by Heidi Attir

Created on: August 21, 2008   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

If you are ready to trade in your snow boots for flip-flops and the salt on your front steps for salty ocean breezes, Naples Florida is a perfect holiday destination. Situated on the southern gulf coast of Florida, Naples is an oasis in wintertime. It is one of the most beautiful cities in Florida and its annual holiday events are unique enough to warm the hearts of snowbirds everywhere.

Pack some shorts, sandals and a bathing suit and head down south for a holiday season like no other. No need to carry your Christmas presents with you. If there is one thing that residents of Naples know how to do, its shop! Downtown Fifth Avenue in Old Naples is lined with majestic palm trees and very high end stores and boutiques. Bayfront Shops offers an even more lavish shopping experience. The shops are posh and upscale and, of course, very expensive. Tin City, on the other hand, is situated right on the waterfront and offers unique handmade gifts and crafts, as well as a much more laid back atmosphere. The Village at Venetian Bay is a favorite of locals, with beautiful lights and festivities throughout the season. If you'd rather power shop and get back to the beach, try Coastland Mall and, while you're there, stop by and give Santa your wish list.

The Annual Trees and Trains Festival at Naples Depot should not be missed. Admission is free and it will definitely put you in the Christmas spirit. The Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium hosts Holiday Arbor Lights each year, showcasing over 150,000 lights along its boardwalk trail. What could be better than sipping hot chocolate and listening to Christmas carols - while sitting under a palm tree strung with twinkling holiday lights in your shorts and tank top?

The Naples Islands Annual Holiday Parade is stunning to behold. For the past 62 years, residents of the Naples area have gathered in December to watch as boats of all sizes and shapes trace a path through the bay and around the islands, giving a nautical touch to the holidays. Once you've experienced it, you'll want this night-time event to become a new holiday tradition.

Naples also hosts some outstanding events for children. The Naples Zoo at Carribbean Gardens is a zoo with a tropical flair. This Christmas celebration is one they will never forget. Each year the staff members at the Naples Zoo deliver gifts to the animals. Your children will be thrilled as they watch animals climb Christmas trees searching for treats, enjoy candy canes made of ice and blood, or rip

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