JANUARY
Top events of the week: 3 To Do: Circus on Marco; Renaissance Faire in Bonita; ‘Mousetrap’ in Naples
Russell Peters at Off The Hook
The comedian performs Jan. 8-10 at Off The Hook Comedy Club, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, No. 1100. $55 general admission, plus tax. At 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 9, and 6 and 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10. Information: offthehookcomedy.com or 239- 389-6901.
Estero ‘Movie in the Park’
Musical ‘Little Women’
Players Circle Theater calls this its biggest, most lavish show to date: A heartfelt, energetic musical adaptation of the beloved novel “Little Women.” Jan. 9-25. $40-$55. Discount previews Jan. 6-8. Players Circle Theater, 13211 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Information: 800-3292 or playerscircletheater.com.
Paranormal Cirque II: Specter at JetBlue Park
The R-rated, horror-themed circus show returns to south Fort Myers. Expect adult language, blood, gore and general spookiness. Plus acrobatics, contortionists, aerialists and other circus acts dressed as zombies, vampires, ghosts and witches. Friday through Monday, Jan. 9-12. $20-$65. JetBlue Park, 11500 Fenway South Drive, south Fort Myers. Information: 941-704-8572 or paranormalcirque.com.
Jodie DeSalvo performs
Pianist is joined by nationally renowned cellist Ian Maksin and they perform love songs and favorite movie music at 7 p.m. Jan. 9 at Unity of Naples. More at 239-293-2370 or unitynaples.org. DeSalvo’s other concerts are: 3 p.m. Jan. 18 at East Naples United Methodist Church, 2701 Airport Road S. Glenn Basham violinist and DeSalvo present their only Naples performance together featuring classical, pop and jazz and the concert is free! The two also, per usual, will take audience requests; at 7 p.m. Jan. 22 at Artis―Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd. “Music and Art” features DeSalvo’s favorite classics that come alive visually as artists Mike Grandi and Faith Ferretti paint live on stage to the inspiring music DeSalvo performs. The art and music together are a complete palette for all of our artistic senses. For ticket info, visit artisnaples.org.
Florida Rep’s ‘Always … Patsy Cline’
This heartfelt musical celebrates country-music legend Patsy Cline, her music and her unlikely friendship with a fan. It features Cline’s biggest hits, including “Crazy,” “Walkin’ After Midnight” and “I Fall to Pieces.” Jan. 9-25 (discount previews Jan. 6-8). $78-$80. Florida Repertory Theatre, 2268 Bay St., downtown Fort Myers. Information: 332-4488 or floridarep.org.
National Shell Museum classes
Perfect Paint Pairs
Baker Senior Center to host signature fundraiser
Kansas At Artis Naples
Hear the classic rock band at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 10 at Artis―Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. Kansas’ hits included “Carry On Wayward Son,” “Dust in the Wind” and more. Tickets from $85. Information: artisnaples.org.
‘Vicki Lawrence & Mama’
A “two-woman show” featuring “The Carol Burnett Show” and “Mama’s Family” star and her famous character: 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10 at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, south Fort Myers. $59-$101. Information: 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com.
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.
Cape Coral Art Festival
More than 300 artists show and sell their work at the popular outdoor event, celebrating its 41st anniversary this year. Plus, live entertainment, food and more. Organized by the Rotary Club of Cape Coral. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 10-11. Free. Cape Coral Parkway between Del Prado Boulevard and Southeast 10th Place, downtown Cape Coral/South Cape. capecoralartfestival.com.
Chamber music at Koreshan Hall
Boris Sandler and Bella Gutshtein, artistic directors for the Koreshan Music Salon, have announced plans for a “magical musical season.” The Koreshan Music Salon will present intimate concerts in the 120-year-old Koreshan Art Hall starting at 3 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 11. Additional dates for the 2026 concert series are Sunday, March 22, and Sunday, May 23. All performances will be held at the Art Hall at the Koreshan State Park, 3800 Corkscrew Road. Seating is limited to 90 attendees. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased online at Friends of Koreshan Historic State Park, friendsofkoreshan.org/event-6420621.
USAF band comes to FGCU
U.S. Air Force Band of the West concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 12 at FGCU’s Tobe Recital Hall at FGCU, 10501 FGCU Blvd. S., Fort Myers. Free but RSVP at eventbrite.com.
‘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.
Pete Lee at Off The Hook
The comedian performs Jan. 15-17 at Off The Hook Comedy Club, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, No. 1100. $31general admission, plus tax. 7 and 9 p.m. all three nights. Information: offthehookcomedy.com or 239- 389-6901.
Festival of Birds
Rookery Bay’s Annual Festival of Birds will be held Jan. 15 through 19. There will be guided field trips to wildlife hotspots around Southwest Florida, bird-featured activities throughout the month and a special keynote presentation and reception. It all starts with a reception from 5:30 until 7 p.m., Jan. 15, with appetizers, drinks and a keynote from Paul N. Gray, Audubon Florida, science coordinator in Everglades restoration. Bird-themed activities (vary in cost from $25 to $85): 9:30-10:30 a.m., Jan 16: Nature Collage; 1:30-3 p.m., Jan 16: Nature Journaling Workshop; 1:30-3 p.m., Jan 16: Birds & Butterflies: Shell Decoupage; 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Jan 17: Essentials of Digital Photography; 5:30-7 p.m., Jan 18: Moon Walk: Nights in Nature. Registration is required at rookerybay.org/events/festival-of-birds. Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center is located at 300 Tower Rd., Naples.
Watercolors & Wildlife
Tim Zimmerman and The King’s Brass on Marco
United Church of Marco Island is offering an “energizing and inspiring” concert to start off the new year as they welcome Tim Zimmerman and The King’s Brass at 4 p.m., Friday, Jan. 16. The church says this special community performance is open to all, with a “freewill offering” received during the event. The group features three trumpets, three trombones, a tuba, percussion and keyboards.
Rookery Bay Nature Collage
Nature Journaling at Rookery Bay
Pancake breakfast
Is there anything better than a stack of fluffy pancakes on a Saturday morning? The Rotary Club of Marco Island Sunrise is inviting the community to their “all-you-can-eat” pancake breakfast. It’s from 7:30 until 11 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 17, at 525 North Collier Blvd. Volunteers from Marco Island Academy’s Interact Club will be flipping pancakes. Tickets are available for purchase from Rotarians, MIA students, online at Eventbrite, or at the door for a donation of $15 for adults, children 10 and under eat free. All proceeds benefit the local charitable work of the Rotary Club of Marco Island Sunrise.
Essentials of Digital Photography Workshop
Moon Walk: Nights in Nature
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.
‘Grumpy Old Men: The Musical’
Based on the 1993 film, this musical adaptation follows the feud between neighbors Max and John. Presented by TheatreZone now through Jan. 18 at 13275 Livingston Road, Naples. Tickets start at $50. Information: theatre.zone
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.
Joe DeVito at Off The Hook
The comedian performs Jan. 23-25 at Off The Hook Comedy Club, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, No. 1100. $35 general admission, plus tax. At 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23, 6 and 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, and 6 and 8 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 25. Information: offthehookcomedy.com or 239- 389-6901.
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.
Naples Winter Wine Festival
Enjoy three days of delicious food and wine to benefit children in need. Proceeds from the Festival benefit the Naples Children & Education Foundation. Jan. 30-Feb. 1 based at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón. 2600 Tiburon Drive, Naples. Information: napleswinefestival.com.
Frank Caliendo at Off The Hook
The comedian performs Jan. 30 and 31 at Off The Hook Comedy Club, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, No. 1100. $40 general admission, plus tax. At 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30, and 6 and 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31. Information: offthehookcomedy.com or 239- 389-6901.
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: The Lunar New Year; Calusa Garden Club seminar; more
ONGOING
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.
Joan Miró: Fire in the Soul
This collection of Miró’s pieces ranges from graphic to vibrant and dreamlike. Admire his symbolic imagery and spiritual undertones now through April 4 at Naples Art Institute, 585 Park St., Naples. Admission is $15 for non-members and is free for those under the age of 18. Information: naplesart.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 on Marco Island
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…