Naples' Jingled Elves turn city into holiday fest, raise money for nonprofits

Naples transformed into a festive wonderland as hundreds of "Jingled Elves" took over the city, turning trolleys, parks, and plazas into a moving holiday celebration. This annual event, which might seem like just fun and festive flash mobs, is one of the most impactful fundraisers of the year.

WINK News reporter Lauren Halpern had the opportunity to ride along with the elves. This year marked a significant milestone for the Jingled Elves organization as they crossed the $1 million cumulative threshold, raising funds for nonprofits supporting women and children in Collier County.

"We're going to give out somewhere between $350,000 to $375,000, depending on how much more we raise tonight," said Linda Sims, treasurer of Jingled Elves.

What began with just one trolley and $2,000 raised has grown into a city-wide holiday takeover. Flash mobs appeared from Mercato to Venetian Village to Fifth Avenue.

"Our big event is our flash mob dance. So in about an hour or so, we will turn this green into a dance party," said Laura Donavan, a board member of Jingled Elves.

Every elf on board had a role, including some who have made this a holiday tradition for years.

"I'm the spirit cheerleader on the bus today, so we'll be singing all along and trying to get everybody to sing and spread cheer with the trolleys going by in the community," said Diane Cahill, a Jingled Elf.

It took a team to pull off an event this big, including the "Jingle Gens," more than 100 men who help with the heavy lifting.

"We have more people here than ever before. And you know, this organization is here has raised over more than a million dollars for various charities, and that's a fantastic situation," said Tim Corcoran, a Jingled Gen.

As the trolleys wound through the city, it wasn't just about dancing and dressing up. It was a community coming together to make the holidays brighter for thousands of families.

"Because it's women celebrating, women helping women. That's kind of our motto," said Donna Issenmann, founder of Jingled Elves.

The Jingled Elves event in Naples showcased the power of community spirit and generosity, bringing holiday joy to many while supporting a worthy cause.