Edison Festival of Light Grand Parade route changes

On February 16, people from all over the world will be lining the streets along US 41 and throughout the Downtown River District to watch the biggest night parade in the Southeast. People have been watching the Edison Festival of Light Grand Parade for more than 80 years. Some have had the same family spot for decades and mark their spots well in advance. This year, a few favorite viewing spots will change due to a new route to accommodate the construction progress happening for the newest downtown hotel! Some of those spots have already been marked off along Monroe Street.

City of Fort Myers officials work closely with Festival planners each year to solidify the best route for the Grand Parade given what is happening in the area at the time. Most years, the route doesn’t fluctuate. In 2010, the direction of the parade changed. The route stayed the same and the traditional viewing spots remained the same. However the route was reversed; the Grand Parade began at Ft. Myers High and finished in the Downtown River District, which was beneficial to businesses and those participating in the parade.

Marking your spot for the Edison Festival of Light Grand Parade?

• Do not plan to sit on Monroe St. or Edwards Dr. in front of Harborside Event Center.
• Instead, mark your spot on Main Street or Hendry.
• Or find a prime spot on US 41 between Lions Park and MLK.
• Additional reserved seats can be purchased from non-profit groups along the parade route. You can just show up on parade day and your spot and chair will be waiting for you,

More than 200,000 people attend the parade and there are more than 200 units including floats, marching bands, trucks, dignitaries, and much more participating! For more information about the route or other Edison Festival of Light activities visit www.edisonfestival.org.