NOVEMBER
Top events of the week: 3 To Do: Treasures, Stone Crabs and honoring all who have served
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.
Matt McCusker at Off the Hook
The comedian performs Nov. 7-8 at Off The Hook Comedy Club, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, No. 1100. $30 general admission, plus a fee. 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7 and 6 and 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8. Information: offthehookcomedy.com.
Calling all writers
The Sanibel Island Writers Conference will be in Fort Myers, Nov. 7-8, at Florida Gulf Coast University. Participants at all stages of development, from notebook scribblers to published novelists, are invited to attend a variety of workshops in fiction, poetry, screenwriting, creative nonfiction, publishing and editing. Registration for this year’s conference is free. Information: fgcu.edu/siwc.
Theatre Conspiracy’s ‘Muttnik’
In this “one dog play” based on the Soviet Union’s space program in the 1950s, a Moscow street dog becomes the first living creature in space. The show uses historical events to tell its story of purpose, life and death from the perspective of the Russian pup. Written and performed by Bruce Ryan Costella. Part of Theatre Conspiracy’s final season in Southwest Florida. 7:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 4 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 7-9. $40. Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, 3450 Ortiz Ave., Fort Myers. Information: theatreconspiracyfl.com.
‘Holiday Open House’ slated
Estero to honor veterans
Estero is hosting a patriotic Veterans Day event from 10 a.m. until noon, Saturday, Nov. 8, at Estero Community Park, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd. The event includes local entertainer Mark Sanders, who will perform and serve as master of ceremonies. The program includes an American classic car show, military vehicles on display, patriotic songs by the New Horizons Choir and the Estero High School band, the Estero High School JROTC, Lee County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard, face painting and a visit by Too Tall Tori and Captain America. The keynote address will be presented by Florida Rep. Dist. 79 and US Army Veteran Mike Giallombardo. There will also be free hot dogs served by the Tidewater Veterans Group and free giveaways. You are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.
Coastal Art Walk
In its 21st season and held at The Esplanade on Marco Island from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 9, Dec. 7, Jan. 11, Feb. 15, March 1, April 12. Any artists interested in participating, call, text or email Priscilla Macdonald, 239-290-7927, [email protected].
Bonita Springs Pride Festival
The second-annual event celebrates LGBTQ pride with drag performers and other live entertainment, vendors, food, music and the Bonita Springs Pride Pageant. From 11 a.m. until 5 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 9. Pageant starts at 1 p.m. Cost: $10 general admission, $25 for VIP. Arts Bonita Center for Performing Arts, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. Information: facebook.com/BonitaSpringsPride.
‘A Very Victorian Murder!’
‘A Very Victorian Murder!,’ murder mystery presented by GibsonHouse Mystery. At 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9, at Cultural Park Theater, 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral. $30 ticket includes “savory bites” and interaction with the actors. 0sculturalparktheatreorg.thundertix.com.
Yellow Ribbon Family Day at Mercato
This pre-Veterans Day celebration honors veterans and military families with inspiring speeches, games, raffles, a military exhibit, a science fair, a bounce house and more. 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9. Free. Lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged. The event lawn at Mercato, 9118 Strada Place, North Naples. Information: experiencemercato.com/events.
Naples Concert Band
Singer Heather Ivy joins the Naples Concert Band for a concert of patriotic music. Food trucks will also be there. Bring your own chair. 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9. Free. Cambier Park, 755 Eighth Ave. S., downtown Naples. facebook.com/NaplesConcertBand.
Veterans Day Luncheon at Naples Italian American Foundation
This annual event includes a buffet lunch of “classic comfort food” and a recognition of Collier County Commissioner Rick LoCastro, a retired colonel in the U.S. Air Force. Deadline for reservations is Nov. 6. 1:30-4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11. $25-$35. Naples Italian American Foundation, 7035 Airport-Pulling Road, Naples. Information: 597-5210 or niafoundation.org.
Naples Velo Veterans Day Ride
This 28-mile bicycle ride honors all those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. If riders are riding in memory or recognition of a veteran, they’re encouraged to display that person’s initials on their arm or on a note pinned to their jersey pockets. 8 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 9. Free. RSVP by Thursday, Nov. 6. A light breakfast will be offered afterward at My Naples Kitchen. Organized by Naples Velo and sponsored by Outdoor Lighting Perspectives. Helmets required. Riders will meet in front of the Girl Scouts building, 601 Park St., Naples. RSVP by emailing [email protected].
Marco Island Veterans Day ceremony
The annual event is organized by American Legion Post 404. It features patriotic music, aircraft flyovers, a flag ceremony and several speakers. Bring your own lawn chair. At 11 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 11. Near the bandshell at Veterans Community Park, 901 Park Ave., Marco Island. Information: 642-0575.
Collier County Veterans Day ceremony
The annual event includes a wreath-laying ceremony, a civilian patriot awards ceremony, music by a Naples Concert Band brass quintet, a welcome by Naples Mayor Teresa Heitmann, an address by Rev. Tommy Burns of New Hope Ministries, singers Steve Smith and Rev. Sheila Zellers, and keynote speaker and veteran Kris Anne Hall. The event is organized by the Collier County Veterans Council. 10 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11. Free. Cambier Park, 755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples. Information: 270-2432 or collier-county-veterans-council.org.
Bonita Veterans Day Ceremony
The City of Bonita Springs holds its annual Veterans Day event, including musical tributes, the Aisle of Flags, a 21-gun salute, the posting of colors and the day’s guest speaker, retired Col. Martin Spann of the U.S. Army and Marines, whose many military awards include a Purple Heart and three Bronze Stars. Organized by the City of Bonita Springs and the city’s Veterans Advisory Committee. 9 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11. Free. Old 41 Road will be closed from Wilson to Childers streets from about 8-11 a.m. Riverside Park, 10450 Reynolds St., downtown Bonita Springs. Information: 949-6262 or cityofbonitasprings.org.
Estero Veterans Day Celebration
This annual patriotic event includes live music from the Estero High School Band and New Horizons Choir, singer/emcee Mark Sanders, a classic car and military vehicle show, free hot dogs, face painting, giveaways and a guest speaker, Florida Rep. Mike Giallombardo. Bring your own blankets and lawn chairs. 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 8. Free. Presented by the Village of Estero. Estero Community Park, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd., Estero. Information: estero-fl.gov/events/veterans-day-celebration-2.
Veterans history museum grand opening
Formerly known as America’s Military and 1st Responders Museum, the Collier County museum opens with a new name and location. The free museum showcases hundreds of artifacts tied to 250 years of America’s wars, including letters, drawings, weapons, uniforms, medals and an original Betsy Ross American flag. Grand opening starts at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 11, on Veterans Day. Free admission. The event includes a ribbon cutting, speeches and veteran-led tours. The Museum is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Veterans History Museum inside the County Museum Building, 3331 Tamiami Trail E., Naples. Information: VeteransHistoryMuseumNaples.org.
Boater’s Local Knowledge-Marco Island
Reception for ‘Words As Art’ on Marco Island
The Center for the Arts is presenting “Words as Art,” as part of ¡Arte Viva!,a gallery exhibition by Dpi-Sig Naples, the Naples Digital Photography Club, which showcases a blend of traditional photography and AI-enhanced artwork. The exhibition will be displayed in the Lauritzen and Rush Galleries until Nov. 24. Featuring works by Jim Robellard, Art David, Wes Bloemker, Karen Lund, Sue Christensen, Mahlon Stacy, and Donna Sutton, “Words as Art” delves into the intersection of visual storytelling and artificial intelligence. A gallery reception will take place to celebrate this exhibition from 5:30 until 7 p.m., Nov. 11 at the Center for the Arts, 1010 Winterberry Drive, Marco Island. It is complimentary and accessible to the public, providing visitors with the chance to meet the artists and explore the artworks. Information: marcoislandart.org.
Marco Island Farmers’ Market
Marco Island’s farmers market is from 7:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., every Wednesday from Nov. 12 through April 15 at Veteran’s Community Park (901 Park Ave., Marco Island). Information: 239-642-0575 or cityofmarcoisland.com.
Baker Senior Center Naples Events
Throughout November, the center will have several extended hours events. Enjoy the Twilight Cabaret with Doug Williams from 6-7 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 13; free for members and $5 for non-members. Lastly, attend Karaoke Night from 6-8 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 20 – free admission. All events are for ages 60-plus and require reservations through 239-325-4444. Baker Senior Center Naples, 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane.
‘Get Involved Collier!’ Expo slated
Fort Myers Boat Show
The 53rd-annual event features boating products, fishing and boating seminars, food, live music and hundreds of boats of all types from many different boat manufactures. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, Nov. 13-16. $20 (free for ages 15 and younger with paid adult admission). Free parking at City of Palms Park with shuttle service. The show takes place in Centennial Park, along the Caloosahatchee River and inside Caloosa Sound Convention Center in downtown Fort Myers. Information: fortmyersboatshow.com.
Plies at Hertz Arena
The Fort Myers native returns for a rare hometown show. Kodak Black and Moneybagg Yo open. 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, at Hertz Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero. $64-$164. 948-7825 or hertzarena.com
Nature journaling
Uncover mysteries all around you and wonder at fascinating natural phenomena with nature journaling from 1:30 until 3 p.m., Nov. 14 at Rookery Bay. “It’s all about slowing down and taking in your surroundings. Discover how deep attention leads to curiosity, and how curiosity develops into a vibrant experience that strengthens your connection to the world around you.” All materials provided. Cost is $35 for adults. $20 for students. Learn more about all classes, camps and activities at RookeryBay.org. Register for classes at RookeryBay.org/events.
Engage with acclaimed Academy Award winner
Big Arts 2025 Fall Film Festival is Nov. 14-15, Sanibel Island. This two-day celebration of cinema at the BIG ARTS Film Festival features 2025 Academy Award winner Molly O’Brien. This special event includes exclusive screenings, opening reception, a catered dinner and post-film gatherings. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to engage with an acclaimed documentary filmmaker. Check schedule and tickets at bigarts.org/event/film-festival-2025.
Rookery Bay Classic Car Show
The Rookery Bay Classic Car Show will be from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m., Nov. 15, at Florida Southwestern State College, 7505 Grand Lely Drive, Naples. More than 100 antique, classic, muscle, exotic and high-performance cars will be featured, along with 20-plus vendors, entertainment and family/dog-friendly activities for all ages. Cost is $10 for adults, $5 for ages 4-12; free for children 3 and under and includes same-day admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center. Learn more at RookeryBay.org.
USA Today Wine & Food Experience 2025
Enjoy tastings from a variety of local chefs from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at the Paradise Coast Sports Complex, 3940 City Gate Blvd. N., Naples. Tickets start at $65 and are available through wineandfood.usatoday.com.
Naples Festival of Trees & Christmas Market
Holiday décor, shopping, and family fun. 2-8 p.m. Nov. 15, at Salvation Army Campus, 3180 Estey Ave.
Cape Coral Animal Shelter to host yard sale fundraiser
16th Annual Goodland Holiday Bazaar
‘Seminole & The Seminole Wars’
The Southwest Florida Archaeological Society will host a presentation on “The Seminole & The Seminole Wars” by area historian Jacob Winge. Winge will provide a history of the Seminole Wars, spanning from 1817 to 1858. The multiple conflicts between the United States and the Seminole people. This program will highlight significant causes and moments across the decades of conflict as well as the lasting legacy of the wars, from the forced removal of Native peoples to the survival of the unconquered Seminole Tribe in Florida today. The presentation will be held at 7 p.m., Nov. 19, at the Bonita Springs Fire Department, Station 24, located at 27701 Bonita Grande Dr., Bonita Springs.
Watercolors & Wildlife
The next “Watercolors & Wildlife: Painting with Jan” on Nov. 20. The class if from 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Rd., Naples. Cost is $85 (including all materials). Registration is required at rookerybay.org/events.
Classes on birds
Speaking of birds, the next “Watercolors & Wildlife: Painting with Jan” on Nov. 20. The class if from 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Rd., Naples. Cost is $85 (including all materials). There will also be a “ Birding with Biologists Workshop” from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m., Oct. 10 and Nov. 22. Cost is $30. Registration is required for both at rookerybay.org/events.
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.
Calusa Garden Club Plant and Floral Design Sale
Calusa Garden Club of Marco Island presents its 5th Annual Plant and Floral Design Sale, with a Family Fall Festival, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 22, at Marco Lutheran Church, 525 N. Collier Blvd., Marco Island. The sale features 100s of plants for landscapes, lanais, and living rooms, plus beautiful fresh flower arrangements for your home. In addition, a Family Fall Festival with games and activities for children and parents will accompany the sale. A food booth will be available. Contact the club on its website calusa.org, or by email [email protected].
Essentials of Digital Photography
An “Essentials of Digital Photography” workshop will be held from 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m., Oct. 18 and Nov. 22 at Rookery Bay. The workshop is designed to get the best pictures possible and a true understanding of your camera’s features and is taught by Sonny Saunders has over 35 years of experience in photography and instruction. Cost is $55. Learn more about all classes, camps and activities at RookeryBay.org. Register for classes at RookeryBay.org/events.
Edison and Ford host Autumn Garden Festival
From 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., Nov. 22 and 23, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold its 17th Annual Autumn Garden Festival. Over 80 garden vendors from across Florida and the Southeastern states will showcase exotic and native plants and trees for sale. The Garden Shoppe will be open, providing visitors with a wide selection of unique tropical and Florida native plants that flourish in Southwest Florida. A limited number of garden carts will be available, so guests are encouraged to bring their own cart or wagon for transporting plants. Parking and admission to the festival are free (tours of the homes, museum, and laboratory are not included and require a separate admission ticket). For further information or to buy tickets for tours, visit edisonford.org.
‘Sleuthing the Lagoon’
“Sleuthing the Lagoon” will be held from 9 a.m. until 12:30 p.m., Nov. 24 for grades seven through 10. Students get to be a marine scientist with Rookery Bay Research Reserve! Join Rookery Bay Research Reserve for a perfect marine science camp for the day, getting hands-on experience with marine life. This flexible camp is filled with nature and science activities including time in Rookery Bay’s labs. Cost is $75, but scholarships are available. Learn more about all classes, camps and activities at RookeryBay.org. Register for classes at RookeryBay.org/events.
Rookery Bay Science Nite Series: ‘Oceans, Plastics and Peace of Mind’
Rookery Bay will offer three after-hours programs this fall, blending science and conservation. Topics include ocean and weather Q&A with humor (Nov. 25) and nature’s role in boosting well-being (Dec. 17). Programs run from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m. at the Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Road, Naples. Cost is $10, $ for students, free for teachers. Register at rookerybay.org/events.
68th Annual Farm-City BBQ
The 68th annual Farm-City BBQ will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 26, at the Collier County Fairgrounds, bringing together Collier County’s business community, elected officials, families and residents for a day of food, fellowship and fundraising in support of youth development programs. Co-chairs Russell Budd, co-founder of PBS Contractors, and Gloria Padilla, community relationship manager of RCMA, described the event as a meaningful opportunity to unite all parts of the county. Proceeds from the event support youth development programs countywide, with young people from beneficiary organizations volunteering at the BBQ and helping to raise funds. Tickets are $30 per person for the steak lunch, or $40 per person for the lunch and drinks package. Prices will increase on Oct. 1 and again for walk-ins on the day of the event. Learn more at FarmCityBBQ.com.
Marco Shell Club sale
European holiday magic is coming to Marco Island
21st Annual Iron Joe Turkey Ride & Walk at Eagle Lakes
Naples Pathways Coalition recently announced details on the 21st Annual Iron Joe Turkey Ride & Walk, which takes place the Sunday after Thanksgiving at Eagle Lakes Community Park. It begins at 7 a.m., Nov. 30, with registration and breakfast at the park, 11565 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Registration is open at runsignup.com/Race/FL/Naples/IronJoeTurkeyRide.
In the news 3 To Know: Meals of Hope event Saturday; family needs help; SWFLA ranked
ONGOING
‘Day of the Dead’ outdoor installation
The Center for the Arts is extending an invitation to the public to come and see the new outdoor installation of grass walls that honor “Día de (los) Muertos — Day of the Dead.” The artwork was crafted by students from Marco Island Charter Middle School under the guidance of art teacher Gigi Garraty. The inaugural Day of the Dead exhibition by MICMS took place in 2019 at the Art Center. The Art Center initiated its annual Day of the Dead Grass Wall installation project in 2022 as part of its ¡Arte Viva! programming, which celebrates Hispanic Art and Culture in Collier County. This installation will be available for viewing until Nov. 14, located in the courtyard of the Arts Center. Art students from MICMS have dedicated time to studying the history, traditions, and unique artistic practices associated with Dia de los Muertos. This celebration merges the ancient Aztec tradition of honoring ancestors with All Souls’ Day, a holiday introduced to Mexico by Spanish colonizers in the early 1500s. At the Center for the Arts, 1010 Winterberry Drive, Marco Island. Information: marcoislandart.org.
Fair at Fenway South
The 11th-annual fair is back at JetBlue Park with three weekends of carnival rides, kids rides, live shows, midway games, fair food (including new options such as pickle pizza), vendors and an expanded Kiddieland. The live shows include Wolves of the World, Rosaire’s Royal Racing Pigs, the Victoria Circus Thrill Show, Cowtown USA and the Magic of Lance Gifford. Every Friday through Sunday through Nov. 16. Admission is $10-12. Other ticket deals and packages are available online. All shows are free with admission. Rides cost extra. Parking is $10. JetBlue Park is located at 11500 Fenway South Drive, south Fort Myers. Information: fairatfenway.com.
Broadway Palm’s ‘Pretty Woman’
The musical adaptation of the beloved 1990 romantic movie starring Richard Gere and Julia Roberts. The soundtrack features original music by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance. Oct. 3-Nov. 15. $48-$98. Broadway Palm dinner theater, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. 278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com.
Florida Rep’s ‘The Rat Pack Lounge’
This funny revue celebrates the music of the famous “Rat Pack”: Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis, Jr. The trio returns to earth from heaven for a show packed with hits, including “My Way,” “What Kind of Fool Am I?” and “Everybody Loves Somebody.” Through Nov. 16. $80. Limited seating. ArtStage Studio Theatre at Florida Repertory Theatre, 2268 Bay St., downtown Fort Myers. Information: 332-4488 or floridarep.org.
‘Baggage’ at the Arts Center Theatre
Marco Island Center for the Arts’ Arts Center Theatre season opening production of “Baggage,” described as a “witty and heartwarming comedy” written by Sam Bobrick and directed by Pattie Ziesig. Performances will run through Nov. 23, at the Arts Center Theatre, 1089 N. Collier Blvd., in the Marco Town Center. Tickets are available now online at marcoislandart.org/arts-center-theatre/ or by calling the Arts Center Theatre Box Office at 239-784-1186.
‘Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf’
Edward Albee’s “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” is an intense drama at Gulfshore Playhouse to kick off the 2025/2026 season. Now through Nov. 23 at Struthers Studio, Baker Theatre and Education Center, 100 Goodlette-Frank Road S., Naples. Tickets start at $39. Information: 239-261-7529 or gulfshoreplayhouse.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.
DECEMBER
Boater’s Local Knowledge-Backwater Edition
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.
Navigating Everglades National Park
Boat America
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…