SWFLA To Do List: Naples Winter Wine Festival, Matt Iseman at Off the Hook, more
FEBRUARY
Naples Winter Wine Festival
Feb. 3-5, with live auction 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, 2600 Tiburon Drive, Naples. More at napleswinefestival.com.
Free art exhibition opening reception at Rookery Bay
Friends of Rookery Bay and the United Arts Council of Collier County will host a free opening reception for their 2023 Photography Annual Exhibition from 5:30 to 7 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 2 in the art gallery at the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Road, Naples. The juried show features 18 artists whose work will be on view and available for purchase through April 27 during the center’s hours of 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Artists featured in the exhibition are Paul Allen, Austin Bell, William Boling, Joseph Cardinale, Hilda Champion, John Dodge, Robert Kenedi, Maureen MacNeal, Courtney Nagle, Vinicio Paz, Douglas Poe, Alessandra Sanchez, Donald Sawin, Arlen Smith, Martin Strasmore, Francis Stephan, Cynthia Taft, and Isabel Varetto. Photographer Christine Cook will serve as juror and select the Best in Show, Juror’s Choice and United Arts Council Merit Award winners, who will receive cash prizes. Wine and light bites will be served. Reservations are required at rookerybay.org/events.
On stage now: The musical ‘SIX’
The Broadway hit based on Henry VIII and his six wives. The show is staged like a pop concert with the wives taking turns and telling their stories of divorce, suffering and survival. Now through Sunday, Feb. 5. Cost: $71-$156. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, south Fort Myers. Information: 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com.
Matt Iseman at Off the Hook
Matt Iseman, a physician-turned-comedian and known as play-by-play announcer for "American Ninja Warrior," performs standup through Feb. 5 at Off The Hook Comedy Club, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, No. 1100. $25 general admission, plus a fee. At 7 and 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3; 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4; and 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 5. Information: offthehookcomedy.com or 239-389-6901.
Seafood Fest
The Naples Seafood & Music Festival in North Naples at Airport-Pulling Road/Orange Blossom Road. Friday-Saturday. More at paragonfestivals.com/festival/naples-seafood-music-festival.
Shell Club lecturer series
The Marco Island Shell Club is continuing its guest lecturer series at 3 p.m., Feb. 3, at the Marco Island Library in Rose Hall. Speaker Kristine Zikmanis is a PhD candidate at Florida International University working in the Marine Community and Behavioral Ecology Lab. Her dissertation research is focused on understanding the impacts of altered freshwater flow on juvenile bull sharks in the Ten Thousand Islands. Kristine Zikmanis will present her research on The Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Her focus identifies this area as an important nursery for many different shark species. She will guide you through what makes a shark, what species can be found in our area and why estuaries are important habitats for these species. She will walk you through some interesting research that is being conducted on sharks in your own backyard!
WolfStock BrewFest
The fourth WolfStock BrewFest and concert is 4-8 p.m., Saturday, on main lawn of Paradise Coast Sports Complex, 3940 City Gate Blvd. S., Naples. Enjoy craft beers from many local breweries and a variety of food choices. Gates open at 3 p.m. Blues-rock musician Champ Jaxon, 12, performs. Advance general admission tickets are $50 and include entertainment, BrewFest tasting mug for guests older than 21 (proof of age required), and variety of food options. Tickets available for non-drinkers and minors for $20 in advance. Proceeds benefit Shy Wolf Sanctuary. Event postponed from November because of Hurricane Ian. More at wolfstockfl.org.
Marco Island Center presents ‘Art 2023 Gala’
Marco Island Center for the Arts is inviting the community to the 2023 Gala: Art Center Honors. The event will be held at the Island Country Club on Feb. 4. Guests will enjoy music, merriment and a “magical” night in the renovated and expanded ballroom at the Island Country Club. Proceeds of the event will benefit the Art Center’s future development and programming. The hosts for the evening will be the gala chairs, Mary Pat and Aldo Palombo. The “Art Center Honors” will be Bruce Robertson, Ken Stroud, and Mary Zemel. The Art Center will close its “Space/Time” capsule directly following the gala. Community members and attendees are encouraged to gather a few items to put into the capsule before it is closed. The Art Center Honors Gala at Island Country Club at 5:30pm Feb. 4. The event will offer a grand selection of both silent and live auction items to accompany the evenings celebration. Tickets can be purchased online at marcoislandart.org/annual-gala/ or by calling 239-394-4221.
Extra arts fair in Everglades City
There’s another chance on Saturday, Feb. 4, to see what the local artisans can do in historic Everglades City after the last Art-in-the-Glades was frozen out by unseasonable weather. Come along to McLeod Park from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. for a relaxing saunter around the outdoor arts and crafts fair in this remote, rural town which was our first County seat. There is no entry charge and well-behaved doggies are welcome. While you're there, stop in at one of the water-front restaurants for lunch to enjoy the local delicacy of stone crab claws and then visit the museum. Information: Marya at 239-451-0265.
Naples Big Band
At 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at Norris Center, 755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples. Tickets are $25 before fees. Upcoming concerts include 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 13, at Cambier Park, 755 Eighth St. S., Naples. Bring chairs. Information: naplesbigband.com.
Left Bank Art Fest on Marco Island
From 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sundays, Feb. 5, March 5 and April 2, at The Esplanade, 740 Collier Blvd., Marco Island. Juried artists include photography, jewelry, oil, acrylic and watercolor paintings, ceramics, wood, bronze, glass and more. Free admission and free parking. Information: 239-290-7927.
Kays on the Beach 45th Fashion Show
Kays on the Beach is hosting their 45th Valentines’ Fashion Show at 11:30 a.m., Feb. 7, at the Marco Island Yacht Club. Tickets are $50 which includes show and lunch with a cash bar at 1089 Bald Eagle Drive. Information: 394-1033.
Shangri-La Springs Art & Soul Nights
Dates for Art & Soul Nights at Shangri-La Springs include Feb. 8, March 8, and April 12. Information call 239-949-0749 or visit ShangriLaSprings.com.
Friends of the Bonita Springs Library hosts Book Sale
Thousands of books, puzzles, CDs and DVDs will be on sale in February at the Friends Book Sale, benefitting the nonprofit Friends of the Bonita Springs Library. The Book Sale, in the first-floor meeting room of the Bonita Springs Library, will offer rows and rows of fiction, nonfiction and children’s books, along with puzzles, CDs and DVDs. Donors get an exclusive first chance to shop from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 9. Become a Friend by donating as little as $25 at the door for admission to the Thursday Early Bird preview. Then everyone is welcome to shop during the next two days: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 10, and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 11. The Bonita Springs Library is at 10560 Reynolds St., off Old 41 in downtown Bonita Springs. Contact: FriendsOfBonitaLibrary@gmail.com
24th Annual Step Up for Parkinson’s Walk
The Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida’s (PASWFL) 24th Annual Walk will take place from 9 a.m. until noon, Saturday, Feb. 11, at Baker Park in Naples. Step Up for Parkinson’s raises awareness and funds that directly benefit more than 7,000 members of the community who are diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) in Collier County, and southern Lee County. Registration is $30, $35 the day of the event, $10 for children under 12 years, and $5 for furry friends (pets). Registration for the walk includes a t-shirt, music, valet parking, and much more. Tickets are available at parkinsonassociationswfl.org.
Bonita Springs National Art Festival
From 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Feb. 11-12 at Riverside Park, 10450 Reynolds St. Information: artcenterbonita.org/artfest/.
Edison and Ford Winter Estates to Host Annual Spring Garden Festival
From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Feb. 11, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold its annual Spring Garden Festival. More than 60 garden vendors from around the state will have exotic and native plants and trees for sale. The festival takes place outdoors, under large shade trees and features food trucks and live music. A limited number of garden carts will be available, so guests are encouraged to bring a cart or wagon for transporting plants. A designated plant holding tent and loading spot will be offered for anyone needing assistance. Parking and admission to the festival is free (tours of the homes, museum and laboratory are not included). For more information, visit edisonford.org.
Wonder Gardens partners with Everblades to raise money
The Florida Everblades hockey team has partnered with Wonder Gardens to help raise funds for the Bonita Springs attraction at the Everblades game against the Orlando Solar Bears at 7 p.m., Feb. 11, at Hertz Arena. Wonder Gardens supporters will receive a $6 discount on the price of premium level seats, and Wonder Gardens will receive $17 for each $30 ticket purchased at tinyrul.com/everblades. A pregame tailgate with bounce houses and live music will be outside Hertz arena from 5 to 7 p.m. Only tickets purchased for the Feb. 11 game at tinyrul.com/everblades will benefit the Wonder Gardens. For additional information about the fundraiser, also visit facebook.com/TheWonderGardens.
MORENow You Know: Theatre visits ‘Plaza Suite,’ duo comes to Marco Presbyterian
AND3 To Know: CVS to reduce pharmacy hours, climate change news, more
ALSO3 To Do: Mullet Festival, Greek Fest, more
Duo comes to Marco Presbyterian
A captivating couple are bringing their talents to Marco Island. Marco Presbyterian Church will feature Zach and Maggie White and their band for “Story Songs and Bluegrass Hymns,” as a part of the Second Sunday Concert Series. The husband-and-wife musician/songwriter duo are based in Nashville. Joining the Whites for several songs during the concert, Matt Papa, artist in residence at Marco Presbyterian Church, will be adding his own flair to the evening. “Story Songs and Bluegrass Hymns” will be performed at the Marco Presbyterian Church, 875 West Elkcam Circle, Marco Island, at 6 p.m., Feb. 12, in the Worship Center. Advance tickets can be purchased at the church office between 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, or online at marcochurch.com. They can also be purchased at the door prior to the show. Tickets are $30. Children 18 and under are free. For additional information visit marcochurch.com, call 239-394-8186, or send an email to: office@marcochurch.com.
Naples Dixieland Jazz Band
From 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 12, at Cambier Park, Sixth Avenue South and Eighth Street South, Naples. Other concerts are March 19 and April 9. Those attending urged to bring chairs. All concerts free but donations greatly appreciated and needed. naplesjazzsociety.com
‘M.C. Escher: Reality & Illusion’
Now through Feb. 12; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mondays to Saturdays (open until 9 p.m. Thursdays); 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Sundays. Naples Art Institute (formerly Naples Art), 585 Park St., Naples. Exhibition of the works of M.C. Escher, artist-mathematician. $15, $10 members. Docent tours at 1 p.m. Fridays in December — Dec. 9, 16, 23 and 30. Information at naplesart.org or 239-262-6517.
Baseball movie and pasta dinner
Pasta dinner at 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 13, followed by showing of film at Naples Italian American Foundation, 7035 Airport-Pulling Road. Roberto Angotti is a cultural historian, writer, film director, curator, and radio DJ who blends his love of baseball, Italian American arts and culture, and music into multi-media creations. His film, "Italian American Baseball Family," tells the story of how Italian Americans assimilated into popular culture through America’s favorite pastime, baseball. Dinner included with $30 admission. Reservations required. For more and to RSVP, email niaf@niafoundation.org or call 239-597-5210.
‘Swing Fore the Future’ gala event
First Tee-Naples/Collier recently announced that the “Swing Fore the Future” gala event will be held at 6 p.m., Feb. 13. The “Swing Fore the Future” gala will include cocktails, dinner, and an auction of golf-related lots. Special guests will include PGA Tour and Champions Tour legends Peter Jacobsen, Bernhard Langer and Padraig Harrington and Golf Channel Host Rich Lerner. Proceeds from this event will support the ongoing capital campaign to fund the construction of First Tee Naples/Collier’s New Learning Center. The Learning Center will be part of a larger public golf venue which will include a BigShots Golf Driving Range facility and a 12-hole Nicklaus Designs golf course. For more information about the gala event, contact First Tee Naples/Collier’s Executive Director, Cindy Darland at cindy@firstteenaplescollier.org or call 239-825-4851.
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ANDOld Marco, new restaurant: Debate, alleged scare tactics and pushback
ALSOLetters to the Editor, Feb. 3
Beautification Advisory Committee to host Marco Nature Night
The Marco Island Beautification Advisory Committee will hold its annual community education event, “Marco Nature Night, Explore Your Environment” on Feb. 15. The event will feature a wide range of exhibits. The event will also have presentations. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission will discuss and present “Living with Coyotes.” Audubon Western Everglades will discuss and present “Owls and Gopher Tortoises.” Florida Native Plant Society and Master Gardener will discuss and present “Native plants for hurricanes and Growing easy fruits and vegetables.” All attendees will be entered into a raffle for giveaways.
Everglades Seafood Festival
The Florida Stone Crabbers Association (FLSCA) will kick off its 53rd Annual Everglades Seafood Festival on Feb. 17, outside Everglades City Hall, including an opening ceremony and a fireworks display. The festival will continue through the weekend, wrapping up at 6 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 19. Attendees enjoy live music, creative works from local artists, delicious seafood, cold beverages, and carnival rides. The festival is an annual charity event benefiting the Everglades City community. Friday night admission is free for all ages. Saturday and Sunday admission is a $5 minimum donation for adults. Children and residents of Everglades City, Chokoloskee, and Copeland can receive free admission on all days. Beverage & carnival ride tickets will be cash only, and there will be ATMs on site. Everglades Seafood Festival hours: 4:30 p.m. until 10 p.m., Fri., Feb. 17; 10 a.m. until 10 p.m., Sat., Feb. 18; 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., Sun., Feb. 19. Information: EvergladesSeafoodFestival-2023.com.
Kiwanis Car Show
From 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 19 at the YMCA of South Collier, 101 Sand Hill, Marco Island. Car entrance fee: $25. Spectator admission: $10 per person. Food and drink will be available for purchase. Information: 239-272-0816.
Camerata of Naples to feature harpsichord concerto
The chamber music ensemble Camerata of Naples will start their concert at 4 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 19, with J. S. Bach’s Harpsichord Concerto in F-minor played by Bella Gutshtein. This will be followed by Vivaldi’s Violin Concerto in F-Major Op.8 “Autumn” from Four Seasons featuring Daniela Shtereva. The final selection is Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings in C-Major Op.48. Tickets are $40 and are available by emailing cn@cameratanaples.org or calling 239-596-8404. The Camerata of Naples concerts are held at The Moorings Church, 791 Harbour Drive, Naples. Camerata of Naples consists of a core group of 14 local professional musicians who will perform these works, often not performed by larger ensembles.
Columbiettes Treasures in the Trunk Sale
From 8 a.m. until noon, Saturday, Feb. 24, the San Marco Columbiettes will host a Treasures in the Trunk Sale Fundraiser in the parking lot of the San Marco Parish Center, 851 San Marco Rd., Marco Island. Vendors must be set up by 7:30 am. Shoppers are welcome free of charge starting at 8. Don’t miss this opportunity to sell your new, used or antique treasures from the trunk of your vehicle. The cost will be $20 per vehicle parking spot and $10 additional if you wish to rent a table to place at the rear of your vehicle. Vendors may purchase more than one spot if they wish to do so. All merchandise not sold must be removed by the vendor. Refreshments and home baked items will be available for purchase. A 50/50 drawing will take place at 11 a.m. You do not need to be present for drawing. Information: Kathleen Reynolds at 239-404-6733 or Barbara DeRosa at 239-272-0158.
Fountain Lakes showcases local artists
From 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 25 the Fountain Lakes Community Room showcases local artists and crafters selling exciting original jewelry, paintings, sculptures, pillows, pottery, cards, wearable art, photography, and purses. Meet the artists in person along with the author of popular books. This colorful event is at 22202 Fountain Lakes Blvd, Estero, west of Coconut Point and South of the Ford Lot. Free Admission.
ACT visits ‘Plaza Suite’
The recently rebranded Arts Center Theatre (ACT) sets its backdrop in upscale Manhattan with “Plaza Suite” in the second of the inaugural season Neil Simon productions. The Arts Center Theatre will be presenting this production beginning Feb. 8 and running through Feb. 26. Shows will be running at the venue located in Marco Town Center (next to Marco Brewery) 1089 N. Collier Blvd Ste. 432 on Wednesday-Saturday, 7:30 p.m., and Sunday matinees with curtain at 3 p.m. Tickets are on sale now by calling 239-394-4221 or online at marcoislandart.org/arts-center-theater/.
ONGOING
Third Street South Farmers Market
From 7:30-11:30 a.m., Saturdays, through April 29, in the parking lot behind Tommy Bahamas, in Old Naples. Fresh produce, flowers, pastas, seafood, baked goods, prepared foods, jams, relishes, fresh-roasted coffee, more. Music, dog treats.
‘Cuba: The Natural Beauty,’ photography by Clyde Butcher
The Marco Island Historical Society (MIHS) presents “Cuba: The Natural Beauty,” a photography exhibit by world-renowned photographer Clyde Butcher, at the Marco Island Historical Museum (MIHM) through April 29. The exhibit is free and open to the public. It is part of the 2023 ¡ARTE VIVA! festival, a celebration of Hispanic arts and culture on Florida’s Paradise Coast. For information, visit arte-viva.com. The Marco Island Historical Museum is located at 180 S. Heathwood Drive. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is free. For information, call 239.389.6447 or visit theMIHS.org.
Marco Island Farmers’ Market
Marco Island’s farmers market is from 7:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., every Wednesday through April at Veteran’s Community Park (901 Park Ave., Marco Island). Information: 239-642-0575 or cityofmarcoisland.com.
JCMI Monday Night Bingo
Monday Night Bingo will be played every Monday Night through May 1 at the Jewish Congregation of Marco Island, located at 991 Winterberry Drive. Doors open at 5:30 pm. The first numbers are posted at 6:15 pm and the game is called at 7 p.m. Supper is complimentary-kosher hot dog, relish, sauerkraut, onions, pastry, pickles, pastry and ice cream, coffee and tea. The payouts are large. Information: 239-642 0800.
Rookery Bay Farmers Market
The new Rookery Bay Farmers Market will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Sundays, now through May 28 in the parking lot of the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Road, Naples. More than three dozen vendors will offer fruit, vegetables, local seafood, cottage foods, international cuisine, local honey, guacamole, baked goods, specialty coffee, organic skincare, clothing, handmade jewelry, accessories, art and more. Live music will be featured each week. The nature center will not be open, but the Friends of Rookery Bay will offer special promotions to market attendees. Shop Local Productions, which operates several farmers markets in Collier and Lee counties, is coordinating the new market. Information: 41markets.com.
Frida Kahlo and Her Garden
Naples Botanical Garden hosts a new exhibit titled Frida Kahlo and Her Garden, which runs through Sept. 10 at the garden, 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. It explores the influence of home and nature of the artist's work and recreates portions of La Casa Azul (the Blue House), her residence in Mexico City’s Coyoacán borough. The garden is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., with members allowed to enter at 8 a.m. Visit naplesgarden.org for tickets prices and more.
Estero Farmers Market at Miromar Outlets
Open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays near Corkscrew Road entrance; 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Find it on Facebook for more.
Golden Gate Community Farmers Market
Open year-round, Saturdays 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays at 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Golden Gate; From 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Sundays, at 11725 Collier Blvd., Golden Gate. Visit farmermarket2.com for more.
‘10,000 Songs Show’
Visitors and locals alike have been packing the audience at Margood Harbor Theater in Goodland, to hear award winning songwriters play original Florida music every first Monday of the month. J. Robert’s “10,000 Songs from the 10,000 Islands” show is celebrating six years of new songs and stories. Gates open at 6 at Margood Harbour Park Theater, located 321 Pear Street in Goodland.
Calusa Garden Club
Calusa Garden Club of Marco Island meets the second Monday of every month, October through March, at Rose Hall in the Marco library from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., with small plate refreshments served at noon. Each month, a speaker on the topics of horticulture, floral design, or the environment gives an educational presentation. The public is welcome. Calusa Garden Club of Marco Island is a 501(c)3 charitable organization. See the website calusa.org for information about membership and the monthly calendar of events.
Rotary Club of Marco Island Noontime
Rotary Club of Marco Island Noontime meets the first Thursday of the month by Zoom at noon and the 3rd Thursday of the month for luncheon meeting 11:45- 1:00 at Bistro Soleil. Contact Kathy Pasternak for zoom link or reservations email KathrynPasternak@BHHSFloridaRealty.net.
American Legion Post 404
American Legion Post 404 on Marco Island holds meetings at 11 a.m., every fourth Tuesday (January and February) from October through June. The meetings are held at the Marco Lutheran Church, 525 North Collier Blvd. Each meeting hosts interesting speakers and lunch is served.
Baker Museum
Hours 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, noon-4 Sundays. Docent tours 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.; 1 p.m. only on Sundays. The Baker Museum, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Information: 239-597-1900 or artisnaples.org.
Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
Daily, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. (last ticket). 375 Sanctuary Road, Naples. Stroll the 2.25-mile boardwalk through pine flatwoods, wet prairie, freshwater marsh and the largest old-growth bald cypress forest in North America. $17 adults, $6 kids 6-14, free ages 5 and younger. Online tickets at Corkscrew.Audubon.org/Visit.
Call to artists, crafters and market vendors
The Goodland Civic Association is readying for the 11th annual Goodland Harbor Arts & Music Festival, Saturday & Sunday, March 11-12, is a juried event also held at waterfront MarGood Harbor Park showcasing fine arts and hand crafts, live music organized by JRobert of Mangrove Music Studio, and a variety of food vendors. Artists will be juried by a selection committee of five professional artists. Fee for a 10’x10’ booth, which include a non-refundable $20 application fee, is $160. The deadline to apply is Dec. 18. There will be a limited number of single-day booths available for both events at reduced rates on a first come, first served basis, for both shows. For details & applications contact Tara O'Neill at taraogallery@gmail.com.
Rhode Island Club
The Rhode Island Club is ready to start up our seasonal get togethers. The club will meet at a variety of locations in Southwest Florida throughout season for some lively conversations and enjoyable comeradery. You are invited to join them. Contact Ann Sepe at 401-632-6099.
Italian American Society of Marco Island
The Italian American Society of Marco Island will hold their monthly meetings on the first Wednesday of each month, November through April, at Mackle's Park's Community room. Doors open at 5:15 p.m. with meeting starting at 5:30. This energetic group of men and women with Italian heritage, over the age of 21, are dedicated to remembering their roots while socializing through dinners, dances, bocce, trips, golf and more. Information: iasmi.org or call Barbara DeRosa 239-272-0158.
Revs Institute
Did you know Naples is home to one of the top 10 car museums in the world? If you haven't done so yet, check out this amazing collection of vehicles assembled over decades. 2500 Horseshoe Drive S. Visitors must observe COVID-19 protocols. Reserve tickets online for specific dates and times in advance. No walkups. Information: revinstitute.org or 239-687-REVS.
The Factory Run Club
At 6.30 p.m., Tuesdays. Paradise Coast Sports Complex, 3940 City Gate Blvd. N., Naples. The Factory Run Club is a fun social run around the lake loop — just under 1 mile — adjacent to The Cove at the Paradise Coast Sports Complex. Your skill level is the right one. Jog a single lap or run as many as you choose. Drinks at The Cove afterward are discounted for participants. And you’ll be ready to cool off after that virtuous workout. You get a R.I.O.T. shirt after completing eight runs. And it’s free, free, free.
Koreshan walking tour
Discover the various botanical specimens collected by the Utopian pioneer Koreshans and their specific purpose on this walking tour. Guests will tour the late 18th/early 20th century settlement and learn the history of this progressive society which promoted women's right to vote, equality of the sexes and education for all. Cost: $10 and $4 park admission. Purchase tickets online at friendsofkoreshan.org/page-7741.
Koreshan Unity Settlement
Explore the 19th century religious Koreshan Unity Settlement, its structures, and gardens. Join guided walking tours in Koreshan State Park and learn about these idealistic pioneers. Guided Tours are $10, non-refundable, and may be purchased online only at http://friendsofkoreshan.org/shop/guided-tours/historic-settlement-tours/.
Koreshan State Park Farmers Market
The Sunday Farmers Market at Koreshan State Park continues every Sunday from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Local produce, honey, fresh guacamole and salsas, sea glass, jewelry, street food, arts and crafts, tie-dye and more. Free with paid park admission $4 for single occupancy or $5 for up to eight people in vehicle). Vendor applications @ http://friendsofkoreshan.org/farmers-market-application-2/. Park entrance fee required. $4 single occupancy or $5 for up to eight in vehicle. Please bring exact change, no change provided. Credit card payment can only be made online @ https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/koreshan-state-park. No additional cost for the event. Volunteers needed for the farmers market and other Koreshan State Park Events. If interested: friendsofkoreshan@gmail.com.
Key Marco artifacts
Thanks to an unprecedented five-year loan extension by the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History, the world-famous Key Marco Cat will continue on exhibit at the Marco Island Historical Museum (MIHM) through 2026. Through April 30, 2024, 13 additional Key Marco artifacts from the PENN Museum will be on exhibit at MIHM. Marco Island Historical Museum is located at 180 S. Heathwood Drive. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is free. For information, call 239-389-6447 or visit theMIHS.org.
Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
The attraction at 300 Tower Road in Naples features aquariums, a touch tank with marine critters, natural history exhibits, art gallery, gift shop, butterfly garden, picnic areas and walking trails. Hours are 9 a.m-4 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Admission of $8 for adults and $5 for children ages 6-12 benefits the Friends of Rookery Bay, a nonprofit that supports the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Guests may apply their admission fee toward Friends of Rookery Bay membership on the day of their visit. Active and retired military personnel and family members are free year-round, as are guests on kayak and boat ecotours booked through Friends of Rookery Bay. More at rookerybay.org or call 239-530-5972.
Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park
Did you know Collier County is home to the largest state park in Florida? Explore this mesmerizing trip back to yesteryear and see wildlife in the wild. Safety protocols in place. Open 8 a.m. to sunset; $3 vehicle fee. 137 Coastline Drive, Copeland. Information: floridastateparks.org; 239-695-4953.
Rookery Bay Eco Kayak & Boat Tours
Join Rookery Bay Research Reserve for a guided boat tour or kayak adventure into the beautiful waters of Rookery Bay Reserve. With our kayak tours, guests paddle through beautiful mangrove tunnels, teeming mudflats and intricate oyster reefs while searching for amazing wildlife like sea stars, large snails, birds, dolphins and manatees. Our boat tours are small 6-passenger boats and offer a comfortable and informative ride. Guests can choose from different tours including a shelling trip to a deserted a barrier island or a sunset tour. Find out more at RookeryBay.org or call 239-530-5972.
Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum
Now open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. every day, at 3075 Sanibel Captiva Road, Sanibel. Admission is $23.95 for adults (18 and older), $21.95 for seniors, $14.95 youth (12 to 17) and students with their ID, $8.95 for children (5 to 11) and free to children younger than 5 and active military. Visitors who bike to the museum receive $1 off admission. Information: 239-395-2233, shellmuseum.org.
IMAG History & Science Center
Open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 2000 Cranford Ave., Fort Myers. Tickets are available online, and advance ticket purchases are necessary currently to limit the number of guests in accordance with CDC recommendations. Information: theimag.org.
Gordon River Greenway
A hidden gem in Naples is the Gordon River Greenway. Walk, ride your bike or kayak on or along the scenic from 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m. daily. There's 12-foot wide pathways and 10-foot-wide elevated boardwalks. Restrooms and other amenities available. (1596 Golden Gate Parkway; 239-252-4000 or gordonrivergreenway.org)
Naples Zoo
New hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples. Offering timed online tickets to the general public. All guests will be required to reserve a timed ticket online, with reduced ticket prices. Tickets can only be purchased online. Information: 239-262-5409, napleszoo.org.
Golden Gate Community Farmers Market
Open year-round, Saturdays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., at 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Golden Gate; Sundays 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at 11725 Collier Blvd., Golden Gate. Visit farmermarket2.com for more.
Farmer Mike's U-Pick
Open 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., Wednesdays to Sundays, year-round at 26031 Morton Ave., Bonita Springs with an onsite market and cafe, as well as U-pick produce and flowers. Call 239-498-4576 or click farmermikesupick.com for more.
Immokalee State Farmers Market
Open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. daily year-round at 424 New Market Road E., Immokalee. For more, call 239-658-3505 or visit fdacs.gov.
MARCH
Bonita Y is hosting ‘Why Cook’
Mark your calendars! The Bonita Y is hosting the “Why Cook” fundraiser from 6 until 9 p.m., March 1 at the 27200 Kent Rd., Bonita Springs, location. This year’s theme is “Around the World” as guests will travel to North America, South America, Asia and Europe as they prepare a fabulous four-course meal led by the executive chef at Michael’s on the East. Seating is limited and tickets are currently available for purchase by the seat or by the table at ymcaswfl.org/events/why-cook-2023. Last year’s event raised over $200,000 that went back into the community. Funds raised at this event are dedicated to providing scholarship assistance for children, families and seniors, and expanding YMCA programming and services for everyone in the Bonita Springs and surrounding communities.
Bonita Springs – Estero Christian Women’s Connection
Bonita Springs – Estero Christian Women’s Connection invites you and your friends to their quarter auction from 11:30 a.m., until 2 p.m., Friday, March 17 at The Club at Grandezza, 11481 Grande Oak Blvd., Estero. Auction preview begins at 10:45. Luncheon cost: $30 inclusive. Reservations and cancellations must be received by Friday, March 10. Guest speaker Linda Bertolami will share her most relatable story, “Got Plans? … Recalculating, Recalculating!” Tables assigned for all guests. Wish to be seated with friends? Submit all names and checks together, plus contact name and phone number and any food allergies. Reserve early with a check payable to BSECWC. Mail to: BSECWC, 20071 Seagrove St. #1003, Estero, FL 33928. Call Nancy with questions at 520-904-2913. A check must be received to reserve!
For more event listings, navigate to the Entertainment section and click on the SWFLA To Do List at marconews.com or visit the-banner.com. Calendar items must be emailed to mail@marconews.com or news@naplesnews.com and should be submitted at least a week before desired publication.