Your Guide to the Edison Festival of Light Parade

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One of the most popular events in Southwest Florida each and every year is the Edison Festival of Light, which takes place every February in downtown Fort Myers. We have the information you need to see one of the country’s best festivals that culminates in one of the most popular parades in the Southeastern United States.

What is the Edison Festival of Light?

Although he mostly lived in New England, Thomas Alva Edison, the inventor of the light bulb among other inventions, preferred the warmer temperatures of his Fort Myers winter estate for many years. The Edison Festival of Light is a non-profit organization that honors Edison’s contributions to the community through this eight-day festival that many call the premier Southwest Florida event of the season each year.

Edison Festival of Light Events Guide

With eight days of events, there’s a lot to do during the Edison Festival of Lights. We have your guide to the biggest events of the weekend.

February 8

  • STEMtastic Day of Discovery is held 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 8 at the Lee County Public Education Center. This event provides tons of fun for children and families to experience STEM interactive STEM areas. Musical, acrobatic and theatrical performances from local area children will grace the community stage.
  • The fifth annual Edison Festival of Light Food Trucks and Craft Beer event will be held from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Feb. 8 and includes local food and drinks from participating food trucks on the intersection of Hendry Street and Edwards Drive in downtown Fort Myers.
  • Dog lovers unite for the Mutt Strutt 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 8. This free event allows dogs and their owners to strut their stuff in their finest outfits and jewelry along Hendry Street between Edwards Drive and Bay Street.

February 9

Edison festival of light parade 2017

One of the most popular events in Southwest Florida each year is the Edison Festival of Light.

February 15-16

  • The annual Crafts on the River event is a non-juried event open to local and national artisan and crafters at Lee County Second Street Lot. The event is open to the public 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 15 and 16.
  • More than 1,400 participants enter the Edison Festival of Light 5K Run each year in the Downtown River District, which runs from 5:45 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. Feb. 15. For registration information, call (239) 225-0234.

Edison Festival of Light Grand Parade

The largest parade in the Southeastern United States, the Edison Festival of Light Grand Parade, starts at 7 p.m. on Feb. 15 at Fort Myers High School and heads to the riverfront. It is a two-hour extravaganza of lights, floats, marching bands and more.

Edison Festival of Light Classic Car Show

Say farewell to the eight days of Festival of Light festivities with a Classic Car Show 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 16 at the Downtown River District. Enjoy owners showing off their classic cars while you enjoy food, drinks and craft booth vendors along the river.

Edison festival of light parade 2017

The Edison Festival of Lights Parade is the largest parade in the Southeastern United States.

Book Your Festival of Light Accommodations

Make your Festival of Light plans complete by renting a fully furnished condominium at Royal Shell Vacation Rentals or Sundial Beach Resort & Spa.

Rent a Boat

Celebrate your Edison Festival of Light visit by vacationing in style and renting a boat today at Port Sanibel Marina. Call us at (239) 437-1660 to book your boat activity needs today!

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