Ford Holiday Nights
Edison and Ford Winter Estates, Ft. Myers
November 29th- January 5th (except Dec 24th and 25th)
A beloved tradition in Fort Myers, this event transforms the historic estates into a stunning holiday display. Visitors can stroll through gardens and buildings beautifully lit and decorated, all set against the backdrop of Florida’s history. The estates are adorned with thousands of lights, illuminating the gardens, historic homes, and iconic banyan tree.
Enjoy tours, children’s holiday activities, seasonal treats from the gift shop, and live musical performances. A perfect mix of history, holiday cheer, and the beauty of Florida’s natural landscape makes for a memorable experience that adds a uniquely local touch to the holiday season.
City of Naples Parade
Downtown Naples
December 3, 2024 | 6:30pm
This classic event is one of the highlights of the season, drawing families and friends to the streets to watch colorful floats, marching bands, and a special visit from Santa. It’s a wonderful way for the community to come together and celebrate.
The parade will begin at 6:30pm and travel north up 3rd Street South from Broad Ave, travel east on 5th Ave South and then travel south on 8th Street. This is one of Naples’ most popular annual events, so parking and space for seating along the street goes very quickly.
Tree Lighting & Cirque Experience
Mercato, Naples
December 4, 2024 | 5:30-8:00pm
An evening of festive fun awaits at this highly anticipated event that features a mix of live entertainment, holiday cheer, and a breathtaking tree lighting ceremony. Enjoy live music, cirque & dance performances, and the lighting of the largest REAL tree in Southwest Florida.
There will be dance performances from local studios Dance Arts by Maria, Backstage Dance and Naples Dance Conservatory, and “Rock around the Christmas Tree” with talent from Jade Strings and Cayman. Stroll the Event lawn and enjoy a rotation of cirque performances including silks, lyra, fire performances, contortionists, cyr wheel, and more.
Holiday in the Park
Riverside Park, Bonita Springs
December 5, 2024 | 4:30-8:30pm
With its scenic views along the Imperial River and sparkling holiday lights, Riverside Park is the perfect setting for this family-friendly event. Festivities include a tree lighting ceremony, school band performances, dance performances, and a visit from Santa.
The Mayor and City Council, as well as officials from Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue District and Lee County Sheriff’s Office will be on hand to light the holiday tree. Food and beverages will be available to purchase, and there will be numerous children’s activities, such as face painting, holiday crafts, flurries in the park, and a snow slide.
Traditional Holiday Stroll on Third
Third St. South, Downtown Naples
December 12th | 5:00-8:00pm
Strolling along Third Street South in Naples during the holiday season is a magical experience. The combination of live Christmas music, Christmas carolers, and sparkling lights and decorations transforms this charming area into a festive wonderland each year.
While enjoying the festivities, you can shop Third Street South’s upscale boutiques, art galleries, and enjoy fine dining at world-class restaurants. There will also be an official tree lighting and even a snow machine to put everyone in the holiday spirit.
Naples Christmas Boat Parade
Naples Bay
December 14th | 6:15pm
This annual Christmas Boat Parade is a festive way to get everyone into the holiday spirit! Whether you’re decorating your own boat or watching it from the water or one of the many public viewing locations along Naples Bay, this event brings a special kind of holiday magic for the whole family.
The parade starts at 6:15pm from Marker 18 and continues to Naples City Dock and Pincher's at Tin City, where the boats then travel back down the Bay into Port Royal's Man-O-War and Morgan Cove. Viewing locations include Naples City Dock, Pincher's at Tin City, Riverwalk Restaurant, Naples Landing, Kelly's Fish House, The Boat House on Naples Bay, and Bayview Park.
Cape Coral Holiday Boat-a-Long
Four Freedoms Park
December 21st | 4:00-9:00pm
The Cape Coral Holiday Boat-A-Long is a cherished tradition, celebrating over 40 years of holiday cheer in the Cape Coral community. Held at Four Freedoms Park, this free, family-friendly event draws locals and visitors alike for a festive evening by the water.
The highlight of the evening is the boat parade, where over 40 festively decorated boats cruise along the Bimini Basin. In addition to the boat parade, there will be stage entertainment and performances, food trucks and vendors, kids’ crafts and activities, and a chance to chat with Santa.
