What’s Happening Thanksgiving Weekend In Southwest Florida

Thanksgiving weekend is finally here. It is a time punctuated by shopping and Black Friday kicks it all off. Sales used to be specific to this day and while some still are, retailers are pulling out the stops to keep you spending all weekend. In addition, this is the weekend when many people start decorating for Christmas. These two things alone are certainly enough to keep you busy. However, when you are ready to take a break here is what's happening Thanksgiving Weekend in Southwest Florida. Your Weekend Vibes for November 24-26 are below.

The weekend after Thanksgiving is known for the kick off of many holiday events. This one is no exception. You can have brunch with Santa in Cape Coral or dress like Santa for fun bar crawl. For sports fans, it is time for the annual Fort Myers Tip Off college basketball tournament. In addition, the weather is predicted to be pleasant for outdoor activities like art shows and holiday light viewing. These details are all below.

Some of you are having delayed Thanksgiving meals. The spirit of the holiday can be celebrated whenever it suits your schedule. If you need help with the turkey, there are some tips here. In addition, here are a few wines to pair with your feast, suggested by two Southwest Florida experts.

Finally, if you have any upcoming events that you would like to share, please send them here. There are lots of cool things to do for Thanksgiving weekend in Southwest Florida. Here are your Weekend Vibes for  November 24-26. Get out and have some local fun. Cheers.

Sullivan Street in Punta Gorda comes alive with art and vendors this weekend. Get some Christmas shopping done and support the artist community. Saturday and Sunday 10am-5pm. Free More info here.

This college basketball tournament is a Thanksgiving tradition. This year 15 teams are participating. The action takes place at Suncoast Credit Union Arena at FSW in Fort Myers. More info here.

Another trolley party and bar crawl takes place in Cape Coral Saturday. This one is Christmas themed. Dress in festive PJ's and onesies and visit numerous bars and restaurants while enjoying holiday-themed drink and appetizer samples. Win great prizes and have fun from 7-11 p.m. Check-in from 6-7:30 p.m. at Big John Plaza. $25-$35.

Have brunch with Santa and a great view this Sunday at Marker 92 Waterfront Bar and Bistro, at the Westin Cape Coral Resort. There is a special brunch buffet created especially for kids. The best part is Santa, in a waterfront setting that is sooo Florida. Sunday 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM. $45 adults, $25 12 years and under, 5 and under are free.

The South Cape Business Gift-or-Treat is a spin on last month's  annual Business Trick-or-Treat. Only here, business fill kids stockings wtih all kinds of holiday goodies. Meet Santa along the way and take photos. Saturday, downtown Cape Coral, 12pm to 4pm. More info here. 

This annual event features more than a million lights at Fisherman's Village in Punta Gorda. See Santa, the Grinch and more, now through New Year's Eve. Shuttles are available, Free. More info here.

Exercise off those Thanksgiving carbs with a choice of 62, 40, 20, 10, and 5-mile biking routes. There are also  2.5 and 5-mile walking options. Children under 12 can ride or walk free with a paid adult on some routes. Food is provided before and after the race, along with music and more. Sunday 7am, Eagle Lakes Community Park.  More info here. 

Magic of Lights is underway at the Collier County Fair Ground. The grounds are alive with two million lights in all kinds of holiday displays. Best part is, you drive through the displays. You'll see everything from a Winter Wonderland, to a 200 foot long Enchanting Tunnel of Lights, along with life sized dinosaurs and a 32-foot-tall animated Mattel’s Waving Christmas Barbie®. There are activities outside of your car as well. The event runs through New Year's Eve. Tickets start at $18.50. More info here.