EsteroToday.com by Engage Estero

Affordable/Attainable Housing in Lee County
2023-11-04 09:30 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | The Collaboratory
John Talmage, Director, Economic Development, Lee County and Ali Ankudowich, Florida Housing Coalition will discuss affordable housing, an ongoing concern in Lee County. This unmet need was documented in the 2020 Lee County Gap Analysis. This need has become more critical to the most vulnerable populations and those without the resources to recover following Ian.

The Big Shred
2023-11-04 12:00 - 14:00 | Estero Park and Recreation Center
Drive up and have your paper documents shredded at Estero Park and Recreation Center. Limit three banker boxes per car. No plastic bags or electronics accepted.

GO Divas Benefit Concert
2023-11-05 16:00 - 18:00 | Lamb of God church
Gulfshore Opera’s GO Divas, a popular women’s vocal ensemble will perform “Divas through the Decades” at this benefit concert at Arbor at Lamb of God Church.

EHS Speaker Series : Alvarez/Smith House Relocation
2025-09-13 09:30 | The Villages at Country Creek, 21131 Country Creek Drive, Estero, FL, 33928
Join the Estero Historical Society for a fascinating morning as we welcome Tanda Hogg, Vice President at Tri-Town Construction and project manager for the relocation of the historic Alvarez/Smith House. With hands-on experience rehabilitating historic homes in Georgia, Tanda brings a unique blend of expertise and passion to this ambitious project. She will walk us through the process of moving the house and the careful rehabilitation that will preserve its historic charm for generations to come.

Join us at 9:30 am for this spectacular insight into the complexity and importance of the Society’s current restoration project over a delicious continental breakfast at Villages of Country Creek, 21180 Country Creek Blvd., Estero.

Tickets are $15 for members and $20 for future members. Join online today! Visit https://esterohistoricalsociety.com/events/ to RSVP.

The Estero Historical Society is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of our unique greater Estero area, and depends on volunteers and donations for projects such as the relocation and restoration of the Alvarez/Smith Home. Find out more about us at www.EsteroHistoricalSociety.com

YMCA Annual Charity Golf Tournament
2025-09-19 | Spanish Wells Golf Club

EHS Speaker Series: Haunted Shores: Witchcraft and Folklore Along Florida's Coast
2025-10-18 09:30 | The Villages at Country Creek, 21131 Country Creek Drive, Estero, FL, 33928
Just in time for Halloween, join Melissa Mari, Adjunct Professor and Complete Student Navigator at Florida Gulf Coast University, for a spellbinding talk on witches and witchcraft through the ages. From myth and folklore to historical fact, Melissa will explore the cultural, social, and even political forces that shaped these enduring legends.

Join us at 9:30 am for this spectacular insight into the intersection myth and history over a delicious continental breakfast at Villages of Country Creek, 21180 Country Creek Blvd., Estero.

Tickets are $15 for members and $20 for future members. Join online today! Visit https://esterohistoricalsociety.com/events/ to RSVP.

The Estero Historical Society is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of our unique greater Estero area, and depends on volunteers and donations for projects such as the relocation and restoration of the Alvarez/Smith Home. Find out more about us at www.EsteroHistoricalSociety.com

Alive After Five! Miller's Ale House
2025-10-23 17:30 - 19:00 | Miller’s Ale House, 22810 Via Villagio, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
Network with local business professionals, enjoy tasty appetizers and happy hour specials Alive After Five! at Miller’s Ale House on Thursday, October 23, 2025.

Don’t miss a refreshing evening of conversation, connection, and community with fellow professionals and neighbors from Greater Estero. Enjoy mouthwatering appetizers and enjoy happy hour specials as you mix and mingle in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

The fun begins at 5:30 pm on Thursday, Oct. 23 at Miller’s Ale House, which is conveniently located 22810 Via Villagio, Estero.

Tickets are $20 for Members and just $30 for Non-Members. Get yours online at https://esterochamber.org

So bring a friend and enjoy an evening with your peers and colleagues of the Greater Estero Chamber of Commerce!

Nine Principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping
2025-11-08 10:00 - 17:00 | Estero Park & Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero
Discover the 9 Principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™!
Offered through the University of Florida IFAS Extension, the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL) program helps homeowners create vibrant, sustainable landscapes that protect Florida’s unique natural resources. This introduction to the 9 guiding principles provides simple, science-based steps for conserving water, reducing pollution, supporting wildlife, and enjoying a beautiful yard that thrives in Florida’s climate. Whether you’re looking to cut down on maintenance, save money on irrigation, or make your landscape eco-friendlier, the FFL principles offer practical solutions that benefit both your property and the environment.
Master Gardener Volunteers are presenting these 9 principles throughout Lee County from October 2025 to March 2026. Find out when they are in your neighborhood by visiting Lee County Extension Eventbrite page (https://www.LeeCountyExtension.eventbrite.com) or following us on Facebook (UF IFAS – Ext Lee County) and Instagram (lee_ufifas).
Learn how small changes in your landscape can make a big impact for you and Florida’s future!

Paws For The Night
2025-11-12 18:00 - 20:00 | Coconut Point Mall
Make some tails wag for Christmas this year at the Paws for the Night event Wednesday November 12, 6pm to 8pm on Cinema Way Circle.
Our friends at Guardians of Florida Animal Rescue will have adorable adoptable dogs available for a forever home.View here: ADOPTION OVERVIEW — Guardians of Florida Animal Rescue
Bring something from their wish list to put under the tree. Shop pet friendly vendors, enjoy tasty treats for both, the two legged and four legged!
Coconut Point restaurants will offer food and drink for purchase.
Enter to win your furry friend in our Holiday themed contests for a chance to win prizes!
Event Website
Categories:

Most Festive Costume
Best Pet Trick
Best Duo Look-alike

Enjoy live music by Rob Norum and festive fun all night long!
It’s time to Pawty!!!
Date: Wednesday, November 12
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Cinema Way Circle, Coconut Point

Rising: Surviving the Surge
2025-11-13 17:00 - 19:30 | FGCU
RSVP

High 5 Groundbreaking
2025-11-14 15:00
The Village of Estero and High 5 Entertainment are pleased to announce groundbreaking ceremonies are planned for 3 p.m., Friday, November 14.
Mark your calendars now; additional details to come soon.
The sitework has been completed to allow High 5 to initiate construction in Estero’s Entertainment District on the north side of Williams Road and east of via Coconut Point.
The family entertainment venue will include 6 indoor pickleball courts, 15 outdoor courts, 36-holes of miniature golf, bowling, arcade and other family entertainment elements. A scratch kitchen will service both indoor and outdoor dining with a sports bar theme. A large digital wall in outdoor social space will allow for large-scale sports broadcasts and “movies-in-the-park.”
The official opening is planned for the Fall of 2026.
High 5 Entertainment is the first of multiple family entertainment concepts that will be joining the SportsPark being developed by the Village as part of its Village Center Hub, adjacent to Estero High School. The overall SportsPark master plan calls for upgraded and new sports fields along with an event lawn, walking trails and community gathering spaces.

Speaker Series: The History of the Citrus Industry
2025-11-15 09:30 - 11:00 | Villages of Country Creek, 21180 Country Creek Dr, Estero
Join us on Saturday, November 15 at 9:30 AM at the Villages of Country Creek, 21180 Country Creek Dr, Estero, for our Speaker Series program featuring Dallas Townsend presenting The History of the Citrus Industry.
Dallas Townsend is a Fort Myers native who worked as an agent with the University of Florida Cooperative Extension Service ensuring SWFL farmers and ranchers benefitted from the agency’s research. He was inducted into the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2014.
Enjoy a fascinating look back at one of Florida’s most important agricultural legacies while connecting with fellow history enthusiasts.
Tickets are $15 for EHS and BS Historical Society members and $20 for non-members and includes a continental breakfast.
RSVP online at: https://esterohistoricalsociety.com/event/nov2025/
The Estero Historical Society is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of our unique greater Estero area, and depends on volunteers and donations for projects such as the relocation and restoration of the Alvarez/Smith Home. Find out more about us at www.EsteroHistoricalSociety.com

Annual Holiday Open House at the Cottage Museum
2025-11-29 09:30 - 12:30 | Estero Historical Society
Get into the holiday spirit at the Estero Historical Society’s Annual Holiday Open House! Join us on Saturday, November 29th, from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm at the Cottage Museum, where the cottage will be beautifully decorated, offering a warm and festive welcome for all who attend.
Enjoy complimentary refreshments while browsing the museum’s gift shop, which will also be open, featuring unique items crafted by local artisans. It’s the perfect opportunity to shop locally, support a non-profit, and find that special gift for loved ones.
No RSVP is required, so bring family and friends and celebrate the season with us. We look forward to seeing you there!

Holiday Tea at the Cottage
2025-12-03 12:00 | Estero Historical Cottage
Enjoy a sparkling libation, an assortment of savories & classic tea sandwiches, and delicate scones with clotted cream & jam in a historical setting. Celebrate the holidays in style and benefit the Society at the same time. Hats are not required, but are welcomed!

The 2025 annual Holiday Tea will be held Wednesday, December 3 at noon at the historic Cottage at the Estero Historical Society site in the park at 9285 Corkscrew Palms Blvd.

Tickets are $40 for members and $45 for future members and can be reserved at EsteroHistoricalSociety.com/events. You can save by joining online today! Seating is limited to a cozy 24 persons. Reservations open Oct. 3 and close Nov. 25.

The Estero Historical Society is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of our unique greater Estero area, and depends on volunteers and donations for projects such as the relocation and restoration of the Alvarez/Smith Home. Find out more about us at www.EsteroHistoricalSociety.com

Right Plant for Every Place
2025-12-11 13:00 - 15:00 | Estero Park & Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero

Annual Holiday Turkey Lunch
2025-12-15 12:00 - 13:30 | The Villages at Country Creek, 21131 Country Creek Drive, Estero, FL, 33928
Join the Estero Historical Society on Monday, December 15 for a traditional turkey lunch with all the trimmings and hear local historian Jacob Winge share “Holiday Traditions on the Florida Frontier”.

Lunch begins at noon at the beautiful Country Creek Clubhouse, located at 21180 Country Creek Blvd.

Tickets are $40 each Estero Historical Society and Bonita Springs Historical Society members. Future-members are just $45.

The Estero Historical Society is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of our unique greater Estero area, and depends on volunteers and donations for projects such as the relocation and restoration of the Alvarez/Smith Home. Find out more about us at www.EsteroHistoricalSociety.com

South County Regional Library Reopens
2025-12-18 09:00 - 18:00 | South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Parkway, Estero, Fl 33928
The South County Regional Library will welcome back residents to the newly renovated building

South County Regional Library Ribbon Cutting
2026-01-07 10:00 - 12:00 | South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Parkway, Estero, Fl 33928
a Community Celebration to include live steel drum music, balloon animals and face painting plus crafts, activities and fun giveaways from 10 a.m.-12 noon, Saturday, January 10.

Alive After Five! at Venture Visionary Partners
2026-01-08 17:30 - 19:00 | Venture Visionary Partners, 27400 Riverview Center Blvd, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Enjoy good eats, great conversation, and meet new peers at Alive After Five! at Venture Visionary Partner’s incredible meeting space on Thursday, January 8, 2026. From 5:30 – 7:00 pm enjoy complimentary appetizers from Miller’s Ale House! Take in the unique atmosphere and mingle with your colleagues in the greater Estero business community. You might even win one of our gift card or cash giveaways!
Venture Visionary Partners is conveniently located at 27400 Riverview Center Blvd., in Bonita Springs just off US 41. The space is a hidden gem and is available for meetings, retreats and more. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to build relationships, share ideas, and meet local business leaders in a fun, casual setting. Tickets are $20 for Members and just $30 for Non-Members. Get yours online at https://esterochamber.org.

Plant This Not That! (Invasive Plant Awareness)
2026-01-10 10:00 - 17:00 | Estero Park & Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero

Community & Membership Meeting
2026-01-29 10:00 - 11:30 | Estero Park & Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
20260129_Engage-Estero-Presentation

FGCU Entrepreneurial School and Gulfshore Opera Featured at Engage Estero Community Meeting January 29, 2026
Introduction
Following the Pledge of Allegiance and wishing everyone a Happy New Year, Engage Estero President Allan Bowditch joked to the crowd that, because of the relatively low attendance, many registered residents might have thought they were “better off staying in bed” rather than braving the cold. But for those who missed coffee and conversation, we have produced a YouTube Video of the meeting as well as this summary document.
While road construction and traffic safety are usually the hot-button topics in our village, this meeting took a different, refreshing turn. The focus shifted to the “soul” and the economic importance of new entrepreneurial start-ups in our community: cultural enrichment and economic innovation. Bowditch said that Estero needs to encourage new start-ups to develop their businesses locally, and we need more residents to support music and the arts to help establish a local Community Theater in Estero.
Bowditch quoted Harth-Bedoya, a Peruvian Orchestral conductor and now distinguished resident director of orchestras and professor at the Rice Shepherd School of Music, who recently said, “There’s a saying that you cannot touch music- but music can touch you! It can move emotions, spark your imagination, and awaken your sense of beauty; that’s the power of music.” Given its health benefits, we should also embrace the many local and international artists who are here on our doorstep more often.
The morning featured two powerhouse speakers who happen to be our neighbors here in Estero: Dr. Bill McDowell, Dean of the School of Entrepreneurship at FGCU, and Stephanie Pierce, the founder and General Director of Gulf Shore Opera.
The Business of Dreaming Big at FGCU
First up was Dr. Bill McDowell. If you think university entrepreneurship programs are just dusty theory classes tucked inside a business school, think again. McDowell, a happy Estero resident who moved here from Texas, made it clear that FGCU is doing something radically different.
FGCU is home to the Daveler and Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship. It is an independent school—not part of the College of Business or Engineering. In fact, it is one of only four independent schools of entrepreneurship in the entire nation.
“FGCU is your university,” McDowell reminded the room, emphasizing that the school is a major driver of the local economy. The numbers he shared were staggering. They have over 900 students majoring or minoring in entrepreneurship. To put that in perspective, most university programs have 10 to 50 students. FGCU has about 750 majors.
But what are these students actually doing? They aren’t just writing business plans; they are launching companies.
McDowell highlighted the school’s “Runway Program,” which provides funding to students across campus to start their businesses. “We actually fund them to start their businesses,” McDowell explained. In the first semester, students get between $250 and $500 to form their LLCs. Later, the school writes checks ranging from $500 to $20,000. This is non-dilutive equity, meaning the school takes zero ownership. They have given out over $1 million to student startups.
The results speak for themselves. While national research shows that only 10% to 30% of startups survive for 5 years, FGCU student- and veteran-founded startups boast a 70% success rate.
McDowell shared some local favorites you might recognize:

Cattyshack Cafe at Gulf Coast Town Center.

Jade Springs, a six-figure music business.
Bounceback Pickle, a company started by a student who recycles pickleballs and is now manufacturing new ones from the recycled material.

They are also staying on the cutting edge with new concentrations in blockchain, sustainability, and the “creator economy”. McDowell noted they even have a professor who helped start MTV and Nickelodeon, teaching media entrepreneurship.
“It’s not just cute ideas,” McDowell said, mentioning a graduate making up to $60,000 a month creating ASMR videos and another with two billion views on TikTok. These students are building the future of our local economy, right here in our backyard.
But enhanced support to encourage even more students to remain in our locality is very important, not least because it would provide economic benefits for the Village and reflect well on our community, illustrating its forward-looking perspective.
Bringing Grand Opera to the Village
Following the high energy of the startup world, the meeting shifted to high culture. Amy Jacimedi introduced Stephanie Pierce, a former international opera singer who performed at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center before founding Gulf Shore Opera (GO).
Pierce, who has lived in Estero for over a year, explained that GO is the region’s professional opera company. They moved their headquarters to Estero in 2021 because they realized the growth was happening “north of Naples.” Their HQ is right on Corkscrew Road—”right next to the Arby’s,” as Pierce helpfully pointed out.
GO’s mission is to make opera accessible and destigmatize the art form. They don’t just stay in one theater; they tour three counties, bringing world-class culture to us. “We bring in over 300 professional classical singers, musicians, and directors,” Pierce noted.
The company produces full-scale grand operas, the only production company in the area doing so at professional theaters like Barbara B. Mann and Artis-Naples. Pierce showed a clip from their recent sold-out production of Carmen, which featured a 40-piece orchestra and 65 chorus members, ages 8 to 80.
But they also do smaller, intimate events. Their upcoming chamber opera, a jazz-infused version of Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess, will tour from March 27 to April 1. They also host “Taste of Opera” events—elegant dinners with live performances at local country clubs.
Perhaps most touching was Pierce’s discussion of the Harmony Choir, a youth engagement initiative. One of their strongest chapters is right here in Estero at Three Oaks Academy. The program helps at-risk youth, including children with autism, by offering free music education. They recently started a program connecting these youths with seniors, who perform at facilities like the Brookdale Senior Center.
However, Pierce highlighted a significant gap in our community infrastructure. GO wants to bring productions like Porgy and Bess to Estero, but “there is no such venue in Estero yet,” she said. While they have a small studio next to Arby’s, they are actively looking for a collaborative performing arts venue where local organizations can share the stage.
Community Updates: Library, Cinema, and Veterans
Before closing, Allan Bowich provided several important comments for residents. He thanked those who had provided valuable donations to the organization. 2025 has also seen a considerable increase in the attendance at our Community Meetings as well as social media growth, and a recent expansion in those who receive our communications along East Corkscrew.
nBowditch reminded everyone of the opening of the Estero Library on Three Oaks following a $10 million renovation.
He discussed Engage Estero’s and the Shadow Wood Community’s strong objection to a proposed development at Coconut Point. The plan involved removing the cinema and replacing it with a five-story residential development and multi-story car park. Bowditch noted that the high density and appearance didn’t fit the “overall tenure” of Estero. Interestingly, Pierce chimed in, noting that she had tried to buy the building for an arts center three years ago but was told it wasn’t for sale.
Looking ahead, Bowditch announced the Don Eslick Person of the Year Gala on February 26th. This year’s honoree is Dr. Larry Antonucci, President of Lee Health, recognized for his work improving healthcare facilities in the village.
He also flagged a Public Forum on March 17th at FGCU titled “Shaping Estero’s Future,” and a meeting for veterans at the library to discuss a potential veterans’ recognition park.
The 2025 Annual Report will be released next week. It highlights a year of significant progress and growing responsibility in service to the Greater Estero community. The report outlines key achievements across transportation advocacy, development oversight, environmental protection, volunteer engagement, education, healthcare, and expanded community communications. It also shares our vision for the future and the resources needed to sustain and expand our impact. We hope you have an opportunity to read it and consider financially supporting our work in 2026.
How You Can Help
The recurring theme of the meeting was that a thriving community requires participation. Both speakers made it clear that they need us, the residents of Estero, to help them succeed.

Mentor the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs: FGCU’s School of Entrepreneurship has about 50 to 60 mentors, but they need about 150. You don’t need to be a business tycoon to help. As Dr. McDowell explained, they need people with life experience to offer support, operations advice, or strategic networking. Whether you can help with market research or just be a “mentor circle” voice for students, your time is valuable.

Action: If you are interested in mentoring, contact the Daveler and Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship: Contact Dr William McDowell -wmcdowell@fgcu.edu

Support the Arts and a New Venue: Gulf Shore Opera is looking for community leaders to join a “think tank” regarding a future performing arts center in Estero. As Pierce noted, they can’t grow their programs or bring shows to our village without a proper space. Contact Steffanie Pierce – steffanie@gulfshoreopera.org

Action: Sign the “Share the Dream” sheet or contact Gulf Shore Opera if you have ideas, a location, or want to be involved in the conversation about a local arts venue.

As Allan Bowditch concluded, “We’d love to have a theater here… but obviously we need to support what’s here already”.
Stay warm, Estero, and let’s get involved!

Early Settlers & Livelihoods: Conversation at the Cottage
2026-01-31 13:30 - 14:30 | Estero Historical Society
Join the Estero Historical Society for an informative and cozy Conversation at the Cottage: Early Settlers & Livelihoods on Saturday, Jan. 31 at 1:30 pm.

Learn about our local history while surrounded by our own historic cottage, schoolhouse and exhibits. The Cottage is located within the Estero Park and Recreation Center, at 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero, Florida 33928.

Tickets are free for members, and just $15 for non-members. Space is limited, so reservations are required.

The Estero Historical Society is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of our unique greater Estero area, and depends on volunteers and donations for projects such as the relocation and restoration of the Alvarez/Smith Home. Find out more about us at www.EsteroHistoricalSociety.com

Flowers v. Foliage (adding color to your yard)
2026-02-07 10:00 - 17:00 | Estero Park & Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero

The History of Hurricanes: Speaker Series
2026-02-21 09:30 - 11:00 | Villages of Country Creek, 21180 Country Creek Dr, Estero
Join us on Saturday, February 21 at 9:30 AM at the Villages of Country Creek, 21180 Country Creek Dr, Estero, for our Speaker Series program featuring local historian Jacob Winge presenting The History of Hurricanes.
Discover how past storms shaped Southwest Florida’s communities and gain perspective on the challenges we face today.
Tickets are $15 for EHS and reciprocal members and $20 for non-members and includes a continental breakfast. Visit https://esterohistoricalsociety.com/events/ to RSVP.
The Estero Historical Society is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of our unique greater Estero area, and depends on volunteers and donations for projects such as the relocation and restoration of the Alvarez/Smith Home. Find out more about us at www.EsteroHistoricalSociety.com

Community in Motion - Yoga + Sound Bath Wellness Event
2026-02-21 09:30 - 11:30 | Visual Arts Center CR | Arts Bonita, 26100 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, 34135
Bonita-Estero Woman’s Club & Cancer Alliance Network in Partnership with Arts Bonita
https://www.bonitaesterowomansclub.org/calender

Cast Iron Feast
2026-02-25 17:30 - 20:00 | Copperleaf Golf Club, 23101 Copperleaf Blvd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Estero Historical Society presents a Cast Iron Feast Wednesday, February 25, 2026 for one special night only!
The event will be held at Copperleaf Golf Club, 23101 Copperleaf Blvd., Bonita Springs, and begins at 5:30 with a Social Hour. At 6:15 the Culinary Experience features:

A taste of history Estero early settler recipes
A four-course feast crafted by a talented Copperleaf chef
Period stories between courses by a noted local historian

Seating is limited; reserve your place at the table today! $60 Members I $65 Non-Members (Join online).
https://esterohistoricalsociety.com/events
The Estero Historical Society is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of our unique greater Estero area, and depends on volunteers and donations for projects such as the relocation and restoration of the Alvarez/Smith Home. Find out more about us at www.EsteroHistoricalSociety.com

History of Tamiami Trail: Conversation at the Cottage
2026-02-28 13:30 - 14:30 | Estero Historical Society
Join the Estero Historical Society for an informative and cozy Conversation at the Cottage: History of Tamiami Trail on Saturday, Feb. 28 at 1:30 pm.
Learn about our local history while surrounded by our own historic cottage, schoolhouse and exhibits. The Cottage is located within the Estero Park and Recreation Center, at 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero, Florida 33928.
Tickets are free for members, and just $15 for non-members. Space is limited, so reservations are required.
The Estero Historical Society is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of our unique greater Estero area, and depends on volunteers and donations for projects such as the relocation and restoration of the Alvarez/Smith Home. Find out more about us at www.EsteroHistoricalSociety.com

14th Annual Breaking Par for Education: Golf Scramble
2026-03-21 08:00 - 13:00 | The Club at Grandezza, Estero, FL, 33928
Engage Estero is proud to be a sponsor of the 14th Annual Breaking Par for Education fundraiser being held March 21st and 22nd at The Club at Grandezza.

The experience starts on Saturday, March 21 at 8:30 AM with the Breaking Par Shotgun Golf Scramble tournament celebrating the 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence. Wear your red, white and blue and celebrate the semi-quincentennial on the greens of Grandezza with lots of fun games, followed by lunch celebrating the tournament winners.

On Sunday, March 22, enjoy a luau theme as we celebrate Guest of Honor Jim Shields at the Breaking Par Gala. Jim founded Breaking Par for Education 14 years ago and his impactful commitment to Estero is much admired. Join us in celebrating all he has accomplished with this great organization. Happy hour starts at 5:30 where you can enjoy a tropical paradise hosted by the students of LEAD Estero.

Tickets

Tickets

Tickets for both the tournament and the Gala can be purchased online at https://leadestero.ejoineme.org/BreakingPar26.
LEAD Estero is a local nonprofit by and for students. This fundraiser helps secure scholarships and training opportunities for Estero High School students.
The Club at Grandezza is located at 11481 Grande Oak Blvd, Estero, FL 33928.

The Estero Inn: Conversation at the Cottage
2026-04-25 13:30 - 17:00 | Estero Historical Society
Join the Estero Historical Society for an informative and cozy Conversation at the Cottage: The Estero Inn on Saturday, April 25, at 1:30 pm.
Learn about our local history while surrounded by our own historic cottage, schoolhouse and exhibits. The Cottage is located within the Estero Park and Recreation Center, at 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero, Florida 33928.
Tickets are free for members, and just $15 for non-members. Space is limited, so reservations are required.
The Estero Historical Society is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of our unique greater Estero area, and depends on volunteers and donations for projects such as the relocation and restoration of the Alvarez/Smith Home. Find out more about us at www.EsteroHistoricalSociety.com

Mud and Blues Benefit Concert
2026-04-25 19:30 - 22:30 | Moe Auditorium | Arts Bonita 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Support the Estero Historical Society and enjoy a unique local musical experience!
Step into the backwaters of old Florida with Mud and Blues, a swamp-soaked evening of music and storytelling inspired by the legends of the Everglades. On Saturday, April 25, 2026, The Swamp Blues Band brings to life the tales that rose from the mud — rum runners slipping through moonlit mangroves, pioneer fishermen chasing tarpon at dawn, early champions of environmental protection fighting to preserve a wild and fragile frontier, and even whispers of the elusive skunk ape drifting through the cypress shadows.
50% of tickets purchased by Estero Historical Society supporters benefits the Society! Put “Estero Historical Society” in the comments field as you checkout at https://artsbonita.org/performances/
The Estero Historical Society is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of our unique greater Estero area, and depends on volunteers and donations for projects such as the relocation and restoration of the Alvarez/Smith Home. Find out more about us at www.EsteroHistoricalSociety.com
