Edison Mall will host its inaugural Freedom Fest event this Saturday from 3-8 p.m.

The free-admission patriotic and military appreciation celebration will be held outside in the Food Court parking lot.

Freedom Fest promises something for everyone — a petting zoo and KidX Craft Zone for the little ones, and live music and beer garden for the adults. Guests can enjoy yard games, grab a bite to eat from one of our fabulous food trucks, and grab a swag bag from participating vendors.

Freedom Fest also will host a Touch-a-Truck component, featuring a Lee County School Bus, Fort Myers firetruck, Fort Myers Police squad vehicles, and a helicopter from the Sheriff’s Office.

The Edison Mall will purchase a meal for the first 50 veterans/first responders who attend Freedom Fest. To get a food voucher, just head to the Edison Mall tent at the front of the event.

“We are extremely excited and proud to be hosting our inaugural Freedom Fest, which is a family-friendly, patriotic celebration and military appreciation event,” said Brad Lunn, general manager, in a prepared statement. “The Edison Mall continues to focus on being a Community Partner. Offering outstanding, free events, such as Freedom Fest, help us work toward delivering on that focus.”

The event also will include an animal shelter supply drive and fundraiser for veterans.

Proceeds from the Freedom Fest beer garden will be donated to American Legion Rabe O. Wilkinson Post 38, in Downtown Fort Myers.

Those who donate to the Gulf Coast Humane Society will receive a free Touch-a-Truck inspired T-shirt.

Edison Mall remains focused on providing a safe and enjoyable experience. In the continued need to address COVID-19, the town center has implemented additions to the Code of Conduct until further notice.

These additions include the following guidelines:

Practice social distancing and stay at least 6 feet (2 meters) from other people.

Covering your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover is recommended.

Do not gather in groups.

Adhere to each individual tenant’s COVID-19 policies.

Adhere to all federal, state and local regulations, recommendations and mandates regarding COVID-19.

The Code of Conduct is posted at the town center and available online.

Edison Mall’s already rigorous disinfectant and cleaning practices will also continue many times per day, including periodically disinfecting areas most susceptible to the spread of germs. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer dispensers are located in highly-trafficked areas and walkways for public use.

Edison Mall is at 4125 Cleveland Avenue in Fort Myers.

For additional information on Edison Mall’s visit shopedisonmall.com