Fort Myers EventsEscape the cold winter snow and surround yourself with warm sandy Sanibel and Captiva Island beaches instead while staying with Sanibel Vacations. Even Thomas Edison was a winter resident in Florida for 50 years and spent much of his time working on projects and supporting the local charities. The Edison Festival of Lights is a two-week celebration honoring Thomas Alva Edison. It is the largest and longest-running festival in Southwest, FL that features a variety of Fort Myers events. Learn more about the activities you can look forward to at the famous festival that should be added to your list of things to do in Florida, below!  

1. For the Kids

The STEMtastic Day of Discovery is one of the best Fort Myers events at the festival that allows children and adults to participate in interactive areas that feature engineering, math, technology, and science. After all, it wouldn’t be right to celebrate the most significant inventor in America’s life without some unique activities, exhibits, and fun interactive things to do in Florida at the event! (1st weekend)

2. Food and Drink

What makes one of the best Fort Myers events so great? A day full of craft beer and delicious Florida eats, that’s what! Indulge in tasty food truck grub from places like Gater John BBQ, Hungry Pony, Maverick Grille, Mobstah Lobstah, Wicked Streatery, and craft brews from Suncoast Beverage. (1st weekend) 

3. Strut Your Mutt

Pet owners, dog lovers, and local pet agencies love to gather each year for the Mutt Strutt. Watching pooches strut their stuff in their finest attire will be one of your favorite pet-related things to do in Florida, and there are even dog floats in the mix! (1st weekend)

4. Get Crafty

Downtown Fort Myers, Florida, will become a craft enthusiasts dream with 100 exhibitors displaying their creations. Crafts on the River is one of the most admired Fort Myers events at the festival as you’ll be able to talk with the local artists and browse everything from jewelry, drawings, sculptures, photography, and there’s even edible art. (2nd weekend)

5. Keep it Classy

Bask in a day of nostalgia and chat with the car owners at the Classic Car Show in the Downtown River District in Fort Myers, Florida. (2nd weekend)

6. For the Run of It 

Two widely popular Fort Myers events that happen at the festival are the Junior Fun Run and the 5k Run for adults. The junior run is for 5th grade and under, featuring different heats for various ages, and happens during the first weekend. The 5k Run for adults happens the second weekend of the festival and has roughly 1,400 participants each year. 

7. Parade Celebrations

There’s not just one but two parades that happen in Fort Myers, Florida, during the festival. The Grade Parade features massive floats, giant balloons, fireworks, street performers, clowns, and more! The Junior Parade is a little preview that caters to children and families and happens the week prior to the Grand Parade. (1st and 2nd weekend)

Winter Escapes to Sanibel and Captiva Island

Fort Myers EventsOne of the best Fort Myers events happens annually in February and features craft shows, parades, food, kids activities and so much more! Before the colder months are in full swing, book your Captiva and Sanibel Island vacation so that you have something to look forward to during the coldest months of the year. Save big by booking directly and pay the lowest possible price with no hidden fees! Take a look at our accommodations page to see the best option for you and your loved ones. Please call 1-239-579-0348 to chat with a friendly staff member if you have any questions before booking.