Alexa Velez
•7/21/2026
The search for a new home for Cars on 5th is well underway, with organizers considering locations across the Gulf Coast and beyond after announcing the event will leave downtown Naples.
Naples Automotive Experience CEO Tom O'Riordan told Gulf Coast News the organization has now heard from 26 different cities and venues, with possibilities stretching from Collier County to the Tampa Bay area, South Florida and even the east coast of the state.
Despite the widespread interest, O'Riordan said finding a new location isn't simply about finding enough room for hundreds of exotic cars.
"It's trying to recreate the things that make Cars on 5th special," O'Riordan said. "It's about the shopping, the dining and all of those things."
The event, which has spent more than two decades on Fifth Avenue South, has become known for blending luxury vehicles with restaurants, boutiques and entertainment in a walkable downtown setting.
While several communities have reached out, Collier County leaders are actively working to keep the event within the county.
Commissioner Rick LoCastro said he contacted O'Riordan shortly after learning organizers were exploring other cities and connected him with county leaders, including Parks and Recreation, the Sheriff's Office, Fire Rescue and Emergency Management, to evaluate possible locations.
"The county's been great," O'Riordan said. "We have some good locations, three different locations we're looking at. We appreciate the spirit of the conversations."
Organizers are also exploring opportunities outside Collier County.
O'Riordan said Fort Myers Beach is among the communities being discussed, adding the organization may hold a separate event there to help support businesses continuing to recover from Hurricane Ian. He emphasized that such an event would not necessarily replace the main Cars on 5th event.
Other cities and venues that have reached out or been discussed include:
O'Riordan said no final decision has been made, but organizers continue touring sites and meeting with local leaders before selecting a new home.
"We're going to have a great show in 2027," he said. "I promise."
