As Southwest Florida says goodbye to 2024, seasonal activities coat the region in a warm embrace. From Sanibel-Captiva Islands’ twinkling saunters to Cape Coral’s holiday celebration, festive cheer brings everyone together this December. Save the dates for these events.
Dec. 1
The Nutcracker at Artis—Naples
Feel the magic at Hayes Hall as Naples Ballet, Naples Philharmonic and guest soloists ignite Tchaikovsky’s classic score. Journey with Clara and her Nutcracker Prince through fierce battles between the Rat King, and venture through the snow-covered forest to arrive at the enchanting Kingdom of Sweets. Learn More
Now — Dec. 22
A Christmas Story: The Musical at The Naples Players
The local theater company presents the stage adaptation of the beloved holiday tale, with music and lyrics by the Tony Award-winning duo Pasek and Paul, of Dear Evan Hansen and The Greatest Showman fame. Follow Ralphie Parker on the mischievous pursuit to acquire his most desired Christmas gift, featuring classic scenes from the 1983 film. Learn More
Dec. 3-24
The Elves and The Shoemaker at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, Fort Myers
In this merry show, a band of spirited elves aids a poverty-ridden shoemaker to success. The bunch secretly creates a pair of the finest, most whimsical walkers for the businessman to sell and pay off the evil Sneerella. Learn More
Dec. 5-23
Christmas Village at Cape Christian, Cape Coral
Aspiring gliders skate across the ice rink as they welcome the season. While in the outdoors, jump in on playful snowball fights, catch a hayride, and take a trip down a 20-foot snowslide. When it’s time to warm up, step into a life-size gingerbread house to decorate cookies and pen letters to Santa. Cozy up with a cup of hot chocolate while watching a beloved holiday film on the 40-foot screen. Learn More
Dec. 6
Jingle Bell Bash at Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples
Young elves play the Grinch-themed games like Whoville bowling and Max’s reindeer toss, then tackle winter crafts like DIY ornaments to take home and hang on the tree. Afterward, indulge in delicious hot cocoa while creating cookie art. Learn More
Dec. 6 and 7
Luminary Holiday Stroll at Sanibel & Captiva Islands
The islands’ illuminated paths invite families to wander and revel in wintertime splendor. On Friday, follow Periwinkle Way to enjoy live music and snap a photo with Santa. Saturday brings Captiva’s charm, with carols, crafts at Saint Michael & All Angels Church and joyous sing-alongs, stretching from ‘Tween Waters Island Resort to Andy Rosse Lane. Learn More
Dec. 6-8, 13-15, 20-22, 27-29
Holiday Lights at Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium, Fort Myers
On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays this month, the nature center welcomes guests to wander a 1.3-mile trail fully decked with twinkling lights. When littles get tired of walking, take the family and sit by the fire pit to roast marshmallows and sway to festive jingles. Learn More
Dec. 7
Holiday Festival of Lights on Cape Coral Parkway, Cape Coral
Bright-eyed kids take pictures with Santa in the holiday-lit streets before diving into seasonal activities at this more than 30-year-old tradition. Children board the tiny tots train for a festive ride and venture down the drift slide veiled with faux ice. Learn More
Dec. 13, 21, 22, 23
Breakfast with Santa at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples
Mini gift-seekers bring their Christmas wishlists to chat with Mr. and Mrs. Claus over a decadent buffet. Enjoy the hot chocolate cart, festive live music and photo ops with the big man in red. After the feast, Santa reads a timeless holiday tale to the kids. Learn More
Dec. 14
Rockin’ Around the Bell Tower 5K at Bell Tower Shops, Fort Myers
Stroll, walk or jog around the holiday-adorned mall to complete the family-friendly 1-mile course. Participants take home exclusive gifts like a Christmas ornament and Santa hat after relishing in post-race delights like popcorn and cotton candy. Learn More
Dec. 14
Ugly Sweater Family Day at Collier Museum at Government Center, Naples
Novice tailors and seamstresses iron embellishments, perform simple stitches and try their hand at embroidery to transform their jumpers into a gaudy art piece. Snap a photo of your finished creation for a personal Christmas card. Recommended for ages 5 to 12. Learn More
Dec. 15
Holiday Family Pajama Workshop at Board and Brush, Fort Myers
Parents and kids ages 6 and up rock their best Christmas-Day jammies and select a holiday craft to embellish from the DIY shop’s gallery. With stencils in hand, tiny makers paint items like wooden plaques or storage boxes while adults tackle decorative wood trays or pedestals. Learn More
Dec. 28 and 29
Cirque Dreams Holidaze at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, Fort Myers
Junior acrobats watch Yuletide story characters brought to life on stage through impressive aerial circus performances. Reindeer, penguins and soldiers swing, juggle and skip rope to classic seasonal scores like “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” Learn More