UFC Hall of Famer Tito Ortiz to Grand Marshall Edison Festival of Light

Writer: Nicholas Karsen
Published: Updated:
Tito Ortiz
Credit: Edison Festival of Light

Former UFC Light Heavyweight World Champion and Hall of Famer Tito Ortiz has been announced as the grand marshall of the 87th annual Edison Festival of Light parade.

According to the event organizer, Ortiz became a resident of Cape Coral in 2022 after witnessing the resilience and unity of the local community during relief efforts in Matlacha, Pine Island and North Captiva following Hurricane Ian.

Since then, Ortiz has integrated himself into the Southwest Florida community, opening Tito’s Cantina on Cape Coral Parkway and serving as the head assistant wrestling coach at Ida Baker High School.

The Edison Festival of Light is expected to generate massive attention in the SWFL community, with many eager to enjoy the festivities.

The event organizer’s Facebook account posted several events throughout the festival.

  • Feb. 1 – Antique Car Show at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates starting at 9 a.m.
  • Feb. 4 – Mrs. Edison’s Hymn Sing at First Presbyterian Church starting at 1 p.m. and continuing to 4 p.m.
  • Feb. 8 – STEMtastic Day of Discovery at Caloosa Sound Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Feb. 8 – Mutt Strutt at Centennial Park & Edwards and Monroe from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Feb. 8, 9 – Edison Garden Festival at Edison and Ford Winter Estates from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Feb. 9 – Junior Fun Run (official event of the Edison Festival of Light) at First Street in Downtown River District starting at noon.
  • Feb. 9 – Edison Festival of Light Junior Parade starting at 1:30 p.m.
  • Feb. 11 – Thomas Edison’s Birthday Celebration at Edison and Ford Winter Estates at 10 a.m.
  • Feb. 15-16 – Edison Festival of Light Crafts on the River in Fort Myers at Caloosa Sound Amphitheater
  • Feb. 15 – Millennial Brewing Co. Pre-Parade Party starting at 4 p.m.
  • Feb. 15 – Edison 5K Run Edwards Dr & Hendry St. starting at 5:15
  • Feb. 15 – 87th Annual Edison Festival of Light Grand Parade starting at 7 p.m.

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