Something For Everyone With These Weekend Events In Southwest Florida

Finally, we have a weekend weather forecast with no rain anticipated for EITHER day. It's a good thing because there are parades in Fort Myers, bike night in Cape Coral, and seafood festivals in Bonita Springs, among other things. There is something for everyone with these weekend events in Southwest Florida. Find them all here in your Weekend Vibes for February 9th through 11th.

Festivities surrounding the annual Edison Festival of Light are underway and there are a lot of them. This weekend is the big Junior Parade through the streets of downtown Fort Myers. In addition, there is a fun run for the kids prior to the parade. There is even a parade for pets. Scroll down for more on all of these family friendly events. This festival has a long history in Southwest Flroida, 86 years long.

Of course, this weekend is Super Bowl LVIII. Most events are scheduled to wrap up in plenty of time for you to make your party or get home and into your PJ's with your chips and dips ready. If you are still looking for some different dishes to nosh on during the game, you can find a few recipes here. Enjoy the game.

Finally, if you have any upcoming events that you would like to share, please send them here. Here are your Weekend Vibes for February 9th through the 11th. Get out, support local and have lots of fun at these events.

*Please note, events are subject to change. It never hurts to confirm with a phone call or check of social media as well as event websites.

For the past 86 years, Fort Myers has been celebrating its most famous winter resident (Thomas Edison) during the span of three weeks. One of the highlights is the Junior Parade and fun run. It is this Sunday. Don't worry, you'll be home in time to catch the big game. The run is at noon along First Street and the parade begins at 1:30 and winds down several streets. It's always a fun family event. More info here.

This is the third year for this festival celebrating Florida's favorite cuisine, seafood. Lots of music is also scheduled for the weekend. There are vendors, arts and crafts and lots more. The festival is Friday 3pm to 9pm, Saturday 11am to 9pm and wraps up Sunday from 11am to 6pm. It's at the Poker Room (the old Dog Track) in Bonita Springs. Free. More info here.

This event happens three times a year in downtown Cape Coral along 47th Terrace. The street is blocked off, there is a huge stage for entertainment and there are lots of vendors on site. Food and drinks are available and there is a so-called "Slow" Bike Race. Saturday, 5pm to 10pm. More info here.

This place is a hidden Southwest Florida gem and there is a big fund raiser on Friday. The Peace River Botanical and Sculpture Garden is getting transformed into an Italian piazza for the party. There will be lots to eat and drink at the fun event as well. Friday from 6-9 pm at the gardens on Riverside Drive in Punta Gorda. Tickets start at $150. More info here. 

This is a well known juried art show taking place in the charming Riverside Park on Old US 41 in downtown Bonita Springs. More than 200 artists in nearly 20 categories will be on hand with their unique works. It's a family friendly event. Saturday and Sunday 10am to 5pm. Free. More info here.

The annual Mutt Strut is one of the many festivities associated with the Edison Festival of Light. Who says all of the parades and ceremonies should be reserved for humans. This event honors our four legged friends. There is a pet parade, a costume contest and all kinds of fun for pet owners and animal lovers. It is adorable. The event is Saturday from 11am to 3pm in Centennial Park at Hendry Street in downtown Fort Myers. Free. More info here.

The big fair opens Friday and runs for two weeks. This was originally scheduled for December for the holidays but was postponed. For animal lovers there is both Cow Town and Racing Pigs. In addition, there are plenty of rides, shows, and lots food. The fair runs throught the 18th. More info here.

Travel around the world and never leave SWFL this weekend. It's time for the annual International Festival at Mercato in North Naples. The cuisine and cultures of some 30 countries will be represented at this event on the lawn. Entertainment ranges from Mariachi Bands to Polynesian dancing. There is even a parade. Saturday 11am to 4pm. Free. More info here.

This art show takes place at Cambier Park in Naples which is just one block south of Fifth Avenue South. If this sound familiar, it is. Naples Art Crafters present this monthly during season through April. The 10am to 4pm. Free. More info here.

If you love vintage goods, this festival is right up your alley. It opens Friday and runs through Sunday at the Lee Civic Center on Bayshore Road in North Fort Myers. Find treasures from home décor to clothing to jewelry and more. 10am to 4pm each day. $6. More info here.

Gulf Coast Town Center has a big Mardi Gras bash planned for Saturday.  There will be all kinds of performances, vendors, photo booths and kids activities. For pet owners and lovers, there is a Mardi Paws Parade too. In addition to the party there is a canned food drive to benefit Community Cooperative. 4pm to 7pm in the courtyard. More info here.