At this time of year, many permanent residents of Naples notice car haulers heading north on I-75. It’s a sign that the Snowbirds have begun their exodus northward for another year.
But I’d urge my northern friends (and year-round residents alike!) to stay just a bit longer and enjoy the breathtaking scenes and activities that are part of springtime in Naples.
You’re sure to enjoy….
….the Naples Botanical Gardens in full blossom.
….the International Food Fest at The Mercato, benefitting St. Matthew’s House. Mark your calendar for May 4 and stroll along the sidewalks. Your sampling benefits a great cause!
….Moon over Buffalo, presented by The Naples Players at the beautiful Sugden Theater. Not a bad seat in the house!
….ArtsNaples World Festival, this year highlighting the cultural arts of Italy. Enjoy opera, concerts, fashion, photography, and food May 1-10, at various venues around town.
….Dinner without a wait at your favorite restaurant around town. Spring and summer menus make their debut, and promotions and discounts encourage diners to try something new.
….A round of golf at “off season” pricing. Check out Arrowhead Golf Club off Immokalee Rd., where a round of golf after 5 pm is only $32. You’ll catch a gorgeous sunset as an added bonus, and enjoy golf on Naples’ top rated public course.
….The Conservancy of Southwest Florida’s Earth Day Festival on April 19.
….An array of Easter activities. Vineyard’s Community Park hosts Peter Cottontail’s Garden Party, Waterside Shops holds its annual egg hunt (benefitting the Community School of Naples). Thousands of eggs and prizes await at the Naples Botanical Gardens’ annual hunt. And our local restauranteurs are planning spectacular holiday brunches and dinners for Easter Sunday.
….An exciting trip aboard the Fort Myers Murder Mystery Dinner Train.
….Laughter at Off The Hook Comedy Club on Marco Island.
….Movies on the lawn at Cambier Park and The Mercato. Bring your lawn chair and enjoy family movies under the stars.
….Ample room to browse at our local farm markets.
….An evening drive down to Marco Island or out to Ave Maria, where you’ll enjoy landscapes and trees in full blossom or the the beauty of Florida’s orange groves.
There’s more, of course. Whether you’re snow birding or here year round, April and May offer spectacular opportunities for all of us here in Paradise. The joy of the Naples lifestyle doesn’t end when spring arrives!
