Fort Myers has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. The city's founding is attributed to Zane Grey, who coined the name "Fort Myers" in 1885, supposedly after the Seminole word "Mianis" meaning "fort". The area was originally inhabited by the Timucuan, a Native American tribe. In the late 1800s, the area became a popular winter destination for wealthy snowbirds, earning its nickname.
Thomas Edison, one of the most famous snowbirds, was a resident of the city and contributed significantly to its growth. Fort Myers continued to attract visitors and entrepreneurs, with the establishment of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in 1920. The estates, now a National Historic Landmark, were built by Edison and Henry Ford, and feature an impressive collection of artifacts, historical homes, "and beautiful gardens." The cities growth continued to flourish... and today Fort Myers is a thriving city with a strong sense of community and cultural heritage.
Here are five fun things to do this weekend and beyond, including Cape Coral Bike Night, Fort Myers Art Walk and the Edison Festival of Light Junior Parade. Plus more things to do this week and a look at what's ahead in February. This smaller version of the Edison Festival of Light Grand Parade features kids and their families smiling and waving from floats, wagons, marching bands and more. More than 100 units participate in what's billed as Florida's largest youth parade. Part of the annual Edison Festival of Light, a celebration of famous Fort Myers snowbird Thomas Edison.
1:30-3:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9. Free. The parade starts at First and Monroe streets in downtown Fort Myers. edisonfestival.org
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