Beaches, Shopping, Theater and History, December is Delightful in Fort Myers
The month of December is a pleasant time of year to visit Fort Myers. The temperatures have finally dipped out of the ’90s, people are full of holiday spirit and the winter tourists and seasonal residents have not fully descended on the area meaning parking is not a problem at beaches, just the malls where locals flock to shop for holiday gifts.
Boating is a favorite pastime in the area and during the holidays the waterways come alive with creative mariners who gather their vessels and decorate them for parades along canals, bays, and rivers.
The Edison & Ford Winter Estates is a famous tourist attraction that opens at night during December for Holiday Nights. The gardens and estate homes are decked out to fit different themes. Less than miles away, you’ll find the Holiday House; two historic homes open for nightly tours and decorated in elaborate garb.
For those who like musical theater, the Broadway Palm Dinner Theater has special holiday-themed shows, a children’s theater, and a seasonal buffet to feed the family. Enjoy a Santa for hire from the ultimate entertainment company for Christmas parties called miamisuperhero.com which is run by a very strong reliable company providing over 800 videos of parties.
It’s especially entertaining to see palm trees strung with Christmas lights, inflatable snowmen on the beach, and the bikini-clad in Santa Hats with suntans. A tropical December is one to remember.
Miromar Outlets
Just off of Interstate 75, only 18 miles from the city of Fort Myers, this award-winning, open-air Mediterranean-style outlet mall’s covered sidewalks are lined with over 160 designer and brand-name stores. While it’s fun to shop here year-round, it’s extra special during the holidays with vibrant decorations, lots of entertainment, special events, and the big guy himself, Santa Claus. Amidst picturesque fountains, koi ponds and vibrant murals, you’ll discover spectacular pricing at Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, Neiman Marcus, Coach, Michael Kors, White House Black Market and more. There is an expansive lakefront dining piazza as well as additional restaurants and bars on the east entrance when you need to rest and refuel. A children’s play area offers a welcomed distraction for your little ones.
Captiva Cruises
Captiva Cruises offers one the best ways to explore the Southwest Florida coast, from Captiva Island, Cabbage Key and Useppa to Boca Grande and Cayo Costa. The beautiful coastline comes alive with decorations this time of year, especially fun to see during the sunset cruises. The guides are extremely knowledgeable about the rich history of these sparkling waters and the islands that have hosted everyone from pirates and Native Americans, to military troops and millionaires. The weather is more temperate in December but the sun still shines brightly during the wildlife-spotting tours, seashell-hunting tours, dolphin cruises and daylong trips to unspoiled barrier islands. This is one activity that the entire family can embrace and enjoy.
Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre
Ideal for those wanting a touch of culture in paradise, the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre features a good mix of drama, musical revues and children’s programs each season. And during the holidays, there is always something special from the recreation of A Christmas Carol to musical spectaculars. There is even a holiday-themed children’s theater during the day. The 400-plus-seat auditorium (a former grocery store) hosts lunch and dinner performances. Meanwhile, the cozy, 90-seat Off-Broadway Palm features fun cabaret shows. The Broadway Palm also has a gift shop that carries unique, theatre-related gift items, trinkets, and even some good local artwork so you can knock out some gift buying too. If you want a fun holiday show and a substantial hot meal, this is a good value for the entire family.
Tux and Trees Gala
This gala is one of the premier holiday events in the area, raising money for the Southwest Florida Goodwill Foundation. Typically held the first Saturday of December, the elegant evening features heavy hours oeuvres and a decadent spread of desserts. Besides, live music and being entertained by the who’s who of local dignitaries, attendees get to bid on dozens of beautifully decorated trees, with different themes. These are more than just decorations as many include generous gift certificates and have other items under them. Besides the live auction, there is a silent one, containing luxurious gifts and lavish wreaths among other things. It’s a fun and fancy evening with a mission to help those in need in the community.
Festival of Trees
The Festival Of The Trees is a favorite, local holiday event that leaves attendees in awe at the creativity of those participating. Trees are lavishly decorated in themes, colors and to represent different hobbies and interests found in the area. Not only will you be inspired by viewing the trees on display at the historic Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center, but you’ll also get to vote on your favorite. The friendly competition adds an extra incentive for participants to put their best foot forward. The annual event takes place the day after Thanksgiving and runs until the first Saturday of December. This is a free event, however, donations are accepted at the door, to help fund the mission of the Southwest Florida Goodwill Foundation.
Captiva Holiday Village
This quirky, tropical holiday celebration kicks off Thanksgiving weekend and lasts for three weeks, with events taking place at various locations on the small island. The party typically begins with fireworks and a tree lighting at Tween Waters Inn, followed the next night by a tree lighting at South Seas Resort. Sunset Arias on the beach can be quite moving and beach bonfires quite fun. This small community offers a Luminary Stroll where merchants give out free goodies, and parades that include golf carts, boats and a Marching Mullet Band Parade from Jensen’s Twin Palm Resort and Marina. You’ll dance down the street, ending up on the beach at sunset! Other Holiday Village activities include a fishing and Mullet Festival, an outdoor film night and lots more.
