If you’re planning to spend Thanksgiving or some of the holiday season visiting Marco Island, you can still enjoy many of the traditional events during this time of year. Whether it’s a parade, the Turkey Trot, or other holiday activities—you can find it all here.
There are so many Thanksgiving and holiday events happening, you can choose the best fit for you during your vacation and make the best of every moment visiting Marco Island.
Celebration of Lights and Snow Nightly
November 20 through November 24 this season, the Celebration of Lights and Snow Nightly takes place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The event is every night during this week—except for Thanksgiving.
You’ll find the holiday festivities, lights, and even snow on Third Street South. This is a holiday event you won’t want to miss. You can enjoy music, singing, carolers, and more in the Fleischmann Courtyard to really get you into the holiday spirit.
Thanksgiving 5k at Cambier Park
For some, running a Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving is just as much of a tradition as eating turkey and watching football. Luckily, even if you’re on vacation in the Marco Island area, you’ll be able to continue that tradition. The annual run and walk start at 7:30 a.m. on November 22 at Cambier Park. Parking is free and there’s a delicious treat of pumpkin pie and apple cider at the end of this 5k race. If you have any questions about these events, or if you need help registering for the 5k or bike vent, don’t hesitate to reach out to our staff.
All proceeds from the event go to benefit St. Matthews’s House, and canned food donations are encouraged on race day.
Iron Joe Turkey Ride
This bicycle ride is one of the premier events of the Thanksgiving season on Marco Island. It’s a fun event for athletes of all ages, or even just to head out and watch the action as a spectator. There are rides lasting 20, 30, and 62 miles—plus a shorter 5-mile ride for kids or families to participate in. There’s also food, drinks, and music for entertainment during and after the rides.
All the proceeds from the event go to benefit safe and bikeable roadways in the area. The event occurs all-day November 25.
Holiday Boat Parade
Being in Southwest Florida, thanksgiving and holiday parades are done a little differently. You absolutely do not want to miss the Holiday Boat Parade at The Village Shops at Venetian Way. A procession of boats decorated for the holidays in lights, ornaments, and other decorations will make their way down Venetian Bay for everyone to see. There will also be live entertainment, children’s activities like face painting and balloon art, plus carolers and even a special appearance by Santa Clause and Mrs. Claus. This fantastic holiday event is December 4 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Christmas Island Style Street Parade
On December 15, this Christmas Parade happens throughout the streets of Marco Island and is a fun event to head out to and watch to get you into the holiday spirit. You’ll find tons of floats, entertainment, and other parade traditions all coming down the roads of the island. The whole parade is decked out in light and Christmas decorations. Head out to San Marco road from 6 p.m. to midnight to enjoy this Marco Island holiday staple
Plan Your Visit
Make sure to head to our website and book your vacation stay with us today, so you’ll be sure to get in on all the holiday events in the area.