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What To Do In Southwest Florida This Weekend

Person in gingerbread man costume, standing by a table outside and waving

Meteorologist say we are in for some inclement weather this weekend. It likely wont be enough to dampen the holiday spirit. However it could alter some of the events that are scheduled. In fact, the annual Cape Coral Boat Parade is one of the events that has been canceled. Be sure to double check social media sites, websites or pick up the phone to call and double check the status of activities. Especially those that are outdoors. To give you a guide of where to start, we've put together a list of what to do in Southwest Florida this Weekend. Here are your Weekend Vibes for December 15-17th.

Santa Clause is making the rounds once again this weekend. You'll find him at holiday celebrations and parades all over Southwest Florida.

Southwest Florida This Weekend

You'll find a number of holiday markets and fairs perfect for completing your shopping list. And there there is the Nutcracker, a classic ballet that takes to the stage at Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall.

In addition, there are also lots of ongoing Holiday activities such as Holiday Nights at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, Holiday Stroll in Bonita Springs and Christmas at Farmer Mikes. You can find that list here. Finally, if you have any upcoming events that you would like to share, please send them here.  Here are your Weekend Vibes for December 15th through 17th. Get out and have some local fun at these

*Please note, events are subject to change. It never hurts to confirm.

Bonita Holiday Fair

Kicking off this weekend is a festival for the entire family. This event features amusement rides, a pettng zoo, holiday displays, games, music, food and more.  Santa will be there too. This takes place through January 1st.  $10 admission, however, there is a two-for-one deal with an online coupon. Rides cost extra. Bonita Springs Poker Room, Bonita Beach Road. More info here

Winter Wonderland: A Winter Fair

The annaul event put on by Charlotte County Community Services celebrates all things winter. Interact with holiday cahracters including Santa. There will be games, crafts. Time has been set aside from noon-1pm for kids and families with disabilities. The event will not be as loud or bright. The event goes until 4pm Saturday, Centennial Park Recreation Center, Port Charlotte.  Free. More info here. 

 

Holiday Market At South Seas

Chawick Square on Captiva Ilsland will be transformed into Christmas village with shops, smores and fun for the entire family. Santa will be there and movies are planned as well. The event is this Friday and Saturday as well as the following weekend. Free. More info here.

“The Nutcracker,” Gulfshore Ballet

Presented by Gulfshore Ballet and the Gulf Coast Symphony, this is a holiday classic. The curtain goes up Saturday for both matinee and evening performances; 2pm and 7:30pm. Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall, Fort Myers. Ticket prices vary.  More info here. 

Winterfest

Fort Myers Brewing Company puts on this four day event every year.  Not only do they release specialty beers and bring in food trucks for the occasion, they also have a line up of musicicans and a night market for some shopping. Saturday features a “Movie in the Parking Lot” screening of The Grinch. The Grinch will be there for photos from 5-8. Check the website for a schedule of entertainment and activities.

SWFL Video Game, Toy & Collectibles Show

Get some shopping done at this pop-culture and vintage show. It's Sunday at Doubletree by Hilton Fort Myers at Bell Tower Shops. 10am-5pm. $5, kids 10 and younger free. More info here

Gina Birch brings the sunshine to Sunny 106.3 every weekday morning from 6-10. She has worked in radio, television and print in Southwest Florida for nearly 30 years. During that time, she has become an advocate for numerous charities including those that support animals, children, women and wellness. In addition, she has written for numerous local, regional and national publications about food, wine and travel. Those are her longtime passions...along with shoes.