Fort Myers Beach Margaritaville Hotel Construction Update

The sun sets behind what is left of the Fort Myers Beach Pier on January 25, 2023 in Fort Myers Beach, Florida. The pier was destroyed in Hurricane Ian. The process of rebuilding continues four months after the hurricane passed. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

We're approaching 7 months since Hurricane Ian hit Southwest Florida. And the destruction is still very evident. A lot of time has been spent cleaning up the Times Square Area of Fort Myers Beach. When you're there, things really are showing signs of progress. It's actually nice on the beach. Instead of all the wrecked buildings there's now a lot of empty spaces where they used to be. If you drive a little further down the road, however, the ruins of Hurricane Ian are still very evident. There's still a lot to do on Fort Myers Beach. And Sanibel, And Captiva. But it all takes time. In what has become a shining beacon of hope, progress of the Fort Myers Beach Margaritaville continues at good pace.

Whenever I see a picture, or fresh video, it's obvious how much has changed. Margaritaville is getting closer to opening. Which will bring tourists to the beach. Which will support residents and other businesses of Fort Myers Beach. Here's video from April 21 from the drone of Brian Kennedy on Fort Myers Beach.

Look at all the color on Fort Myers Beach Margaritaville.

I love seeing that. According to the resort's website, "Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers Beach is scheduled to open in late 2023. "

26 Mexican Restaurants In Southwest Florida To Celebrate Cinco De Mayo

So, why do we celebrate Cinco de Mayo anyway? According to National Calendar Day, Cinco de Mayo is a yearly celebration held on May 5, commemorating the anniversary of Mexico’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

Here in the United States, we have Americanized it and given ourselves another reason to go out and party, have some drinks and delicious food, all on a week night (at least this year it's a Friday). It's like St. Patrick's Day in May.

In fact, Cinco De Mayo is more celebrated in the United States than it is in Mexico. That's why we put together this list of 26 Mexican Restaurants In Southwest Florida For Cinco De Mayo.

Florida isn't too far from Mexico, but there are tons of places to hit up for a margarita (or three) and some tacos on May 5th. Several of the local restaurants listed below are hosting a Cinco De Mayo celebration of their own next week. Be sure to stay tuned for details on those. And, if there's a restaurant we've missed, let us know.

Check out the list below and make plans with your amigos for next Friday, May 5th!