OCTOBER
Top events of the week 3 To Do: ‘Words As Art,’ Oktoberfest and a breast cancer walk
‘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.
Bayside Veterans Park Concert Series
The concert series now features bands twice a week with new Friday shows. The series takes place every Friday and Sunday, weather permitting. All shows are free. Upcoming Friday bands include Iconic The Band (Oct. 24) and Riverside (Oct. 31). Bring your own lawn chair. Bayside Veterans Park at the corner of Old San Carlos Blvd. and First Street, Fort Myers Beach. Information: fortmyersbeach.org/bayside-park-concert-series.
Miniature golf fundy supports the arts
Naples Yard and Garden Show
The UF/IFAS Extension Collier County and the Collier County Master Gardener Volunteers will host the annual Naples Yard and Garden Show on Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 25, and 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 26. It’s at the UF/IFAS Extension Collier County, 14700 Immokalee Road. Cost: $5 at the door or buy through Oct. 24 at https://tinyurl.com/ywrf5fuf. Information: 239-252-4800.
Halloween Spooktacular on Marco Island
The Halloween Spooktacular on Marco Island is a free, family-friendly event held at Mackle Park with activities like games, contests, and potentially a pumpkin patch and inflatable playgrounds. It will be from 10 a.m. until noon, Saturday, Oct. 25, at Mackle Park, 1361 Andalusia Terrace, Marco Island. Information: cityofmarcoisland.com.
‘Shelloween’ at Bailey-Matthews
The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium is celebrating “Shelloween” on three Saturdays in October. On Oct. 25, the museum will offer a spooky scavenger hunt with prizes, Halloween-decorated aquariums, a slime-making class at 11:30 a.m. (pre-registration required via email, [email protected]), and Scary Touch Pool Talks at 3:30 p.m. — all included in the price of admission and free for museum members. There will also be a costume contest at 2 p.m .with prizes and free admission for all visitors who arrive in a mollusk costume! Learn more at ShellMuseum.org/shelloween.
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.
It takes two at Rookery Bay
Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center is inviting the community to experience its newest art program, “Perfect Paint Pairs: A Colorful Escape for Every Duo” – designed for all kinds of pairs such as mom and child (ages 9-plus), grandma and grandkid, siblings, best friends or couples. “Perfect Paint Pairs” offers participants to explore their creativity together. With step-by-step guidance from artist Jan Deswik, each pair will create their own individual postcard-size watercolor painting inspired by Rookery Bay’s marine life. Each class includes all art materials and the opportunity to learn more about the local wildlife that call Rookery Bay home as well as admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center.The class starts at 10 a.m. and is one and a half hours long. Sessions include marine turtles, Oct. 25; fish, Nov. 8; and manatees, Dec. 13. Cost is $50 per pair. Price: $50 per pair (includes all materials). Learn more about all classes, camps and activities at RookeryBay.org. Register for classes at RookeryBay.org/events.
Edison and Ford Winter Estates hosts quilt show
From 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., Oct. 25, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the annual “Airing of the Quilts” show. Dozens of quilts from the Southwest Florida Quilters Guild will be on display, suspended from clotheslines, between the palms, in front of the historic homes. Quilters Guild participants will also have quilts available for sale. Certified quilt appraiser, Lars Cain, will be on site and conducting appraisals from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. The quilt show is included with admission. Tickets may be purchased online at EdisonFord.org or at the ticket counter. Admission is free for Edison Ford members.
Naples Halloween Party
Enjoy live music, street dancing, games and a costume contest at the City of Naples Halloween Party in Cambier Park, 755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples. Saturday, Oct. 25, from 3-5 p.m. Information: fifthavenuesouth.com.
Coastal Art Walk
In its 21st season and held at The Esplanade on Marco Island from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., Oct. 26, 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].
Happy Hour for Hope
May the road rise to meet you at Paddy Murphy’s Irish Pub, Marco Town Center, 1089 N. Collier Blvd., from 4:30 until 6:30 p.m., Monday, Oct. 27, for the final Happy Hour for Hope of 2025. Complimentary appetizers and happy hour drink prices are available for a suggested donation of $20. The gathering will raise funds for Meals of Hope a combined effort of Sunrise Rotary, Noontime Rotary and the Kiwanis Club. Happy Hours for Hope raises funds to purchase raw food materials for the upcoming packaging event Saturday, Nov. 8, at the Marco Island Charter Middle School. This year we need to raise $60,000 to pack 200,000 meals. Paddy Murphy’s is located in Marco Town Center, 1089 N. Collier Blvd., Marco Island. To learn more, visit mohmi.org or contact us at [email protected].
Foreign Films for Everyone
From 6 until 8 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 28: Baker Senior Center Naples, 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane. “About Elly – Iran 2029,” a taut and riveting, multi-award-winning Hitchcock-inspired mystery thriller. No charge for BSCN members and $5 for non-members (must be 60+). Reservation required. Information: 239-325-4444.
Cemeteries of Collier County
LYR’s Sonic Masquerade at Nice Guys
In this annual cover show, Southwest Florida musicians play full sets of songs from their favorite musical acts. This year’s cover sets include Metallica, Weezer, Hole, Pat Benatar, Rage Against the Machine and Bloodhound Gang. Plus there’s a costume contest with prizes. 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31. $12 at the door (cash only). Sonic Masquerade is a fundraiser for local nonprofit Love Your Rebellion (LYR). Nice Guys Pizza, 1334 Cape Coral Parkway E., downtown Cape Coral. Information: facebook.com/loveyourrebellion.
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, Oct. 31-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, 11500 Fenway South Drive, south Fort Myers. Information: fairatfenway.com.
In the news 3 To Know: Avelo eliminates route; Man found incompetent to stand trial, more
ONGOING
Haunted Walk at Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium
Haunted Walk: “Terror in the Woods,” Friday, Saturday, Sunday nights through Oct. 26. This unique annual event is also a fundraiser to help take care of the nature center’s animal residents. Information: calusanature.org.
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].
Lakes Park Fall Festival and Scarecrows in the Park
The festival returns with a pumpkin patch, the annual Scarecrows in the Park contest, hayrides, inflatables and the popular Halloween Express train ride. The Scarecrows in the Park display features scarecrows decorated in the theme “The Wild, Wacky, Weird World of Scarecrows in the Park.” 6-9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, through Oct. 31. Free admission, but some activities and rides cost extra. Parking is $3 per vehicle. Lakes Regional Park, 7330 Gladiolus Drive, south Fort Myers. Information: 533-7578 or facebook.com/LakesParkEnrichmentFoundation.
‘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.
Bones & Bales Fall Festival at Gator Mike’s
This new, family-friendly event celebrates Halloween all month long with 12 playful, Florida-themed skeleton scenes (vote for your favorite); a pumpkin-painting patch; food and craft vendors; circus performers; a trunk-or-treat station; field games; deejayed music for kids; a monster truck; and more. Bones & Bales replaces Gator Mike’s long-running Frightmare on 78 haunted attraction. Noon to 6 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday in October; $10 admission ($5 for ages 10 and younger). Gator Mike’s Family Fun Park, 35 N.E. Pine Island Road/State Road 78, Cape Coral. 574-4386 or gatormikes.com.
13 Nights of Stage Fright
The Haunted House at Alliance for the Arts 13 Nights of Stage Fright offers a different theme each evening through Nov.1. There’s something for everyone in the family with Hollywood Horrors, Rise of the Undead, Full Scream A Head and Monster Mash Dance Party and more nightly themes. Check out the frightening details at artinlee.org/experience/13-nights.
‘Beautifica’ at Calusa Nature Center
Composer James Hood of “Mesmerica” brings another immersive show to Calusa Nature Center’s planetarium dome. “Beautifica” is described as “a 360-degree cinematic journey through awe-inspiring landscapes, euphoric audio-visual worlds and deep emotional resonance” — all set to original, genre-bending music. Designed for ages 6 and older. Every Friday through Sunday until Nov. 1. $24-$36. Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, 3450 Ortiz Ave., Fort Myers. Information: tickets.beautifica.show/fortmyers.
Lab Theater’s ‘Grey House’
Last chance to see this creepy psychological thriller that starts with a young couple crashing their car during a blizzard and seeking shelter in an isolated mountain cabin. They’re taken in by a mysterious woman and the three strange, hyper-intelligent children who live there. Trapped by the storm, the couple are forced to listen to twisted stories and take part in unsettling games. A Southwest Florida premiere. Now through Nov. 2. $32-$37 each ($10 for students with valid student IDs). The Laboratory Theater of Florida, 1634 Woodford Ave., downtown Fort Myers. Information: 218-0481 or laboratorytheaterflorida.com.
Haunting experience
Naples native Ian Eubanks has created a haunting experience, “Dark Harvest Chapter One: 1587.” It’s open through Nov. 3 at his home, 3270 13th Ave. SW, on five acres in Golden Gate Estates. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased at Pumpkinkingentertainment.com. See it from 8 p.m.-midnight, Fridays and Saturdays; and 8-11 p.m., Sundays.
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.
‘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.
NOVEMBER
Jerry Adams Chili Cook Off
The Jerry Adams Chili Cook Off is slated for Saturday, Nov. 1 at the Esplanade, 760 North Collier Boulevard, Marco Island. The event is from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. in the courtyard and is put on by the Marco Island Fire-Rescue Foundation. The event honors late firefighter Jerry Adams, who, for many years, was the chili chef of the department, and is a way for the public to thank the island’s first responders. Members of the Marco Island Fire Department, local chefs, and chili aficionados will compete for best chili. The event supports foundation activities helping Marco Island firefighters and their families in times of need. Money raised supports the Marco Island Fire Foundation. Learn more at marcoislandfirerescuefoundation.com.
Pickleball tournament and fundraiser
Forest Bathing Wellness Walk at Rookery Bay
A forest bathing wellness walk will be held from 9:30 a.m. until noon, Nov. 1, at Rookery Bay. Guests will enjoy a slow, quiet, guided-sensory and meditative experience in nature. A certified forest bathing guide will conduct a guided-meditation session and offer a series of invitations to use your “curiosity and senses to connect with nature and yourself.” Cost is $50. Learn more about all classes, camps and activities at RookeryBay.org. Register for classes at RookeryBay.org/events.
Empowerment Farm to host fall festival, more
Empowerment Farm is set to celebrate its fall festival from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 1. The event will take place at the farm located at 2600 Garland Road, Naples. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful afternoon stroll through the pumpkin patch and participate in seasonal workshops. The November festival promises a variety of activities for all ages, including a pumpkin patch, themed pumpkin character displays, and interactive farm animal encounters. Admission is $15 per person for those who purchase tickets in advance, while tickets at the gate will be available for $20. Children aged three years and younger can attend for free. Tickets and additional information can be found at empowermentfarm.org/events.
Buckler’s Craft Fair at Lee Civic Center
The 34th-annual craft fair features home and holiday décor, jewelry, handbags, needlework, yard art, pet items, clothes, gourmet food and more. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 1-2. Cost: $6 (free for ages 12 and younger). Free parking. To get one dollar off admission, print out the coupon online or bring a non-perishable food item for the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida. Lee Civic Center, 11831 Bayshore Road, North Fort Myers. Information: bucklershows.com.
Bonita Springs Concert Band at Riverside Park
The Bonita Springs Concert Band will present its first concert of the season at 6 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 2, at Riverside Park in Old Bonita. The band’s guest vocalist will be Carolann Sanita with guest conductor Paul Murtha. There will be a reading of a patriotic poem by Robert Chapin, “The Wall.” Autograph copies will be available for $10 with proceeds going to the Bonita Springs Concert Band. Sanita will sing the “Armed Forces Salute” and “God Bless America.” The concert is a salute to troops, veterans and family alike. Learn more at bonitaspringsconcertband.org.
Home Base Golf Tournament
Wine & Wildlife Gala
Moon walks at Rookery Bay
“Moon Walk: Nights in Nature” will be held from 5:15 until 6:45 p.m., Nov. 5 at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Rd., Naples. “Experience Rookery Bay Research Reserve like never before, this time under the moonlight!” A biologist will guide the evening walks beneath the full moon, where the “wild world comes to life after dark.” Cost is $25. Registration now rookerybay.org/events.
Watercolors & Wildlife
The next “Watercolors & Wildlife: Painting with Jan” on Oct. 9 will be about birds; followed by fish on Nov. 6 and 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 Oct. 9 will be about birds; followed by fish on Nov. 6 and 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.
‘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.
‘Outpost to Statehood‘
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.
Calusa Waterkeeper 30th anniversary celebration
The Calusa Waterkeeper will commemorate their 30th anniversary and acknowledge those who have been instrumental in helping us achieve our mission to safeguard and restore essential water resources. Attendees will be treated to hors d’oeuvres and an open bar, followed by a formal awards ceremony and presentation. The event will take place from 3:30 p.m. until 6 p.m., Nov. 7, at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center, located at 1375 Monroe St., Fort Myers. The honorees include Sue Dahod, recognized as volunteer of the year; Mary Kay Robbins-Kralapp, named advocate of the year; Severus Foundation, awarded champion of the year; Andrew Shipley, honored as friend of the Calusa Waterkeeper; and Right for Clean Water, recognized as partner of the year.
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.
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.
‘Treasures in the Trunk’
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.
‘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.
Cape Coral Animal Shelter to host yard sale fundraiser
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.
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…