Fort Myers, Florida, is the ultimate vacation destination no matter the season, but this area definitely sees a spike in tourism during the cold winter months. For over a century, Fort Myers has been a haven for all types of travelers including Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, who helped raise the wintertime popularity of the region. With an annual average of over 270 days with sunshine, a high average temperature of 74.7℉, and an average low of 53.7℉ during the heart of the winter, this is a great place to wash away the winter blues. The area is renowned for its tremendous amount of fun activities, both indoor and outdoor. Take to the miles and miles of pristine quartz sand beaches, that are cool to the touch no matter the temperature or power of the sun (because of the high quartz content). If you're an outdoor activities enthusiast, then take part in everything from deep sea fishing to scenic nature hikes. The area is also home to a rich and vibrant culture. The beautiful surroundings and warm community have cultivated in a growing artistic community that is on display in the many local exhibits, galleries, shows, and museums. Nobody celebrates like the residents of Fort Myers and the large amount of fairs, events, attractions, and festivals are the perfect example.
When it comes to unique festivals and fun for all ages, few can compare to the Caloosahatchee Celtic Festival. This festival attracts thousands of people from Florida and all over North America. While the main theme of the festival is celebrating Celtic heritage, the wide range of performers and attractions make this festival great for anyone who attends. The environment of the festival is that of a large outdoor celebration. The people are warm and friendly, and great live music is always in the background adding to the experience. The food options here will cover the most picky of eaters. From traditional dishes like meat pies to festival fare like hot dogs, the food here is delicious and plentiful. This is a great event for the entire family; your kids will love the live demonstrations, games and vibrant atmosphere. We interviewed Kelly MacDonald, the Senior Program Coordinator for the Fort Myers Recreation Division.
RAL: Tell me a little bit about the festival?
KM: This is the 13th year for the Caloosahatchee Celtic Festival. We usually have between 3000 and 5000 people who attend the festival. Our attendees come from all along the East Coast of the United States and from as far north as Nova Scotia! The demographics of our crowd are wide ranging because of the diversity of talent on stage and the wide range of activities. We see all age groups represented, and our attendees typically range from toddlers, experiencing their first outdoor festival, to their great-grandparents!
RAL: What sets this festival apart from others?
KM: It's unique, because although it's an event that celebrates Celtic culture (Irish, Scottish, Welsh, etc.), the focus of the festival is on the music which has a cross-cultural and universal appeal. I suppose you could call it "edutainment" because it's educational, whether you're exploring your own heritage or just wishing to sample a different culture, while being highly entertaining. We are the largest Celtic festival in Southwest Florida.
RAL: Take me through the activities of a typical day at the festival?
KM: We have musical acts ranging from traditional Celtic acoustic song and dance, to electronic pop and rock. You’ll find authentic food and drink from the British Isles, shopping with vendors whose wares include Irish and Scottish imports and original crafts, a British car club show, labyrinth, and small Highland athletic competition. The gates open at 11:00 am and the Festival continues until 10:00 pm.
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11:15 Marcille Wallis & Friends
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Noon Opening Ceremonies
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12:15 West of Galway
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1:15 Screaming Orphans
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2:15 Rathkeltair
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3:15 Albannach
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4:15 Kellyn Celtic Arts Irish Dance Academy
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5:00 West of Galway
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6:00 Marcille Wallis & Friends
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7:00 Screaming Orphans
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8:00 Rathkeltair
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9:00 Albannach
RAL: What can visitors expect to find for local lodging?
KM: Best Western, known as a chain which links independently owned and operated hotels, is the host hotel for our event. The Best Western Fort Myers Waterfront is located directly across the Caloosahatchee River from our event. They feature great views of the river and the Fort Myers skyline. They've been our host hotel for several years now, providing lodging for our entertainers and offering great discounts to festival-goers. This is a popular event and lodging can fill up fast. If lodging is full at the Best Western, check out these additional options: Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Myers, Homewood Suites by Hilton and Hibiscus House.
RAL: Does the festival drive business to the local economy?
KM: Indeed it does! Attendees come from all over the United States and Canada. We’ve also learn that a fairly significant number of festival-goers drive three hours or more to come to this event. It's not unusual for festival organizers to field questions from those who are flying in for the event. In addition to attending the festival, these folks take time to explore downtown Fort Myers’ most popular attractions such as the Edison Home, and of course, Southwest Florida's world-famous beaches.
RAL: Why should people come to your festival?
KM: Everyone takes away something a little different. The common theme we hear is that everyone who's part of the festival is accessible and approachable. People leave having made new friends, and feeling that they've become part of a family. Also, we are the largest Celtic festival in Southwest Florida.
For more information about the Caloosahatchee Celtic Festival, please visit their website.