Swamp Buggies: Naples’ longest-running tradition returns

A long-running tradition in one Southwest Florida city saw hundreds of people flocking to the area. The Swamp Buggy Parade is one of Naples’ favorite traditions.

The four-wheel truck that is carrying a two-wheel manmade machine is a Swamp Buggy. This is a 73-year-long tradition in Naples.

Teresa Heitman is the Mayor of Naples. “The longest-running tradition we have in Naples,” said Heitman.

Mayor Heitman says the tradition began n the 1940s when then-mayor Roy Smith realized what the Swamp Buggy could bring to his city. That gift was tourism.

“Today, this high-action mudsperience, the sporting event draws spectators from all corners of the world,” said Heitman.

“Barefoot” Bobby Williams is a Swamp Buggy Racer. “This is a community event it’s very family-oriented. A lot of tourists come down though,” Williams said.

Willaims was able to boast his buggy at today’s parade. More than 50 other motorists joined Saturday’s festivities along with hundreds of spectators.

“We started right here at the mall and we headed south down to 41 to 5th Ave., South. It’s probably 2 to 3 miles anyway,” said Williams. This is the only time of year that the City of Naples shuts down US-41 from Golden Gate Parkway to Third Avenue South.

Willaims says his family has been in the parade for years. “We’ve been doing this about 13-14 years. Barefoot Florida living is the name of our buggy. My grandpa, Barefoot Williams pioneer of Naples,” he said.

“Our hometown is currently approaching two major milestones. Naples will soon celebrate its hundredth year anniversary while the swamp buggy races are still going strong after 73 years,” said Mayor Heitman.

The actual Swamp Buggy Races will take place on December 4 and 5.