Fort Myers’ Winter Festivals in 2026
When you escape to the warmth of Fort Myers in winter, your first stop might be the beach. Once you’ve gotten your recommended dose of sunshine, you might be wondering “what’s next?” Thankfully, Fort Myers and its surrounding islands, beaches and neighborhoods have always attracted creative talent, and winter months are teeming with world-class cultural events and regional art shows that celebrate the best of Southwest Florida.
Venezia Renaissance Faire
January 10–11, 2026
January 17–18, 2026
Don your most noble attire just in time for the Ren Faire! The whole family can cheer on jousting tournaments, medieval feasts and marketplaces overflowing with gifts from a bygone era. The creativity and the costumes are always a treat, and the smoky scent of oversized turkey legs will have you clamoring for more.
Cape Coral Art Festival & Market Place
January 10–11, 2026
For the 41st year, the local art scene will arrive on the Cape Coral Parkway in an event hosted by the Rotary Club of Cape Coral. Browse among the works of over 200 artisans and craftspeople in an event that brings together community, color and creativity. Booths show off paintings, jewelry, sculptures, and more, along with food vendors and the special Art Way on the Parkway for young artists.
Bonita Springs National Art Festivals
January 10–11, 2026
February 7–8, 2026
March 14–15, 2026
Explore over three weekends to see three incredible showcases of talent in the heart of Riverside Park. This year, more than 200 invited artists will have an expanded space to present their work that spans every discipline. Considered one of the top art festivals in the country, the artists you meet have been selected by a jury panel for a first-in-class cultural experience.
Caloosahatchee Celtic Festival
January 25–25, 2026
Pack your best kilt because Southwest Florida’s biggest Celtic festival is back. Learn about the heritage through music, art and of course a pint of Guinness, all in the heart of downtown Fort Myers. The Caloosa Sound Amphitheater is the creative hub for this annual event that will feature artists like the Screaming Orphans from Donegal, Glasgow’s Albannach, the Irish-American Young Dubliners, and Kellyn Celtic Arts Irish Dancer from Southwest Florida.
ArtFest Fort Myers 2026
February 6–8, 2026
Spend a weekend of art on the waterfront, kicking off with a special opening night celebration under the stars accompanied by the Gulf Coast Symphony performing a free Pops Concert. Southwest Florida’s premier art festival features more than 200 handpicked artists from around the world. Visual art encompasses every medium, from paintings and sculptures to blown glass and ceramics, at price points to fit every budget. Find family fun with hands-on activities at the Publix Art Yard and watch students in action at the Chalk Block.
Sanibel Shell Show & Festival
March 5, 2026
Science meets innovation in the Seashell Capital of the World at the 89th annual shell festival. The Sanibel Shell Show & Festival is the leading event of its kind, inviting seashell collectors and malacologists for conversations with marine biologists and seashell artists. See how seashells can inspire creativity, learn to identify mollusks in the live tank and discover the winners of judged competitions for art and science.
Get the complete list of festivals and special events in the Fort Myers area and plan your trip to enjoy the excitement along with the gorgeous weather.
