MARCH
Top events of the week: 3 To Do: Modern bluegrass at Arts Bonita; Everglades presentation; more
The Great Dames
On Thursday, March 5: 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Baker Senior Center Naples (BSCN), 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane. The Great Dames are a local singing group made up of members of the Naples Woman’s Club. Performing pop music favorites from Broadway to Motown, audiences will be singing, clapping and dancing along to their memorable selections. No charge for BSCN members and $5 for non-members (must be 60-plus). Registration is required. Information: 239-325-4444.
‘Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story’
Watch this rock-n-roll icon’s rise to fame on stage. Showing March 5-15 at The G&L Theatre at the Community School of Naples, 13275 Livingston Road, Naples. Tickets start at $50. Information: theatre.zone.
Disney on Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party
Disney on Ice skates into Hertz Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero, at various times from March 6-9. Tickets start at $30 with $20 arena parking. Information: hertzarena.com.
Community Cat Food Drive
For the Love of Cats will host its annual Community Cat Food Drive on Saturday, March 7, to support cats and the caregivers who feed them. All donations must be delivered by Friday, March 5, to North Collier Park, Exhibit Hall Building, 15000 Livingston Rd, Naples. For those ordering online through Chewy, the order deadline is Friday, Feb. 28, to ensure on-time delivery. Collected food will be distributed to community cat caregivers on Saturday, March 7. For the Love of Cats is a nonprofit rescue organization dedicated to saving the lives of cats and kittens in Collier County.
Baker Center hosts luncheon
Baker Senior Center Naples will present “The Luncheon for Better Tomorrows: ‘Remembering’ with Ashley Campbell” on Tuesday, March 10 at the Naples Yacht Club, 700 14th Ave. S. in Old Naples. This special luncheon presentation will feature the country music singer and songwriter who is the youngest child of country music legend Glen Campbell. The luncheon runs from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Tickets are $250 per person. Reservations must be made by March 2 at bakerseniorcenternaples.org/luncheon-2026. Sponsorship opportunities also are available.
‘9 to 5’
This uplifting celebration of friendship based on the novel by Patricia Resnick is taking the stage in the form of a musical with songs by Dolly Parton. Showing March 11-April 12 at Kizzie Theater, 701 5th Ave S, Naples. Tickets to the relaxed performance on March 28 are $10, and the remaining shows start at $57. Information: naplesplayers.org.
Evening on Fifth
Enjoy live music, fun dining destinations, extended shopping hours and more from 6:30-9:30 p.m., March 12, along Fifth Avenue South in downtown Naples. Information: fifthavenuesouth.com.
‘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.
Wonder Gardens’ ‘Brews for the Birds’
National Shell Museum classes
Marlon Wayans at Off the Hook
The comedian performs March 13-15 at Off The Hook Comedy Club, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, No. 1100. $55 general admission, plus a fee. 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Friday, March 13; 6 and 8 p.m. Saturday, March 12; and 6 p.m. Sunday, March 15. Information: offthehookcomedy.com or 239-389-6901.
Naples St. Patrick’s Day Parade
It was on, then off, and now it’s back on again. The annual parade begins at 11 a.m., Saturday, March 14, beginning near St. Ann’s Church, then turns north onto Third Street South, heads east onto Fifth Avenue South and finishes near city hall on Eighth Street South.
‘Wings of Wonder’
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.
Naples Uke Fest returns to Baker Senior Center
The sounds of ukulele will o fill the air at the third annual Naples Uke Fest, powered by HUGS (Happy Ukulele Group of Strummers), tat Baker Senior Center on Saturday, March 14. The concert will be dedicated to the memory of Baker Senior Center’s recently deceased founder and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Jaclynn Faffer. This all-day celebration of music, fun and community will feature performances by the nationally known Them Uke Boys, Uke 66 and the HUGS Players, along with a full lineup of workshops, lessons and social events designed to bring people together through the joy of the ukulele. Ticket options include all-day Gold Passes, VIP reception and concert packages and concert-only tickets. To purchase tickets, visit HugsUkeConcert.simpletix.com.
Harbor Arts & Music Festival
The 14th Annual Goodland Harbor Arts & Music Festival will be held from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, March 14 and 15,. The Goodland Civic Association and Collier County Parks and Recreation host this juried fine arts and crafts show featuring world class artists in a wide and wild assortment of media. Count on creative foods, and stunning raffle packages. Music organizers, Tim McGeary, Bob Brown, with Angel Marie Nofsinger, promise an A-list of Florida musicians and songwriters appearing live from the MarGood sound stage both days. Great food, great art, and great music all within the boundaries of historic and picturesque waterfront MarGood Harbor Park, 321 Pear Tree Ave., Goodland. For more info contact [email protected].
‘Darci Lynne and Friends’ at Off the Hook
The ventriloquist performs at 2 and 4 p.m. Sunday, March 15, at Off The Hook Comedy Club, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, No. 1100. $40 general admission, plus a fee. offthehookcomedy.com or Information: 239-389-6901.
Shamrocks & Spumoni
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day as CGO Music International presents Shamrocks and Spumoni, a unique musical blend of the Luck of the Irish and the Romance of the Italy. The show that begins at 7 p.m., Saturday, March 15, includes great Italian art songs flanked by Irish Pub style sing-a-long and the music of Riverdance. Norris Center, 755 Eighth Ave S. Tickets $50 (VIP) and $40, available at eventbrite.com. More at 239-213-3049.
Emerald Evening Social
On Tuesday, March 17: 4 to 6 p.m. at Baker Senior Center Naples (BSCN), 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at BSCN. Make sure to wear green and enjoy festive music, refreshments and great company as we toast with Irish cheer. No charge for BSCN members and $5 for non-members (must be 60+). Registration is required. Information: 239-325-4444.
‘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.
Movies in Paradise
For this month’s movie on the outdoor big screen, head to Paradise Coast Sports Complex to see Lilo & Stitch from 7-9 p.m., March 19. Free admission. Bring lawn chairs and blankets as seating. Great Lawn, 3940 City Gate Blvd North, Naples. playparadisecoast.com.
Legacy Celebration Luncheon
Kevin Nealon at Off the Hook
The comedian performs March 20-22 at Off The Hook Comedy Club, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, No. 1100. $39.50 general admission, plus a fee. 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Friday, March 20, 6 and 8 p.m. Saturday, March 21 and 6 p.m. Sunday, March 22. Information: offthehookcomedy.com or 239-389-6901.
‘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.
Sip & Create – Beaded Suncatchers
Thursday, March 26, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Baker Senior Center Naples, 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane. Enjoy light refreshments and wine while creating your own beautiful beaded suncatcher. No experience needed. Get creative, sip some drinks and leave with a handmade treasure. No charge for BSCN members and $10 for non-members (must be 60+). Registration is required. Information: 239-325-4444.
Jamie Lissow at Off the Hook
The comedian performs March 26-29 at Off The Hook Comedy Club, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, No. 1100. $30-35 general admission. 6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 26, 6 and 8 p.m. Friday, March 27 and Saturday, March 28, and 6 p.m. Sunday, March 29. Information: offthehookcomedy.com or 239-389-6901.
PSP Support Group Awareness and Memorial Walk
Enjoy lunch, live entertainment, a commemorative t-shirt, an optional mile-long walk and more in support of progressive supranuclear palsy awareness. 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., March 28, at Mackle Park, 1361 Andalusia Terrace, Marco Island. Pre-event registration is $25 for adults and $10 for students. Donations will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $50,000 to support the cause. Register or donate through give.curepsp.org.
Meet the Authors
Naples Italian American Foundation hosts event, as five local authors share their stories 1-4 p.m., Saturday, March 28, at 7035 Airport-Pulling Road, Naples. Free admission, light refreshments served. 239-597-5210 or niafoundation.org.
In the news: 3 To Know: Measles outbreak in Collier; Florida may set new e-bikes rules
ONGOING
Southwest Florida Ag Expo
The annual event returns with more carnival rides, games, fair food, animal exhibitions and live music. Now until March 8. Admission: $10 ($5 for ages 4-11, free for younger). Rides cost extra. Various promotional nights are also available. Mike Greenwell Regional Park (formerly known as the Lee County Civic Center Complex), 11831 Bayshore Road, North Fort Myers. Information: swflagexpo.com.
‘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.
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.
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.
‘The Importance of Being Ernest’
This Oscar Wilde comedy based in Victorian England is taking the stage courtesy of Gulfshore Playhouse. Showing now through April 4 at Moran Mainstage, Baker Theatre and Education Center, 100 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples. Tickets start at $39. Information: gulfshoreplayhouse.org.
Broadway Palm’s ‘Cats’
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.
Coastal Art Walk
The next festival is from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., April 12. At Marco Island Esplanade, 760 N. Collier Blvd., Marco Island. Information: 239-290-7927.
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.
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…