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A Local’s Guide to The Best Christmas Lights in Southwest Florida

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Getting into the Christmas spirit in Florida can be hard when the weather is warm and the palm trees are swaying. But Southwest Florida more than makes up for the lack of snow with festive displays, glowing neighborhoods, and sparkling holiday events that light up the season. From Naples to Fort Myers — and every charming stop in between — this guide will help you find the best Christmas lights in Southwest Florida to make December feel just a little more “wintery,” no jacket required.

NAPLES

Lights of the Season & Santa’s Village

Collier County Fairgrounds

Dates: November 28 – December 28, nightly

A drive-through wonderland full of festive displays, holiday scenes, and glowing lights. After cruising the route, visit Santa’s Village for food, local vendors, Christmas trees, and family photos with Santa.

Image Courtesy of Naples Botanical Garden

Night Lights in the Garden

Naples Botanical Garden

Dates: November 28 – January 4, nightly

Wander tropical gardens transformed into twinkling magic under the stars. With thousands of lights and music, this immersive stroll lets you appreciate holiday cheer in a garden paradise.

Victoria Park Neighborhood Lights

Victoria Park Community

Dates: December – Early January

One of Naples’ most beloved residential light shows — this community goes all-out with dazzling home decorations. It’s perfect for a relaxed drive or walk while sipping hot cocoa (or a holiday cocktail). This display consistently ranks among the best Christmas lights in Southwest Florida, drawing crowds who return year after year.

Image courtesy of 5th Ave. South

Christmas on Fifth Avenue

5th Avenue South

Dates: December – Early January

Fifth Avenue South glows with festive lights and a towering Christmas tree in Sugden Plaza, alongside live music, carolers, and holiday cheer downtown.

Image courtesy of Village Shops on Venetian Bay

Nightly Displays + Holiday on The Bay

Venetian Bay

Dates: December 13th from 3-7 PM

Stroll around the beautiful light display at the Village Shop on Venetian Bay all December long. Stop by Saturday, December 13th for Holiday on the Bay for a festive afternoon filled with complimentary photos with Santa, character appearances, and the joyful sounds of the Naples Carolers singing your favorite holiday classics.


BONITA SPRINGS 

Holiday Stroll

Riverside Park (Downtown Bonita)

Dates: December 1 – January 1, dusk–9 PM nightly

Riverside Park sparkles with free holiday lights, cheerful tunes, and seasonal photo spots. Perfect for a stroll after dinner, right in the heart of downtown Bonita.

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Image courtesy of Farmer Mike’s

Christmas at Farmer Mike’s U-Pick of Bonita Springs

Farmer Mike’s U-Pick of Bonita Springs

Dates: November 29, December 5,6,12,13,19,20

A favorite for families! Enjoy hayrides, light displays, outdoor movies, sledding, s’mores, shopping, and so much more – a full holiday experience for kids.


FORT MYERS 

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Image Courtesy of Edison & Ford Winter Estates

Edison & Ford Holiday Nights

Edison & Ford Winter Estates

Dates: November 28 – January 4 (except Christmas Eve/Day)

Thousands of lights dress up this historic site for a truly magical holiday evening. Enjoy tunes, historic decorations, guided tours on select nights, and Santa appearances to make memories that last.

Image courtesy of Visit Fort Myers

Holiday Lights at Calusa Nature Center

Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium

Dates: Fridays–Sundays in December

Take a stroll through lit paths in a natural setting complete with marshmallows and hot cocoa by the firepit — a cozy, outdoorsy twist on holiday lights.

Image courtesy of Fort Myers Community Women’s Club

Holiday House Christmas Stroll

Burroughs Home & Gardens and Langford-Kingston Home. 

Dates: December – January, nightly

Enjoy historic homes in downtown Fort Myers dressed with festive holiday décor. This longtime tradition is great for a classic Christmas stroll.

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