For three weeks, from January 26th through February 17th, Southwest Florida celebrates the innovation and achievements of Thomas Alva Edison during the 70th Annual Edison Festival of Light presented by Chico’s Charities.   Founded in 1938, the Edison Festival of Light has become one of the largest annual celebrations in the state of Florida.  Edison wintered here in Fort Myers for many years in the early 1900’s.  His house, garden, and laboratory are one of the most popular historical attractions in our area.  Edison has over 1,090 patents, and he is probably most associated with being the inventor of the light bulb. 

The Edison Festival of Light honors the inventor with a three week series of events starting with Edison Day of Discovery, students showcasing their unique and creative inventions at the Kiwanis Science and Engineering Fair and the Thomas A Edison Inventors Fair.  There is also an area set up for hands-on activities and fun for all ages at the Discovery Village.

During the second weekend, Light Up the Town is one great kick-off party with entertainment including classic rock and country performers.  Fabulous food and drink vendors are set up in tents showcasing their specialties. 

The same weekend as Light Up the Town is the Junior Run, Junior Parade and Coronation.  The day begins with races for school aged children.  After the Junior Run one of Fort Myers anticipated family events takes place, the Junior Parade, a mini-version of the grand parade with family floats, pulled wagons, and local high school bands.  At the end of the day, the celebration ends with the Junior Coronation and Awards Ceremony.   

The final weekend brings Crafts on the River with over 100 craft booths selling unique handcrafted items.  On Saturday, get tickets for the grand finale the Edison Festival of Light Stadium and Fireworks Show.  Gates open at 5pm with the featured national entertainment at 6pm followed by fireworks, which precede the entrance of the Grand Parade of Lights.  Guests attending the stadium show will have the best seats to view the parade victory lap.  For ticket information call 239-334-2999 or visit the website at www.EdisonFestival.org.

The Grand Parade is an awesome spectacle of color and pageantry and features Florida’s top marching bands, floats, dance troupes and drill teams.  The parade begins at Edwards Drive and Hendry Street in Downtown Ft. Myers and travels down Cleveland Avenue to Fort Myers High School Stadium.  The Edison Festival of Light Parade is the largest evening parade in the Southeast.  Make it a point to attend while you’re visiting Lovers Key Resort.

2008 Edison Festival of Lights Schedule

January 26:                  Edison Day of Discovery Science & Inventors Fair

February 8 & 9:           Light Up the Town – Acts Performing
                                    Friday, February 8     Time: 5pm-11pm         Tickets: $5.00
                                    Galo’s Santana Tribute Band:  Cracker Blues, Poor Richard & the
                                    Almanacs, Liquor Box, The Catman Doodz, Little Eddie & the Fat
                                    Fingers
                                   
Saturday, February 9  Time: 5pm-11pm         Tickets: $5.00
                                    Eddie Money, Night Ranger, Outer Toons Cartoon Band

February 10:                Junior Run, Parade & Coronation

February 15-17:           Crafts on the River

February 16:                5K Run, Stadium Show & Fireworks & The Grand Parade