Friends and neighbors,
No shortage of fun this week. We’ve got glowing boat parades, big brass carols, a Chanukah celebration at Mercato, and even a wine tasting tucked inside a botanical garden complete with parrots and otters (yes, really). Live Fest brings Darius Rucker to town as the Grant Thornton Invitational wraps up, so expect to have a hard time deciding between weekend plans.
A quick heads-up: Nash to Naples tickets are almost sold out! If you want a spot at the 5th Annual Songwriting Festival at Cambier Park this January, grab your tickets now and use code NFRN2N26 for 15% off. Don’t miss the rare chance to hear chart-topping songs performed by the writers who actually wrote them.
Plenty of ways to stay festive, curious, and pleasantly overbooked.
Get out there,
Table of Contents
Top 6 Events This Week: Music in the Air & Lights on the Water
1. Wine & Wonder
📅 Friday, December 12 | 6 - 8:30 PM
📍27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs
A wine tasting… in a botanical garden… with parrots and otters? Only in Southwest Florida. Wander through Bonita’s nature preserve with a glass in hand while sampling curated wines from near and far, plus craft beer from Chubby Mermaid and food truck bites. The garden’s animal ambassadors pop up around every corner. Get tickets here.
2. Tuba Christmas
📅 Friday, December 11 | 6:30 - 9:30 PM
📍Sugden Plaza, Naples
Nothing says “holiday spirit” quite like dozens of tubas blasting carols downtown, right? A cheerful Naples tradition you can’t help but love. Even the Scrooges among us will have a hard time not smiling. Free. Event info.
3. Christmas Boat Parade
📅 Saturday, December 13 | 6:15 PM
📍Best viewing from Naples City Dock (880 12th Ave S), Tin City waterfront, Bayfront restaurants/parks
This Saturday, holiday lights glisten on the water. Watch decorated boats cruise Naples Bay with music, themed displays, and festive flair. Bring a folding chair or head to a bayfront restaurant to enjoy one of the most Florida-style Christmas traditions we have. Event info.
4. Live Fest: Darius Rucker
📅 Saturday, December 13 | 5:00 – 10:00 PM
📍The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, 2600 Tiburon Dr, Naples
One of Naples’ biggest nights of the year. After catching competitive rounds at the Grant Thornton Invitational, stick around for Live Fest featuring Darius Rucker, Russell Dickerson, O.A.R., and Rock Republic with Casey Bishop. Gates open at 4 PM; music kicks off at 5. Pack the comfy shoes and prepare for a full evening under the stars. Get tickets.
5. Chanukah Celebration @ Mercato
📅 Monday, December 15 | 5:00 PM
📍Mercato Event Lawn, Naples
Head to Mercato next Monday for a fun, family-friendly celebration hosted by the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples. Enjoy live entertainment, donuts, gelt, music, and performances from the Naples Klezmer Band and local dancers. The event concludes with a Menorah lighting. Event info.
6. Naples Artcrafters Fine Art & Crafts Show
📅 Saturday, December 13 | 10:00 – 4:00 PM
📍Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave S, Naples
Finish some holiday shopping Saturday morning at Cambier Park. Browse handmade art, jewelry, ceramics, textiles, and gifts from local creators while enjoying the fresh air. Event info.
7. Holiday Pops with The Naples Philharmonic
📅 Thursday, December 18-21 | Performances @ 7:30 PM & 2:00 PM (weekend)
📍Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples
A heartwarming Naples tradition. Broadway star Michael Longoria joins the Naples Philharmonic and choruses for a festive program of classic carols and contemporary holiday favorites. A holiday must. Get tickets.
Presented by Naples Florida Rentals: Sneak Into December Luxury Before the Snowbirds Do 🔑
Right now, Naples’ nicest homes are quietly vanishing into peak-season bookings. The big platforms are almost full (and stacking on fees)… but there’s still a back door.
Slip into a stay that feels like this:
🌊 Sunrise: Gulf light on your private lanai, coffee in hand, nobody on the calendar but you.
🌴 Afternoon: Beach by noon, sunset cocktails by your heated pool.
🌙 Night: Walk to dinner knowing you paid locals’ rates, not tourist markups.
Why savvy travelers book direct with Naples Florida Rentals
Best price, zero platform fees – no mystery “service” charges.
Real local host – text or call Dana (a full-time Naples local) before or during your stay.
Flexible cancellation – full refund up to 7 days before arrival.
Done-for-you matching – call or text (239) 397-0929 and Dana will match you to the right home for your dates, budget… and even your dog.
Poll Results: Naples locals?
Last week, I asked: How long have you been a Naples local?
Here were the results:
The winner? 15+ years leading with 27% of votes! Many of you were born and raised here, too. The next category, 5-15 years, was close behind with 26% of the votes!
Thank you for all the responses.
This Week’s Poll: Play Golf?
When it comes to golf in Naples, are you a player or a spectator?
Why It Matters
These aren’t just events on a calendar—they’re what make Naples feel like home. Boat parades, brass bands, Chanukah lights, writers at Cambier, Holiday Pops at Artis… each one keeps our local arts, businesses, and nonprofits alive and thriving.
Pick one or two, bring a friend, and lean in. You don’t have to leave town to feel like you’re on vacation—Naples already gives you that, if you show up for it.
Elizabeth Bellotti
Editor-In-Chief
Naples, Florida
The Naples Florida Review
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