Every December on Marco Island, the air becomes electric—not because of chills, but in anticipation. The community waits for Christmas Island Style (CIS) to transform its parks, streets, and waterways into scenes of wonder and togetherness.
Origins & Mission
Founded in 1987 by Dawn Norgren, Christmas Island Style was born from a simple but powerful idea: to bring Christmas—and everything it signifies—to the entire island community in ways that go beyond simply hanging decorations. Dave Rice took over the helm 1999 – 2003, Steve Stefanides 2004 – 2020 and Wanda Burson since 2021. The mission: to unite Marco Island residents through a season of shared joy, laughter, and tradition.
What They Do
Christmas Island Style isn’t just one event; it’s an entire season. Among the signature events:
- Annual Christmas Island Style Golf Tournament; launches the season and supports all upcoming events.
- Ho-Ho-Ho Raise Some Dough; a fundraising soirée supporting all the upcoming seasonal events.
- Santa’s Arrival by Marco Island Fire Rescue Fire Truck; November 28th 5:00pm at Marco Island Academy
- Tree Lighting and Community Celebration; December 6th 6:00pm in Veterans Community Park
- Canine Pet Parade; December 9th 5:30pm at the Esplanade
- Annual Street Parade; December 13th 6:30pm on San Marco Road from Balfour to Barfield
- Holiday Movie in the Park; December 19th 5:30pm at Veterans’ Community Park
- Annual Boat Parade; December 20th 6:00pm (Marco River west of the Jolley Bridge, Collier Bay and Smokehouse Bay);
- Cookies & Milk with Santa and Mrs. Claus; December 20th 10:00am arriving at Mackle Park via helicopter
Community & Impact
These events create moments that become annual touchstones—memories people expect and plan their lives around. For many, seeing the lights go up or bringing children or grandchildren to the boat and street parade becomes part of what “home” feels like. All the events are free to the public. There is no cost to participants in the parades or spectators at the events. CIS is a volunteer organization that relies on the monetary support of fundraising and donations. There’s also a charitable component: The Street Parade, for example, invites participants to bring unwrapped toys for needy children. By doing so, CIS ensures that the holiday spirit includes “giving” as well as festivity.
Challenges & Growth
No story of community celebration is without hurdles. Organizing all events requires coordination, funds, permits, and volunteers. Each year, CIS manages logistics (float safety, parade routes, marine safety in the boat parade), and adapts to changing conditions. But the organization’s longevity along with support from the City’s Parks & Recreation Department, Public Works Department, Marco Island Police Department and Marco Island Fire Rescue suggests it has built effective systems and strong community goodwill. Condee Cooling & Electric has been a strong supporter of CIS over the years.
In a place of beaches, sunshine, and boats, Christmas Island Style proves that holiday magic does not require snow. It merely needs intention, caring hearts, and shared space. And on Marco Island, Christmas Island Style delivers that every year!