NAPLES, Fla. – The streets of downtown Naples transformed into a showcase of automotive excellence this weekend as the annual “Cars on 5th” event drew tens of thousands of attendees. Beyond the gleaming exteriors of rare and exotic vehicles, however, the event served as a significant fundraising platform for Habitat for Humanity of Collier County, highlighting a growing intersection between luxury lifestyle events and community support.
The 22nd iteration of Cars on 5th, held on , featured over 750 vehicles, ranging from vintage classics to cutting-edge prototypes, attracting an estimated 25,000 visitors to Fifth Avenue South. The event is part of the larger Naples Automotive Experience.
Tom O’Riordan, president of Naples Automotive Experience, emphasized the dual purpose of the event. “If you look around, you’ll see some of the most amazing cars you’ll ever see,” he said, but quickly added, “But, you know, it’s really more about Habitat for Humanity.” He noted the organization has constructed 2,750 homes in Collier County since its inception, building approximately 100 homes annually.
The event’s charitable impact is substantial. Last year, Cars on 5th raised $2.9 million for affordable housing initiatives in the region. This year’s proceeds are expected to contribute significantly to Habitat for Humanity’s ongoing efforts to address housing needs within Collier County.
Lisa Lefkow, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Collier County, underscored the importance of the event’s support. “Folks recognize that they can make a difference by visiting the cars and seeing all this amazing activity that goes on around this weekend,” she explained. “But also knowing that the proceeds from this event are going to help build more homes and stabilize our important workforce.”
The appeal of Cars on 5th extends beyond car enthusiasts. The event also provides a platform for recognizing and supporting local first responders. Alan Young, representing Team First Responders, expressed gratitude for the appreciation shown to those serving the community. “So far, we’ve gotten a lot of attention, and people thanking us for what we do, for the first responders,” he said. “That’s what I like, the respect we get from it.”
Among the vehicles on display were several exceptionally rare and valuable automobiles, including a Pebble Beach Best in Show-winning Hispano-Suiza, a Maserati MC12, a Ferrari Enzo, a Pagani Huayra R, a Mercedes-Maybach 680, a Ferrari GTO, a Ferrari F50, a Ferrari LaFerrari, a Bugatti Chiron, and a Bugatti Mistral. Matt Tobler from Gulf Coast Motorworks highlighted the unique opportunity the event provides for the public to view these extraordinary vehicles. “People love coming and seeing unique cars,” he said. “It’s nice to bring it to people that don’t usually see it all the time.”
The event’s success underscores a broader trend of combining luxury experiences with philanthropic endeavors. Cars on 5th demonstrates how high-profile events can be leveraged to generate significant financial support for vital community services. Lefkow emphasized the ongoing need for affordable housing in Collier County, stating, “There’s so much need for the work that we do. And we remain the sole provider of affordable homeownership in Collier County.”
The Naples Automotive Experience, of which Cars on 5th is a key component, also included a Jetport Reception held on , at Naples Airport’s Northern Jet Hangar. This high-priced event served as a kickoff to the weekend’s festivities.
Cars on 5th, now in its 22nd year, continues to evolve, solidifying its position as a cornerstone event for Naples and a powerful engine for positive change within Collier County. The event’s organizers and Habitat for Humanity officials alike emphasize that the event is about more than just showcasing beautiful cars. it’s about driving a tangible impact in the community and addressing a critical need for affordable housing.
