Illuminate the Season: A Guide to the Cape Coral Florida Christmas Holiday Festival of Lights 

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

As the holiday season approaches, Cape Coral, Florida, prepares to dazzle residents and visitors alike with the Christmas Holiday Festival of Lights, scheduled to take place on December 2, 2023 on Cape Coral Parkway from 4-10pm. This free annual event has become a beloved tradition, transforming the city into a winter wonderland of festive lights, captivating performances, and family-friendly activities.

Getting into the Christmas spirit can be hard in Florida, it's usually in the low 80's for November and December with lots of sunny days.

While I used to get my Christmas shopping done in October when I lived up North;... because you never knew when snow storms or the flu would hit.

Here in Florida, I finally realize the first week in December that I better get it together and start my shopping.  Going to the tree lighting helps to set the mood for the season!  

Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral Event Highlights

The Christmas Holiday Festival of Lights is hosted by the Cape Coral Chamber of Commerce and promises a magical experience for attendees of all ages. The city will be adorned with a breathtaking array of light displays and decorations, creating a whimsical atmosphere that captures the spirit of the season. From themed installations to interactive features, each corner of Cape Coral will come alive with the glow of holiday cheer.

Downtown Cape Coral Parkway is closed off to make room for lots of food, local business, and craft vendors.  Come and enjoy this unforgettable Southwest Florida Christmas attraction.

Cape Coral Holiday Festival of Lights Schedule of Events

christmas festivals

Mark your calendars for December 2nd, as the festival officially signals the start of the holiday season. Throughout the festival, attendees can enjoy a diverse schedule of events, including live performances, parades, and various activities that promise to spread joy and warmth.

Community Stage Schedule

Stage One Candy Cane Park

4:30pm-5:00pm

Studio 8

5:15pm-5:45pm

Calendar Girls

6:45pm-7:15pm

Kelly's Dance

7:30pm-8:00pm

Hot Flashz

8:15pm-8:45pm

Storms Cheer

Stage Two Snowcap Square

4:30pm-5:00pm

Melody Lane Performing Arts

5:15pm-5:45pm

Dance Dimensions

6:45pm-7:15pm

Kobayashi Dojo

7:30pm-8:00pm

Cape Coral High School Hawketts

8:15pm-8:45pm

The Bell Theatre

Main Stage Christmas Town Center

4:30pm-5:45pm

Robin Dawn Dance

6:45pm-8:45pm

Robin Dawn Dance

Light Displays and Decorations

Prepare to be mesmerized by the stunning light displays that will illuminate Cape Coral. From classic holiday scenes to modern artistic creations, the festival's organizers have spared no effort in curating a visual spectacle that will leave a lasting impression.

Holiday Spirit Entertainment

The Christmas Holiday Festival of Lights is not just about lights; it's a celebration of the arts. Attendees can look forward to performance stages with local talented performers, including musicians, dancers, and other entertainers who will grace the various community stages such as the Candy Cane Park stage, the Christmas Town Center stage and the Snowcap Square stage. The event promises a sensory feast, blending visual and auditory delights to create a truly immersive experience.  Talent of all ages performs from 3 different stages, and you will also find music coming from shops and restaurants that line the street.

cape coral festivals

Family-Friendly Activities

cape coral festivals

For families attending the festival, there will be no shortage of activities to keep the little ones entertained. Kid-friendly zones, Santa's Workshop, and opportunities to capture the magic of the season with pictures with Santa himself will make this event a memorable experience for children and parents alike.  There are bounce houses, face painting, Tiny Tots train, Snow Drift slide, and tons of additional activities for kids.

A big pile of snow is formed into 2 slides for kids to sled down ......... for many of them, it's the first time they've seen snow!

cape coral festival

Near the snowpile is a choo choo train ride filled with kids having fun. One of Santa's helpers drives the train clanging a bell, ringing in the holidays.

cchristmas cape

Finally around 6:15PM, over in front of Big John's Plaza, the tree is lit, while "snow" is blowing around and it looks just gorgeous!

tree lighting ceremony

Then Santa arrives, sometimes on a horse-drawn carriage to hear the little one's Christmas wishes and to pose for photos.

Your Cape Coral Christmas isn't complete without a visit to this most festive of Christmas festivals and many people from the Cape and surrounding towns won't miss it!

cape coral christmas

Culinary Delights - Festival Food Options

While taking in the festive atmosphere, attendees can indulge in a variety of culinary delights. Local food vendors will offer holiday treats and seasonal specialties, providing the perfect opportunity to savor the flavors of the season.

Shopping Opportunities

Support local businesses and artisans at the festival's holiday markets and pop-up shops. Find unique gifts and festive merchandise that capture the spirit of Cape Coral during this joyous time of year.

Getting There and Parking

The event is held on Cape Coral Parkway from Del Prado to Candia StreetParking is street side, read the signs as parking is at your own risk.  Knowing how to get there and where to park will contribute to a stress-free and enjoyable visit.

As the Cape Coral Florida Christmas Holiday Festival of Lights approaches, the city anticipates a day filled with joy, wonder, and community spirit. This event, with its vibrant displays, captivating performances, and family-friendly atmosphere, is sure to kindle the holiday spirit in the hearts of all who attend. Join us on December 2, 2023, as we come together to illuminate the season and create cherished memories in the heart of Cape Coral.

Cape Coral Festival of Lights 2024?

The Cape Coral Festival of Lights is a popular annual event that takes place in Cape Coral, Florida. It will be held on December 2, 2023 from 4-10pm.  Visitors can expect a magical atmosphere, community spirit, and a chance to celebrate the holiday season with family and friends.

Looking for some holiday entertainment in Southwest Florida?

Come to the Cape Coral Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, December 2, 2023.

For More Information

Related Pages to Tree Lighting Ceremony

Cape Coral Festival of the Arts
Burrowing Owl Festival
Cape Coral Irish Festival
Sounds of Jazz and Blues
Cardboard Boat Regatta
Viva Cape Coral
Kids Fishing Derby
Great American Picnic
Red White and Boom

Mango Mania
Local Dog Show
Peace Day in the Park
Columbus Day Parade
Cape Coral Oktoberfest
Coconut Festival
Christmas Boat Parade
Edison Ford Winter Estates
Captiva Holiday Village



Return to Cape Coral Festivals

Return to Come-to-Cape-Coral Home Page from Tree Lighting Ceremony


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