DECEMBER
Top events of the week: 3 To Do: Live music at Paradise Coast; Anthony Rodia performs; more
Pioneer crafts on Marco Island
Journey back in time from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 30, and Wednesday, Dec. 31, during Pioneer Christmas in the Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 South Heathwood Drive. Celebrate Christmas the way the pioneers did, creating ornaments and holiday crafts while enjoying food. Free and open to all ages. Information: colliermuseums.com.
JANUARY
Broadway Palm’s ‘Fiddler on the Roof’
The beloved Broadway musical about tradition and a Jewish family in a small Russian village. The show is packed with classic tunes such as “Tradition,” “If I Were a Rich Man,” “Sunrise, Sunset” and “Matchmaker, Matchmaker.” Jan. 3-Feb. 14. $43-$98. Broadway Palm dinner theater, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. 278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com
Resin Art Class
On Tuesday, Jan. 6: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Baker Senior Center Naples (BSCN), 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane. All supplies will be provided. Tickets cost $25 for BSCN members and $35 for non-members (must be 60-plus). Refreshments included. Reservation required: 239-325-4444.
Yates McKendree at Arts Bonita
Harlem Globetrotters’ 100 Year Tour
The world-famous basketball wizards always dazzle audiences everywhere they go. Now they’re back again at Hertz Arena — this time celebrating 100 years of trick shots, gravity-defying dunks and endless entertainment. At 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 8. Tickets are $37-$175. Hertz Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero. Information: 948-7825 or hertzarena.com.
‘Zach Bartholomew: Jazz & the Spanish Tinge ‘
At 7:30 p.m., Jan. 8, Arts Bonita presents “Zach Bartholomew: Jazz & the Spanish Tinge.” This performance celebrates the “vibrant fusion of jazz with Caribbean, Spanish, and South American musical traditions.” And that’s just the first week of the month! Learn more at artsbonita.org.
National Shell Museum classes
Perfect Paint Pairs
Baker Senior Center to host signature fundraiser
Bonita Springs National Art Festivals
The first in a series of three annual art fests happening between January and March at Riverside Park. More than 200 artists are featured in the juried event, celebrating its 26th anniversary this year. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 10-11. Free with a suggested $5 donation. Riverside Park, 10450 Reynolds St., downtown Bonita Springs. 495-8989 or artsbonita.org/artfest.
Renaissance Faire
The Venezia Renaissance Faire returns to Bonita Springs for two weekends, running from 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., Jan. 10 and 11; 17and 18. “Minstrels weave through the crowd, jesters tumble across the lanes, knights clank past in armor that gleams under colorful banners and tapestries. Merchants shout the day’s offerings from booths draped in velvet, and the smell of fire-roasted turkey legs, fresh baked sweets, and other treats winds through the fairgrounds. Whether you come in costume or wander in as you are, the Faire invites you to join the story… and maybe write a new one of your own.” Tickets: Adults $20, children (3–13); $12, with weekend/family passes and online discounts available. Information: veneziarenaissancefaire.com – limited tickets available at the gate.
‘The Art of Bonsai’
Richard Owens, a member of the Bonsai Society of Southwest Florida, and the Poinciana Garden Club will present “The Art of Bonsai” at the Fort Myers-Lee County Garden Council, home of the Berne Davis Gardens, 2166 Virginia Ave, at 9:30 a.m., Jan. 13. The gardens are open that day from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Admission to the gardens is free and free tours are available by master gardeners from 10 a.m. until noon. RSVP for ‘The Art of Bonsai’ by calling 239-994-8147.
Florida: ‘It’s Not the Heat … It’s the Hilarity!’
Compton & Bennett, the authors of “Assisted Living: The Musical” recently announced the debut of their latest comedy hit, “Straight Outta Florida: Throwin’ Shade on The Sunshine State.” Straight Outta Florida opens Jan. 13, at The Norris Center Theatre in Naples and runs every other Tuesday through April. “Straight Outta Florida” is a 90-minute, song-and-sketch comedy romp. Betsy Bennett and Rick Compton play six characters. Tickets are available at eventbrite.com or call The Norris Center at 239-213-3049.
The Naples Players present ‘Beau Jest’
The Naples Players offers a warm and witty start to the new year with “Beau Jest,” running Jan. 14 until Feb. 15, in the Kizzie Theater. “Beau Jest” follows Sarah, a young woman trying to keep her traditional parents happy. She hires an actor to portray the perfect boyfriend during a family dinner. What begins as a simple plan quickly unravels into a charming mix of misunderstandings and heartfelt moments. Tickets range from $42 to $57, depending on seat type and performance date. Patrons may purchase tickets at NaplesPlayers.org or by calling 239.263.7990.
‘Love Train — The Sounds of Motown’
Marco Island Historical Society’s 2026 World Class Entertainment Series of tribute performances honoring some of the world’s most famous musicians. “Love Train — The Sounds of Motown,” Thursday, Jan. 15 — Tribute artist William (Willie) Cintron. At the Rose History Auditorium, Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 S. Heathwood Drive. Tickets are $55 per person. Curtain is at 6:30 p.m., doors open at 6. For tickets visit themihs.org or call 239-389-6447.
Karaoke Night
On Thursday, Jan. 15: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Baker Senior Center Naples, 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane, will host a Karaoke Night. This program free to members; $5 for non-members. Registration is required: 239-325-4444.
Watercolors & Wildlife
Rookery Bay Nature Collage
Nature Journaling at Rookery Bay
Essentials of Digital Photography Workshop
Almost ABBA coming to Marco Island
The San Marco Columbiettes will be presenting the Almost ABBA charity concert on Sunday, Jan. 18. They look, sound and perform like ABBA; and they will perform all your favorite songs. All proceeds will support local charities. Premium reserved tickets are $60; general admission tickets are $52. The concert is from 7 until 9 p.m. (doors open at 6) at San Marco Church Parish Center, 851 San Marco Road, Marco Island. Tickets available only online at Columb.booktix.com.
Foreign films for everyone
Tuesday, Jan. 20: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., 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-plus). Reservation required: 239-325-4444.
‘Key West in the Civil War’
The Southwest Florida Archaeological Society (SWFAS) recently announced a book signing and presentation on “Key West in the Civil War” by author Robert Macomber. The lecture will describe Key West locations that you can visit today including the 1852 U.S. Naval depot, 1845-built Civil War Fort Taylor, two Martello Tower forts built during the war, the 1860 rescued-slave cemetery, the origins of famous Mallory Square and an overview of seven Civil War shipwrecks on the Southwest Florida coast. There will be a “meet and greet” with the author and a book signing session. Macomber is the author of the 17 books and an accomplished seaman. He lives here in Lee County where he grew up. The presentation will be at 6:30 p.m., Jan. 21, at the Imaginarium Museum (IMAG) located at 2000 Cranford Ave, Fort Myers. This is a free public program.
Louis Armstrong tribute
Marco Island Historical Society’s 2026 World Class Entertainment Series of tribute performances honoring some of the world’s most famous musicians. “Louis Armstrong Tribute,” Thursday, Jan. 22 — Artist Troy takes you back to the time of the great Louis Armstrong. At the Rose History Auditorium, Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 S. Heathwood Drive. Tickets are $55 per person. Curtain is at 6:30 p.m., doors open at 6. For tickets visit themihs.org or call 239-389-6447.
Birding with Biologists Workshop (especially for beginners)
Empty Bowls
Tuesday, Jan. 27: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Baker Senior Center Naples, 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane. This class will focus on painting plates. All supplies will be provided. Tickets cost $35 for BSCN members and $45 for non-members (must be 60-plus). Refreshments included. Reservation required: 239-325-4444.
‘Keeping it Country’
Marco Island Historical Society’s 2026 World Class Entertainment Series of tribute performances honoring some of the world’s most famous musicians. “Keeping it Country,” Thursday, Jan. 29— From Carrie Underwood to Patsy Cline, vocalist Kristina Lynn performs hits from female country music legends. At the Rose History Auditorium, Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 S. Heathwood Drive. Tickets are $55 per person. Curtain is at 6:30 p.m., doors open at 6. For tickets visit themihs.org or call 239-389-6447.
Wonder Gardens: 90th birthday celebration
Wonder Gardens celebrates 90 years with a two-day weekend event. The Night of Wonder will take place at Wonder Gardens from 6 until 9 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 31, at 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs. VIP ticket holders can enjoy an early reception starting at 5 p.m. Tickets are $250 each or $500 for VIPs. The Family Fun Day event will take place the next day, Saturday, Feb. 1, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.
In the news: 3 To Know: DAR honors Islander; nights in nature and shell classes
ONGOING
Last chance! Bonita Springs Holiday Stroll
Last chance! Johnsonville Night Lights in the Garden
Enjoy live music, festive treats and seasonal lighting nights in the Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. Through Jan. 4. Pricing and tickets available through naplesgarden.org.
Last chance! 50th Annual Holiday Nights at Edison & Ford Estates
The Edison & Ford Winter Estates shine with thousands of holiday lights and decorations for this 50th-annual event. The milestone event includes new light displays, visits with Santa Claus (select nights), guided or self-guided Estates tours and a Children’s Tree Trail with dozens of trees decorated with handmade ornaments from Lee County school children. 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.
Tamara de Lempicka performs
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 from 7:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., every Wednesday 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.
AAUW
American Association of University Women (AAUW)) meets at 10 a.m., the third Thursday of the month at the Wesley United Methodist Church, 350 S. Barfield Dr., Marco Island.
Daughters of the American Revolution
Marco’s DAR chapter holds luncheon meetings at 10:30 a.m. on the third Thursday of each month. Members from other chapters and potential member are welcome. To learn more call Regent Valinda Bilbrey at 515-480-7311 or email [email protected].
FEBRUARY
‘Tapestry, The Carole King Songbook’
Marco Island Historical Society’s 2026 World Class Entertainment Series of tribute performances honoring some of the world’s most famous musicians. “Tapestry, The Carole King Songbook,” Thursday, Feb. 5— Performed by Suzanne O. Davis who channels characteristic King at the piano. At the Rose History Auditorium, Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 S. Heathwood Drive. Tickets are $55 per person. Curtain is at 6:30 p.m., doors open at 6. For tickets visit themihs.org or call 239-389-6447.
Imagination Ball
Imagine a world without cancer. The Marco Island unit of the American Cancer Society cordially invites you to the 2026 American Cancer Society Imagination Ball. The JW Marriott Marco Island is the place to be Friday, Feb. 6, for a night of golden pearlescence. This black-tie optional event will raise funds in the mission to end cancer, as we know it, for everyone. That means every cancer, every life. To learn more about the Imagination Ball, including sponsorship and donation opportunities, please contact us at 239.610.3032, [email protected], or visit marcoisland.acsgala.org.
‘Doo-Wop’
Marco Island Historical Society’s 2026 World Class Entertainment Series of tribute performances honoring some of the world’s most famous musicians. “Doo-Wop,” Tuesday, Feb. 10 — Rock around the clock and sing along to your favorite Doo Wop hits from the ‘50s, ‘60s and 7’0s featuring the Florida group Reminisce. At the Rose History Auditorium, Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 S. Heathwood Drive. Tickets are $55 per person. Curtain is at 6:30 p.m., doors open at 6. For tickets visit themihs.org or call 239-389-6447.
Cher, Bob Seger and Madonna tributes
Marco Island Historical Society’s 2026 World Class Entertainment Series of tribute performances honoring some of the world’s most famous musicians. “Cher, Bob Seger and Madonna,” Thursday, Feb. 19 —Three world touring tributes in one incredible evening of entertainment. At the Rose History Auditorium, Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 S. Heathwood Drive. Tickets are $55 per person. Curtain is at 6:30 p.m., doors open at 6. For tickets visit themihs.org or call 239-389-6447.
‘The Rat Pack’
Marco Island Historical Society’s 2026 World Class Entertainment Series of tribute performances honoring some of the world’s most famous musicians. “The Rat Pack,” Tuesday, Feb. 24 —Get ready to be transported back to the golden era of music with this tribute to the legendary Rat Pack. Experience the magic of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. — all in one show. At the Rose History Auditorium, Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 S. Heathwood Drive. Tickets are $55 per person. Curtain is at 6:30 p.m., doors open at 6. For tickets visit themihs.org or call 239-389-6447.
MARCH
‘Remembering Whitney Houston’
Marco Island Historical Society’s 2026 World Class Entertainment Series of tribute performances honoring some of the world’s most famous musicians. “Remembering Whitney Houston,” Thursday, March 12 — Featuring the vocals of Whitney Houston performed by recording artist Latraia Savage. At the Rose History Auditorium, Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 S. Heathwood Drive. Tickets are $55 per person. Curtain is at 6:30 p.m., doors open at 6. For tickets visit themihs.org or call 239-389-6447.
‘Ed Sullivan Variety Show’ tribute
Marco Island Historical Society’s 2026 World Class Entertainment Series of tribute performances honoring some of the world’s most famous musicians. “Ed Sullivan Variety Show,” Thursday, March 19 —A “high-energy nonstop salute” to some music stars featuring tribute artists from Las Vegas. The show includes tributes to Ed Sullivan, Buddy Holly, The Big Bopper, Joe Crocker, The Blues Brothers, Hank Williams and Mick Jagger. At the Rose History Auditorium, Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 S. Heathwood Drive. Tickets are $55 per person. Curtain is at 6:30 p.m., doors open at 6. For tickets visit themihs.org or call 239-389-6447.
‘Essence of Motown’
Marco Island Historical Society’s 2026 World Class Entertainment Series of tribute performances honoring some of the world’s most famous musicians. “Essence of Motown,” Thursday, March 26 —Many Soul/R&B artists were discovered and celebrated in Detroit, spawning a unique and infectious sound and style called Motown. This tribute pays homage to this music by singing hits from The Four Tops, The Temptations, The Drifters and many more. At the Rose History Auditorium, Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 S. Heathwood Drive. Tickets are $55 per person. Curtain is at 6:30 p.m., doors open at 6. For tickets visit themihs.org or call 239-389-6447…