City of Fort Myers and River District Alliance partner to celebrate America’s 250th birthday in downtown Fort Myers
The City of Fort Myers and the River District Alliance (RDA) are partnering to host a two-day community celebration in downtown Fort Myers to commemorate America’s 250th birthday, bringing residents and visitors together for free, family-friendly festivities honoring the nation’s historic milestone.
As the nation prepares to mark its 250th anniversary, the City of Fort Myers, local businesses and community leaders have already raised nearly $250,000 to ensure the celebration is free for all attendees. To help offset event costs, the city established the ’76 Reignited Fund at Collaboratory. City of Fort Myers Mayor Kevin Anderson contributed $10,000 from the city’s Neighborhood Improvement Funds to launch the fundraising effort.
Festivities begin Friday, July 3, at 5 p.m., with an Americana-themed Art Walk featuring artisans and crafters along First Street and free live concerts at the Caloosa Sound Amphitheater. The celebration continues Saturday, July 4, at 10 a.m. with a patriotic ceremony at the new All Veterans Memorial in Centennial Park. Evening events include an opening ceremony at Caloosa Sound Amphitheater, live music and a fireworks and drone show at 9:15 p.m.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for our community to come together and honor the values, freedoms and spirit that have defined our great country for 250 years,” said city of Fort Myers Mayor Kevin Anderson. “Through our partnership with the RDA, we’re creating a star-spangled salute that honors America’s past and reflects the bright future we’re building together.”
The event reflects the longstanding partnership between the City of Fort Myers and the RDA, which have worked together to help transform downtown into a thriving destination for business, culture, dining and entertainment.
“We want every resident and visitor to feel welcome as we mark this historic occasion,” RDA President and CEO Lisa Sbuttoni said. “We’re proud to partner with the City of Fort Myers to create an experience that brings people together, supports our local businesses and showcases everything that makes downtown Fort Myers special.”
For a complete schedule of events and additional information, visit explorefortmyers.com or the City of Fort Myers events calendar at fortmyers.gov.
About the City of Fort Myers
Incorporated in 1886, the City of Fort Myers is committed to providing exceptional municipal services to residents, businesses and visitors in a fiscally responsible manner while preserving the city’s rich history, diverse culture and charming lifestyle. To carry out its mission, the City of Fort Myers strives to provide economic opportunity, personal growth and a high quality of life surrounded by a beautiful natural environment, while fostering an atmosphere where citizens and businesses can thrive. To learn more and get involved, visit fortmyers.gov.
About River District Alliance
The mission of the RDA is to promote and enhance the continued development of the historic downtown Fort Myers as a hub of economic, social and cultural activity. As one of the fastest growing areas in the nation, the RDA strives to preserve the essence of downtown while promoting the growth of the business and economic sectors that make the area thrive. For more information, visit explorefortmyers.com.