Fishermen’s Village will reopen Nov. 1 after undergoing electrical repairs following Hurricane Milton on Oct. 9. The waterfront dining and shopping destination in Punta Gorda was not flooded, unlike other parts of the area, but heating, ventilation and air conditioning repairs were needed, and some shops will remain closed until repairs are completed, General Manager Patti Allen said.
Eateries that are open are The Captain’s Table, Harpoon Harry’s Restaurant and Sports Bar, Village Brewhouse and Harborside Coffee and Creamery in addition to a number of shops.
The iconic retail and dining establishment, which opened in 1980, houses shops, businesses, restaurants and an adjoining marina, where boaters stay during the winter season. But because of damage from hurricanes Helene and Milton, the marina remains closed until further notice, according to management.
For many decades Fishermen’s Village has been a tourist attraction and destination for visitors to Charlotte County and Punta Gorda.
Beginning in November 2023, American Cruise Lines added Punta Gorda to one of its ship’s itineraries for winter sailings. This year, there will be two American Cruise Lines ships visiting the area, dropping anchor off Punta Gorda in Charlotte Harbor. From there, tender boats will transport passengers to Fishermen’s Village.
The second ship was added due to the popularity of the county and area excursions, officials for the Connecticut-based cruise line said.
Fishermen’s Village’s opening is rather fast, considering that Hurricane Milton slammed Punta Gorda on Oct. 9.
“The village team of employees along with multiple service contractors have worked tirelessly to prepare the property for reopening. Since the holidays are just around the corner, staff has also been installing lights and decor for the annual Lighting of the Village and Festival of Lights Celebration, which kicks off on Nov. 16,” Allen said.
As in previous years, the village will be decked out with more than a million lights, and during the lighting ceremony Nov. 16, a countdown will lead to the spontaneous lighting followed by music and speeches from local dignitaries to welcome the holiday and winter season.
“Our dedicated team has been decorating for nearly two weeks preparing for the Lighting of the Village,” Allen said.
One highlight of the lighting ceremony is the arrival of Santa, who will be at the village in November and December to listen to children’s Christmas wishes.
Yet to be announced is the date of the Hanukkah observation headed by a local rabbi. That date will be announced shortly.
In past years, the lighting of a giant Menorah, prayers and songs were held by the local Chabad community of Charlotte County.
For those celebrating Christmas, “Santa will arrive via the Punta Gorda Fire Department at 5:45 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 16,” said Allen.
In addition to the village, The Suites at Fishermen’s Village will be partially reopened as of Nov. 1. However, the marina, where numerous boats sustained damage, and the fuel dock will be temporarily closed until further notice, Allen said.
