Updated November 10, 2026 | Presented by Shaffer's Irrigation & Outdoor Lighting

Looking for Christmas events near Sarasota, Venice, North Port, Port Charlotte or Punta Gorda in 2026? Whether you're planning a family outing, searching for places to see Santa Claus, looking for the best Christmas light displays or wondering where to go ice skating in Southwest Florida, there's plenty happening between now and New Year's Eve.

Christmas in Southwest Florida looks a little different. Instead of snow-covered streets, we have lit palm trees, Christmas lights reflecting off the canals, decorated boats cruising Charlotte Harbor and holiday celebrations under the Florida sunshine.

At Shaffer's Irrigation & Outdoor Lighting, we've served Southwest Florida communities for more than 30 years. Since we help homeowners and businesses celebrate the season through professional Christmas light installation, we put together a guide to the Christmas events happening throughout our area.

This guide covers confirmed 2026 holiday events from Sarasota and Siesta Key through Venice, Wellen Park, North Port, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda and Babcock Ranch. You'll find dates, times, addresses, activities, contact information and links to each organizer.

Quick answer: What are the best Christmas events in Southwest Florida in 2026?

November 14: Santa's Grand Arrival Parade at UTC in Sarasota and the Lighting of the Village at Fishermen's Village in Punta Gorda.
November 18 to January 3: Outdoor ice skating at UTC Sarasota.
November 27: Venice's Mayor's Hometown Christmas and tree lighting.
November 28: Venice Holiday Parade and Siesta Key Holiday Parade.
December 4 to 5: Wellen Wonderland in Venice.
December 5: North Port Poinsettia Parade and Festival.
December 5 to January 2: Lights in Bloom at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens on select nights.
December 12: Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights and Charlotte County Christmas Parade.
December 19: Punta Gorda Isles Christmas Boat Parade and Swim with Santa in North Port.
Through December 31: Fishermen's Village Holiday Festival of Lights and Christmas canal cruises.

Most community parades and outdoor lighting celebrations are free. Skating, performances, cruises and some special experiences require tickets.

Christmas Events in Sarasota, Florida, 2026

Sarasota offers some of the largest Christmas celebrations in Southwest Florida, from outdoor ice skating and botanical garden light displays to Santa parades, fireworks and holiday boat parades. Want your own home to shine this year? See our Christmas light installation in Sarasota.

Santa's Grand Arrival Parade at UTC: November 14, 2026

Date: Saturday, November 14, 2026 | Time: 3 to 9:30 p.m. | Location: University Town Center, 210 N. Cattlemen Road, Sarasota, FL 34243 | Admission: Free | Website: utcsarasota.com

UTC kicks off the 2026 Christmas season with one of Sarasota's biggest holiday celebrations: giant parade balloons, decorated floats, marching bands, performers, holiday characters, fireworks and a visit from Santa Claus.

3 to 5 p.m.: Children's games and activities
4:15 to 5:30 p.m.: Pre-parade entertainment
6 p.m.: Christmas tree lighting and stunt performance
6:30 p.m.: Santa's Grand Arrival Parade
7:30 p.m.: Fireworks
8 p.m.: Niko Moon concert

This is a great option for families who want several Christmas activities in one evening. Parking is available throughout UTC; expect road closures and crowds. UTC is a short drive for families in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, where we also offer Christmas lights in Lakewood Ranch and Bradenton Christmas light installation.

Outdoor Ice Skating at The Rink at UTC: November 18, 2026 to January 3, 2027

Dates: November 18, 2026 to January 3, 2027 | Location: UTC West District, next to Ford's Garage, 210 N. Cattlemen Road, Sarasota, FL 34243 | Admission: Ticketed; confirm current rates and sessions | Website: utcsarasota.com/holidays

Yes, you can go ice skating outdoors in Sarasota, Florida. The Rink at UTC features real ice in a festive outdoor setting, popular with families, couples and visitors who want a traditional winter experience without leaving Florida. Sessions vary through the season, so check reservations and availability before you go.

UTC Christmas Lights, Holiday Carriage Rides and Fireworks

Dates: November 14, 2026 to January 3, 2027 | Address: 210 N. Cattlemen Road, Sarasota, FL 34243 | Light shows: Nightly, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. | Carriage rides: Thursday to Sunday, 6 to 10 p.m., $12 per passenger | Fireworks: Saturday nights | Website: utcsarasota.com/holidays

UTC's decorations continue all season, with coordinated holiday light shows, carriage rides and Saturday night fireworks. The light shows are one of the best choices for families searching for free Christmas lights in Sarasota. UTC also offers free outdoor holiday movie nights, typically Friday and Saturday evenings beginning November 20.

Siesta Key Holiday Parade and Santa Visits: November 28, 2026

Date: Saturday, November 28, 2026 | Santa visits: 3 to 5 p.m. | Parade: 5:30 p.m. | Santa location: Historic Siesta Key Village Gazebo, near Ocean Boulevard, Avenida Messina and Canal Road, Sarasota, FL 34242 | After the parade: Big Tiki Lounge, 5311 Ocean Boulevard | Phone: 941-349-3800 | Admission: Free | Website: Siesta Key Chamber

Siesta Key brings Christmas to its beachside village with decorated floats, local businesses, community groups and Santa. The first 250 children at the gazebo receive holiday gift bags. The parade begins at Beach Road and Avenida del Mare and travels into Siesta Key Village. Decorating a beach home this year? See our Siesta Key Christmas light installation.

Holiday Night of Lights at St. Armands Circle: December 4, 2026

Date: Friday, December 4, 2026 | Time: 5:30 to 8 p.m. | Address: St. Armands Circle Park, Sarasota, FL 34236 | Admission: Free | Website: starmandsflorida.com

St. Armands Circle celebrates with its 48th annual Holiday Night of Lights: lit decorations, holiday entertainment, dinner and shopping. It's an excellent Christmas date night, and an easy trip for neighbors on nearby Longboat Key, where we offer Christmas lights on Longboat Key.

Lights in Bloom at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens: December 5, 2026 to January 2, 2027

Selby Gardens transforms its downtown campus with more than two million holiday lights. It's a walk-through experience, so you can explore the gardens at your own pace. Buy tickets in advance. There is no event on December 24, 25 or 31.

Sarasota Holiday Parade: December 5, 2026

Date: Saturday, December 5, 2026 | Time: Evening; see the organizer for the start time | Route reference: Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 | Admission: Free | Website: sarasotaholidayparade.com

Downtown Sarasota's annual parade features decorated floats, performances, marching groups and local organizations. Arrive early for a good view along Main Street.

Holiday Splendor at The Ringling: December 10 and 17, 2026

Dates: Thursdays, December 10 and 17, 2026 | Time: 5 to 8 p.m. | Address: 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL 34243 | Phone: 941-360-7399 | Admission: Free with an unwrapped toy per person; otherwise $15 adults, $5 children | Website: ringling.org

Holiday music from local school groups, Santa, face painting and food vendors in the Museum of Art Courtyard, combined with a Toys for Tots drive.

Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights: December 12, 2026

Date: Saturday, December 12, 2026 | Time: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. | Viewing: Bayfront Park and Marina Jack, 2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota, FL 34236 | Marina Jack reservations: 941-365-4232 | Admission: Free public viewing | Website: Suncoast Charities for Children

Boaters decorate their vessels with Christmas lights and parade across Sarasota Bay. The event supports Suncoast Charities for Children; bring an unwrapped toy or book for local kids in need.

Christmas Entertainment in Sarasota

Wonderland Circus: Home for the Holidays. November 21, 2026 to January 2, 2027. UTC East District, 210 N. Cattlemen Road. utcsarasota.com/holidays
The Nutcracker at Sarasota Opera House. December 20 to 22, 2026. 61 N. Pineapple Avenue. sarasotaballet.org
Deck the Halls at Florida Studio Theatre. Select performances November 28 to December 24, 2026. 1241 N. Palm Avenue. 941-366-9000. floridastudiotheatre.org

Christmas Events in Venice and Wellen Park, Florida, 2026

Venice offers traditional parades, tree lightings, holiday shopping, live performances and a lighted boat parade. Homeowners in Venice, Wellen Park, South Venice and Nokomis can see our Venice Christmas light installation and Christmas lights in Nokomis.

The Mayor's Hometown Christmas: November 27, 2026

Christmas music, seasonal activities and the lighting of the community Christmas tree in downtown Venice.

50th Annual Venice Holiday Parade: November 28, 2026

Venice celebrates 50 years of its Holiday Parade with the theme Golden Traditions: lit floats, marching bands and community groups. Check the city parade map for the route and viewing spots.

Venice Christmas Walk: December 3, 2026

Holiday shopping, music and festive storefronts in downtown Venice.

Wellen Wonderland: December 4 to 5, 2026

Dates: Friday, December 4 and Saturday, December 5, 2026 | Address: Downtown Wellen Park, 19745 Wellen Park Boulevard, Venice, FL 34293 | Phone: 941-960-7805 | Website: wellenpark.com

Friday, December 4:

5:30 to 6:30 p.m.: American Sirens holiday performance
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.: Holiday figure skating performance
5:30 to 9 p.m.: Christmas market
5:30 p.m. onward: Children's holiday crafts, while supplies last
About 6:15 p.m.: Christmas tree lighting with Santa
Evening: Santa photos and live entertainment

Saturday, December 5:

6 p.m.: Holiday Glow Bike Ride (register in advance; helmets required)
Evening: Santa visits, entertainment and dueling pianos

The figure skating is a performance, not a public skating session.

Venice Christmas Boat Parade: December 5, 2026

Date: Saturday, December 5, 2026 | Time: 6 p.m. | Location: Intracoastal Waterway, Venice | Viewing reference: Venice Avenue Bridge area, Venice, FL 34285 | Admission: Free from public viewing areas | Website: venicechristmasboatparade.net

Lit boats travel the Intracoastal Waterway in a colorful procession. Venice Area Beautification also hosts a separate, ticketed Christmas Boat Bash on December 5 from 5:30 to 10 p.m. at 257 N. Tamiami Trail. vabi.org/boat-bash

Christmas Lights at Monty Andrews Arboretum: November 28, 2026 to January 1, 2027

Dates: November 28, 2026 to January 1, 2027 | Special evening: Saturday, December 12, 5:30 p.m. | Location: West Blalock Park, Venice, FL 34285 | Contact: Venice Area Beautification, 941-207-8224 | Website: vabi.org

A decorated park that pairs well with an evening in downtown Venice. Verify display hours before you go.

Christmas in the Park: December 18, 2026

Adult and children's choirs from Colonial Baptist Church perform carols, with a chance to sing along.

The Nutcracker in Venice: December 11 to 12, 2026

Dates: Friday, December 11 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, December 12 at 3 p.m. | Address: Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Avenue, Venice, FL 34285 | Phone: 941-218-3779 | Tickets: About $40 to $95 | Website: sarasotaballet.org

The Sarasota Ballet's Studio Company and more than 100 students perform with live music by the Venice Symphony. About two hours with intermission.

Christmas Events in North Port, Florida, 2026

North Port's celebrations are convenient for families in southern Sarasota County and northern Charlotte County. Planning lights at home? See our North Port Christmas light installation.

North Port Poinsettia Parade and Festival: December 5, 2026

The 2026 theme is Sleigh the Night Away. The festival has local vendors, food trucks, entertainment, the Little Elves Craft Workshop and Santa photos. At 5 p.m. the parade travels Sumter Boulevard toward City Center, followed by the city's Christmas tree lighting. Extra parking and a free shuttle run from Morgan Family Community Center. Text PARADE26 to 888-777 for updates.

Swim with Santa: December 19, 2026

Holiday swimming, games, crafts, photos with Santa and a goody bag. Space is limited.

Christmas Events in Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda, Florida, 2026

Charlotte County celebrates with waterfront light displays, Santa visits, holiday boat cruises, tree lightings and community parades. Fishermen's Village is the center of the season, while downtown Punta Gorda and Babcock Ranch host major celebrations. Our home base is Port Charlotte, so this is our own backyard: see our Port Charlotte Christmas light installation and Christmas light installation in Punta Gorda.

Holiday Lighting of the Village: November 14, 2026

5 p.m.: Festivities begin
5:45 p.m.: Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive with the Punta Gorda Fire Department
6 p.m.: Ribbon-cutting ceremony
6:15 p.m.: Official Lighting of the Village
After the ceremony: Bagpipers and holiday entertainment
Until 9 p.m.: Santa, Mrs. Claus, the Grinch and Cindy Lou Who
5 to 9 p.m.: Elf on the Shelf photos
All evening: Live music, face painting, performers and shopping

Fishermen's Village Holiday Festival of Lights: November 15 to December 31, 2026

Dates: November 15 to December 31, 2026 | Address: 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 | Phone: 941-639-8721 | Admission: Free | Website: fishermensvillage.com/events

More than one million Christmas lights decorate this waterfront shopping and dining destination. Because the lights stay up all season, it's a good choice if you can't make a one-night event. Shops generally open Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday noon to 6 p.m.; holiday hours may differ.

Punta Gorda Christmas Lights Canal Cruises: December 1 to 31, 2026

Dates: December 1 to 31, 2026; no cruises Christmas Day | Departs: King Fisher Fleet at Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 | Admission: Ticketed; reservations recommended | Info: fishermensvillage.com/events

See decorated waterfront homes, docks, seawalls and boats from the water. Published options include one-hour cruises at 6, 7:30 and 9 p.m. and a sunset and Christmas lights cruise at 5 p.m. Confirm times when booking.

Light Up the Night, Punta Gorda Christmas Tree Lighting: December 4, 2026

Date: Friday, December 4, 2026 | Time: 4 p.m. into the evening | Location: Downtown Punta Gorda near West Marion Avenue and Taylor Street, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 | Contact: LightUpTheNightPG@gmail.com | Admission: Free | Website: lightupthenightpg.com

4 p.m.: Festival begins
6 p.m.: Santa arrives
6:15 to 7:45 p.m.: Evan Taylor Jones
7 to 8:25 p.m.: Additional entertainment
8:30 p.m.: Christmas tree lighting
8:45 to 10:15 p.m.: Josie Sal

Babcock Ranch Christmas Tree Lighting Festival: December 4, 2026

Date: Friday, December 4, 2026 | Time: 5:30 to 9 p.m. | Address: Founder's Square, 42850 Crescent Loop, Punta Gorda, FL 33982 | Phone: 941-676-7191 | Website: babcockranchliving.com

Entertainment, food trucks, decorations, a lit boardwalk and Santa lighting the community tree. Babcock Ranch has announced a new holiday ice rink for 2026; public skating dates, prices and hours had not been published as of this update.

48th Annual Charlotte County Christmas Parade: December 12, 2026

Date: Saturday, December 12, 2026 | Time: Noon to about 2:30 p.m. | Start: Charlotte Performing Arts Center, 701 Carmalita Street, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 | End: Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor Street | Admission: Free | Info: everythingpuntagorda.com

The 2026 theme is Sleigh Bells & Seashells. The afternoon time is great for families with young children.

Punta Gorda Isles Christmas Boat Parade: December 19, 2026

Date: Saturday, December 19, 2026 | Time: 6 p.m. | Location: Punta Gorda Isles canal system | Organizer: Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association, 2001 Shreve Street, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 | Phone: 941-637-1655 | Admission: Free from permitted viewing locations | Website: puntagordaboatparade.com

Decorated boats travel about four miles of residential canals, rain or shine. Many viewing spots are in neighborhoods, so check the official route first. For canal-front homeowners, it's a reminder that Christmas lights can transform the water side of a home too.

Fishermen's Village Christian Holiday Concert: December 20, 2026

Date: Sunday, December 20, 2026 | Address: 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 | Phone: 941-639-8721 | Website: fishermensvillage.com/events

Listed on the 2026 holiday calendar. Performance times had not been published as of this update.

New Year's Eve at Fishermen's Village: December 31, 2026

Date: Thursday, December 31, 2026 | Time: From 6 p.m.; fireworks at midnight | Address: 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 | Admission: Free | Website: fishermensvillage.com/events

Family entertainment, music, dancing and midnight fireworks on the last night of the Festival of Lights.

What Are the Best Free Christmas Events in Southwest Florida in 2026?

Free Christmas parades

Santa's Grand Arrival Parade at UTC: November 14
Siesta Key Holiday Parade: November 28
Venice Holiday Parade: November 28
Sarasota Holiday Parade: December 5
North Port Poinsettia Parade: December 5
Charlotte County Christmas Parade: December 12

Free Christmas light experiences

UTC nightly holiday light shows
Fishermen's Village Holiday Festival of Lights
Monty Andrews Arboretum holiday lights
Tree lightings in Venice, North Port, Punta Gorda and Babcock Ranch

Free waterfront Christmas events

Venice Christmas Boat Parade: December 5
Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights: December 12
Punta Gorda Isles Christmas Boat Parade: December 19

Food, merchandise, special attractions and reserved seating may cost extra.

Where Can You See Santa Claus in Southwest Florida in 2026?

Date	Santa experience	City
November 14	Santa's Grand Arrival Parade at UTC	Sarasota
November 14	Santa and Mrs. Claus at Fishermen's Village	Punta Gorda
November 28	Siesta Key Village Gazebo and Big Tiki Lounge	Siesta Key
December 4	Wellen Wonderland tree lighting	Venice
December 4	Light Up the Night	Punta Gorda
December 4	Babcock Ranch Tree Lighting	Punta Gorda
December 5	Santa photos at Wellen Wonderland	Venice
December 5	North Port Poinsettia Festival	North Port
December 10 and 17	Holiday Splendor at The Ringling	Sarasota
December 19	Swim with Santa	North Port

For events with limited photo sessions, arrive early or check whether reservations are required.

Where Can You Go Ice Skating Near Sarasota, Venice and Port Charlotte in 2026?

The Rink at UTC in Sarasota runs November 18, 2026 to January 3, 2027. Babcock Ranch has announced a holiday ice rink, but public skating schedules have not been confirmed. Wellen Wonderland has figure skating performances on December 4, not public skating. For a guaranteed skating outing, check UTC's sessions.

What Are the Best Christmas Events for Couples in Southwest Florida?

Walk through Lights in Bloom at Selby Gardens, stroll the Venice Christmas Walk, take a Punta Gorda Christmas Lights Canal Cruise, or spend an evening at St. Armands Circle's Holiday Night of Lights. For a classic night out, see The Nutcracker in Sarasota or Venice.

Professional Christmas lighting on a home

Bring the Christmas Magic Home with Shaffer's Christmas Light Installation

After visiting the light displays, tree lightings and decorated waterfront homes across Southwest Florida, you may be picturing Christmas lights at your own home. Shaffer's Irrigation & Outdoor Lighting provides Christmas light installation for homes and businesses throughout Southwest Florida, so you never have to untangle a strand or climb a ladder.

Christmas Light Installation for Homes and Businesses

Roofline and architectural Christmas lighting
Lit palm trees and landscape features
Decorated entrances and walkways
Holiday lighting for front and back yards
Waterfront and canal-facing Christmas lighting
Commercial holiday light displays for storefronts, offices and commercial buildings

Whether you have a waterfront home in Punta Gorda Isles, a home in Port Charlotte or Wellen Park, or a property in North Port, Venice or Sarasota, professional Christmas lighting can make your home part of the holiday experience.

Outdoor Christmas lighting on a Florida home

Christmas Lighting Designed for Florida Homes

Palm trees, canals, screened lanais, covered entries and tropical landscaping make Southwest Florida holiday lighting look very different from northern displays. A lit roofline creates a classic look, while palm tree lighting makes a Florida yard feel festive. On waterfront homes, lights on the canal side reflect across the water for neighbors and boaters to enjoy.

We Handle Design, Installation, Maintenance, Removal and Storage

Design: We talk through your preferences and create a lighting plan for your home or business.
Installation: Our professional crew installs your lights to the design.
Maintenance: We keep your display working through the Christmas season.
Removal: After the holidays, our crew takes everything down.
Storage: We store your lights until next Christmas.

Shaffer's is locally owned, licensed and insured, with more than 30 years of service in Southwest Florida.

Schedule a Free Christmas Light Installation Quote

Now is the time to request your estimate. We recommend booking 4 to 6 weeks before Christmas.

Shaffer's Irrigation & Outdoor Lighting 21202 Olean Boulevard, Port Charlotte, FL 33952 Phone: 941-625-5875 | Email: sales@shaffersirrigation.com Request your free Christmas light installation quote

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Events in Southwest Florida

What Christmas events are happening in Sarasota in November and December 2026?

Sarasota's 2026 calendar includes Santa's Grand Arrival Parade on November 14, outdoor ice skating at UTC beginning November 18, the Siesta Key Holiday Parade on November 28, the Sarasota Holiday Parade on December 5, Lights in Bloom beginning December 5 and the Holiday Boat Parade on December 12.

Where can I see Christmas lights near Port Charlotte?

Fishermen's Village in Punta Gorda hosts its Holiday Festival of Lights from November 15 through December 31, 2026, and Christmas Lights Canal Cruises depart from Fishermen's Village throughout December. Monty Andrews Arboretum in Venice and the tree lightings in North Port and Punta Gorda are also nearby.

What Christmas events are happening in Punta Gorda in 2026?

The Lighting of the Village on November 14, the Holiday Festival of Lights, Light Up the Night on December 4, the Charlotte County Christmas Parade on December 12, the Punta Gorda Isles Christmas Boat Parade on December 19 and Christmas Lights Canal Cruises throughout December.

Are there free Christmas events in North Port?

Yes. The North Port Poinsettia Parade and Festival on December 5, 2026 is free and includes Santa visits, holiday activities, parade floats and a community tree lighting.

Is there ice skating in Sarasota for Christmas 2026?

Yes. The Rink at UTC offers outdoor ice skating from November 18, 2026 through January 3, 2027.

Where can children visit Santa near Venice and North Port?

Wellen Wonderland on December 4 and 5, North Port's Poinsettia Parade and Festival on December 5, and Swim with Santa on December 19 at the North Port Aquatic Center (registration required).

Are there Christmas boat parades near Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda?

Yes. The Venice Christmas Boat Parade is December 5, the Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade is December 12 and the Punta Gorda Isles Christmas Boat Parade is December 19, 2026. Punta Gorda also offers canal cruises throughout December.

What is the best Christmas lights experience in Sarasota?

Lights in Bloom at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens features more than two million lights. UTC also offers free nightly light shows.

How much does professional Christmas light installation cost in Port Charlotte?

Pricing depends on the size of the property, the design, the roofline and the trees and landscaping you want lit. Shaffer's offers free quotes so you can review the design and price before you commit. Learn more in What Affects the Cost of Christmas Light Installation in Southwest Florida?

Does Shaffer's take down Christmas lights after the holidays?

Yes. Shaffer's Christmas lighting service includes design, installation, maintenance through the season, removal and storage for next year.

Where does Shaffer's install Christmas lights?

Shaffer's installs Christmas lights across Southwest Florida, including Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, North Port, Venice, Sarasota, Englewood, Nokomis, Rotonda West, Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch and Arcadia.

Make Christmas 2026 a Season to Remember

From boats gliding through Punta Gorda's canals to Santa in North Port, ice skating in Sarasota and holiday lights in Venice, Southwest Florida is full of ways to make Christmas memories. We hope this guide helps you find new traditions and explore nearby communities.

Call 941-625-5875 or visit our Christmas light installation page for your free 2026 Christmas lighting quote.

Event information reviewed November 10, 2026. Dates, hours, prices, locations and activities may change. Shaffer's is providing this guide as a local resource and is not the organizer of the listed public events. Visit each organizer's website for current details, registration and tickets.

Tagged Christmas Light Installation

Christmas Events 2026 in Sarasota, Venice, North Port, Port Charlotte & Punta Gorda