The holiday season is here, and in sunny southwest Florida, there is plenty to see and do. Naples knows how to do the holidays in style! Take your pick from any number of holiday events and activities!
Third Street South opens its Celebration of Lights on November 26. Browse among twinkling light displays, and enjoy “snowfall” under the stars at 7:30 pm through November 30.
Up on Fifth Avenue South, the annual tree lighting will take place on December 5, with activities from 5 - 9:30 p.m. Enjoy local dance troupes, live music, and a visit from Santa himself!
Enjoy the tree lighting festivities at The Mercato on December 6. Strolling carolers, special music and dance performances, and of course the tree itself will brighten your holiday.
Who doesn’t love a parade? The annual Naples Christmas Parade is a holiday highlight, set for December 10 at 6 pm. The parade route travels from Broad Ave to 3rd Street South, to 5th Ave South, and end on 8th Street South. In the mood for something a little different? Stroll down Fifth Avenue South on December 12 to enjoy TUBA Christmas. In combination with the traditional Evening on Fifth, you’ll feel the holiday spirit with and evening of music, dining, and shopping.
Kids of all ages will want to be at The Mercato on December 14. Start the day with Breakfast with Santa at Bravo! at 9 am., then stay for the Holiday Collector Car Show, which runs until 3 pm. Over 100 classics will be on display for the enjoyment of car enthusiasts and novices alike.
The evening of December 14, 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 18 and running on selected evenings through January 5, you’ll love Night Lights 2013 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.
Finally, 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.
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.
