The sweet and unique taste of the tropics is returning to Pine Island— Mango Mania!

The tropical fruit summer fair celebrated every year on one of Southwest Florida’s paradise islands is planned for July 12 and 13.

The incredibly exciting fair has an energetic buzz. Being that Pine Island is one of the largest mango growing areas in the United States, the fruit is the star attraction of the day. And all things mango are welcome! But the festival also highlights all locally grown tropical fruits like papaya, lychee, carambola, longan and more.

The two-day event has become a staple festivity for the whole family to enjoy food and recipe contests, music, food, arts and crafts, carnival rides and games, and educational programs about tropical plants and more.

“Mango Mania is a party for the whole family,” says event coordinator Carolyn Scharnberger. “It’s all about the mango with everything from a hat parade, continuous music, crafts, food, entertainment, contests, and more.”

More than 10,000 people arrive to savor a piece of this yummy weekend each year enjoying local chefs and regular “Joe’s” competing in some of the areas tastiest recipe contests. Expect everything from mango cake to mango salsa to liven up your palette because in this festival, locals pull out all the stops.

The entertainment stages will be busy with all types of music— blues, Latin, rock-n-roll, bluegrass and more. Bands like the Skeeterland Bluegrass Band, Matlacha Drum Circle, Deb and The Dynamics, and The Hot Flashz Dance group will amuse thousands with fantastic performances.

The kiddies will enjoy a full day of carnival rides, mango tossing, juggling, bouncy houses, painting faces and more.

The Pine Island Chamber, vendors and the community have worked hard to put together an enjoyable day in one of Southwest Florida’s most interesting spots. So, come and delight in a sweet-temptation with family and friends. Tickets are $6 for adults and children under 10 are FREE.

See you there!

- Go wild in this year’s Mango Mania Tropical Fruit Fair celebration July 12 & 13 at the German American Social Club, 2101 Pine Island Road in Pine Island, FL!