FEBRUARY
Top events of the week: 3 To Do: Everglades Seafood Fest; ‘Beyond’ in Estero; ‘Flags for Heroes’
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.
Joe Machi at Off the Hook
Comedian Joe Machi performs standup Feb. 13-15 at Off The Hook Comedy Club, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, No. 1100. $26 general admission, plus a fee. At 6:30 and 8:30 p.m., Friday, Feb. 13, 6 and 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14 and 6 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 15. Information: offthehookcomedy.com or 239-389-6901.
Coconut Point Art Festival
From 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 14-15 at Coconut Point shopping center, 23130 Fashion Drive, Estero. Admission: Free. The 20th-annual juried fest includes art demonstrations and takes place in the busy Coconut Point shopping center full of stores and restaurants. Info: 561-746-6615 or artfestival.com
Sanibel-Captiva Arts & Crafts Festival
From 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 14-15. The Sanibel Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island. Admission: A small donation is requested for entry. The 43rd-annual event also includes a silent auction. Info: sanibelartfair.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.
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.
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.
- Florida Book Discussion: A series of Florida centric book discussions. This month’s book is “Atomic Lobster” by Tim Doresy. 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.
- 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. 24 in Rose Hall.
- 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.
Empty Bowls – Paint a Plate
Tuesday, Feb. 17: 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m., Baker Senior Center Naples, 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane. Join the instructor from Empty Bowls to “create awareness and eliminate hunger in our communities.” All supplies will be provided. Tickets cost $35 for BSCN members and $45 for non-members (must be 60+). Refreshments included. Reservation required. Information: 239-325-4444.
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.
- 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.
- Boater’s Local Knowledge-Marco Island: At 5 p.m., Monday, March 16.
- Weather & Boating: Class is 5 p.m., Thursday, March 19.
- Navigating Everglades National Park: At 5 p.m., Wednesday, March 25.
Karaoke Night
On Thursday, Feb. 19: 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., Baker Senior Center Naples, 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane. Sing your heart out, cheer on friends and enjoy music together. This program free to members; $5 for non-members (must be 60+). Registration is required. Information: 239-325-4444.
‘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.
Naples National Art Fair
From 5-8 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 20-22 at Cambier Park, 755 Eighth Ave. S., downtown Naples. Admission: $10 suggested donation. The 47th-annual juried event is a major fundraiser for Naples Art Institute. It features art in 17 categories. Info: naplesart.org
Columbiettes ‘Treasures in the Trunk’ sale
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.
Brazilian fusion band Blues Beatles
Playing Fab Four classics reimagined with blues arrangements. (Feb. 21 at Arts Bonita, Cost: $54-$64). Information: artsbonita.org
Bonita Brew Fest
Enjoy craft brews from Florida and beyond at the 10th annual event at Riverside Park, 10450 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. The festival is 4-7:30 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 21. Expect unlimited sampling of over 200 beers, live music, local food vendors, and more. General admission tickets are $64 and include unlimited sampling and VIP tickets available. Designated driver tickets are available for $23 and you must accompany a general admission or VIP attendee to purchase this type of ticket. Only 1,800 general admission and 150 VIP tickets will be sold this year. You can purchase tickets by visiting BonitaBrewFest.com.
‘Boat America’ course
With Southwest Florida’s waterways bustling, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 91 of Fort Myers Beach recently announced details of “Boat America,” a boating course slated for Saturday, Feb. 21. The class is designed to “equip every family member with the knowledge and skills needed for safe, confident, and enjoyable adventures on the water.” It will be held from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 21, at Pine Ridge Community Center, 15660 Pine Ridge Rd., Fort Myers. Cost is $45 per person; and free for students under 17 when accompanied by an adult. Register online at aux91fmb.org/safeboating or 239-690-6780.
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.
Foreign Films for Everyone
Tuesday, Feb. 24: 5:30 p.m. until 8 p.m., Baker Senior Center Naples, 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane. “I’m Still Here – 2024 – Portuguese.” Directed by Walter Salles, this film powerfully observes a real-life personal struggle under a dictatorship in Brazil during the early 1970s. No charge for BSCN members and $5 for non-members (must be 60+). Reservation required. Information: 239-325-4444.
‘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
Styx at Hertz Arena
See the band live in concert with special guest Cheap Trick at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 25 at Hertz Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero. Tickets start at $55, and arena parking is $30. Information: 239-948-7825 or hertzarena.com.
Estero flood meeting
Estero is conducting another public outreach meeting on the “Comprehensive Vulnerability Assessment” to evaluate the “potential impacts of flooding and other climate hazards on critical assets and infrastructure.” The Village encourages all community members to attend and contribute. The meeting is from 4:30 until 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 25, at the Estero Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd., in Estero. You’ll be asked to share your experiences with flooding; engage with community members and the Village’s staff and provide feedback on assessment priorities and considerations. Engage Estero will present the Don Eslick Estero person of the year award in a ceremony Feb. 26 at Estero Country Club at The Vines. “This annual event pays tribute to Don Eslick’s remarkable qualities and outstanding service to Estero,” read a statement from Engage Estero. This year’s recipient is Dr. Larry Antonucci the outgoing president and chief executive officer of Lee Health. For tickets or more information, visit esterotoday.com.
Ag Expo main entertainment lineup announced
The 2026 Southwest Florida Ag Expo runs from Thursday, Feb. 26, through Sunday, March 8, at Mike Greenwell Regional Park (formerly the Lee County Civic Center Complex), 11831 Bayshore Road, North Fort Myers. A wide array of performers will be on the main stage:
- Chasing Denver, 6-9 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 26
- Matt & Zack, 7-10 p.m., Friday, Feb. 27
- Nostaljah, 3-6 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 28
- Back Country Boys, 7-10 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 28
- Flora Top Hits Band, 2-5 p.m., Sunday, March 1
- Joe Yeoman Band, 6-9 p.m., Sunday, March 1
- Deb & the Dynamics, 6-9 p.m., Monday, March 2
- Smokin’ Aces, 6-9 p.m., Tuesday, March 3
- Supernatural Santana Tribute, 4:30-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, March 4
- Hairdaze! The Amazing 80s Rock Show!, 6-9 p.m., Thursday, March 5
- SoapyTuna, 7-10 p.m., Friday, March 6
- Pure Country, 7-10 p.m., Saturday, March 7
- Heat Latin Jazz Band, 2-5 p.m., Sunday, March 8
- Orquesta Tropical Sound, 6-9 p.m., Sunday, March 8
The event will also highlight local talent and live demonstrations on the Family Stage inside the Expo Hall. In addition to scheduled stage performances, guests can enjoy daily strolling entertainers and interactive shows throughout the grounds, offering fun for all ages. Learn more at swflagexpo.com.
Community Expo
Looking for a fun way to connect with local businesses and enjoy an afternoon out? SWFL Inc. is inviting the community to a free Community Expo from noon until 4 p.m., Friday, Feb. 27, at the Promenade at Bonita Bay. The expo brings together more than 50 local businesses and nonprofits for an “interactive, family-friendly event featuring giveaways, product samples and activities. This event is designed to create real, in-person connections while celebrating the strength and diversity of Southwest Florida’s business community.” The expo is free to attend, open to the public, and does not require advance registration. Overflow parking will be available in the Rural King parking area. Businesses interested in reserving a table can contact Elvis at [email protected]. To learn more, visit swflinc.com/community-expo-2026-
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
Naples ArtCrafters
When: Monthly art and crafts show that usually takes place 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the second Saturday of each month from November through April. Festivals are Feb. 28, March 7 and April 11. Where: Cambier Park, 580 Eighth S. St., downtown Naples. Admission: Free. Info: naplesartcrafters.com/shows.
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.
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ONGOING
‘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.
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. 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.
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.
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.
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, 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.
Veterans Park will host Community Yard Sale
Registration is open now for anyone who wants to sell items at the Lehigh Acres Community Yard Sale, from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m., Saturday, March 14, at Veterans Park, 55 Homestead Road S., Lehigh Acres. Pre-registration is required. The price is $5 per space, with a maximum of three spaces per person. Bring your own tables and chairs. Setup starts at 7 a.m. and gates open at 8 a.m. Adults must work at the tables and children should be supervised at all times. To register visit leeparks.org/register or call Veterans Park Recreation Center at 239-533-7530.
‘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.
APRIL
Wonder Gardens to host Early Earth Day event
73rd Annual Hibiscus Show/Plant Sale
The James E. Hendry Chapter of the American Hibiscus Society recently announced the dates for their 73rd Annual Hibiscus Show/Plant Sale. It will be from 1 until 3 p.m., Saturday, April 18, at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 2439 McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers. This free show is the oldest of all Florida’s hibiscus shows, attracting several hundred people annually. In addition, more than 400 Hybrid Hibiscus plants will be for sale for $20. All credit cards are accepted. Parking and admission is free. Monthly meetings for the chapter are held at The Berne Davis Botanical Garden, 2166 Virginia Avenue, Fort Myers, at 1:30 p.m., the second Sunday of each month. More at hendrychapterhibiscus.com…