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Times of the Islands Magazine

Thanksgiving Things-to-Do!

Nov 01, 2023 08:00AM ● By Ann Marie O’Phelan

The Holiday Lights at The Edison Ford & Winter Estates.

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. In southwest Florida, The Edison Ford and Winter Estates in Fort Myers offers many exciting Thanksgiving festivities that can be enjoyed by all. 

Floral Arrangement Workshop

Floral Arrangement Workshop at The Edison Ford & Winter Estates.


Those interested in adding their personal touch to their Thanksgiving tabletop can enroll in the Thanksgiving Floral Arrangement Workshop on November 12 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Floral Designer Anita Singh will guide participants through a step-by-step process on designing a centerpiece for their Thanksgiving dinner. Students of all levels will learn about various techniques, color palettes, and floral varieties. 

“You will leave the class with a lovely centerpiece and the know-how to work on future projects,” says Lisa Wilson, Marketing & Public Relations Director. 

All flowers and supplies are provided in the class.  Edison Ford members $75; non-members $85. Purchase tickets online. Register early as space is limited.

Turkey Trot

The Turkey Trot 5K at The Edison Ford & Winter Estates

 Runners, joggers, or walkers can enjoy the third annual Turkey Trot 5K held at the Estates on November 23 at 7:30 am. 

“The proceeds will go to a good cause,” says Wilson. They benefit preservation at the Estates and the FMTC Youth and Scholarship Fund. Register for the 44th annual Turkey Trot at Ftmyerstrackclub.com. The track club promotes health and fitness through running.



Holiday Lights

It's never too early to get into the holiday spirit. The Holiday Nights Tree Lighting Ceremony will be held on November 24 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. This 48th annual day-after-Thanksgiving event starts with a tree-lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. and continues with festivities throughout the evening. Once the tree is lit, performers will sing. 

Visitors can stroll the property and enjoy the thousands of lights and animated displays on the property’s riverside. On select nights, guided and specialty tours are offered, as well as musical performances, Santa visits, and Lee County discount nights. The festive displays will continue to shine through the end of December. 

Admission for Holiday Nights only: Adults $20, Teens (13-19) $10, Children (6-12) $2; free for Edison Ford members. Guided tours are additional. Purchase tickets online. 

The Estates offer the Edison and Ford historic winter homes, surrounded by 20 acres of land with botanic gardens, the Edison Ford Museum, the Edison Botanic Research Laboratory, a Garden Shoppe, a Museum Store, and more. 

Plan Your Visit

Edison and Ford Winter Estates, 2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, 239-334-7419, edisonfordwinterestates.org.