NOVEMBER
Top events of the week: 3 To Do: Goodland Holiday Bazaar, Wine & Food Experience and a classic car show
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Concert
Enjoy this annual holiday tradition with neo-classical takes on Christmas music. 7:30 p.m., Nov. 14, at Artis–Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd. Information: artisnaples.org.
Grammy-nominated singer performs
Blues singer-songwriter Shannon McNally performs at 7:30 p.m., Friday, Nov. 14, at Arts Bonita Center for Performing Arts, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. Cost: $49-54. Information: 495-8989 or artsbonita.org.
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.
Tyler Fischer at Off the Hook
The comedian performs Nov. 14-15 at Off The Hook Comedy Club, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, No. 1100. Cost: $25 general admission, plus a fee. At 6:30 and 8:30 p.m., Friday, Nov. 14; and 6 and 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15. Information: offthehookcomedy.com or 239-389-6901.
Big Arts 2025 Fall Film Festival
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.
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
Pulp Paradise at Redbones Bar and Grill
The second-annual event celebrates “tropical surf music” with surf bands, vendors, the Miss Pulp Paradise pinup contest, bar games and more. The musical lineup includes Tampa “gothabilly” band Black Valley Moon and Fort Myers surf/rockabilly trio The Patina Turners. 2-7 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 15. Free. Redbones Bar and Grill, 3604 Palm Beach Blvd., Fort Myers. Information: facebook.com/RedbonesFL.
Broadway Palm musical ‘Pretty Woman’
Now through Saturday, Nov. 15, at Broadway Palm dinner theater, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. Cost: $48-$98. 278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com.
Harry Chapin Food Drive Fundraiser Car, Truck and Bike Show
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at Bell Tower, 13499 U.S. Highway 41, south Fort Myers. Free. Information: bit.ly/3JfkX9X.
Craft fair in Estero
The Cascades at Estero residential community will be hosting their annual Holiday Craft Fair, selling homemade crafts, pottery, fabric, yarn, etc., and baked goods from their resident and club vendors on Nov. 15. A wide variety of local vendors will also be there. It’s from 8:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. in the Clubhouse Ballroom, 9400 Cascades Isle Blvd., Estero.
Florida Rep’s ‘Doubt: A Parable’
Last chance to see John Patrick Shanley’s explosive, Pulitzer- and Tony-winning drama about a Catholic school principal who suspects an improper relationship between a popular priest and a student. Now through Sunday, Nov. 16. Cost: $74-$76. Florida Repertory Theatre, 2268 Bay St., downtown Fort Myers. 332-4488 or floridarep.org.
Neil Simon comedy “Rumors”
Now through Sunday, Nov. 16, at Players Circle Theater, 13211 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Cost: $40-$55. 800-3292 or playerscircletheater.com.
Films Al Fresco
Enjoy an outdoor movie at Mercato’s Piazza on the third Thursday of every month. This month’s movie at 5:45 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 18, is “The Wizard of Oz.” Free admission. Lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged. 9110 Strada Place, Naples. Information: experiencemercato.com.
‘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.
‘Once Upon a Christmas Time’ at The MACC
This new, original musical celebrates the holiday season in a land far away, where fairytale creatures search for the meaning of Christmas to the tune of beloved holiday songs. Written by Southwest Florida Theatre Company’s music director, Julie Carver. Nov. 19-Dec. 6. Cost: $65-$74. Music & Arts Community Center, 13411 Shire Lane, south Fort Myers. Information: 277-1700 or gulfcoastsymphony.org.
Martin and Kelly bring Nashville vibe to Marco Island
Marco Island Center for the Arts invites music lovers to enjoy an evening of soulful country sounds with the duo Martin and Kelly at 5:30 p.m., Nov. 20, as part of the Center’s Musical Interludes concert series. Jilly Martin and Ryan Brooks Kelly blend classic country with a contemporary flair. The Musical Interludes series at Marco Island Center for the Arts brings diverse musical talent to the community, offering an intimate setting in the gallery where audiences can connect with artists and their craft. Tickets for the Martin and Kelly concert are $25 for members and $30 for non-members. Seating is limited, and advance purchase is advised. Tickets can be purchased online at marcoislandart.org/musical-interludes/ or by calling 239-394-4221.
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.
Outlaw country singer Creed Fisher
At 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, at The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. $33-$70. 985-9839 or theranchfortmyers.com.
Pop singer, songwriter and pianist Ben Folds
At 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, south Fort Myers. Cost: $51-$115. Information: 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com.
Grumpy Goat Coffee Thanksgiving tasting event
AEON Regenerative and Aesthetic Medicine is stepping in as the wine sponsor for Grumpy Goat Coffee’s Thanksgiving Sips & Bites free tasting event happening from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 20. You can find the Grumpy Goat Coffee roastery at 28280 Old 41 Rd., Unit 11, Bonita Springs. This tasting event is open to everyone. Guests will have the chance to meet their local master coffee roaster along with other local artisan food and drink experts, all while enjoying samples of their delicious creations in a relaxed, happy hour vibe. For more info, check out grumpygoat.com.
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.
Ukulele maestro Taimaine at Arts Bonita
Hawaiian ukulele player and music producer Taimane is renowned for her inventive, fiery playing on songs that blend classical, flamenco and rock sounds. She performed on NPR’s popular Tiny Desk concert series in 2020. At 8 p.m., Friday, Nov. 21. Cost: $42-$52. Arts Bonita Center for Performing Arts, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. Information: 495-8989 or artsbonita.org.
The American Misfits Tour at Off the Hook
Comedians Michael Loftus and Dave Landau perform Nov. 21-23 at Off The Hook Comedy Club, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, No. 1100. Cost: $28 general admission, plus a fee. 6:30 and 8:30 p.m., Friday, Nov. 21, 6 and 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, and 6 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 23. Information: offthehookcomedy.com or 239-389-6901.
‘A Christmas Story’ at Broadway Palm
The musical version of the massively popular holiday movie, complete with the infamous leg lamp, the Red Ryder rifle, pink bunny pajamas, an irritable department-store Santa and a triple-dog dare to lick a freezing flagpole. Nov. 21-Dec. 28. $78-$98 ($43-$48 for ages 12 and younger). Broadway Palm dinner theater, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. 278-4422 or broadwaypalm.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. 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.
‘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. Learn more at FarmCityBBQ.com.
Marco Shell Club sale
European holiday magic is coming to Marco Island
Kevin Herrera at Off the Hook
The comedian performs Nov. 28-30 at Off The Hook Comedy Club, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, No. 1100. Cost: $25 general admission, plus a fee. 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, 6 and 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29 and 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30. Information: offthehookcomedy.com or 239-389-6901.
Holiday Nights at Edison & Ford Estates
The Edison & Ford Winter Estates shine with thousands of holiday lights and decorations for this 50th Annual event. Holiday Nights takes place 5:30-9 p.m. daily from Nov. 28-Jan. 4, except for Dec. 24-25. $23 admission ($13 for ages 13-19, $3 for ages 6-12, free for younger). Lee County residents get a $5 discount every Monday (ID required). Edison & Ford Winter Estates, 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Information: 334-7419 or EdisonFord.org.
Naples Ballet & Philharmonic
The Nutcracker: A festive performance perfect for kicking off the holiday season 7 p.m. Nov. 29 and Nov. 30 at Artis–Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd. Information: artisnaples.org.
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.
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ONGOING
‘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.
‘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. Information: marcoislandart.org.
‘The Wildlife Art of Ron Orlando’
Marco Island Center for the Arts presents “The Wildlife Art of Ron Orlando” in La Petite Gallery from now through Dec. 2. Growing up in New Jersey, Orlando developed a lifelong love of nature while exploring the wooded lot behind his childhood home. That early fascination with the natural world evolved into a passion for painting, leading to a career that beautifully merges art and conservation. The Marco Island Center for the Arts, 1010 Winterberry Drive, Marco Island. Information: marcoislandart.org.
Tamara de Lempicka
Her art is now on view at The Baker Museum in Naples through Feb. 8. Exhibition explores artist’s singular contributions to modern art through a selection of her most striking paintings and drawings, tracing her rise to prominence in 1920s Paris and her later years in the United States and Mexico. Information: artisnaples.org.
‘Marco on the Move’ exhibit
The Marco Island Historical Society presents the island’s early modes of transportation from boats and bicycles to wheels and wings with a new exhibit, “Marco on the Move,” at the Marco Island Historical Museum. The exhibit runs through March 21. The Marco Island Historical Museum is located at 180 S. Heathwood Drive and is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. 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.
Marco Island Farmers’ Market
The Marco Island’s farmers market is held every Wednesday from 7:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., through April 15 at Veteran’s Community Park, 901 Park Ave., Marco Island. Information: 239-642-0575 or cityofmarcoisland.com.
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
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.
‘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…