What’s Up FMB to hold Illuminations Walking Parade
Matanzas Pass Bridge to close for oncoming traffic this Saturday from 5-8
What’s Up FMB will be holding the second edition of the Illuminations Walking Parade on Saturday, November 7. The event will take place along Estero Boulevard at 5:45 p.m. from 2307 Estero Boulevard down to Old San Carlos Boulevard and Bayside Veterans Park.
The Matanzas Pass Bridge will be closed to oncoming traffic from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday to accommodate the parade, Town of Fort Myers Beach officials announced.
From 5:45 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Estero Boulevard will be closed from Mango Street to Old San Carlos Boulevard.
What’s Up FMB is encouraging parade participants to create and carry their own illuminated lanterns while walking in the procession. Individuals, families, neighborhood groups, businesses, schools and community organizations are welcome to join the fun and help create a glowing celebration of creativity and island spirit.
Lantern-building opportunities will be available before the parade. What’s Up FMB is donating lantern supplies to the Fort Myers Beach Public Library and Bay Oaks Recreational Campus to support community participation. Additional workshop dates, locations, costs and registration details will be announced soon.
Those who prefer to watch are encouraged to gather safely along Estero Boulevard and Old San Carlos Boulevard to cheer on the procession. Spectators may also welcome participants as they arrive at Bayside Park.
The public is invited to take part. Participation in the parade and spectator attendance are free.
Dawn Miller, president and co-founder of What’s Up FMB, said more than 230 participants are already registered to take part in the event.
“It’s perfect for our island,” Miller said. Miller said those participating in the parade can use handmade lanterns. “Anything that lights up goes,” she said.
Additional information, including participant registration and lantern-building announcements, will be posted at WhatsUpFMB.com and on the What’s Up FMB social media pages.
The parade is being sponsored by the King Family Foundation, Alex King Group, Fowler Construction, The Whale, and Surfside Iced Tea + Vodka.
Motorists, residents, and visitors are encouraged to plan their travel accordingly and allow extra time when traveling to and from the island.