FEBRUARY
Top events of the week: 3 To Do: Beach cleanup on Marco; Seafood Fest in Bonita and more
French Quarter comes to Bonita Springs
The French Quarter Funk Fest is free and features Buckwheat Zydeco Jr., The Soul Rebels, Dirty Dozen Brass Band and more. Starts at 2 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 7. Free general admission, $34 for front-row seating, VIP available. At Seminole Casino Hotel, 506 S. First St., Immokalee. Information: 658-1313 or moreinparadise.com.
‘Shake Baby Shake: 50s & 60s Rock & Roll’ at Arts Bonita
Bonita Springs National Art Festivals series
The second of three annual art festivals featuring more than 200 artists each. The fests benefit Arts Bonita, including their programs and scholarships. From 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 7-8. Free with a suggested $5 donation. Riverside Park, 10450 Reynolds St., downtown Bonita Springs. 495-8989 or artsbonita.org/artfest.
ArtFest Fort Myers
Browse and buy art from about 200 artists at the 26th-annual fest. Plus the Art Under 20 high-school art competition, a food court, live performances on the community stage, a timed 5K race (8 a.m. Sunday), a sidewalk chalk-art competition, a children’s craft area and the annual Symphony on the Sound pops concert (with Gulf Coast Symphony performing from 6-9 p.m. Friday at Caloosa Sound Amphitheater). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 7-8. There’s also an opening night preview from 6-9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6. Free. Edwards Drive between Heitman and Lee streets in downtown Fort Myers. 768-3602 or ArtFestFortMyers.com.
Bonita Springs National Art Festival
Annual series of three festivals happening January through March. The festival is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 7-8 and March 14-15. Free with a suggested $5 donation. At Riverside Park, 10450 Reynolds St., downtown Bonita Springs. The fests benefit Arts Bonita, including their programs and scholarships. Information; 495-8989 or artsbonita.org/artfest.
Antique Ford Car Show at Edison and Ford Winter Estates
From 9 a.m. until 2 p.m., Feb. 7, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host its annual Antique Ford Car Show. Each year, classic car owners exhibit their cars on the Ford estate lawn as a tribute to Henry Ford, “the pioneer of the automobile industry.” Visitors can also tour the gardens, museum, laboratory and see the historic homes. This family-friendly event is free for members or $28 for non-members, which includes admission to the site. Tickets may be purchased on the website at EdisonFord.org or at the ticket counter (purchase tickets for the self-guided tour, which includes the grounds where the car show is held). Antique car owners wanting to participate can register their car (any Ford model, 1980 or older) for display in the show at EdisonFord.org before Jan, 30. Car registration is $30 for the first car and $15 for each additional car (per owner) and includes the self-guided tour of the riverside of the property, admission to the 15,000-square-foot museum and botanic research laboratory. Visit EdisonFord.org for registration information.
Boating on local waters: Marco Coast Guard Auxiliary classes
Reduce your risks at the helm of your boat on our local waters. Take a USCG-certified class to make you a safer boater. Cost for each class ranges from $25 to $70, depending on the materials provided by instructors.
- Boater’s Local Knowledge-Marco Island: At 5 p.m., Monday, Feb. 9 and Monday, March 16.
- Personal Watercraft – Backwater: At 5 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 17.
- Boater’s Local Knowledge-Backwater Edition: At 5 p.m., Monday, Feb. 23 and Monday, March 23.
- Highway Signs & Rules of Nautical Roads: Class is offered at 5 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 24.
- Suddenly in Command: At 5 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 25.
- Boat America: From 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., Feb. 28.
- Lines & Knots: Class is 5 p.m., Wednesday, March 4.
- Weather & Boating: Class is 5 p.m., Thursday, March 19.
- Navigating Everglades National Park: At 5 p.m., Wednesday, March 25.
‘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.
Marco Library educational presentations
There are several education presentations at the Marco Island Library. The programs are free of charge and registration is not required.
- Point Counter Point: Interested in taking part in a moderated discussion on issues of the day without all the shouting and drama? Join this ongoing meeting of a group of individuals who are looking for a civilized expression of different points of view. From 2 until 4 p.m., Feb. 10 and Feb. 24 in Rose Hall.
- Paris is for Lovers: Join the program for the sights of Paris presented by Paul Pacter. From 2 until 3 p.m., Feb. 11.
- Florida Book Discussion: A series of Florida centric book discussions. This month’s book is “Atomic Lobster” by Tim Dorsey. From 11 a.m. until noon, Feb. 17.
- Around the World-Amazing Baltics: Lynn Nathanson takes you on a monthly trip around the world. This month we will be traveling around the Baltics. From 2 until 3 p.m., Wednesday, Feb 18.
- Abraham Lincoln-Storyteller: “Lincoln” discusses humor, an important part of his life and leadership and hear the jokes and stories he often used. From 2 until 3 p.m., Feb. 25.
Goodbye Key Marco Cat
Time is running out on the Smithsonian’s seven-year loan of the Key Marco Cat to the Marco Island Historical Museum. It returns to Washington, D.C. in April. A Key Marco Cat Farewell Celebration will be held from 3:30-5:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 12, at Marco Island Historical Museum. The event is free and open to the public. It will feature a presentation by former MIHS curator Austin Bell, Emmy award-winning composer and flutist Kat Epple, and reenactor Carolyn Rosenfeld. Guests also will have an opportunity to write love letters to the Cat. The museum is located at 180 S. Heathwood Drive and is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Admission is free and the site is fully ADA compliant and accessible to all visitors. For information, call 239-389.6447 or visit theMIHS.org.
Women’s Interfaith Breakfast
The 33rd Annual Women’s Interfaith Breakfast, will be at 10 a.m., Friday, Feb. 13, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church on Marco Island. The theme for this year’s event is “Love Our Community,” and it will be chaired by Grace Cheng, a Steering Committee member and a Daughter of the Order of the King of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. The Marco Island Women’s Interfaith Committee and St. Mark’s Episcopal Church Women will host the gathering. The program includes a continental breakfast, an exceptional musical program presented by a locally renowned violinist and a well accomplished organist/pianist. Tickets are $10 and available at local houses of worship or can be purchased at the door.
Beyond Van Gogh and Beyond Monet: The Immersive Experience
Step inside Claude Monet’s gardens and Vincent Van Gogh’s swirling stars in two immersive shows that uses projections and symphonic music to bring more than 700 of the artists’ famous paintings to life. From Feb. 13-March 29. Cost: $37-$48. Coconut Point, 23106 Fashion Drive, Estero. Information: beyondexhibitions.com.
Health & Wellness Fair
Bring the family to the annual free Health & Wellness Fair at Veterans Park Recreation Center in Lehigh Acres, 55 Homestead Road South. It’s from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 14. Cost is free. Attendees can meet local health care and wellness professionals, participate in free health screenings, enjoy activities and more. Free children’s diapers, food and haircuts will be available. Free ice cream and child fingerprinting will be provided by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. More than 25 health care providers will be on site offering information and services related to cholesterol, blood pressure, hearing, diabetes, dermatology, behavioral health, dental care, military support and more. Information: leeparks.org or 239-533-7530.
‘Flags for Heroes’
Edison Festival of Light Junior Parade
This smaller version of the Edison Festival of Light Grand Parade features kids and their families smiling and waving from floats, wagons, marching bands and more. More than 100 units participate in what’s billed as Florida’s largest youth parade. Many of these floats and parade units will appear later in the grand parade, as well. From 1:30-3:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 15. Free. Downtown Fort Myers. Information: 334-2999 or edisonfestival.org.
Coastal Art Walk
Monthly waterfront festival series from October through April. The next festival is from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., Feb. 15, March 1 and April 12. At Marco Island Esplanade, 760 N. Collier Blvd., Marco Island. Information: 239-290-7927.
‘Bash for the Bay’
Tickets are on sale now for the 17th Annual ‘Bash for the Bay’ held by Friends of Rookery Bay. The fundraiser featuring a cocktail hour, plated dinner, and silent and live auctions will be held from 6 until 10 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 19 at Naples Lakes Country Club, 4784 Naples Lakes Blvd. Eileen and Paul Arsenault will be honored with the Lavern Norris Gaynor Environmental Champion Award. Highlights of the live auction include exclusive opportunities to go shark tagging with a Rookery Bay biologist and crocodile tracking with a Rookery Bay scientist. Tickets start at $300 and may be purchased at rookerybay.org/bash or call 239-530-5972.
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.
Kiwanis to host 22nd Annual Car Show
The Marco Island Kiwanis Club will be hosting its 22nd Annual Kiwanis Car Show on Saturday, Feb. 21, at Veterans Community Park. The car show is more than an automotive event, it’s a fundraiser. All proceeds benefit the Marco Island Kiwanis Foundation, with funds dedicated to the community youth supporting educational and youth-focused programs at four local schools. For information regarding sponsorship opportunities and general event information email [email protected]; call Barb Murphy at 239-595-0488. For information regarding car registration, visit marcokiwanis.com.
Matlacha Hookers’ Island Luau
The Matlacha Hookers present the 14th Annual Island Luau, from 1 until 5 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 22, at the St. James City Civic Center. The popular 21-and-over fundraiser benefits Beacon of Hope Senior Programs. In its 14th year, attendees will enjoy island music and dancing, an island buffet by Ginger Bistro, tropical beverages, boutique shopping, raffles, silent auctions, and a lively costume contest. Attendance is capped at 350 guests, and organizers expect another sell-out event. Tickets are $45 online through Feb. 20, with day-of tickets priced at $55. For tickets, visit events.humanitix.com/14th-annual-island-luau.
‘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.
National Shell Museum classes
Wonder Gardens to offer expert certification
Wonder Gardens is organizing the Florida Landscaping Expert Certification Program, which consists of four sessions, along with a single refresher course. This program is intended for individuals serving on an HOA landscaping committee, although all guests are invited. It’s from 9 a.m. until noon on Feb. 6, and Feb. 13. Doors will open at 8:30 a.m. The refresher course is tailored for individuals who have previously completed the certification course. This class is scheduled for Feb. 27, from 9 a.m. until noon, with doors opening at 8:30 a.m. The complete four-session certification program is priced at $85 for members of Wonder Gardens and $95 for non-members. The refresher course costs $35 for members and $40 for non-members. For further information or to register, visit WonderGardens.org/FL-Landscaping-Certification-2026/.
Big Cypress Celebration
Burrowing Owl Festival
Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife is extending an invitation to the community for the 24th Annual Burrowing Owl Festival Wildlife and Environmental Expo, which celebrates Cape Coral’s designated bird and the city’s distinctive wildlife. The festival is set to occur from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 28, at Rotary Park in Cape Coral. The festival will host arts and crafts vendors, food options, activities for children, and a silent auction that supports wildlife conservation. A donation of $5 at the entrance is appreciated for attendees aged 12 and older. CCFW’s Online Auction—featuring hundreds of items contributed by businesses nationwide—is currently live and will continue until March 1, providing another avenue to support wildlife conservation. For more, visit bforg.com/CCFW or ccfriendsofwildlife.org.
In the news: 3 To Know: Multi-county police chase; Winter Wine Fest raises millions
ONGOING
The Naples Players present ‘Beau Jest’
The Naples Players offers a warm and witty start to the new year with “Beau Jest,” running now through 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.
‘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.
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 is 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.
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].
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.
‘Breakfast and Birds’
The Friends of Tigertail Beach will host a free “Breakfast and Birds” from 9 a.m. until 11, March 21 at 430 Hernando Drive, Marco Island. Bring your breakfast and join other interested birders to learn about shore birds, wading birds and migrating birds that reside, rest and forage in the mudflats and shallow waters of the lagoon. Binoculars are recommended. Birding ID cards will be available for a donation. For additional information, visit FriendsofTigertail.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, 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.
‘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…