SEPTEMBER
Top events of the week: 3 To Do: Bluesman at Arts Bonita; Coastal Cleanup and Island Hopper
‘People and Places’ at Marco Island Center for the Arts
This month the Marco Island Center for the Arts presents “Oils & Etchings of People and Places” by artist Sir Roland Richardson in La Petite Galerie. The exhibit of oil paintings and etchings, several from the artist’s private archive, spans more than 60 years. This exhibition includes pieces created in St. Martin, France and here in Naples, where the artist now lives. The exhibition will run through Sept. 30.
Karaoke Night
From 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Sept.18 Baker Senior Center Naples, 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane, will host a Karaoke Night. This program is open to the public, aged 60-plus. No charge for BSCN members and $5 for non-members. Registration is required. Information: 239-325-4444.
Shell Museum presents lecture series
The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium will present a free lecture series this summer and fall. “What Can Oysters Tell Us About the Restoration of the Everglades?” by Stephen Geiger, Ph.D., Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, is 5:30 p.m., Sept. 18. He explains the environmental conditions that allow oysters to thrive and why they are a good metric for water quality. “Gulf Seafood: Sustaining Wildlife and Our Way of Life” by John Fallon, Audubon Nature Institute, is 5:30 p.m., Oct. 16. His talk, held during National Seafood Month, explains what makes Gulf seafood sustainable, the challenges facing fisheries in the region. Although free of charge, pre-registration for lectures is required. To register, visit ShellMuseum.org/learn-and-experience/lectures.
Fort Myers Music Walk
Downtown Fort Myers comes alive with music at this monthly celebration with bands in the streets and inside the bars and venues. From 6 until 10 p.m., Friday, Sept 19. Free. Music Walk takes place on the third Friday of each month. Downtown Fort Myers. facebook.com/RiverDistrictAlliance.
Desi Banks at Off the Hook
The comedian performs Sept. 19 and 20 at Off The Hook Comedy Club, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, No. 1100. Cost: $30-35 general admission, plus a fee. At 7 and 9 p.m., Friday, Sept. 19, and 6:30 and 8:30 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 20. offthehookcomedy.com or 239-389-6901.
Coastal Cleanup at Tigertail Beach
From 8 a.m. until 11 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 20, Friends of Tigertail in conjunction with Collier County’s “Keep Collier Beautiful” is taking part in the International Coastal Clean-up to remove debris from beaches worldwide. Bags, gloves, and water will be provided, though we encourage bringing your own reusable bags or buckets and water bottles to cut down on waste. There will be Keep Collier Beautiful T-shirts for participants, as well as certificates of appreciation and community volunteer hours for schoolchildren. Bring the family, wear shoes that can get wet, as well as a hat for sun protection. Meet at the kiosk at Tigertail Beach. More at friendsoftigertail.com. Check for other locations at keepcollierbeautiful.com.
Free admission to Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
Enjoy free admission from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 20, at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, 375 Sanctuary Road W., Naples. Guests are invited to connect with nature through the eyes of local artist Lisette Morales, who will lead a bilingual walking meditation on the boardwalk; and Helen Midney, museum manager for the Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch, will give a presentation about bird migration and conservation. Kids can also enjoy learning about birds while having their faces painted like one. Information: audubon.org/corkscrew.
Stage 2 Improv returns to Arts Center Theatre
The Marco Island Center for the Arts recently announced that Stage 2 Improv will return to the Marco Island Center for the Arts’ Arts Center Theatre for a performance Sept. 20. No two shows are alike. Since their 2013 debut, the improv group – founded by Judith and Mike Santos – crafts original scenes and songs live, based on suggestions from the audience. According to a press release, the troupe has continually evolved, “expanding their repertoire to include long-form improv, murder mystery shows, and sketch comedy.” The Arts Center Theatre is located at 1086 N Collier Blvd., Marco Island. Tickets are available at marcoislandarts.org or by calling 239-784-1186.
Naples Jazzmasters
The Naples Jazz Society will have free concerts at Norris Community Center from 1-3 p.m., Sept. 20, Oct. 4 and Oct. 18 at 755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples. Information: thenaplesjazzsociety.com.
Trivia Night
From 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 25, Baker Senior Center Naples, 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane hosts trivia night. No charge for BSCN members and $5 for non-members (must be 60-plus). Reservation required. Call: 239-325-4444.
Broadway Palm’s ‘Murder For Two’
Last chance to see this zany musical mystery about a small-town cop trying to solve the death of a famous author. Two actors play all 13 roles and also play the piano. Now through Saturday, Sept. 27. Cost: $68-$88. Broadway Palm dinner theater, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. 278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com.
Shy Wolf Sanctuary golf scramble
The 5th Annual Shy Wolf Scramble, a charity golf event to benefit the sanctuary’s mission of rescuing captive-bred exotic and un-releasable wild animals, is slated for Saturday, Sept. 27, at the Heritage Bay Golf and Country Club in Naples. The scramble will feature a four-person, best shot format. Participants will have the opportunity to take part in various challenges and contests, including a hole-in-one contest sponsored by Porsche Naples, tee advancement hole, a putting contest, longest drive, and closest to the pin. Registration for this event starts at $200 for individuals and $800 for a foursome. The registration fee includes a round of golf, lunch, and drink tickets. All proceeds will directly support Shy Wolf Sanctuary’s efforts in providing rescue, sanctuary and education for captive-bred exotic and un-releasable wild animals. To register for the Shy Wolf Scramble or to learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit givebutter.com/c/swsgolf25 or email [email protected].
Foreign Films for Everyone
From 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 30 at Baker Senior Center Naples, 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane, the 1986 French period drama “Manon of the Spring” will be shown. The award-winning sequel to Jean de Florette, this film follows Jean’s daughter, now a young shepherdess, as she seeks revenge after uncovering the truth behind her father’s death. No charge for BSCN members and $5 for non-members (must be 60-plus). Reservation required. Call 239-325-4444.
In the news: 3 To Know: Revised hurricane season; a look at Florida’s governor’s race
ONGOING
The paintings of Christian De Jesús
At DAAS CO-OP Art Gallery & Gifts on the Alliance for the Arts Campus, 10051 McGregor Blvd., Suite 104, Fort Myers. Exhibit continues through Sept. 28. Free admission. Information: 955-0422 or daascoop.com.
Goodland Holiday Bazaar: Call to artists, crafters and vendors
The 15th Annual Goodland Holiday Bazaar, organized by the Goodland Civic Association, will be held from a10 a.m. until 4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 15 and 16, at MarGood Harbor Park. The event will feature arts, crafts and other unique market items. Fees for 10′ x 10′ booth are $80 for GCA members, and $110 for non-members. The deadline for applying is Oct. 28. There will be a limited number of single-day booths available at reduced rates on a first-come, first-served basis. For details and applications, contact Tara O’Neill at [email protected].
Farewell art exhibit for Morgan T. Paine
Farewell art exhibit “Making A Clear Mark, 1997-2025,” a retrospective celebrating the layered, conceptual paintings of retiring FGCU art professor Morgan T. Paine, a founding member of FGCU’s art department. The exhibit continues through Sept. 25 in the Wasmer Art Gallery in the Arts Complex at Florida Gulf Coast University, 10501 FGCU Blvd. S., Estero. Free. Information: fgcu.edu/artgalleries.
Face of Immokalee exhibit
‘Backstage Hollywood’ Marco Historical Society
The Marco Island Historical Society is hosting a new traveling exhibit organized by Mid-America Arts Alliance, “Backstage Hollywood: The Photographs of Bob Willoughby.” The exhibition is open now through Oct. 18 at the Marco Island Historical Museum. Willoughby, a widely recognized 20th century photography pioneer, was the first outside photographer invited by studios to take photos on film sets. The Marco Island Historical Museum is located at 180 S. Heathwood Drive and is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free and the site is fully ADA compliant and accessible to all visitors. For information call 239-389-6447 or visit themihs.org.
‘Through the Lens of Nature’ at Rookery Bay
“Through the Lens of Nature: A Celebration of Flora, Fauna and Culture” presented by the local artist group Collective 5, is a mixed media exhibit features the work of Giampaolo Curreri, Lin Nesdale, Jody Futteman, Peggy Keigley and Lisett Lloren, offering “a rich tapestry of art inspired by nature and local culture.” At Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center Art Gallery, 300 Tower Rd., Naples. Information: RookeryBay.org.
Civil Air Patrol
Marco Civil Air Patrol meets the first and third Mondays of every month, starting at 6:30 p.m., at 2003 Mainsail Drive, Marco Executive Airport, in our hangar, on the left of the terminal. Volunteers welcome. Visit FL376.CAP.GOV.
Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center is located at 300 Tower Rd., Naples. It features aquariums, touch tanks with marine critters, natural history, environmental and wildlife exhibits, an art gallery, picnic area, guided walking trails, butterfly garden and a scenic overlook bridge. Special events and activities for all ages are held year-round including watercolor and photography classes, gallery nights, presentations about wildlife and conservation, birding field trips, marine science camps and more. The hours are 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is $10 for adults,$5 for children ages 4-12 and 3 and under are free.
Rookery Bay Eco Kayak & Boat Tours
Rookery Bay Research Reserve also offers guided boat tours or kayak adventures into the tranquil waters of Rookery Bay Reserve. Guests can choose from a variety of tours including shelling trips to deserted white sand islands, sunset tours or bird rookery excursions. Visit RookeryBay.org or call 239-530-5972.
OCTOBER
Wet Walk (beginner)
From 9 a.m. until 11 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 1 at CREW Flint Pen Strand Trails, Pinewoods Parking Lot, 16470 Harrell Road, Bonita Springs. You’ll dip your toes into the world of wet walks with this introductory edition through a seasonal marsh, cypress swamp and pine flatwoods. You’ll discover the beauty and importance of wet season at CREW as you explore this unique ecosystem. Closed-toe shoes, long pants and plenty of drinking water is required. Tickets: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. All events take place outdoors and advance registration is required. To register, visit CREW Trust’s Eventbrite page: crewtrust.eventbrite.com
Mystery, mathematics and masterpieces
In October, The Naples Players is delivering twice the drama with a suspense-filled Agatha Christie classic and a sweeping historical romance: “And Then There Were None” and “Ada and the Engine.” From Oct. 1–19 in The Kizzie Theater, Agatha Christie’s murder mystery “And Then There Were None.” From Oct. 15 through Nov. 9 in The Price Studio Theater, Lauren Gunderson’s “Ada and the Engine” tells the story of Ada Lovelace, a brilliant mathematician. Single tickets are $55 for the general public. Tickets are available at NaplesPlayers.org or by calling the box office at 239-263-7990.
Bug Watch
From 7:45 p.m. until 9:45 p.m., Fri., Oct. 3 at CREW Marsh Trails, 4600 Corkscrew Road, Immokalee. A nighttime bug watch led by Constance Darrisaw, a local entomologist. There will be after hours insect-viewing stations that attract a wide variety of insects. Closed-toe shoes, bug spray and water bottles are recommended. Tickets: $15 for members, $20 for non-members. All events take place outdoors and advance registration is required. To register, visit CREW Trust’s Eventbrite page: crewtrust.eventbrite.com
Tee off for a cause: 32nd Annual Budreau Memorial Golf Classic
Wet Walk (advanced)
From 8 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 8, at CREW Flint Pen Strand Trails, Pinewoods Parking Lot, 16470 Harrell Road, Bonita Springs. This advanced wet walk traverses a seasonal marsh, cypress swamp and pine flatwoods. Closed-toe shoes, long pants and drinking water required. Tickets: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. All events take place outdoors and advance registration is required. To register, visit CREW Trust’s Eventbrite page: crewtrust.eventbrite.com.
Fall Blooms at Sunset
5 p.m. until 7 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 25 at CREW Cypress Dome Trails, 3980 Corkscrew Road, Immokalee. Join Julie Motkowicz, a former education coordinator at CREW Trust, for a sunset wildflower walk at CREW Cypress Dome Trails. Explore what wildflowers are blooming on the trails this time of year and discuss each flower’s name, story and importance in the watershed during this sunset walk. Closed-toe shoes, bug spray and water bottles are recommended. Tickets: $15 for members, $20 for non-members. All events take place outdoors and advance registration is required. To register, visit CREW Trust’s Eventbrite page: crewtrust.eventbrite.com
NOVEMBER
Wine & Wildlife Gala
‘Baggage’ on the Marco stage
“Baggage” by Sam Bobrick, directed by Pattie Ziesig, is at the Marco Island Center for the Arts from Nov. 6 through 23. In this romantic comedy, two difficult singles — Phyllis and Bradley — find their lives entangled after a luggage mix-up at the airport. Their reluctant friendship blossoms into something more. This show kicks off the 2025-26 season. Tickets are on sale now. A season ticket package (with five mainstage productions is $175 for members and $200 for non-members. Individual tickets are $35 for members and $40 for non-members. Tickets can be purchased online at marcoislandart.org or by calling the box office at 239-784-1186.
Hope & Honor Gala
Warrior Homes of Collier will host its 2025 Hope & Honor Gala dinner and auction this fall, featuring retired U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. John F. Sattler as its first-time distinguished guest speaker. The annual event will take place on Nov. 7 at the Naples Yacht Club. Learn more at WWCollier.org/Annual-Dinner-and-Auction.
American Sand Sculpting Championships
Mark your calendars, for the 35th time, the American Sand Sculpting Championships return to Fort Myers Beach from Nov. 20-24. This area will once again host the country’s top sand sculptors in a display of artistry and creativity. The event is a partnership of the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce, The Sand Lovers, LLC and DiamondHead Beach Resort. Learn more at fmbsandsculpting.com.
DECEMBER
FGCU Athletics’ Night
Holiday offerings on the Marco stage
In December, Arts Center Theatre offers two events. “Selections from Holidays on Ice” by David Sedaris, directed by Brett Marston is on stage Dec. 5 through 14 and delivers “wickedly funny holiday tales.” “Singing and Swingin’ – The Holiday Songbook” is Dec. 21 and 22 with Charlie Blum and featuring guest Kristyn Estes. Tickets are $35 for members and $40 for non-members. Tickets can be purchased online at marcoislandart.org or by calling the box office at 239-784-1186.
Darius Rucker returns for Naples’ Live Fest
Country star Darius Rucker will headline Naples’ sixth-annual Live Fest on Saturday, Dec. 13, on the driving range of Tiburon Golf Club at The Ritz Carlton Golf Resort. The outdoor show is part of the Grant Thornton Invitational, a mixed-team golf event featuring PGA and LPGA pros. Rucker returns to Live Fest for the first time since playing the inaugural event in 2019 with co-headliners Lady A (formerly Lady Antebellum). He’ll share the stage with Southwest Florida band Rock Republic and “American Idol” semifinalist Casey Bishop. Two more acts will be announced later this summer. Tickets are on sale now. General-admission tickets for the concert are $150. Admission is free for ages 9 and younger. Other ticket packages are available, including VIP tickets starting at $355.For tickets or more information, visit livefest.com.
Marco Island Christmas decoration contest
Committee Chairman Dave Rice announced the dates and plans for the 32nd Annual Marco Island Christmas House and Business Contest on behalf of this year’s committee. The dates are as follows: Dec. 15-17 – Preliminary judging on all three nights from 6:30- 9:30 p.m.; Dec. 19 – Final judging trolley ride to select the winner. The Island is divided into nine zones and judging teams select the top contenders in each zone by visiting every street on the island. For further information contact Committee Chair Dave Rice at [email protected].
JANUARY
‘Four Old Broads’ on the Marco stage
“Four Old Broads: Miss Magnolia Senior Citizen Beauty Pageant” by Leslie Kimbell, directed by Christi Lueck-Sadiq is at the Marco Island Center for the Arts from Jan. 8-25. “Southern sass and outrageous antics return as Lurleen Dupree hosts her seventh annual pageant, with rival retirees ready to compete, cheat, and charm their way to the crown in a riotous comedy full of surprises.” Tickets are $35 for members and $40 for non-members. Tickets can be purchased online at marcoislandart.org or by calling the box office at 239-784-1186.
FEBRUARY
‘Moonlight and Magnolias’ on the Marco stage
“Moonlight and Magnolias” by Ron Hutchinson, directed by Marlene Strollo is at the Marco Island Center for the Arts from Feb. 5-22. “Go behind the Hollywood curtain to witness the chaotic, true-to-life creation of ‘Gone with the Wind,’ when three men are locked in a room and given five days — and a diet of bananas and peanuts — to write the screenplay that became an American classic.” Tickets are $35 for members and $40 for non-members. Tickets can be purchased online at marcoislandart.org or by calling the box office at 239-784-1186.
MARCH
‘California Suite’ on the Marco stage
“California Suite” by Neil Simon, directed by Paula Keenan is at the Marco Island Center for the Arts from March 5-22. “A quartet of comedic tales unfolds in a single hotel suite, from custody battles to romantic mishaps and vacation disasters. Simon’s wit shines in this heartfelt and hilarious look at human relationships.” Tickets are $35 for members and $40 for non-members. Tickets can be purchased online at marcoislandart.org or by calling the box office at 239-784-1186.
APRIL
‘You’ve Got Hate Mail’ on the Marco stage
“You’ve Got Hate Mail” by Billy Van Zandt and Jane Milmore, directed by Joan Gerberding is at the Marco Island Center for the Arts from April 2-19. “In this fast-paced comedy, digital drama explodes when an extra-marital affair unravels through a series of misdirected e-mails. Told entirely through digital communication, this play offers a modern twist on classic farce.” Tickets are $35 for members and $40 for non-members. Tickets can be purchased online at marcoislandart.org or by calling the box office at 239-784-1186…