Hello SWFL!
Neighborhood News
EVERBLADES ARE ON FIRE! Just One Win Away from the Kelly Cup Finals
Our Florida Everblades are absolutely rolling in the 2026 Kelly Cup Playoffs. After blanking South Carolina 3-0 in Game 1 and winning Game 2 by a score of 6-2 at Hertz Arena, the Everblades took a 2-0 series lead heading to North Charleston. In Game 3, Florida jumped out to a commanding 5-0 lead and eventually came away with a 7-3 victory, leading the best-of-seven series 3-0. Anthony Romano became the first ECHL player to score eight goals in the 2026 Kelly Cup Playoffs. The Everblades have outscored their opponents 30-9 this entire postseason, including an 8-1 edge in first periods. Game 4 is Friday, May 15 in North Charleston. If Florida wins, the series is over. If not, Games 6 and 7 return to Hertz Arena on May 19th and 20th.
Business Openings
Wichcraft: Downtown Bonita Springs welcomes this new chef-driven sandwich shop from Caitlin and Brandon, the duo already beloved for The Bohemian, Canary Club, and Downtown Coffee & Wine. Expect the same thoughtfully curated, eclectic atmosphere they're known for, now with gourmet sandwiches.
Stan's Super Subs: The Bonita Springs institution, serving Southwest Florida since 1972, has reopened at 26880 Old 41 Road in Nelson Plaza under new ownershp. Known for generous portions and freshly sliced deli meats on soft, tasty bread, this mom-and-pop shop specializes in foot-long submarine sandwiches piled high with quality ingredients prepared fresh to order.
VYBE: Opened at Bell Tower Shops (13499 S. Cleveland Ave), this whiskey and wine bar features curated sips, shareable small plates, and live music. With a stunning indoor bar and expansive outdoor patio, VYBE comes from Chef-Owner Harold Balink, known for his other restaurants Harold's and Cru.
Events
Friday, May 15th
Music Walk
Date: Friday, May 15 | 6:00 PM-10:00 PM
Location: Downtown Fort Myers, First Street
Enjoy local and regional musicians as they line the streets.
Saturday, May 16th
Bonita Springs Farmers Market
Date: Saturday, May 16 | 8:00 AM-12:00 PM
Location: The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26795 South Bay Dr, Bonita Springs, FL, 34134
Located right in front of the Bonita Bay community, this lively farmers’ market brings together fresh produce, local vendors, artisanal goods, and ready-to-enjoy treats.
Alliance Morning Market
Date: Saturday, May 16 | 9:00 AM-1:00 PM
Location: Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33919
A free monthly Saturday morning artisan market at Alliance for the Arts with local vendors, live entertainment, a Free Family ArtLab, and a free family movie screening -- all on the Alliance's beautiful 10-acre campus.
Next Level Street Art
Date: Saturday, May 16 | 10:00 AM-4:00 PM
Location: Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33919
A free public event at Alliance for the Arts where you can watch local muralists paint live, explore the energy of the Fort Myers arts scene, and meet the artists enriching the community one mural at a time.
Free Family ArtLabs
Date: Saturday, May 16 | 10:00 AM-12:00 PM
Location: Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33919
Drop in for free, hands-on family fun. Explore something new every month like art making, gallery activities, games and more – all inspired by artworks on view in the gallery, famous artists, national holidays and artistic traditions around the world.
Free Lowe's Kids Workshop: Garden Basket
Date: Saturday, May 16 | 10:00 AM-1:00 PM
Location: Lowe's Home Improvement, Southwest Florida locations
Free kids' workshop to build a garden basket for seeds, tools, or pretend produce (registration opens 4/18).
Jr. Ranger Program at Lovers Key
Date: Saturday, May 16 | 10:00 AM-11:00 AM
Location: Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
A free Junior Ranger educational program at Lovers Key State Park covering one of four topics, natural resources, cultural resources, recreation, or service, with a passport stamp upon completion.
SWFL Mama & Mini Pilates at Hampton Social
Date: Saturday, May 16 | 10:00 AM-1:00 PM
Location: Hampton Social - Mercato, 9115 Strada Place, Naples, FL 34108
A ticketed Mommy and Me Pilates and yoga fusion class at Hampton Social in Mercato Naples, hosted by Posh Mama Club and Mommy and Me Yoga Club, with a Kendra Scott pop-up, goodie bags, and a complimentary mimosa, prosecco, or mocktail.
Makers Market at Shangri-La Springs
Date: Saturday, May 16 | 10:00 AM-1:00 PM
Location: Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
A free monthly open-air Makers Market at Shangri-La Springs in Bonita Springs featuring nearly 30 local artisans, artists, crafters, and makers offering original artwork, jewelry, textiles, home decor, and more.
Cultivating Utopia: Koreshan Unity Garden Tour
Date: Saturday, May 16 | 10:30 AM-12:00 PM
Location: Koreshan State Park, 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero, FL 33928
A 90-minute guided walking tour of the historic Koreshan State Park grounds exploring the early 1900s community's unique plantings, architecture, and horticultural legacy.
Kids Skate Free at SPINZ
Date: Saturday, May 16 | 12:00 PM-6:00 PM
Location: SPIN, 2095 Andrea Lane, Fort Myers
Free after $4.99 annual membership - $5 skate rentals available
Sunday, May 17th
Fort Myers Beach Sunrise Yoga
Date: Sunday, May 17 | 7:15 AM-8:15 AM
Location: Fort Myers Beach - Old Pier, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
An all-levels outdoor sunrise yoga class on Fort Myers Beach guided by Kimberly York, featuring crystal bowls sound healing at the end — bring a towel, water, and optional mat.
Cars and Coffee 239
Date: Sunday, May 17 | 9:00 AM-11:00 AM
Location: Mercato on the Event Lawn, 9110 Strada Place, Naples, Fl 34108
Browse hundreds of cool cars located around the property. Check out the traffic circle to see our featured cars of the month and connect with car enthusiasts from Southwest Florida
Family Yoga and Parent Mingle at Palm City Brewing
Date: Sunday, May 17 | 11:00 AM-2:00 PM
Location: Palm City Brewing Company, 7887 Drew Circle, Suite 130, Fort Myers, FL 33967
Enjoy a free 30-minute family yoga class followed by a community parent mingle.
Babies & Brews Family Yoga at Palm City Brewing
Date: Sunday, May 17 | 11:00 AM-2:00 PM
Location: Palm City Brewing, Fort Myers, FL
A free 30-minute family yoga class at Palm City Brewing for all ages followed by a Babies and Brews social meetup, with an optional Mindful Kit add-on from Just Play by E.Co.
Kids Skate Free at SPINZ
Date: Sunday, May 17 | 1:00 PM-4:00 PM
Location: SPIN, 2095 Andrea Lane, Fort Myers
Free after $4.99 annual membership - $5 skate rentals available
Bayside Park Concert: Simpli-Fi
Date: Sunday, May 17 | 4:00 PM-7:00 PM
Location: Bayside Park, Corner of Old San Carlos Blvd. and 1st Street, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
A free outdoor concert at Bayside Park on Fort Myers Beach featuring Simpli-Fi, a fun classic rock dance band playing festivals, parties, clubs, and tiki bars across SWFL.
Sunset Yoga by the Sea at Lovers Key
Date: Sunday, May 17 | 7:00 PM-8:00 PM
Location: Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
A free evening beachside yoga class at Lovers Key State Park blending gentle movement, breathwork, and meditation as the sun sets over the Gulf, bring a mat or towel, reservations required.
Monday, May 18th
Gems & Crystals with The Nature Classroom
Date: Monday, May 18 | 10:00 AM
Location: FGCU Food Forest, 9920 South Ct, Fort Myers, FL 33965
A hands-on gem and crystal class for kids with The Nature Classroom at the FGCU Food Forest.
Level Up! Dads SmartCents Financial Night
Date: Monday, May 18 | 6:00 PM
Location: Sanibel Captiva Bank, 9311 College Parkway, Fort Myers, FL
A Level Up! Dads Gold Event presented by Sanibel Captiva Bank covering real-life money basics and smart family financial decisions — kids receive a free piggy bank and snacks are provided.
Tuesday, May 19th
Coffee + Mom Walk at Chocolattes Downtown
Date: Tuesday, May 19 | 9:30 AM
Location: Chocolattes Downtown Fort Myers, Fort Myers, FL
A morning group walk starting at Chocolattes in Downtown Fort Myers, coffee, connection, and a stroll with your littles.
Miromar Outlets Free Kids Crafts
Date: Tuesday, May 19 | 10:00 AM-11:00 AM
Location: Playground at Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero, FL 33928
Stop by for a quick and easy craft your little ones can assemble on the spot or take home to enjoy.
Free Golden Hour Yoga
Date: Tuesday, May 19 | 6:15 PM-7:15 PM
Location: Kava Culture Estero, 10801 Corkscrew Rd , Suite 327, Estero, FL
Join us for an all-levels yoga class led by Nichole of Renegade Metaphysical! Whether you're a seasoned yogi or just getting started, this class offers plenty of options to make your practice your own. Stretch, breathe, and reset in our cool, breezy corridor—the perfect escape from the heat!
Movie on the Lawn: Gnomeo & Juliet
Date: Tuesday, May 19 | 6:30 PM
Location: Mercato - Piazza, 9110 Strada Pl, Naples, FL 34108
Outdoor movie screening of Gnomeo & Juliet in the Piazza at Mercato.
Tuesday Trivia at Southern Fresh Farms
Date: Tuesday, May 19 | 7:00 PM
Location: Southern Fresh Farms, 8500 Penzance Blvd, Fort Myers, FL
A free weekly Tuesday trivia night at Southern Fresh Farms hosted by Zimco Entertainment with prizes, beer rounds, and gift cards up for grabs -- gather your crew and play.
Wednesday, May 20th
Farmers Market at Lakes Park
Date: Wednesday, May 20 | 9:00 AM-1:00 PM
Location: Lakes Park, 7330 Gladiolus Dr. Fort Myers
From juicy fruits and veggies to baked goods and artisan crafts, the farmers market has something for everyone. Bring the family, meet local vendors, and enjoy a morning of fresh finds.
6 Mile Cypress Slough Preserve Guided Walk
Date: Wednesday, May 20 | 9:30 AM
Location: Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, 7751 Penzance Boulevard Fort Myers, FL 33966
Guided walks along the boardwalk
Music and Movement at GCTC
Date: Wednesday, May 20 | 10:30 AM-11:00 AM
Location: Gulf Coast Town Center, 9903 Gulf Coast Main Street, Fort Myers, FL 33913
A free weekly family music class in the GCTC courtyard featuring singing, movement, chanting, and instrument exploration for kids at their own pace.
Thursday, May 21st
Storytime at Lakes Park
Date: Thursday, May 21 | 10:30 AM-11:30 AM
Location: Lakes Park, 7330 Gladiolus Dr. Fort Myers
Join us for a story, music, craft, and fun in the park! All ages welcome but designed for 2-4 years old. Located in the children's garden.
Pints & Pawns Chess Night at Millennial Brewing
Date: Thursday, May 21 | 6:00 PM-9:00 PM
Location: Millennial Brewing Co., 1811 Royal Palm Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33901
A weekly casual chess night at Millennial Brewing in Downtown Fort Myers -- come hang, grab a beer, and play, with formats evolving based on community input.
Friday, May 22nd
Night Hikes: Twlight Tour
Date: Friday, May 22 | 7:30 PM-9:30 PM
Location: Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, 3450 Ortiz Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33905
Guided after-sunset walk with hands-on activities in a low-light immersive nature experience.
Saturday, May 23rd
Bonita Springs Farmers Market
Date: Saturday, May 23 | 8:00 AM-12:00 PM
Location: The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26795 South Bay Dr, Bonita Springs, FL, 34134
Located right in front of the Bonita Bay community, this lively farmers’ market brings together fresh produce, local vendors, artisanal goods, and ready-to-enjoy treats.
Acrylic Painting with Pat Smelkoff
Date: Saturday, May 23 | 10:00 AM-1:00 PM
Location: Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33919
A guided acrylic painting class at Alliance for the Arts where you paint vibrant tulips step by step, learning color layering, petal blending, and depth through light and shadow -- all supplies provided.
Playdate & Pancakes on the Farm
Date: Saturday, May 23 | 10:00 AM-12:00 PM
Location: M&M Farms & Cattle Co, 5450 Higginbotham Rd, Fort Myers, FL 33905
A ticketed family morning at M&M Farms with open playground, farm animal visits, made-to-order mini pancakes from Lupita's, coffee, and a fully stocked farm stand.
Kids Club: DIY Kids Bookmarks
Date: Saturday, May 23 | 10:00 AM-12:00 PM
Location: Your Local Michaels Store, 13741 S Tamiami Trl, Ste 1, Fort Myers, FL
A free all-ages Kids Club event at your local Michaels where kids kick off summer reading by making their very own DIY bookmark.
Kids Skate Free at SPINZ
Date: Saturday, May 23 | 12:00 PM-6:00 PM
Location: SPIN, 2095 Andrea Lane, Fort Myers
Free after $4.99 annual membership - $5 skate rentals available
Sunday, May 24th
Fort Myers Beach Sunrise Yoga
Date: Sunday, May 24 | 7:15 AM-8:15 AM
Location: Fort Myers Beach - Old Pier, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
An all-levels outdoor sunrise yoga class on Fort Myers Beach guided by Kimberly York, featuring crystal bowls sound healing at the end — bring a towel, water, and optional mat.
Kids Skate Free at SPINZ
Date: Sunday, May 24 | 1:00 PM-4:00 PM
Location: SPIN, 2095 Andrea Lane, Fort Myers
Free after $4.99 annual membership - $5 skate rentals available
Michaels Craft: Junk Journals
Date: Sunday, May 24 | 1:00 PM-3:00 PM
Location: Your Local Michaels Store, 13741 S Tamiami Trl, Ste 1, Fort Myers, FL
A free beginner-friendly event at your local Michaels to learn all about junk journaling and make your very own small junk journal to take home.
Bayside Park Concert: The Guilty Pleasure Band
Date: Sunday, May 24 | 4:00 PM-7:00 PM
Location: Bayside Park, Corner of Old San Carlos Blvd. and 1st Street, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
A free outdoor concert at Bayside Park on Fort Myers Beach featuring The Guilty Pleasure Band.
Monday, May 25th
Memorial Day Celebration
Date: Monday, May 25 | 9:00 AM
Location: Riverside Park, 10450 Reynolds St, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Annual public ceremony honoring those who gave their lives in service to the country. Approximately one hour in length with traditional ceremony and remembrances honoring those who have given their lives in service to their country.
Pilates and Pints at Southern Fresh Farms
Date: Monday, May 25 | 7:30 PM-9:15 PM
Location: Southern Fresh Farms, 8500 Penzance Blvd, Fort Myers, FL
A weekly Monday evening sunset Pilates class on the farm hosted by SoulBody Studios instructor Victoria Grasland, followed by an ice cold beverage from Southern Fresh Brew Co -- bring your mat.
Until next week! ❤
-Sarajane

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