As the weather stays perfect and the crowds gather for peak season, February and March are the best months to explore everything Southwest Florida has to offer. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there are endless events, festivals, and outdoor adventures waiting for you. As a Cape Coral photographer, I love capturing the vibrant energy of these events and the stunning beauty of SWFL’s landscapes. Here’s your guide to the must-do activities in SWFL over the next two months!
1. Edison Festival of Light (February 10-18, 2024) – Fort Myers: Celebrate the legacy of Thomas Edison with one of Fort Myers’ biggest annual events! The festival features a grand parade, craft fairs, food vendors, a car show, and live entertainment. The nighttime parade is a highlight, drawing thousands of spectators for a dazzling spectacle.
2. Naples National Art Festival (February 24-25, 2024) – Naples: One of the top art festivals in the country, the Naples National Art Festival showcases stunning works from hundreds of artists across various mediums. Stroll through Cambier Park and downtown Naples to admire paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and more. If you’re looking for a Southwest Florida photographer to capture your visit, this is a great spot for vibrant and artistic portraits.
3. Sanibel Shell Festival (March 7-9, 2024) – Sanibel Island: A must-visit for shell lovers! The Sanibel Shell Festival is a one-of-a-kind event featuring intricate shell art, exhibits, and educational experiences. Enjoy local crafts, shell-themed merchandise, and the natural beauty of Sanibel Island—an ideal location for stunning SWFL beach photography.
4. Spring Training Baseball – Fort Myers: Baseball fans, rejoice! February and March mean one thing in SWFL: spring training season. Catch the Boston Red Sox at JetBlue Park or the Minnesota Twins at Hammond Stadium as they prepare for the upcoming MLB season. A game-day photo session with a Fort Myers photographer makes for a great memory!
5. Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival (March 9-10, 2024) – Get ready for fresh Gulf shrimp, live music, and a lively parade at this beloved local event. The festival supports local charities and is a great way to enjoy delicious seafood while taking in the beach vibes—another perfect setting for Cape Coral family photography.
6. ArtFest Fort Myers (February 3-4, 2024) – Fort Myers: This waterfront art festival draws talented artists from across the country. Enjoy interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and an incredible selection of fine art along the beautiful downtown Fort Myers riverfront. If you need an SWFL event photographer, this is a great place for dynamic shots!
7. Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest (March 1-2, 2024) – Bonita Springs: Foodies will love this upscale event featuring world-class cuisine and exceptional wines. The Wine & Food Fest includes tastings, chef-led dinners, and a live auction supporting children’s charities in SWFL. If you’re planning a special occasion, hiring a Southwest Florida lifestyle photographer can help capture those unforgettable moments.
8. Pine Island Mango Mania (March 16, 2024) – Pine Island: While it’s not peak mango season yet, this festival celebrates all things tropical! Enjoy live music, island-style drinks, local vendors, and fresh Florida produce at one of Pine Island’s most unique events. The colorful setting is ideal for a fun and tropical SWFL photography session.
9. Kayaking the Great Calusa Blueway: February and March offer the perfect temperatures for kayaking through SWFL’s scenic waterways. Paddle through mangrove tunnels, spot dolphins and manatees, and enjoy the calm waters of the Great Calusa Blueway, which spans from Estero Bay to Pine Island Sound.
10. Sunset Strolls & Beach Days: No matter the season, Southwest Florida’s beaches are always a highlight. Head to Lovers Key, Sanibel, Captiva, or Naples Pier for breathtaking sunsets, shell collecting, and relaxing walks along the shore. As a SWFL beach photographer, I can say that sunset sessions here create some of the most magical images!
Plan Your Southwest Florida Adventure! From art festivals and seafood feasts to baseball games and breathtaking Gulf Coast sunsets, Southwest Florida is packed with exciting things to do this February and March. Whether you're discovering local culture, dining on fresh seafood, or enjoying the beautiful weather, now is the perfect time to explore everything SWFL has to offer. And if you’re looking for a Cape Coral photographer to document your adventures, I’d love to capture your Southwest Florida experience!
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