| Three, two, one ... with a flip of the switch and applause from the crowd, the lights that formed the Cape Harbour Christmas tree lit up the sky Friday night. The tree, formed by a series of lights in the harbor, was just one star in an evening that included a visit from Santa, food, shopping and live music. Cape Harbour developer Will Stout welcomed the visitors to Cape Harbour and what he called "Grand Opening Celebration and Holiday Magic 2008," and said that the second official tree lighting at the south Cape Coral destination was meant for everyone.
"It's people talking to each other," Stout said. "It's people helping each other, wishing happy holidays and merry Christmas. Cape Harbour is becoming a focal point of the community."
During a brisk evening, hundreds gathered near the center of the development, listening to Catman Doodz and eating on the outdoor patio. Many brought dogs and children to meet Santa, who listened to Christmas requests for three hours.
"This is for everybody," Stout said. "That's important."
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Michelle Squires was part of a group of Joey's Greyhound Friends that brought the dogs to the party, partly for fun, but also with a goal to find homes for the dogs.
"We heard about this and wanted to bring the dogs," Squires said. "It's nice mingling and showing off the dogs."
Visitors came by boat and car to the party to check out new merchants and visit old friends. Merchants new to Cape Harbour include Classic Yachts International, Dolphin International Yacht Sales, Tropic & Paradise, Elements, The Bikini Company and Carefree Boat Club.
Fort Myers resident Colleen Beauchamp took time to browse local artists' work and nibble on hors d'oeuvres at HarbourView Gallery.
"I love the galleries in this area," Beauchamp said. "It's such a safe and nice area. It's a feast for the eyes."
The pre-Thanksgiving holiday party was the first of several events at Cape Harbour. The New Year's Eve celebration will include fireworks, live music and ball drop. The event is free and open to the public. |
