The holiday season is here, and Naples does the holidays in style!
Take your pick from any number of holiday events and activities - there is something going on almost every day through this beautiful season.
A local treasure awaits in the Victoria Park Neighborhood off Airport-Pulling Rd. north of Vanderbilt Beach. The entire neighborhood lights up as residents provide a showcase of themed holiday decorations. Make this a special trip, or simply drive through on your way home from dinner one evening during December. You’ll be asked to turn off your headlights and creep along at 5 mph. as you soak in the unique community spirit of Victoria Park. There is no charge for admission - residents consider it a gift to the community.
Voices of Naples take you “Home for the Holidays” in their annual concert on December 7 at 7 pm. No tickets are needed for this event at Emmanual Lutheran Church.
Who doesn’t love a parade? The annual Naples Christmas Parade is a holiday highlight, set for December 8 at 6 pm. The parade route travels from Broad Ave to 3rd Street South, to 5th Ave South, and end on 8th Street South.
Come back downtown on December 10 for Naples’ traditional Evening on Fifth. You’ll feel the holiday spirit with and evening of music, dining, and shopping. Fifth Avenue is a lovely destination any time, but especially at Christmas time!
The evening of December 12, check out the Naples Bay Boat Parade at 6:30 pm. View the boats from Tin City or Crayton Cove. Where else will you see luxurious vessels decked out for the holidays? It adds a uniquely “Florida feel” to your holiday season.
Starting December 16 and running on selected evenings through January 3, you’ll love Night Lights 2015 at the Naples Botanical Gardens. The beautiful gardens will be adorned with thousands of lights. You’ll enjoy special music and family activities throughout the evening.
In the mood for something a little different? Stroll down Fifth Avenue South on December 17 to enjoy TUBA Christmas. In combination with the Naples Carolers, you’ll enjoy a festive musical evening.
Santa makes a special stop at Waterside Shops on December 19 and 20 from 1-4 pm. Don’t miss it!
Also on December 19, kids of all ages will enjoy the Santa in Wonkaland event at The Mercato. From 11-1, you’ll enjoy face painting, balloon art, treats, and even a chance to meet members of author Roald Dahl’s family.
Finally, ring in the new year with another Naples tradition: fireworks at the newly renovated Naples Pier. The show starts at 7:30 pm so you’ll have plenty of time for merriment afterward. Arrive early for good parking - and the show is visible at beaches all the way up to Vanderbilt Beach, so consider those options as well.
Naples does indeed sparkle throughout the holiday season. Music, lights, and plenty of smiles will greet you as you explore all that Naples has to offer. May each of you find plenty to celebrate!
