Santa on the Sand inaugural event hosted by FOLKS and the Rotary Club of Bonita Springs
Right here on Fort Myers Beach Santa has been spotted all around town. He is getting ready for his much anticipated inaugural appearance hosted by FOLKS – Friends of Lovers Key – and the Rotary Club of Bonita Springs. Mark your calendars for Santa on the Sand at Lovers Key State Park on Sunday, Dec. 10, from 1 – 4 p.m.
“This is the first year that this event is being held and we look forward to watching the joy of young children meeting Santa on the beach,” said Shelley-Sue Williams, director/communications chair, FOLKS. “Also donating toys to children who may not otherwise have something special on Christmas Day will be another highlight of the event.”
The event is free with a paid park entry fee, (park entry fees are $8 for vehicles (2-8 people), $4 for single person in vehicle, $2 for pedestrian/bicyclist).
It’s always advised to arrive early to the park at 8700 Estero Blvd., as you will need time to park your car, and ride the tram down the beach.
“The beach at Lovers Key State Park is a beautiful setting for Santa as it one of SW Florida’s most unspoiled and undeveloped stretch of sandy beach,” said Williams. ” Santa has requested to make the day special by meeting everyone on his favorite beach.”
Pre- Registration is required, as this event is limited to the first 100 children who sign up. Each child, aged 8 and under, who donates an unwrapped toy to be put under the tree, will visit with Santa and receive a small gift. This will be a great holiday opportunity to give back presents for children in need and have your special young one talking and visiting with Santa.
“Children will have the opportunity to meet Santa on the Beach and have their photo taken with him, there will be a fully decorated Christmas tree on the beach” said Williams. “Children attending will place their unwrapped donated toy under the tree, and the toys will be then later be distributed by the Rotary to local children who may not have normally have received a Christmas gift.”
A tasty lunch will be provided for the children and snacks for adults. There will be lots of games and prizes as well. This fun afternoon will be perfect for selfies, cellphones, and cameras.
“Our special event will appeal to people of all ages, especially children under the age of 8, their parents and grandparents as well,” said Williams. “We hope to help instill a valuable lesson to the children attending, that lesson being that it is important to give to others.”
Each family in attendance will also be given a chance to win a fully decorated Christmas tree donated by the Rotary Club of Bonita Springs.
To RSVP or more information: Judy Greenwood 708-359-0466 or fjgreenwood@gmail.com