SWFLA To Do List: Art of the Heart Festival, ‘A Repatriation Story,’ more
APRIL
Date for final Fakahatchee Tram Tour
The ‘Ghost Rider’ tram, named in honor of the famous Ghost Orchid found in the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park, will mark its final two tours of the season on April 12. The Friends of Fakahatchee hosted more than 200 riders on the tram this season, allowing visitors to experience the Fakahatchee Preserve and learn about its importance to the fragile ecosystem of the Western Everglades. The Ghost Rider Tram Tour begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 12:30 p.m. For complete information and required reservations at $30 per person, visit orchidswamp.org and click “tours and events.”
Art of the Heart Festival
The Art of the Heart Festival is 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, April 13, at Cornerstone United Methodist Church, 8200 Immokalee Road, North Naples. Enjoy live music, arts and crafts, a rummage sale, kids scavenger hunt] and more. Information: cornerstonenaples.org.
‘Giving Back – A Repatriation Story’
The Southwest Florida Archaeological Society (SWFAS) recently announced a presentation on “Giving Back – A Repatriation Story.” The presentation will be at 7 p.m., April 17, at the Collier Museum at Government Center, 3331 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. This is a free public program.
‘ ‘Til Death Do Us Part … You First’ at Arts Center Theatre
Marco Island Center for the Arts coming to the Arts Center Theatre April 24: “ ‘Til Death Do Us Part … You First,” with Peter Fogel, directed by Chazz Palminteri – A comedic masterpiece follows the journey of eternal bachelor Peter Fogel as he navigates the complexities of love and commitment in a riotous whirlwind of relatable characters and witty humor. Tickets are available now. At Marco Island Center for the Arts' Arts Center Theatre. For tickets and more information, visit marcoislandart.org or call 239-394-4221 or marcoislandart.org/arts-center-theatre/.
‘Southern Gothic Novel’ at Arts Center Theatre
Marco Island Center for the Arts coming to the Arts Center Theatre April 27: “Southern Gothic Novel” by Frank Blocker – A darkly comedic tale of crime and love through a solo portrayal of 17 different characters. Blocker unfolds a gripping narrative set in a secretive Mississippi town, guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. Tickets are available now. At Marco Island Center for the Arts' Arts Center Theatre. For tickets and more information, visit marcoislandart.org or call 239-394-4221 or marcoislandart.org/arts-center-theatre/.
Sensory-Friendly Saturdays at Naples Botanical Garden
This event is created especially for guests and families with autism spectrum disorder and other sensory processing needs. Family-friendly hands-on activities and an air-conditioned take-a-break space will be provided. 4-6 p.m., April 27 and May 11 at 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. Admission is free but must RSVP ahead of time in order to minimize disturbances at naplesgarden.org.
Spirit Awards
The Rotary Club of Marco Island Noontime recently announced a “big” social event for April., the 14th Annual Spirit Awards of Marco Island Great Gatsby Gala. The event will be held at the Island Country Club at 5 p.m., April 27. Enjoy live entertainment and dancing, dining, awards and more. Join the Great Gatsby spirit and dress in Roaring 20s or cocktail attire. The individuals and organizations that are being honored for their exceptional contributions to the community are the Marco Island Historical Society, Jennifer and Derek Tenney, the YMCA of Collier County and Mike Stanczak. Guests have the opportunity to honor award winners by sponsoring a table. For sponsorship details and/or ticket sales contact Al Diaz, 239-438-5285 or manager@RoyalMarcoWay.com. Proceeds from the event will go back to supporting the needs of the community.
‘Voyces’ at Arts Center Theatre
Marco Island Center for the Arts coming to the Arts Center Theatre April 28: The Carl Granieri Orchestra’s “Voyces” – Harmonious vocals performing intricate arrangements of songs from every era and genre. Featuring vocalists selected from the CGO Stars of Tomorrow Educational Program and accompanied by Carl Granieri, conductor, pianist, keyboardist, arranger, producer and vocalist. Tickets are available now. At Marco Island Center for the Arts' Arts Center Theatre. For tickets and more information, visit marcoislandart.org or call 239-394-4221 or marcoislandart.org/arts-center-theatre/.
More3 To Know: Lottery scammers sought, steamers recalled; more
And3 To Do: Big Green EGGfest, ‘Love Letters,’ more
ONGOING
‘Daydreaming,’ Niki Butcher’s hand-painted photography
The Marco Island Historical Society (MIHS) presents “Daydreaming,” Niki Butcher’s hand-painted photography at the Marco Island Historical Museum (MIHM) on display now through June 8. The exhibit is free and open to the public. The exhibit includes more than 60 images created over five decades by photographer and artist Niki Butcher. Inspired by vintage hand-painted postcards of the 1930s, Butcher invites the viewer to see the historical, beautiful, and sometimes quirky aspects of Florida and the world through the eyes of a thoughtful optimist.
‘She Loves Me’
This romantic musical following a busy sales season for clerks at a 1930s European parfumerie will be at the Gulfshore Playhouse, 755 Eight Ave. S., March 21-April 21. Tickets start at $45. Information: gulfshoreplayhouse.org.
Memories Big Band
Group has returned for its 10th season, performing outdoor, evening concerts. Musicians play songs from legendary American big bands including Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Count Basie, Artie Shaw and Duke Ellington. Concerts start at 7 p.m. and are in Cambier Park, Naples (Monday nights), and at Riverside Park, Bonita Springs (Tuesday nights) ― a total of 12 performances. Show is April 9. Suggested donation of $5 per person requested. stardustmemoriesbigband.com.
South Collier Market
From 9 a.m. until 1 p.m., Sundays, South Collier Market at its new location, Florida Southwestern State College/Collier Campus, 7505 Grand Lely Drive in Naples. This market features food trucks and 70 tents of beautiful SWFL produce, bakeries, artisan foods, jewelry, clothing, local artists and photography, specialty items and gifts. The market is held weekly through April 15, but closed for holidays on Nov. 25, Dec. 24 and Dec. 31. Vendor information and applications may be found at 41markets.com. Shop Local Productions has operated farmers markets in SWFL since 2015, helping hundreds of small businesses.
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 Park's Community room. Doors open at 5:15 p.m. with meetings beginning 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 so much more. Visit iasmi.org, or our Facebook page: Italian American Society of MI or call the president, Fred Adani 239-228-7607 or membership chair, Ann D'Onofrio 401 450-9260 for more information.
Marco Men’s Club
Marco Men’s Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. in the social room at Marco Lutheran Church (9:30 for coffee and donuts). Each meeting has a speaker and then a short update of upcoming activities such as golf, luncheons, sporting events, and discussion subgroups (investments, technology, travel, etc.). Many activities, such as dances, theatre, dinners and cruises involve the spouses. Information: marcomensclub.com.
Calusa Garden Club
Calusa Garden Club of Marco Island meets 10:30 a.m. until 2 p.m., the second Monday of October through March at the library Rose Hall, with a speaker at 12:30 p.m. Contact calusagardenclubcommunication@gmail.com. Go to calusa.org for more information.
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary guided tours, extended hours
The winter months are the perfect time to explore the swamp, with cooler temperatures and migratory birds stopping by to fuel up. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary offers many ways to enjoy the best of the season, including extended hours now through April 30. Find great gifts and souvenirs in the Nature Store, enjoy sandwiches and salads at the Cypress Café, and new guided tours are offered each Sunday, included with admission. Special events are planned for each month. The Blair Visitor Center, at 375 Sanctuary Road W., is open daily from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., with last admission at 3 p.m., from Dec. 16 until April 30, the Visitor Center and boardwalk will stay open until 5 p.m., with last admission at 3 p.m. The center offers access to the 2.25-mile boardwalk that meanders through a variety of habitats, including the largest old-growth bald cypress forest in North America. Admission is $17 for adults, $6 for kids 6-14, and free for children and members. Online tickets recommended: corkscrew.audubon.org/visit.
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 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Bistro Soleil. Contact Kathy Pasternak for zoom link or reservations email KathrynPasternak@BHHSFloridaRealty.net.
Monday Night Bingo
Monday Night Bingo at the Jewish Congregation of Marco Island is back! It’s 23rd season. Bingo is played every Monday Night at the Synagogue, located at 991 Winterberry Drive through May and then twice a month in the summer. Doors open at 5:30 pm. A complimentary supper is served at 6 p.m. The supper is a kosher hot dog, on a special roll, with relish, sauerkraut, and onions. Dessert is cake, ice cream and a beverage of coffee or tea. Bonanza is posted at 6 pm and an additional prize, Hot Ball, is also offered. For further information call the Synagogue office at 239-642 0800.
Bonita celebrates 25
Bonita Springs is celebrating the city’s 25th Anniversary throughout 2024! Bonita Springs incorporated the second time on Dec. 31, 1999. In 2024, the city will be sharing short videos highlighting Bonita Springs history, hosting contests, and encouraging citizens to join the celebrations. Information about the city’s celebrations will be shared on the city’s social platforms and website, so make sure to follow. Also, download the city’s free mobile app to get city news about the 25th Anniversary celebrations. Visit the city’s 25th Anniversary webpage for more information celebrations and check back often as new information will be added throughout 2024. For more information, call Bonita Springs City Hall at 239-949-6262 or visit the city website at cityofbonitasprings.org/.
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.
Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
The attraction features aquariums, touch tanks with marine critters, natural history, environmental and wildlife exhibits art gallery, picnic area and walking trails. Hours are 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 4-12 and children 3 and under are free. Admission 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. Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center is located at 300 Tower Rd., Naples. Information: RookeryBay.org.
Koreshan Sunday Market
Friends of Koreshan Sunday Market has returned. It's open 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Sundays, at a new location, Three Oaks Town Center, 18731 Three Oaks Parkway, south Lee County. More on Facebook.
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.
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; 239-961-1925.
Baker Museum
Hours 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, noon-4 Sundays. Docent tours 11 a.m.; 1 p.m. only on Sundays. The Baker Museum, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Information: 239-597-1900 or artisnaples.org.
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.
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/.
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.
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.
MAY
‘La Comedia of Errors’ at Arts Center Theatre
Marco Island Center for the Arts coming to the Arts Center Theatre May 4: The Naples Players present “La Comedia of Errors” – Laugh along with The Naples Players as they present “La Comedia of Errors,” a bilingual adaptation of one of William Shakespeare’s zaniest comedies. Tickets are available now. At Marco Island Center for the Arts' Arts Center Theatre. For tickets and more information, visit marcoislandart.org or call 239-394-4221 or marcoislandart.org/arts-center-theatre/.
‘Paradise and Mr. Prince’ at Arts Center Theatre
Marco Island Center for the Arts coming to the Arts Center Theatre May 16-19, 23, 25, 26: “Paradise and Mr. Prince” by local playwright Mitch Eil – Join private investigator Dan Paradise on a thrilling adventure. Set against the backdrop of Marco Island, this gripping tale of murder, friendship, and self-discovery. Tickets are available now. At Marco Island Center for the Arts' Arts Center Theatre. For tickets and more information, visit marcoislandart.org or call 239-394-4221 or marcoislandart.org/arts-center-theatre/.
Paul Virzi at Off the Hook
Comedian Paul Virzi performs March 29-30 at Off The Hook Comedy Club, 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, No. 1100. $25 general admission, plus a fee. Shows at various times across the four days. offthehookcomedy.com or 239-389-6901.
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.