Naples council denies Cars on Fifth permit, may reconsider in August

NAPLES, Fla. (WINK) — One of Naples' most anticipated annual events may not be happening next year, at least not in its current form.

Cars on Fifth, a beloved car show that shuts down Fifth Avenue South for an entire day each year, could be on hold after Naples City Council voted Wednesday to deny the Naples Automotive Experience's special event application for 2027.

The event draws thousands of people from around the world to see Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Porsches and Corvettes lined up along Fifth Avenue South.

It also supports local organizations like Saint Matthew's House and most recently, Habitat for Humanity.

The city says Cars on Fifth has grown significantly in recent years, raising concerns for police, fire departments and city staff.

Road closures, large crowds, the size of the event and its impact on surrounding parks, neighborhoods and businesses all played a role in the council's decision.

The city says it has tried to reach a reasonable compromise each year, but those concerns have remained.

Neighbors and businesses along Fifth Avenue South say the loss would be significant.

"Absolutely, I think there's got there's a will, there's a way, right? You know, there's got to be something. We have huge events all the time and I think that there's got to be a way that they can figure out how to manage it," said Pearl and Kristen Jenkins, Naples residents.

A restaurant employee along Fifth Avenue South echoed that sentiment.

"Whatever compromise they could find to just keep it alive one way or the other, even if it's reduced in size a little bit, it's still pretty, it's still pretty great for us," said Jason Servos.

The door is not completely closed. City Council says if event organizers work with city staff and return in August with a scaled-back application that addresses concerns from police, fire and the community, the council will reconsider its decision.