Spending the holidays away from the winter wonderland of snow-covered states doesn’t mean you can’t ring in the Christmas cheer! Visitors to Naples and Marco Island, Florida during the holiday season will enjoy temperate weather perfect for beach days and more than a few options for holiday events.
Stroll through the Naples Botanical Garden during the holiday season to enjoy thousands of lights, live music performances, and family-friendly activities. Make sure to pop into the Garden’s Fogg Café for a bit to eat and a signature cocktail.
If you love beautiful historic homes, Christmas at Naples Historical Society’s Historic Palm Cottage is not to be missed! Enjoy a holiday celebration in the oldest house in Naples, complete with period-relevant decorations throughout the house and garden.
Children of all ages should not miss the month-long holiday celebrations at Collier County Museums. Throughout December, you’ll find children and adult programs like American Holiday Food Traditions, Cowboy Christmas, and Pioneer Christmas. To top it all off, all events are free.
The Annual Christmas Walk and Lighting Ceremony at 5th Avenue South is a perfect way to spend a festive evening. Up and down Fifth Avenue South there will be holiday performances, photo opportunities with Santa, and businesses open for holiday cheer. If you are staying on Marco Island, you can also join in on the Annual Marco Island Christmas Tree Lighting and Community Celebration.
Those missing a traditional white Christmas can partake in Snowfest Naples put on by Collier County Parks and Recreation. They’ll enjoy “real” snow, sledding, ice skating, carnival games, and so much more! Make sure to take a peek into the Elves Magic Workshop, Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen, and Santa’s South Pole.
No holiday season is complete without a parade or two, and the Naples area has some great options! Enjoy the Marco Island or Naples Christmas Parades in person or enjoy the Naples parade from the comfort of your hotel via live stream! To really take advantage of the Florida winter weather check out the Bonita Springs, Naples Bay, or Marco Island Boat Parades where light-decked boats cruise along the calm waters.
The festival of lights is in full swing at the Naples Community Chanukah Celebration featuring a latke eating contest, Klezmer music, menorah lighting, and more holiday fun!
What better way to wrap up a festive holiday season than with New Year’s Eve Fireworks over the Gulf of Mexico. The dazzling display is best viewed from the beach near the Naples Pier. Regardless of how you choose to spend your holiday vacation in the Naples, Florida area, it’s sure to be one filled with cheer!
Check out Naples, Marco Island and Everglades City events.