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5 Can’t-Miss Annual Events in Fort Myers & Fort Myers Beach to Add to Your Itinerary

Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach know how to throw a party: parades, art by the river, shrimp feasts, and jaw-dropping sand sculptures make these annual events a must for your trip.

Do you know what makes any vacation more fun and authentic? Joining a local event. Whatever destination you choose, from the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee to the shores of North Carolina or Florida’s Emerald Coast, immersing yourself in the local culture through festivals and events can turn a trip from ordinary to truly special.

Thinking about Fort Myers Beach as your next vacation getaway? This Florida treasure is a hotspot for outdoor activities, fresh seafood, unique entertainment, and annual events that add culture and fun to any trip.

Here’s your first sip of what’s to come:

Edison Festival of Light: February parade celebrating Thomas Edison, plus arts & crafts, a car show, and a 5K race.
ArtFest Fort Myers: First week of February, featuring 200+ artists, live performances, interactive art activities, and food trucks by the river.
Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival: March festival with shrimp dinners, a shrimp-eating contest, parade, and an arts & crafts market.
River District Music Festival: March event with diverse music genres, craft beer, and live performances in historic downtown Fort Myers.
American Sand Sculpting Championship: November competition showcasing intricate sand sculptures on Fort Myers Beach, with demos and kids’ activities.

At Sun Palace Vacations, we offer stunning vacation homes in Fort Myers Beach. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront escape or a cozy retreat, we have the perfect place for you. We consider ourselves Fort Myers Beach experts, and from the best shopping spots and top-notch restaurants to a comprehensive guide on fishing and hunting in the area, we’ve got you covered in our blog.

Are you wondering how to join the party? In this blog, I’ve curated a list of some of the best annual events in Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach so that you can enjoy your visit to the fullest.

Ready? Let’s dive into the fun!

1. Edison Festival of Light

You will find: a colourful parade, a crafts show, and a fun run.

Every February, Fort Myers lights up with one of its biggest celebrations: the Edison Festival of Light. The crown jewel of this annual event is the Grand Parade, a colorful, high-energy tradition that pays tribute to Thomas Edison while bringing the whole community together. With floats, costumes, music, and plenty of excitement, this parade is one of the most anticipated events of the year.

⭐ Highlights

A two-hour Grand Parade featuring marching bands, creative floats, clowns, and vibrant costumes.
A dazzling fireworks show that caps off the celebration in style.
Arts and crafts fairs with local makers and unique finds.
A classic car show showcasing vintage rides.
A lively 5K race through the Downtown River District, drawing thousands of participants.

2. ArtFest Fort Myers

You will find: art by the river, music, and delicious treats.

Every February, downtown Fort Myers’ waterfront comes alive with color, sound, and energy. ArtFest Fort Myers is one of the city’s biggest cultural highlights, drawing in crowds with hundreds of artists, live performances, hands-on activities, and a festive food scene. Against the backdrop of the Caloosahatchee River, it’s the perfect blend of art, music, and community spirit.

⭐ Highlights

Over 200 artists showcasing paintings, sculptures, ceramics, glasswork, photography, and more.
Live art demos plus interactive stations where you can try painting, sculpting, or other creative projects.
Performances by local bands, musicians, and dance groups that keep the vibe upbeat and fun.
Food trucks and vendors serving delicious bites to keep you fueled for the day.
Scenic waterfront setting with beautiful river views adding to the festival charm.
Needless to say, the scenic location, with beautiful views of the Caloosahatchee River, makes ArtFest Fort Myers even more appealing.

3. Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival

You will find: a shrimp contest, seafood treats, arts & crafts.

The Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival is one of the town’s biggest annual highlights, run by the Fort Myers Beach Lions Club. Held each March, it’s a celebration of the area’s shrimping heritage, complete with parades, pageantry, and of course, plenty of Gulf pink shrimp. Locals and visitors flock here for food, music, contests, and good vibes by the water.

⭐ Highlights

Kick-off parade along Estero Boulevard with floats, marching bands, and community groups.
Famous shrimp dinners made with freshly caught Gulf pink shrimp, served by the Lions Club.
Shrimp-eating contest where brave contestants battle to down the most shrimp in record time.
Live music, local food vendors, and plenty of snacks beyond shrimp.
Large arts and crafts fair with unique finds and handmade goods.
Shrimp Festival Queen Pageant, a long-standing tradition crowning local talent.

4. River District Music Festival

You will find: great and diverse music, craft beer, and gorgeous settings.

This is a must for every Fort Myers bucket list if you’re a music lover. The lively River District Music Festival brings the heart of downtown to life with three days of music in March. Held in the River District, the festival showcases a diverse lineup of local and regional musicians, performing genres like rock, blues, jazz, and country.

⭐ Highlights

Three days of live music with local and regional bands.
Multiple stages set up throughout Fort Myers’ historic downtown.
A mix of genres, including rock, blues, jazz, and country.
Food vendors serving up tasty eats to keep you fueled.
Local craft beer and drinks to sip while you listen.
Family-friendly activities that make it great for all ages.
A chance to explore the River District’s shops and charming streets between sets.

5. American Sand Sculpting Championship

You will find: massive sand sculptures, workshops, and sea views.

Each November, Fort Myers Beach transforms into an open-air gallery of giant, intricate sand creations. The American Sand Sculpting Championship brings together top sculptors from across the globe, along with local talent eager to show off their skills. It is part competition, part art show, and entirely a feast for the eyes.

⭐ Highlights

Internationally acclaimed sculptors compete solo and in teams.
Massive, detailed sand sculptures built right on the beach.
Amateur competition welcomes locals and hobbyists to join the fun.
Visitors get a front-row seat to watch the works take shape over several days.

Why Local Events Matter?

There are several reasons why experiencing a local event or festival enhances your vacation. It’s not just about the amazing food, music, and activities; it’s also about experiencing the local culture, meeting like-minded people, and immersing yourself in the unique charm of a specific destination.

Here’s a list of reasons why you should always seek out local events while on the road:

Cultural Immersion: Festivals offer a deep dive into local traditions, customs, and history, allowing you to experience a destination’s culture authentically.

Unique Experiences: Local events often provide one-of-a-kind experiences that you can’t find anywhere else, adding something special to your trip.

Meet Locals: Festivals create opportunities to engage with locals, giving you a better understanding of their way of life and making your trip more personal.

Support the Local Economy: By attending local events, you help support small businesses, artisans, and vendors, contributing to the local economy.

Try Regional Food: Many festivals highlight local cuisine, offering a chance to taste authentic dishes and flavors that are unique to the area.

Memorable Moments: Participating in local events creates lasting memories and provides stories to share about your travel experiences.

See the Destination in a New Light: Local festivals can show a different, more lively side of a destination that you might not experience otherwise.

Deepen Your Connection: Experiencing a place through its festivals can foster a deeper connection to the destination, making your trip more meaningful.

Celebrate with the Community: Being part of local celebrations offers an opportunity to experience the sense of community and belonging that comes with local traditions.

FAQ: Annual Events in Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach

When is the best time to visit Fort Myers for festivals?
The busiest festival season runs from February through March, with big cultural and food events, while November brings the famous Sand Sculpting Championship.
Is ArtFest Fort Myers family-friendly?
Yes. Along with live performances and hundreds of artists, it offers interactive art stations and food vendors, making it fun for all ages.
What makes the Shrimp Festival special?
It celebrates the area’s shrimping heritage with a lively parade, shrimp dinners made with fresh Gulf pink shrimp, a shrimp-eating contest, and a large arts and crafts fair.
Do I need tickets for the American Sand Sculpting Championship?
Yes, there’s usually a small admission fee, which gives visitors access to the sculpting area, demos, and family-friendly activities.
Where are most of these events held?
Events take place in different parts of Fort Myers: downtown hosts ArtFest and the River District Music Festival, while Fort Myers Beach is home to the Shrimp Festival and Sand Sculpting Championship.
Are these events good for first-time visitors?
Absolutely. They give travelers a fun way to enjoy local food, music, and culture while feeling part of the community.

Wondering Where to Stay in Fort Myers Beach

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