SWFLA To Do List: ‘Bay Days,’ Naples Motorfest, vintage ‘Base Ball’ and more
MARCH
The best of Rod Stewart at MIHS
‘World Class Entertainment’ at the Marco Island Historical Society. March 18 — Legends in Concert, Las Vegas performer Barry Britton presents The Best of Rod Stewart. Tickets are on sale now for the Marco Island Historical Society (MIHS) 2025 World Class Entertainment Series. Performances are at the Rose History Auditorium located on the Marco Island Historical Museum campus at 180 S. Heathwood Drive. Tickets are $50 per person. Curtain is at 6:30 p.m., doors open at 6 p.m. For tickets visit themihs.org or call 239-389-6447 for more information.
Florida Rep’s ‘Shout! The Mod Musical’
This music revue follows five “groovy gals” during Britain’s swinging ‘60s, set to songs by Petula Clark, Dusty Springfield, Lulu, The Seekers and more. The show uses letters to an advice columnist, quizzes and advertisements as a framework for songs such as “To Sir With Love,” “Downtown,” “Son of a Preacher Man” and “Goldfinger.” March 18-April 13. Tickets start at $71. Florida Repertory Theatre, 2268 Bay St., downtown Fort Myers. Information: 332-4488 or floridarep.org.
Author Talk
Marco Island Center for the Arts welcomes back G. Bradley Davis on March 19. Davis is the author of “Bellamy” and the newly released “Making Waves.” Davis will take attendees on a literary journey during this special author talk as he discusses his latest novel, “Making Waves.” The author talk is 5:30 p.m., March 19, at the Marco Island Center for the Arts, 1010 Winterberry Drive, Marco Island. The event is free, but RSVPs are requested at marcoislandart.org/events-calendar/.
Musical Interludes at Center for the Arts
The Marco Island Center for the Arts recently announced two upcoming performances in its Musical Interludes series, featuring Jodi Keogan on March 20 and Glenn Roth on April 3. Keogan is a classically trained soprano “with a broad vocal range.” Roth is known for his unique fingerstyle guitar playing. He creates “mesmerizing soundscapes that transport listeners into a world of compelling melodies.” Jodi Keogan will perform at 5:30 p.m., March 20. Glenn Roth performs at 5:30 p.m., April 3. Tickets are available by calling 239-394-4221 or online at marcoislandart.org/musical-interludes.
‘An Evening of Roving Robotics’
The IMAG History & Science Center is inviting everyone to “An Evening of Roving Robotics” from 5 until 7 p.m., Friday, March 21. During “IMAG At Night” events, kids of all ages can participate in hands-on activities, interactive displays, work on take-home projects and learn about the evening’s topic. “An Evening of Roving Robotics” will explore the world of robotics and “the roles of coding and programming, how games contribute to robotics, how robotics contribute to life and what some specialized robots are programmed to perform.” The IMAG is located at 2000 Cranford Avenue, Fort Myers. For more information, call 239-243-0043 or visit theIMAG.org.
Orchid Show and Sale
Gulf Coast Orchid Alliance will hold its 8th annual Orchid Show and Sale from March 21 through 23 indoors at the North Collier Regional Park, 15000 Livingston Rd., Naples. The theme is “Rockin’ n Rollin’ with Orchids.” The show is from noon until 5 p.m., Friday, March 21; 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., Saturday, March 22 and 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., Sunday, March 23. Admission is $10 per person and includes Saturday workshops on orchid care and conservation. Parking is free. Proceeds benefit the education and outreach programs of the non-profit Gulf Coast Orchid Alliance. For more information, visit gulfcoastorchids.com.
‘Bay Days’
Keep Collier Beautiful invites the community to register for the Bay Days – Great American Cleanup on Saturday, March 22. The event will run from 8 until 11 a.m. at select beaches, canals, and waterways in Collier County. On Marco Island, the cleanup will be at Tigertail Beach. The Great American Cleanup is an annual gathering initiated by Keep America Beautiful more than two decades ago and has become the nation’s largest community improvement program. Interested site captains are encouraged to email keepcollierbeautiful2021@gmail.com to confirm your participation. The final list of all locations will be posted at keepcollierbeautiful.com.
Naples Motorfest
Naples Motorfest is from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., Saturday, March 22, at Paradise Coast Sports Complex, 3940 City Gate Blvd. N, Naples. Admission is free for spectators. There will be live music and a variety of vendors. Information: luxefashiongroup.com/naples-motorfest.
Naples Downtown Art Fair
The Naples Downtown Art Fair is at Cambier Park, 755 Eighth Ave. S., downtown Naples. Free admission, March 22, and 23. Information: 239-262-6517 or naplesart.org.
Outdoor Art and Craft Show
Outdoor Art and Craft Show is at the Marco Island Center for the Arts, 1010 Winterberry Drive, Marco Island, hosts this free event March 22-23. Information: 239-394-4221 or marcoislandart.org.
Walk Wiggle Wag and Run
On Saturday, March 22, the Cape Coral Animal Shelter will be hosting the 4th Annual Walk Wiggle Wag and Run — a timed 5k Run and Fun Walk to benefit the animals; and you can bring yours. The event begins at 8 a.m. Prizes for various categories will be awarded at 9. At 9:30 there will be a one-mile dog friendly “strut” around the neighborhood. There will be music, food vendors and giveaways. Participants are asked to register to run and/or walk online and seek sponsors to raise money. If you would like to participate, visit capecoralanimalshelter.com.
Edison and Ford hosts vintage ‘Base Ball’ game at Terry Park
On March 22, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host its vintage “base ball” (baseball in the 1860s, was spelled with two words) game at Terry Park in Fort Myers. The roster includes the Awkwards Vintage Base Ball of Central Florida, Bradenton Shamrocks Vintage Base Ball Club and the Fort Myers Vagabonds Base Ball Club (the Fort Myers home team). The teams will play a nine-inning game, starting at 11 a.m. Vintage base ball is played by 1860s rules, which include “using wooden bats, no gloves and lemon peel baseballs.” Admission is $5 for adults; children 18 and under will be admitted free. Tickets may be purchased at Terry Park on game day. The park is located at 3410 Palm Beach Boulevard, Fort Myers.
100 years of Spring Training
This year we For Myers is celebrating 100 years of Spring Training in Southwest Florida. Check the schedule and reserve your tickets now. Boston Red Sox – Through March 23, mlb.com/redsox/spring-training, JetBlue Park, Fort Myers. Minnesota Twins – Through March 25, mlb.com/twins/spring-training, Lee Health Sports Complex/Hammond Stadium, Fort Myers.
Aretha Franklin and Sammy Davis Jr. at MIHS
‘World Class Entertainment’ at the Marco Island Historical Society. March 25 — Two fabulous shows in one! World-renowned Sammy Davis Jr. tribute artist Dezhon Fields presents a Mr. Bojangles Tribute and recording artist Lenora Jaye gives her all in a Respect Tribute to Aretha Franklin. Tickets are on sale now for the Marco Island Historical Society (MIHS) 2025 World Class Entertainment Series. Performances are at the Rose History Auditorium located on the Marco Island Historical Museum campus at 180 S. Heathwood Drive. Tickets are $50 per person. Curtain is at 6:30 p.m., doors open at 6 p.m. For tickets visit themihs.org or call 239-389-6447 for more information.
Gulfshore Opera performs ‘Rusalka’
Southwest Florida’s touring opera company brings the regional premiere of Dvorak’s “Rusalka” to three local venues. Inspired by the fairytale “The Little Mermaid,” the opera tells the story of a water nymph who dreams of becoming human. “Rusalka” will be performed in a new English translation. Gulfshore Opera will be joined onstage by The Florida Philharmonic. At 7 p.m., Tuesday, March 25, at Arts Bonita Center for Performing Arts, Bonita Springs ($40-$70); 2 and 7 p.m. Thursday, March 27, at The Norris Center, downtown Naples ($45-$75); and 7 p.m., Saturday, March 29, at Burnt Store Presbyterian Church, Punta Gorda ($40-$70). For tickets and more information, call 529-3925 or visit gulfshoreopera.org/rusalka.
Country Jam fundraiser for Marco Island Charter Middle School
The second-annual music fest includes food trucks, boutique vendors, a mechanical bull, ax throwing and four Southwest Florida country acts. The lineup: Austin James, Elliot West Band, The Coastal Cowboys and The Jack Shealy Band. The event raises money for Marco Island Charter Middle School. From 3 until 9 p.m. Saturday, March 29. Cost: $35. Veterans Community Park, 901 Park Ave., Marco Island. tinyurl.com/3874txpk.
PSP Walk at Mackle Park
The 22nd Annual Southwest Florida PSP Support Group Awareness and Memorial Walk, from 10:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m., Saturday, March 29, at Mackle Park on Marco Island. Participants will be provided a buffet lunch. There will be live entertainment, a silent auction, chances to win prizes, and a commemorative shirt. There is also an optional mile-long walk around the lake. Pre-event registration is $25 for adults and $10 for students. To register or donate: give.curepsp.org/MarcoIsland2025, email events@curepsp.org, or call 347-294-2831.
ONGOING
Awesome Blossoms: The 2025 Strolling Flower Show
The Fort Myers-Lee County Garden Council will present the 2025 Strolling Flower Show, “Awesome Blossoms.” The show will be held from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., Tuesday, March 18, at the Sydney & Berne Davis Art Center, 2301 First Street, Fort Myers on Tuesday, March 18. Visitors can also enjoy a multisensory art exhibit by Marvin Rouse, entitled “Art 4 the Senses: See, Smell, Touch, & Sound.” There is no admission fee, but donations will be accepted. The Garden Council was organized in 1957 and is comprised of more than 20 area garden clubs, six plant societies and three “other” organizations, totaling over 1,700 members.
Gardening classes at Edison and Ford Winter Estates
Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering gardening classes for new and experienced gardeners who want to explore many tropical plant varieties and learn about their care and uses. Classes will include the latest information on pests and products for “sustainable and Florida Friendly gardening.” Classroom instruction and on-site garden observations are included. Registration is open for the following classes. Cost for classes is $45 for members; $60 non-members.“Plant a White Garden” is 1:30 p.m., March 18. This class will cover plant choices and design ideas to create a sub-tropical white sensation on a lanai, balcony or garden. Wearing comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and a hat is recommended, along with bringing drinking water. Wearing comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and a hat is recommended, along with bringing drinking water. Classes are held at the Fort Myers-Lee County Garden Council building next to the Estates (enter across from the Estates’ parking lot on Larchmont Avenue).
- “Shade Gardening” is 10 a.m., March 22. This class will teach you how to brighten a dark corner of a garden or shaded balcony with a striking array of foliage, form and texture.
- “ABCs of Tropical Fruits” is 1:30 p.m., April 15. This time of year is a good time to plant fruit trees. Participants will learn about avocados, bananas, and citrus.
Marco in Bloom 2025
The Marco Island Beautification Advisory Committee recently announced the return of Marco in Bloom, a landscaping contest celebrating the “most beautifully designed and environmentally friendly properties” on Marco Island. Who can enter? Contest cat categories are residential homes, classic charm (homes built before 1980), cul-de-sacs, condominiums, commercial and public buildings. Nomination forms are available on the city website under the Beautification Committee section, or you can pick up a paper form at Marco City Hall. The deadline to apply is March 19. Winners will be announced at the April 7 City Council meeting. Contest winners from the past three years are not eligible.
Noises Off
The comedic “Noises Off” goes through March 20 at Moran Mainstage, Baker Theatre and Education Center, 100 Goodlette-Frank Road South, Naples. Information: gulfshoreplayhouse.org. And enjoy “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill,” the music and life story of Billie Holiday through April 19 at Gulfshore Playhouse. Struthers Studio, Baker Theatre and Education Center, 100 Goodlette-Frank Road.
Comedy ‘Boeing Boeing’
The Marco Island Center for the Arts recently announced production of the comedy “Boeing Boeing,” Marc Camoletti’s “uproarious 1960 French farce,” translated by Beverley Cross and Francis Evans. “This critically acclaimed comedy, which won a new generation of fans through its award-winning 2008 Broadway revival,” will run until March 23 at the Arts Center Theatre. Tickets are available at marcoislandart.org/arts-center-theatre or by calling the box office at 239-784-1186.
‘Man of La Mancha’
Downtown, “Man of La Mancha” is presented by The Naples Players, with showings through April 13. Tickets start at $50. Kizzie Theater, 701 Fifth Ave. South, Naples. Information: naplesplayers.org.
Friends of Fakahatchee tram tours
Friends of Fakahatchee tram tours of Florida’s largest state park are 10 a.m. and continue each Friday through mid-April. The naturalist-led tours include an optional 10-minute walk to see numerous air plants, a variety of ferns and seasonally blooming orchids. For more information and reservations, visit orchidswamp.org.
Marco Island Farmers Market
The Marco Island Marco Island Farmers Market is at Veteran’s Community Park on Wednesdays. The market is from 7:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., every Wednesday through April 16 at the park, located at 901 Park Ave., Marco Island. Information: 239-642-0575 or cityofmarcoisland.com.
Exhibit explores Marco Island’s home history
A new Marco Island Historical Society exhibit, “The Florida House,” takes a trip back in time, marking and celebrating the 60th anniversary of modern Marco and the construction of the island’s first model homes. Exhibit runs through June 7. Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 S. Heathwood Drive, open Tuesday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free and the site is fully ADA compliant and accessible to all visitors.
Point Counterpoint
“Get ready to dive into lively discussions” at Point Counterpoint. Voice your views in a safe and respectful environment, the organizer promises. Issues are as local as Marco Island to global events. Point Counterpoint meets between 2 and 4 p.m., the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month, from January through March at Rose Hall, Marco Island Library, 210 S Heathwood Dr., Marco Island.
Civil Air Patrol
Meeting times and website have changed. 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. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 4-12 and 3 and under are free. Information: RookeryBay.org.
Rookery Bay Eco Kayak & Boat Tours
Join us for a guided boat tour or kayak adventure into the beautiful waters of Rookery Bay Research Reserve. With our kayak tours, 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! 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 barrier island or a sunset tour. Find out more at RookeryBay.org or call 239-530-5972.
APRIL
A tribute to John Denver at MIHS
April 3 — One of the best John Denver tribute artists in the country, Tom Becker and his band Country Roads have performing around the globe to standing ovations. Tickets are on sale now for the Marco Island Historical Society (MIHS) 2025 World Class Entertainment Series. Performances are at the Rose History Auditorium located on the Marco Island Historical Museum campus at 180 S. Heathwood Drive. Tickets are $50 per person. Curtain is at 6:30 p.m., doors open at 6 p.m. For tickets visit themihs.org or call 239-389-6447 for more information.
‘Knights of Columbus Tribute Concert Series’
Knights of Columbus will have a “Columbus Tribute Concert Series” featuring Caribbean Chillers (Jimmy Buffet Tribute) April 4. Premium reserved seats (first four rows) are $60; general admission $52 each show; San Marco Parish Hall, 851 San Marco Rd. Doors open at 6 p.m., concert is 7 until 9. Tickets online at Koc.booktix.com.
Start Spreading the News with Liza and Frank at MIHS
April 9 — Join Tony Sands as Frank Sinatra and Whitney Grace as Liza Minnelli as they share some of the legendary singers’ greatest hits. Tickets are on sale now for the Marco Island Historical Society (MIHS) 2025 World Class Entertainment Series. Performances are at the Rose History Auditorium located on the Marco Island Historical Museum campus at 180 S. Heathwood Drive. Tickets are $50 per person. Curtain is at 6:30 p.m., doors open at 6 p.m. For tickets visit themihs.org or call 239-389-6447 for more information.
‘What ‘Art’ Your Chances?’
Marco Island Center for the Arts recently announced its upcoming fundraiser, “What ‘Art’ Your Chances?” an evening “designed to celebrate both the vibrant art community on Marco Island and the Center’s 55th anniversary of supporting the arts.” It will take place from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m., Thursday, April 10, at the Marco Island Center for the Arts. Tickets are $100 per person and can be purchased at marcoislandart.org or call 239-394-4221.
Spirit Awards
The Knights of Colombus, Columbiettes, Deb Henry, Scot and Pat Kaufman, Stephen and Barbara Slaggie, will be presented with their 2025 Spirit of Marco Island Award at an “Elegant Garden Gala” awards dinner and silent auction on Saturday, April 26 at the Island Country Club. There are many sponsorship opportunities available, including the opportunity to sponsor one of the honorees, including a VIP table at the event. For sponsorship opportunities and more information on tickets, contact Al Diaz at 239-438-5285 or by email at manager@royalmarcoway.com. The proceeds from the event and silent auction are used to support local charities and scholarships.
MAY
SWFL Inc. opens nominations for the INCredible Awards 2025
SWFL Inc. recently announced that nominations are open for the INCredible Awards 2025, honoring outstanding individuals, businesses and nonprofits in Southwest Florida. The awards ceremony will take place from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., Tuesday, May 13, at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point. The INCredible Awards recognize the influential leaders and organizations that contribute to the economic growth and prosperity of the region. The group invites the community to nominate deserving candidates who have demonstrated excellence in their industry and made a lasting impact on Southwest Florida. Award categories: SWFL Citizen of the Year, Small Business of the Year, Nonprofit of the Year, INCredible Award, Innovation Award and Veteran-Owned Business of the Year. Nominations are open now and close on March 21. To nominate an individual, business, or nonprofit, visit swflinc.com/2025-incredible-awards.
‘Purrs and Paddles’
For the Love of Cats Hosts “Purrs and Paddles” a pickleball tournament to benefit cats in need in Collier County. The tournament is slated for May 17 and 18 at East Naples Community Park. It will be professionally managed by the USOP National Pickleball Center. The weekend-long community event will feature food trucks, a health/wellness and shopping vendor village, 50/50 raffles, chance raffle baskets, and great DJ music. For the Love of Cats invites all player levels to enter the tournament. All proceeds benefit the organization’s efforts. For more information, visit fortheloveofcatsfl.com/purrs-paddles-pickleball-tournament.
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.