Coconut Fest returns to Sun Splash Nov. 10-13
Flipping the calendar page to November means it’s time for Cape Coral’s ever-popular Coconut Festival family celebration at Sun Splash Family Waterpark.
Coconut Festival is one of the most family-friendly and fun events of the year. It brings carnival rides for the younger set, fireworks and live music concerts for the whole family.
“It’s a proven, signature event for the city,” said Todd King, special events coordinator for the city Parks & Recreation Department. “We are looking forward to a spectacular fireworks display and good weather this year.”
The event typically draws more than 30,000 visitors over the four days and King said he is looking for that many again this year. Parking is free on the grounds, but limited.
The festival runs Nov. 10-13 with the opening Thursday giving visitors a Sneak Peek of the activities from 5-10 p.m. with free admission to those wearing carnival wristbands.
Friday is Coco Country Night (5 p.m.-midnight) with Jana Kramer sharing the performance stage with Chase Bryant. Saturday in Coco Southern Rock Night (noon till midnight) and offers a Tribute to Heart by the tribute band Barracuda which shares the stage with 38 Special during the evening. Attendees are treated to fireworks displays at 9 p.m. both nights.
“38 Special performed here in 2012 and was such an amazing hit with the audience that we’re bringing them back,” said King. “All of the other performers are first-timers.”
Sunday is Coco Family Day from noon till 10 p.m. This is the day many local dance groups and martial arts studios perform on the community stage.
“We try to meet the needs of all our demographics from kids to parents to the seniors,” said King. “It’s a great mix of entertainment.”
General admission tickets are $7 per day with children under age 5 admitted free. Unlimited carnival ride wristbands are $25 at the gate, or can be purchased in advance at the Parks & Recreation office at City Hall for $20 and includes the admission fee.
Besides the carnival rides, games and contests, vendors provide all of the food and beverages everyone loves. A jumbo TV screen is set up in the party tent for football fans to enjoy.
Sun Splash is at 400 Santa Barbara Blvd. For more information call 239-573-3128 or visit www.cocofest.com.