What’s Up FMB is excited to announce the return of the Second Annual Illuminations Parade on Saturday, November 7, 2026, and to celebrate the overwhelming community support that has already helped light the way for this unique Fort Myers Beach tradition.
The parade’s premier Light the Way Sponsorships have officially sold out thanks to the generous support of: King Family Foundation, Alex King Group, The Whale, Fowler Construction
Unlike a traditional parade, the Illuminations Parade is a walking and ADA-accessible illuminated procession that invites individuals, families, businesses, nonprofits, schools, performers, and community organizations to become part of the celebration. Participants are encouraged to create illuminated costumes, themed walking groups, decorated mobility scooters, wagons, and other imaginative light displays. If it lights up, it belongs in the parade.
“Our first Illuminations Parade showed just how much our community embraces events that bring people together,” said Dawn Miller, President of What’s Up FMB. “We’re incredibly grateful to our Light the Way Sponsors for believing in this event and helping us continue building a holiday tradition that is uniquely Fort Myers Beach.”
The Illuminations Parade will begin at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 7, starting at Sandy Bottom’s Bar & Grill and traveling north along Estero Boulevard to Bayside Park, where participants and spectators will gather for an evening of music, community celebration, and holiday spirit.
While the premier sponsorship level has sold out, Glow Sponsorships ($1,500) and Friend of the Parade in-kind sponsorship opportunities are still available for businesses and organizations wishing to support this growing community tradition.
Businesses, nonprofits, schools, clubs, neighborhoods, and families are also invited to register as parade participants. There is no cost to participate, and everyone is encouraged to showcase their creativity through lights, costumes, music, and imagination.
Miller aded: “Our vision has always been simple—to create a parade where everyone can participate and everyone can shine. The Illuminations Parade is about bringing our community together, celebrating creativity, and reminding everyone that the brightest traditions are the ones we build together. We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors for helping make that vision possible.”
