Naples, Fla., transforms into a holiday wonderland each year, offering countless opportunities to celebrate the season with family and friends. From twinkling light displays to holiday parades, this guide highlights the top events and provides all the details you need to make the most of your holiday season in Naples.
Naples Christmas Parade
Date: December 3
Another cherished tradition is the Naples Christmas Parade, a festive procession featuring colorful floats, marching bands, and holiday characters. This year’s parade takes place on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, starting at 6:30 p.m.
The parade route begins on Broad Avenue South and continues along 8th Street South, making it easy to find a viewing spot. Downtown parking is available in public garages or along the streets, though spaces fill up quickly.
Before or after the parade, consider visiting a restaurant on Fifth Avenue South, like Truluck's or The French Brasserie Rustique, for a celebratory meal. This free, family-friendly event is a must-see for all ages.
Another cherished tradition is the Naples Christmas Parade, a festive procession featuring colorful floats, marching bands, and holiday characters. This year’s parade takes place on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, starting at 6:30 p.m.
The parade route begins on Broad Avenue South and continues along 8th Street South, making it easy to find a viewing spot. Downtown parking is available in public garages or along the streets, though spaces fill up quickly.
Before or after the parade, consider visiting a restaurant on Fifth Avenue South, like Truluck's or The French Brasserie Rustique, for a celebratory meal. This free, family-friendly event is a must-see for all ages.
Meet Santa at Naples Fashion Week Collective
Date: December 3
Celebrate the season at Naples Fashion Week Collective at 375 5th Ave South (second floor). Enjoy a festive evening with family-friendly activities, including photos with Santa, holiday crafts for kids, and hot chocolate. Adults can relax with festive cocktails or a cash bar while soaking in views of the parade from the terrace.
Known for its luxury trunk shows and prime location on 5th Ave South, NFW Collective offers a chic setting to make holiday memories. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to meet Santa and embrace the holiday spirit in style.
Celebrate the season at Naples Fashion Week Collective at 375 5th Ave South (second floor). Enjoy a festive evening with family-friendly activities, including photos with Santa, holiday crafts for kids, and hot chocolate. Adults can relax with festive cocktails or a cash bar while soaking in views of the parade from the terrace.
Known for its luxury trunk shows and prime location on 5th Ave South, NFW Collective offers a chic setting to make holiday memories. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to meet Santa and embrace the holiday spirit in style.
Mercato Christmas Tree Lighting
Date: December 3
Kick off the holiday season with the annual Mercato Christmas Tree Lighting, a magical evening filled with festive entertainment and community spirit. This free event features live music, mesmerizing cirque and dance performances, and the lighting of the largest real Christmas tree in Southwest Florida — a truly breathtaking sight.
Guests can park in the complimentary parking garage or opt for valet service. However, with high attendance expected, carpooling or using a ride-share service is highly recommended for a hassle-free experience.
Kick off the holiday season with the annual Mercato Christmas Tree Lighting, a magical evening filled with festive entertainment and community spirit. This free event features live music, mesmerizing cirque and dance performances, and the lighting of the largest real Christmas tree in Southwest Florida — a truly breathtaking sight.
Guests can park in the complimentary parking garage or opt for valet service. However, with high attendance expected, carpooling or using a ride-share service is highly recommended for a hassle-free experience.
Holiday Stroll in the Naples Design District
Date: December 4
Experience the creativity and charm of the Naples Design District during the 8th Annual Holiday Stroll. Scheduled for Wednesday, December 4, 2024, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., this event features live music, festive décor, and local artisans offering unique gifts. The stroll is free and open to the public, making it a perfect evening outing for all.
Parking is available in the district's public lots and along nearby streets, but arriving early is recommended for convenience. After exploring the shops, enjoy a meal at local favorites like The Bevy or Nosh on Naples Bay. The event is family-friendly and a delightful way to combine holiday cheer with shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts.
Experience the creativity and charm of the Naples Design District during the 8th Annual Holiday Stroll. Scheduled for Wednesday, December 4, 2024, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., this event features live music, festive décor, and local artisans offering unique gifts. The stroll is free and open to the public, making it a perfect evening outing for all.
Parking is available in the district's public lots and along nearby streets, but arriving early is recommended for convenience. After exploring the shops, enjoy a meal at local favorites like The Bevy or Nosh on Naples Bay. The event is family-friendly and a delightful way to combine holiday cheer with shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts.
Children’s Christmas Cruise
Date: December 6
Set sail into the holiday season with the Naples Princess Children’s Christmas Cruise, a heartwarming event perfect for the entire family. Featuring a live reading of How Murrey Saved Christmas by local author James Hammel, this festive cruise includes special appearances by Santa Claus and Murrey Kismoose.
During the journey, kids can listen to the enchanting story, snap photos with Santa and Murrey, and enjoy holiday treats such as hot cocoa, Christmas cookies, and fresh fruit. The air-conditioned yacht glides through Naples’ scenic waterways, offering breathtaking views of Port Royal, the Gulf of Mexico, and local wildlife, including dolphins and herons.
Set sail into the holiday season with the Naples Princess Children’s Christmas Cruise, a heartwarming event perfect for the entire family. Featuring a live reading of How Murrey Saved Christmas by local author James Hammel, this festive cruise includes special appearances by Santa Claus and Murrey Kismoose.
During the journey, kids can listen to the enchanting story, snap photos with Santa and Murrey, and enjoy holiday treats such as hot cocoa, Christmas cookies, and fresh fruit. The air-conditioned yacht glides through Naples’ scenic waterways, offering breathtaking views of Port Royal, the Gulf of Mexico, and local wildlife, including dolphins and herons.
Christmas on 5th
Dates: December 6–7
For a lively celebration, head to the Fifth Avenue South Christmas Walk and Tree Lighting Ceremony. This festive event spans two days: Friday, December 6, 2024, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
No tickets are needed, as the event is free and open to the public. Located along Fifth Avenue South, parking is available in public garages or on the street, though early arrival is advisable due to the event's popularity. The avenue is lined with excellent dining options, including Osteria Tulia and Vergina, where you and your family can enjoy a meal while soaking in the holiday atmosphere.
For a lively celebration, head to the Fifth Avenue South Christmas Walk and Tree Lighting Ceremony. This festive event spans two days: Friday, December 6, 2024, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
No tickets are needed, as the event is free and open to the public. Located along Fifth Avenue South, parking is available in public garages or on the street, though early arrival is advisable due to the event's popularity. The avenue is lined with excellent dining options, including Osteria Tulia and Vergina, where you and your family can enjoy a meal while soaking in the holiday atmosphere.
Snowfest at Paradise Coast Sports Complex
Date: December 7
Get ready for a winter wonderland like no other at Snowfest, Collier County’s highly anticipated annual holiday event. Now in its 40th year, Snowfest transforms the Florida landscape into a festive celebration with real snow slides, live entertainment, and activities for all ages.
This family-friendly event features live music, local vendors offering holiday treats and crafts, and fun for the kids, including games, RC cars, and a bounce house. Santa Claus will make a special appearance to greet families and take photos. As the evening winds down, gather on the Great Lawn to watch a holiday movie on a massive 40-foot outdoor screen.
Get ready for a winter wonderland like no other at Snowfest, Collier County’s highly anticipated annual holiday event. Now in its 40th year, Snowfest transforms the Florida landscape into a festive celebration with real snow slides, live entertainment, and activities for all ages.
This family-friendly event features live music, local vendors offering holiday treats and crafts, and fun for the kids, including games, RC cars, and a bounce house. Santa Claus will make a special appearance to greet families and take photos. As the evening winds down, gather on the Great Lawn to watch a holiday movie on a massive 40-foot outdoor screen.
A Seraphic Fire Christmas
Date: December 9
Celebrate the season with the unparalleled beauty of A Seraphic Fire Christmas, a signature holiday event featuring South Florida’s GRAMMY®-nominated professional vocal ensemble. This intimate performance showcases the timeless magic of a cappella carols by candlelight, creating a profoundly moving and personal holiday experience.
Under the direction of renowned guest conductor Anthony Trecek-King, thirteen world-class vocalists will deliver an emotionally rich program, blending beloved classics like Silent Night and O Come All Ye Faithful with contemporary and thought-provoking pieces such as R. Nathaniel Dett’s Ave Maria and Jonathan Dove’s The Three Kings.
Celebrate the season with the unparalleled beauty of A Seraphic Fire Christmas, a signature holiday event featuring South Florida’s GRAMMY®-nominated professional vocal ensemble. This intimate performance showcases the timeless magic of a cappella carols by candlelight, creating a profoundly moving and personal holiday experience.
Under the direction of renowned guest conductor Anthony Trecek-King, thirteen world-class vocalists will deliver an emotionally rich program, blending beloved classics like Silent Night and O Come All Ye Faithful with contemporary and thought-provoking pieces such as R. Nathaniel Dett’s Ave Maria and Jonathan Dove’s The Three Kings.
Traditional Holiday Stroll on 3rd
Date: December 12
Experience the season's magic at the Traditional Holiday Stroll on 3rd Street South, a beloved Naples tradition. Dress in your festive best and enjoy an enchanting evening filled with live Christmas music, charming traditional carolers, and streets adorned with twinkling lights and beautiful holiday decorations.
Take this opportunity to start checking off your holiday shopping list. Stores will stay open until 8 p.m., offering special promotions and services to enhance your experience. Many local restaurants will join the festivities by crafting exclusive holiday menus and seasonal cocktails. Make your dining reservations in advance to complete a perfect evening of holiday cheer and community spirit.
Experience the season's magic at the Traditional Holiday Stroll on 3rd Street South, a beloved Naples tradition. Dress in your festive best and enjoy an enchanting evening filled with live Christmas music, charming traditional carolers, and streets adorned with twinkling lights and beautiful holiday decorations.
Take this opportunity to start checking off your holiday shopping list. Stores will stay open until 8 p.m., offering special promotions and services to enhance your experience. Many local restaurants will join the festivities by crafting exclusive holiday menus and seasonal cocktails. Make your dining reservations in advance to complete a perfect evening of holiday cheer and community spirit.
Naples Christmas Boat Parade
Date: December 14
The Naples Christmas Boat Parade offers a unique holiday experience with festively decorated boats cruising along Naples Bay. On Saturday, December 14, 2024, the parade starts at 6:15 PM and offers fantastic views from various waterfront spots.
The event is free and does not require reservations. Popular viewing locations include Naples City Dock and Bayview Park, which offer nearby street parking. If you’re in the mood for dinner before or after the parade, check out The Dock at Crayton Cove or Three60 Market for delicious waterfront dining. This family-friendly event is a Naples favorite, combining the beauty of the bay with the spirit of the season.
The Naples Christmas Boat Parade offers a unique holiday experience with festively decorated boats cruising along Naples Bay. On Saturday, December 14, 2024, the parade starts at 6:15 PM and offers fantastic views from various waterfront spots.
The event is free and does not require reservations. Popular viewing locations include Naples City Dock and Bayview Park, which offer nearby street parking. If you’re in the mood for dinner before or after the parade, check out The Dock at Crayton Cove or Three60 Market for delicious waterfront dining. This family-friendly event is a Naples favorite, combining the beauty of the bay with the spirit of the season.
Santa Paws on 3rd Street South
Date: December 14
Bring your furry, feathered, or four-legged companions to Santa Paws on 3rd Street South for a festive photo opportunity with Santa and Mrs. Claus! This pet-friendly event occurs on Saturday, December 14th, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., near the Sea Salt Restaurant in Santa's Workshop.
Leash up your pets and capture a cherished holiday memory as a professional photographer snaps heartwarming photos of your beloved animals with Santa. This event offers a joyful way to include your pets in the holiday spirit, ensuring a keepsake to treasure for years to come.
Bring your furry, feathered, or four-legged companions to Santa Paws on 3rd Street South for a festive photo opportunity with Santa and Mrs. Claus! This pet-friendly event occurs on Saturday, December 14th, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., near the Sea Salt Restaurant in Santa's Workshop.
Leash up your pets and capture a cherished holiday memory as a professional photographer snaps heartwarming photos of your beloved animals with Santa. This event offers a joyful way to include your pets in the holiday spirit, ensuring a keepsake to treasure for years to come.
Cars and Coffee
Date: December 15
Car enthusiasts will love Cars and Coffee, a monthly gathering in Naples that showcases an impressive variety of vehicles. Held at the Mercato Shops on Strada Place, this event invites car owners and spectators to connect over a shared passion for automobiles.
Visitors can enjoy coffee from local favorites like Narrative Coffee Roasters while browsing the diverse collection of cars on display. With live music and a charitable focus, the event creates a lively and meaningful experience. VIP parking is available for a $50 donation to the featured charity.
Car enthusiasts will love Cars and Coffee, a monthly gathering in Naples that showcases an impressive variety of vehicles. Held at the Mercato Shops on Strada Place, this event invites car owners and spectators to connect over a shared passion for automobiles.
Visitors can enjoy coffee from local favorites like Narrative Coffee Roasters while browsing the diverse collection of cars on display. With live music and a charitable focus, the event creates a lively and meaningful experience. VIP parking is available for a $50 donation to the featured charity.
Breakfast With Santa
Date: December 21
Breakfast With Santa offers families a joyful start to the festive season, packed with activities and holiday cheer. The event features a delightful holiday-themed breakfast buffet, serving classic morning favorites alongside seasonal treats.
Families will enjoy a special meet-and-greet with Santa Claus, perfect for capturing photos and creating lasting memories. Kids can get creative with ornament decorating, play holiday-themed games, and participate in fun activities.
Breakfast With Santa offers families a joyful start to the festive season, packed with activities and holiday cheer. The event features a delightful holiday-themed breakfast buffet, serving classic morning favorites alongside seasonal treats.
Families will enjoy a special meet-and-greet with Santa Claus, perfect for capturing photos and creating lasting memories. Kids can get creative with ornament decorating, play holiday-themed games, and participate in fun activities.
Holiday on the Bay at Venetian Village
Date: December 21
Holiday on the Bay at Venetian Village is a magical celebration that brings the festive spirit to life through dining, shopping, and entertainment. Held against the stunning waterfront backdrop of Venetian Village, the event immerses attendees in a joyful atmosphere filled with seasonal cheer and family-friendly fun.
Highlights include complimentary photos with Santa, the enchanting Dickens Period Carolers, and — at 6 p.m. — a captivating snow show transforming the venue into a winter wonderland. Holiday on the Bay combines Naples' coastal elegance with festive tradition, creating an unforgettable holiday experience.
Holiday on the Bay at Venetian Village is a magical celebration that brings the festive spirit to life through dining, shopping, and entertainment. Held against the stunning waterfront backdrop of Venetian Village, the event immerses attendees in a joyful atmosphere filled with seasonal cheer and family-friendly fun.
Highlights include complimentary photos with Santa, the enchanting Dickens Period Carolers, and — at 6 p.m. — a captivating snow show transforming the venue into a winter wonderland. Holiday on the Bay combines Naples' coastal elegance with festive tradition, creating an unforgettable holiday experience.
Christmas at Palm Cottage
Dates: Through December 30
Step back in time with Christmas at Palm Cottage, where Naples’ oldest house is adorned in holiday splendor. From December 1 to December 30, 2024, visitors can enjoy tours of this historic gem Tuesday through Saturday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, with daytime admission priced at $13 per person.
Evening visits are free on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Located at 137 12th Avenue South, Palm Cottage offers street parking nearby. After your visit, enjoy a meal at The Dock at Crayton Cove or Bleu Provence, both within walking distance. This event is family-friendly and perfect for history enthusiasts and holiday lovers alike.
Step back in time with Christmas at Palm Cottage, where Naples’ oldest house is adorned in holiday splendor. From December 1 to December 30, 2024, visitors can enjoy tours of this historic gem Tuesday through Saturday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, with daytime admission priced at $13 per person.
Evening visits are free on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Located at 137 12th Avenue South, Palm Cottage offers street parking nearby. After your visit, enjoy a meal at The Dock at Crayton Cove or Bleu Provence, both within walking distance. This event is family-friendly and perfect for history enthusiasts and holiday lovers alike.
Johnsonville Night Lights in the Garden
Dates: Through January 1
For a dazzling display of holiday lights, visit the Johnsonville Night Lights in the Garden at the Naples Botanical Garden. This magical event runs on select evenings from November 24, 2024, to January 1, 2025, with hours from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Visitors can enjoy light refreshments at the Garden’s Fogg Café or visit restaurants like The Real Macaw for a full meal. Tickets are required and often sell out, so purchasing them in advance is highly recommended. Located at 4820 Bayshore Drive, the Naples Botanical Garden offers on-site parking for guests.
For a dazzling display of holiday lights, visit the Johnsonville Night Lights in the Garden at the Naples Botanical Garden. This magical event runs on select evenings from November 24, 2024, to January 1, 2025, with hours from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Visitors can enjoy light refreshments at the Garden’s Fogg Café or visit restaurants like The Real Macaw for a full meal. Tickets are required and often sell out, so purchasing them in advance is highly recommended. Located at 4820 Bayshore Drive, the Naples Botanical Garden offers on-site parking for guests.
Farmers Market on 3rd Street
Date: Every Saturday
A beloved Naples tradition, the Third Street South Farmers Market has been a community staple since its inception in 1994. Operating every Saturday year-round from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., this vibrant market showcases nearly 60 vendors, primarily local, agriculturally focused businesses.
Visitors can explore an array of offerings, including fresh produce, flowers, live plants, handmade pasta, seafood, baked goods, prepared foods, artisanal jams, and roasted coffees. Unique finds such as dog treats and handwoven baskets add to the market's charm.
A beloved Naples tradition, the Third Street South Farmers Market has been a community staple since its inception in 1994. Operating every Saturday year-round from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., this vibrant market showcases nearly 60 vendors, primarily local, agriculturally focused businesses.
Visitors can explore an array of offerings, including fresh produce, flowers, live plants, handmade pasta, seafood, baked goods, prepared foods, artisanal jams, and roasted coffees. Unique finds such as dog treats and handwoven baskets add to the market's charm.
Reach Out to The Whitcomb Group
The Whitcomb Group is ready to help you find the perfect home to enjoy all Naples offers during the holiday season and beyond. With extensive knowledge of the local real estate market, they are dedicated to making your home-buying or selling experience seamless and stress-free.
Looking to make a move? Contact The Whitcomb Group today to explore your options. They specialize in finding homes that match your lifestyle and needs, whether you’re buying your first home in Naples or looking to upgrade to a luxurious property. Let their expertise guide you through the process and help you settle into the Naples lifestyle.
Looking to make a move? Contact The Whitcomb Group today to explore your options. They specialize in finding homes that match your lifestyle and needs, whether you’re buying your first home in Naples or looking to upgrade to a luxurious property. Let their expertise guide you through the process and help you settle into the Naples lifestyle.
