SWFLA To Do List: Events in Bonita Springs, Estero, Naples and Marco Island

‘The Swingset’ returns to Arts Center Theatre

Kristyn Estes’ adult comedy “The Swingset” returns to the Arts Center Theatre on Marco Island for a special encore engagement; with the final performances at 7:30 p.m., Aug. 29. The play finds retiree couple Jake and Abby navigating the challenges – and surprises – that come with island life and retirement. Price for members of Marco Island Center for the Arts is $35 and non-members tickets are $40. Tickets are available online at marcoislandart.org/arts-center-theatre/ or by calling the box office at 239-784-1186.

Jimmy Buffett Day

On Jimmy Buffett Day, Aug. 29, and Labor Day Weekend, Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers Beach is planning to support My Autism Connection (MAC) as part of the company’s “Day of Service.” From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the resort will host a “Carnival of Fun” on the Sunset Terrace and in the Compass Rose Ballroom, featuring “family-friendly fun,” including games, activities and crafts. Drink specials, served in a commemorative cup, will support MAC. Madison Marilla, known for appearances on “Love on the Spectrum,” will be at the event.

‘SummerWeen’

South Cape Bacon Fest Pub Crawl

Annual event featuring bacon-themed appetizer and drink samples at South Cape restaurants and bars: 7-11 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 30, in downtown Cape Coral/South Cape. Cost: $25-$30. facebook.com/SouthCapeHospitalityAndEntertainmentAssociation.

Chet Ballard book signing

Book signing for Chet Ballard’s “SIDELINES: Four Decades of Sundays with ‘Da Bears,’” the Cape Coral author’s heartfelt, humorous look at his 40-year adventure with his brother and the Chicago Bears: 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30 at Flutterbuy Books and More in Fountain Shops, 840 S.W. Fourth St., Unit 7, Cape Coral. Information: 789-6619 or flutterbuybooksandmore.com.

Sunrise Sale at The Shops at South Seas

SWFL Sports Card Show

Including a food truck and giveaways: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31, at Pondella Bingo, 959 Pondella Road, North Fort Myers. $3. Information: 440-5204 or facebook.com/swflcardshow.

‘Oklahoma! In Concert’

Last chance to see Players Circle’s concert version of the beloved Rodgers & Hammerstein musical. The show features eight professional singers and 20 up-and-coming young performers. Now through Sunday, Aug. 31. $35-$45. Players Circle Theater, 13211 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Information: 800-3292 or playerscircletheater.com.

Theatre Conspiracy’s ‘Sharing the Same Umbrella’

Last chance to see this world-premiere from playwright Wayne Keller, who also works as a bartender at Broadway Palm. The story involves a sister and a group of friends who hatch a plan to get Helen’s life on track a year after her husband’s death. After various plots fail, a mystery man arrives and opens up new possibilities. Now through Sunday, Aug. 31. $35. Off Broadway Palm at the Broadway Palm dinner theater, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. Information: theatreconspiracyfl.com.

Music aLive Fest

The second-annual music festival brings together eleven of Southwest Florida’s favorite local bands to raise money for Golisano Children’s Hospital and two local musicians undergoing expensive medical treatment. Singer Sandra Markowitz (aka Siren Voxx) of Rock Candy is being treated for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and Music aLive co-founder Fritz Caraher is being treated for polycythemia. The musical lineup includes Red Hannah, Rock Candy, the School of Rock Fort Myers House Band, Buckleheads, 10,000 Views and lots more. In honor of late metal icon Ozzy Osbourne, all the musical acts will cover a song by Ozzy or Black Sabbath. The fest also includes food, raffles, a silent auction and more. Noon to 1 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 31. $20 ($80-$100 for VIP admission, including premium seating in front of the stage). Mango Rita’s Rhythm House, 16440 S. Tamiami Trail, south Fort Myers. Information: musicaliveswfl.com.

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SEPTEMBER

The Australian Pink Floyd Show at B.B. Mann

This touring Pink Floyd tribute includes a light and laser show, video animations, great sound and several huge inflatables (including the band’s own Pink Kangaroo). They’ll also be celebrating the 60th Anniversary of Pink Floyd’s formation in 1965 and the 50th anniversary of the album “Wish You Were Here.” 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4. $46-$100. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, south Fort Myers. Information: 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com.

Disney on Ice at Hertz Arena

The touring show returns to Southwest Florida with Disney characters skating across the arena floor, including favorites from “Toy Story,” “Zootopia,” “Frozen,” “Moana 2” and more. Sept. 4-7. $38-$115. Parking on site is $20, plus taxes and fees (no cash). Free parking next door at Miromar Outlets. Hertz Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero. 948-7825 or hertzarena.com.

‘Jurassic Safari’

Free murder-mystery cocktail show ‘Funeral for a Gangster’

Traveling theatrical troupe GibsonHouse Mystery Performers bring their gangster-themed whodunnit to South Cape’s Rack’em Spirits & Times. The story involves a memorial service for gangster Vito “The Gut” Marzetti, who was gunned down last week in a gangland slaying. The audience attends the service and helps solve the murder. 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6. Free admission. Standing room only. Specialty cocktails are available to purchase for each scene. There will also be a food truck selling spaghetti and meatballs. Rack’em Spirits & Times, 1011 S.E. 47th Terrace, downtown Cape Coral/South Cape. Information: facebook.com/RackemspiritsandTimes.

Folk singer-songwriter Nate Currin

The Southern folk troubadour has won several awards, including Songwriter of the Year at the International Music and Entertainment Awards (more than once). The Georgia native recently released his ninth studio album, “Ghost Town.” Carlene Thissen opens for this Americana Community Music Association concert. 7 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 6. $15-$20. The ACMA Listening Room at All Faiths Unitarian Congregation, 2756 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Information: 691-4069 or americanacma.org.

Hot Wheels, Stars Wars and more at Fort Myers Collectorfest

Two days of Hot Wheels, Lego, Funko POP!, American Girl, G.I. Joe, Star Wars, Marvel and more brands of vintage to modern toys, comics and games to buy. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 6-7. $15 admission Saturday, $10 Sunday. Kids ages 11 and younger get a free Hot Wheels. Caloosa Sound Convention Center, 1375 Monroe St., downtown Fort Myers. facebook.com/floridatoyshows.

Adam Sandler at Hertz Arena

The actor-comedian will perform his funny songs and stand-up comedy Monday, Sept. 8, at Hertz Arena. Tickets start at $70, plus applicable taxes and fees, according to the arena’s website. Parking on site is $30. Sandler’s “Your My Best Friend” Comedy Tour follows his sold-out tours in 2022 and 2023, according to Hertz Arena’s announcement. The comedian is known for his stint on Saturday Night Live — including popular characters Opera Man, Cajun Man and Canteen Boy — as well as hit movies “Billy Madison,” “Happy Gilmore,” “The Wedding Singer,” “Grown Ups” and the “Hotel Transylvania” movies. For tickets and more information, visit hertzarena.com or ticketmaster.com.

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.

Island Hopper Songwriter Fest

Kicks off its 11th year. More than 60 singer-songwriters will be featured in more than 80 performances during the popular 10-day music fest. Island Hopper gives fans the opportunity to see BMI singer-songwriters perform in smaller venues with a tropical setting as the backdrop. Make plans now to catch a live Island Hopper performance at four locations around the Fort Myers area: Captiva Island, Sept. 19-21; Cape Coral, Sept. 22-23; Downtown Fort Myers, Sept. 24-25; Fort Myers Beach, Sept. 26-28. For the full lineup, locations, lodging deals and details on ticketed events, visit IslandHopperFest.com or download the Island Hopper app.

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.

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].

ONGOING

‘Glimpses of Reverie’

“Glimpses of Reverie,” a solo exhibit of surreal, emotional paintings by Cuban artist Kesler Santiago. At DAAS CO-OP Art Gallery & Gifts, Fort Myers. Exhibit continues through Aug. 31. Free. Information: daascoop.com.

Calusa Waterkeeper’s open enrollment for Ranger Academy

Calusa Waterkeeper starts open enrollment this month for its Fall 2025 Ranger Academy Training with Waterkeeper Joe Cavanaugh. Residents are invited to become certified rangers and “stewards of our waterways” with a “comprehensive educational program aimed at fostering environmental stewardship and advocacy for clean water.” Sessions begin Saturday, Sept. 13 and run through Nov. 1. All classes start at 9 a.m. in the at Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, 7751 Penzance Blvd., Fort Myers. Enrollment is a $125 donation that helps to cover the cost of the educational program. Participants will receive a Calusa Waterkeeper annual membership, a CWK Ranger baseball hat and a certificate of completion upon graduation from the academy. Open enrollment concludes on Aug. 31. Learn more at CalusaWaterkeeper.org/rangers.

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].

‘Legends of the Everglades’

“Folklore, Fish Tales, & Family Stories: Legends of the Everglades” at Museum of the Everglades is the latest exhibit at the Collier County museum. It’s a collaboration with the local K-12 school to create an exhibit that celebrates a specific aspect of this unique community. It’s on display now and goes through Sept. 6 at 105 West Broadway, Everglades City. Information: colliermuseums.com.

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

‘Through the Lens of Nature’

“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

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

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]

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