Fall and winter in the Fort Myers area can only mean two things: cooler temperatures and a lot more residents. Because October through April signifies “season” in Southwest Florida, there are typically a lot more people in town.
So, we at Home-Tech decided to come up with a list of fun things to do while you’re in the Fort Myers area for the season. On this list, we’ll include fall and winter activities in Fort Myers, Sanibel, Captiva, Cape Coral, Estero, Naples, Bonita Springs, and Marco Island.
Table of Contents
Farmers Markets
Farmers markets are a great way to enjoy the mild Florida seasons and taste interesting food from local vendors. Many farmers markets run from October through April, but may only be one day a week. Over 20 farmers markets are happening in the area from Fort Myers to Marco Island, so there are too many to list every single one. However, if you click here, you’ll see a map of farmers markets in Southwest Florida.
I’ve listed five of my favorite markets, but you truly can’t go wrong with any of them!
- Coconut Point Green Market – Every Thursday from October to April, this farmers market is up and running. From fresh fruit smoothies to beautiful handmade jewelry, you’ll find something you love. Situated right in front of Coconut Point mall, it’s the perfect location if you have some other shopping to do.
- Lakes Park Famers Market – The beautiful greenery at this farmers market is what makes it stand out. You can enjoy this outdoor market at Lakes Park every Wednesday from October to April. Located in a convenient spot for Fort Myers residents, this market is easily accessible and full of unique vendors.
- Vanderbilt Farmers Market – Naples residents, this one’s for you! Featuring 90+ vendors every Saturday all year round, this farmers market is tough to beat. From fresh flowers to local restaurant food trucks, it’s easy to spend an entire day here.
- Marinatown Farmers Market & More – This lively North Fort Myers market has live music and wonderful options for food. It runs from November to April, so they haven’t updated yet if they’ll be participating this year or not. If they are, go check them out on Sundays for a good time!
- Sanibel Island Farmers Market – I may be partial, but this one is my all-time favorite. My family and I ride our bikes to this farmers market every Sunday in December, although it’s there from October to May. Between the wonderful array of seafood options and the awesome fruit stands, you’re sure to come back every week.
Visit a Pumpkin Patch
Although Floridians often don’t get to experience the fun of hay rides or corn mazes, we still get to enjoy a good ole’ fashioned pumpkin patch.
Typically, pumpkin patches are visited when you’re just driving down the road, see one and yell “OH, let’s get a pumpkin!”
These pumpkin stands usually won’t have all the fun activities that come along with fall, but you may get lucky. If you’re looking for the full fall experience, check out Farm Fresh’s pumpkin patch in Alva or Farmer Mike’s in Bonita Springs.
Go Shelling
There’s nothing better than a beach where you can spread out and enjoy the fresh air. That’s why we’re recommending you make shelling a new hobby! The best time to find the shells is when the tide is especially low, like early in the morning. The ultimate time to collect them is early in the morning after a strong storm with high winds.
You typically won’t find that sort of storm during fall and winter, but hey… it’s Florida! Any sort of storm can happen here, whenever it wants. Regardless, the cooler temperature makes fall and winter the perfect time to be at the beach.
If you’re looking to try a special event surrounding sea shell collections, Marco Island hosts a Sea Shell Collection & Identification event on Tigertail Beach. Sanibel Island has consistently been named the “Seashell Capital of the World,” so you should check that out, as well. Locals say the best place to find shells on the island is at Turner Beach at Blind Pass.
Christmas Specific Events
Fort Myers is known for its rich history. Every Christmas, the Edison and Ford’s Winter Estates home is decorated cheerfully and hosts informational and interesting tours.
Christmas boat parades are also a very popular holiday event throughout Southwest Florida. You can see the photo to the left of last year’s boat parade captured by Southwest Florida Travel.
Fall and Winter in the Fort Myers Area
Fall and winter in the Fort Myers area is the perfect time to head outside and enjoy the weather. Not having to plan your day around an afternoon storm or a sudden heatstroke is a major bonus! Home-Tech has been providing Southwest Florida with fast, dependable appliance and AC repairs since 1981, so we definitely know the area.
If you find yourself in need of an appliance or system repair or replacement this season, contact us at 800-800-8356. We also provide Home Warranties to protect you from costly repairs!