Several years ago, the brainchild of The Downtown Naples Association, Naples CityFest, became a reality. What began as a celebration for the “locals”, who endure the influx of our wonderful snowbirds from approximately October through April, has now become one of the best city festivals of the year! ~And, this event occurs not only in May to kick up our heels at the end of “season”, but once again in October…to mark a “season” kick-off, when we are all preparing for the population and traffic to increase in numbers unfathomable if you just happened upon our sweet little town in say, June or July!
For those of us who live here year round, Naples takes on quite a different personality in the off season. Some changes are more subtle than others, but some are distinctly obvious: no long lines at the grocery store, no need to make dinner reservations at the popular restaurants weeks in advance…in addition to that type of thing, the flowering trees in Naples are magnificent this time of year…Purple Jacarandas, Yellow Tabebuia (photo inset-click to enlarge), and Bright red Royal Poinciana trees lining the downtown streets! It’s kinda’ sad that the snowbirds leave before these trees explode with color, but in a way I count it as a reward for the natives at the end of a long ‘winter” after working long hours and catering to our northern friends. Trust me, the spectacle that these trees afford us is indescribable. Come on down to Naples in May or June and you’ll be treated to a very special place indeed.
Naples slows down to a pace similar to what I remember drew me here in the first place nearly 33 years ago. The local shoppes have some unbelievable off season sales, golf courses have incredible summer rates…and so, although we couldn’t make a living without the annual migration of the snowbird, we do all look forward to getting our city back when they fly home in the Spring. ~Thus, the idea for Naples CityFest. A two week long party to bring locals downtown with events planned daily and nightly! Two full weeks of fun hosted by the downtown retail areas! There’s going to be a block party on 5th Avenue South this Friday night. Other activities can be found by clicking on the Naples News link HERE!
