It's Cars off 5th after organizers reject city offer

Cars on Fifth, the long-running auto show that brought high-end and avant-garde vehicles to Fifth Avenue South for a day of ogling, car talk and trading, says it is likely moving. 

“We will have a show in 2027. However, at this juncture, it will not be held within the city of Naples,” a statement released by the organization July 15 said. 

The show annually brings thousands of visitors — an estimated 27,500 this year — to downtown Naples. Along with several events for owners and car enthusiasts during the weekends surrounding the show, its umbrella organization, Naples Automotive Experience, has raised nearly $10 million for charity over the past eight years. 

Cars on Fifth has been held on Fifth Avenue South for about 21 of its 23 years. But its relationship with the city of Naples has been in reverse gear since 2018. Parking problems, access to downtown for employees and patrons not attending the show, and, more recently, security concerns have annually given the city pause over its permit requests. From its perspective, Cars on Fifth has complained about steep increases in city security fees and a loose barrier that allowed people to sneak in. 

On June 17, Naples City Council voted to deny the group's permit for the 2027 show, with the understanding that city staff would define limits that would make the event manageable for city staff and police, then present them to organizers for a second permitting attempt. According to a Cars on Fifth news release, the city's proposal ultimately would have reduced the show by 70%, with these requirements: 

• A maximum of 3,500 attendees.  

• No provision for its traditional VIP food and beverage area, which generated premium ticket revenue.  

• Elimination of vendors and dealers.  

The group rejected the proposal. 

“Cars on 5th is the cornerstone of Naples Automotive Experience and is recognized as one of the premier automotive events in the United States,” the statement began. “Last year alone, the event welcomed visitors from 47 states and 12 countries.” 

The statement also bristled at what it suggested was city staff referring to it as “just a car show.” 

“Calling Cars on 5th just a car show is like calling the Masters just another golf tournament,” it said. 

Shortly after Naples City Council denied the permit request in June, Fort Myers Beach officials began discussing the idea of hosting the show, but no firm plans have been announced. Nor has the organization entirely shut the door on Naples, based on the wording of its statement.