The inaugural Salty Sam’s Patriot Boat Parade takes place on Saturday, June 27, 2026, to celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary. The festive maritime procession kicks off at 11:00 AM from Salty Sam’s Marina in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, and will completely circle Estero Island. Dozens of boats decorated in vibrant red, white, and blue will participate in this community celebration. Event Schedule 8:30 AM – 10:15 AM: Boat arrival and staging....
If you’re spending the Fourth of July in Southwest Florida, you’re in for one of the most memorable holidays of the summer. From beach days that roll into sunset fireworks, to hometown parades and family festivals under the palms, each town brings its own version of celebration—laid-back, scenic, and full of coastal charm. Whether you’re here for a week-long vacation or just a long weekend, this guide highlights the best...
Discover a one-of-a-kind adventure at Hope & Joy Sanctuary—where unforgettable animal encounters meet hands-on learning! Get up close with incredible animals like kangaroos, capybaras, and even a sloth during a guided, small-group experience designed for all ages. This interactive sanctuary focuses on education, rescue, and meaningful connections, giving you the chance to feed, pet, and learn about these amazing animals in a safe, supervised setting. Visits are by appointment only...
If you’re looking to fit in a little pickleball while visiting us in Southwest Florida, there are several free and low-cost options. The top pickleball spots in Naples and Bonita Springs include the premier 65-court East Naples Community Park (home to the U.S. Open) and Veterans Community Park. Sports Challenge America (12 courts) is a top, fee-based choice in Bonita Springs, along with public options like the City of Bonita Springs Recreation Center. Top Pickleball...
The 50th Annual Naples St. Patrick’s Day Parade is scheduled for Saturday, March 14, 2026. The event begins with a traditional flag-raising ceremony at Crayton Cove at 9:30 AM, followed by the main parade kickoff at 11:00 AM. The 2026 parade was briefly canceled in early January due to rising security and city fees, but it was reinstated after the community raised approximately $46,000 in just a few hours to cover the costs. As the largest privately-funded...
2026 Major League Baseball Spring Training Spring training in Southwest Florida, near Estero/Fort Myers, features the Boston Red Sox at JetBlue Park and the Minnesota Twins at the Lee Health Sports Complex (Hammond Stadium), with games running from late February through March. Nearby, you can catch the Atlanta Braves in North Port and the Tampa Bay Rays in Port Charlotte. Top Spring Training Locations Near You (Grapefruit League): Boston Red Sox: JetBlue Park,...
The 22nd Annual Cars on 5th Concours in Naples, FL, is scheduled for Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 10 AM to 4 PM on 5th Avenue South. As the city’s largest one-day event, it will showcase over 750, or more than 400, rare exotic, classic, and luxury vehicles (Ferraris, Lamborghinis, etc.). The event is part of the Naples Automotive Experience running February 5-7, 2026. Key Details for 2026: Date & Time: Saturday,...
Bonita Springs Seafood & Music Festival™ Join us February 6th-8th, 2026 for the 5th Annual Bonita Springs Seafood & Music Festival. The event will be held next to The Poker Room (the old Dog Track) located at 28001 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, FL 34135. Hours will be Friday 3pm-9pm, Saturday 11am-9pm, and Sunday 11am-6pm. Admission is FREE! Enjoy a weekend of relaxation, great food, and wonderful live music, along with shopping at a marketplace of arts,...
Sea Turtle Nesting Season Sea turtle nesting season in Florida is from March through October, with peak activity between May and July. The majority of nesting occurs in Florida, accounting for almost 90% of the U.S.’s sea turtle nesting. It begins when the massive females (they can weigh up to 400 pounds) lumber through the sand to lay their eggs. After two months of incubation, it’s time to hatch! Itty-bitty...
