Top Things to Do in Naples in September through December
When the rest of the country is preparing to hibernate, Naples is just warming up. From wild animals to wild nights on Third Street South, the Paradise Coast has plenty to offer all autumn long.
Naples in the fall unfolds like red standing cypress flowers that brighten the region’s natural landscapes. From cultural events like fashion shows, film festivals, and art exhibits to great food found in both the farmers’ markets and annual Stone Crab Festival, the Paradise Coast pulls out all the stops for this under-appreciated season. Temperatures dip making it an ideal time to explore the great outdoors either through a telescope or with the help of the Naples Zoo.
ACTIVITIES & ATTRACTIONS
Indulge in Stargazing Season
By mid-October, the humidity in the area drops from 90 percent to as low as 50 percent, therefore, creating the best conditions to stargaze in this region of the Paradise Coast. For stargazing near Naples, FL, head 35 miles east to Big Cypress National Preserve, an International Dark Sky Park renowned for its dark, expansive skies with minimal light pollution, allowing for unobstructed views of the Milky Way. In fact, the national park offers regular free ranger-led astronomy programs, featuring guided constellation tours, telescope viewing (weather permitting), and commentary on stars, star clusters, nebulae, galaxies, and planets.
Find a Farmers’ Market
While most farmers’ markets around the country are preparing to call it quits as the warm weather begins to fade, Florida is just starting to roll theirs out. And Naples is no exception, offering around a dozen farmers’ markets starting in October and running until April. A few we suggest you seek out: Third Street South Farmers’ Market, overflowing with fresh produce, grass-fed beef, seafood, pastries and baked goods, prepared foods, jams, relishes, and more behind Tommy Bahama in the Neapolitan Parking Lot; St. John Farmers’ Market, with 40 vendors that set up shop at St. John’s Episcopal Church; and the Vanderbilt Farmers’ Market, said to be the largest in Naples with more than 80 vendors.
Tunes Among the Blooms
As autumn settles in, the Naples Botanical Garden comes alive not only with vibrant plant life but also with the sounds of live music drifting through its pathways. On select Saturday afternoons starting in October, local musicians set the stage outdoors, inviting visitors to linger a little longer among the tropical greenery with jazz, classical, and more filling the air.
Enjoy Up-Close Animal Encounters
From September through December, a visit to the Naples Zoo offers the chance to see wildlife at its liveliest. Giraffes stretch for leafy snacks, big cats lounge in the dappled shade, and historic tropical gardens frame every path. It’s an outing that blends animal encounters with a walk through one of Naples’ most unique landscapes.
2025 FESTIVALS & EVENTS
International Film Festival, 10/23–26
This film festival has been running for over a decade and now attracts a wide range of directors, both emerging and established in their careers. The films shown at both the Artis–Naples campus and the Silverspot Cinema range from documentaries to short films to narrative works from across the US and the world.
Stone Crab Festival, 10/24–26
October is the official start of stone crab season in Florida. To celebrate the unofficial dish of Florida, Naples hosts this weekend festival in the crab’s honor and includes block parties, eating contests, deals across the city’s restaurants and stores, live music, and more.
Paradise Coast Food & Wine, 11/15
This foodie festival showcases the best of all things local, from wine and beer to chefs and mixologists. Sample bites and sips from top local chefs, rising culinary stars, and national brands while enjoying live music and mixology demos.
48th Annual Christmas on Third, 11/24
Kick off the holiday season with this beloved tradition that transforms downtown Naples into a sparkling celebration of community and cheer. Santa arrives at 6:15 PM, followed by the official tree lighting and a magical snowfall at 6:20 PM. Stroll the twinkling streets, enjoy live music, and savor seasonal treats from local vendors, with shops and restaurants open late to soak in the festive spirit.
Thanksgiving Day 5K, 11/27
When runners in other parts of the country are hanging up their sneakers or turning to treadmills, Naples is taking to the streets for this festive 5K. Runners and walkers of all levels take in scenic downtown streets and waterfront views while enjoying a festive, community-focused atmosphere. For families, the nearby GCR Thanksgiving 5K adds a one-mile walk and kids’ races, making it a fun and active way to kick off the holiday.
New Year’s Fireworks, 12/31
Starting at 6 p.m., Third Street South – Naples’s historic high-end shopping district – becomes ground zero for NYE entertainment. Expect twinkle lights, tinsel, and live music on the sidewalks and champagne and buffets in the district’s various restaurants. The festivities end with snow machines pumping the street full of the fluffy white stuff before families head to the water for the fireworks display.
WHERE TO STAY IN NAPLES, FL
The Capri Inn
Newly renovated with a fresh and breezy design, The Capri Inn offers refined style and a truly superb location in the heart of Olde Naples and just a short stroll from all the excitement of downtown Naples. Whether you’re visiting the Paradise Coast for a romantic getaway or a relaxed family trip, you’ll be delighted with this boutique hotel that offers newly renovated accommodations, oversized bathrooms, a private two-bedroom cottage perfect for longer stays, and a tranquil, secluded pool.
Edgewater Beach Hotel
With a coveted beachfront setting overlooking the Gulf of Mexico and more than 100 modern suites, Edgewater Beach Hotel is a charming Naples vacation resort that has defined barefoot elegance for over 30 years. The relaxed ambiance of Florida’s southwest coast can be felt around every corner of the retreat, from thoughtfully appointed suites to the signature cocktails served at the poolside bar. Edgewater’s understated elegance also extends to the indoor and outdoor event space, which offers a distinctive backdrop for intimate meetings and romantic beach weddings.
