SEPTEMBER
Top events of the week: 3 To Do: Florida Horror-Fest, ‘People and Places’ and a Happy Hour for Hope
U2 tribute band at South Street
The tribute band Us2 performs 8-9:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26, at South Street’s Founders Square, 8845 Founders Square Drive, Naples. General admission is $30 the day of ($25 in advance), with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. Information: founderssquare.southstreetnaples.com or 239-331-4149.
Former ‘American Idol’ star performs
Dinner and Dancing at the Naples Italian American Foundation: Enjoy a live performance by American Idol contestant Lazaro Arbos over an Italian dinner. 5:30-9:30 p.m. Sept. 26. $45 for members and $55 for nonmembers. Business casual attire and reservations are required. Information: 239-597-5210 or niafoundation.org.
Billy Gardell at Off the Hook
The comedian performs Sept. 26-28 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, Sept. 26, 6 and 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 27, and 6 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 28. Information: offthehookcomedy.com or 239-389-6901.
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.
Gente de Zona
See the group live in concert with Jacob Forever at Hertz Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero. At 8 p.m. Sept. 27. Tickets start at $55 and arena parking is $30. Information: 239-948-7825 or hertzarena.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].
Celebrate community heritage in Immokalee
Épocas de Mi Pueblo: Celebrating Community Heritage from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Sept. 27. Celebrating Community Heritage at the Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch! Enjoy a day filled with: Crafting & Bounce House Fun, Live Entertainment, Traditional Ribbon Hair Braiding, Decorate Your Paiz themed trunk, Free samples from Cultivate Abundance, and more! This event is free! Limited spots available for Decorate Your Paiz—call 239-252-2611 to reserve.
Comedian Nate Jackson at B.B. Mann
The rising comedy star brings his Big Dog Tour to south Fort Myers. Nate Jackson has more than 4 million TikTok followers. 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27. $51-$63. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, south Fort Myers. Information: 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com
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.
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.
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.” Sept. 30-Nov. 16. $80. Limited seating. ArtStage Studio Theatre at Florida Repertory Theatre, 2268 Bay St., downtown Fort Myers. Information: 332-4488 or floridarep.org.
In the news: 3 To Know: Florida medical professions face new criminal background checks, more
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].
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
Millennial Oktoberfest in downtown Fort Myers
The ninth-annual Oktoberfest celebration boasts German food and beer, themed cocktails, competitions, drinking games, “dirndl girls” and more. Friday through Sunday, Oct. 3-5. Free. Millennial Brewing Co., 1811 Royal Palm Ave., downtown Fort Myers. Information: 271-2255 or facebook.com/MillennialBrewing
ParrotPHest at Margaritaville Resort Fort Myers Beach
Parrotheads and trop-rock fans can party with boat drinks, live bands, raffles, giveaways and a best-dressed parrothead contest at this new three-day festival. Friday through Sunday, Oct. 3-5. Free except for events in Fins Up! Beach Club. Those are free for the resort’s overnight guests, but everyone else needs a $75 day pass. Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers Beach, 251 Crescent St., Fort Myers Beach. Information: MargaritavilleResorts.com/Margaritaville-Beach-Resort-Fort-Myers-Beach/ParrotPHest.
‘Carrie: The Musical’ at Arts Bonita
A spooky rock musical based on Stephen King’s book and movie about a bullied teenaged girl who discovers she has telekinetic powers. Everything comes to a head at a bloody, vengeance-filled senior prom. Oct. 3-12. $24-$39 ($16 for students). The show is intended for mature audiences. Arts Bonita Center for Performing Arts, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. 495-8989 or artsbonita.org
Manhattan Short Film Festival returns to Marco Island
Film fans, including here on Marco Island, are being given the power to choose the next Oscar contender. The 28th Annual Manhattan Short Film Festival, running globally from Sept. 25 until Oct. 5, including the Marco Island Center for the Arts, gives audiences the chance to view and vote on the best in international short filmmaking, with the winning film earning automatic qualification for the Academy Awards. The festival will be screened at the Marco Island Center for the Arts at 5:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 3, and 2 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 4. Tickets are available online at marcoislandart.org or by calling 239-394-4221. For a full list of participating venues, visit manhattanshort.com/screening-venues.html.
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.
Naples Jazzmasters
The Naples Jazz Society will have free concerts at Norris Community Center from 1-3 p.m., Oct. 4 and Oct. 18 at 755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples. Information: thenaplesjazzsociety.com.
Tee off for a cause: 32nd Annual Budreau Memorial Golf Classic
Eder leads talks on four influential painters
Rob Eder, known for his murals at EPCOT Center and scenery for over 30 operas, will lead a free talk on four influential painters – the lives and legacies of Caravaggio, Édouard Manet, Pablo Picasso and Jasper Johns. The event, entitled “Inspiring Fine Art Talk” with Rob Eder, will cover various styles, from dramatic realism to abstract expression, illustrating how each artist’s innovations continue to impact today’s creative landscape. Attendees will have the chance to gain knowledge about artistic techniques, cultural contexts, and personal expressions, all brought together with Eder’s distinctive style. Locally, Eder created “Homeland” at Mackle Park and the Wall of Art History at the Marco Island Center for the Arts. The presentation will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 8, at the Marco Island Center for the Arts, 1010 Winterberry Dr, Marco Island. Admission to the event is free, but seating is limited. Those interested are advised to reserve their spot by visiting marcoislandart.org or calling 239-394-4221.
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.
Luncheon featuring Brian and Nicole Roland
Shell Museum presents lecture series
The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium will present a free lecture series this summer and fall. “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.
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 plastics in the environment (Oct. 22), 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.
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
‘Breakfast with the Birds’ at Edison and Ford
Edison and Ford Winter Estates and Audubon of Southwest Florida are offering a “unique tour experience” for those interested in learning more about birds. From 7:30 until 9:30 a.m., Oct. 25, visitors will be led through the Estates where a variety of bird species can usually be found. Registration is required at EdisonFord.org by Oct. 22. The tour does not include admission to the museum, laboratory or historic homes. Tickets are $15 for Edison Ford members and $20 for non-members.
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.
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.
European holiday magic is coming to Marco Island
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…