EsteroToday.com by Engage Estero

Cross Stitch for Beginners Class
2025-11-22 10:30 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Koreshan State Park 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero, FL 33298
Learn how to cross stitch in this fun class at Koreshan State Park!

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!

Village of Estero Council Meeting
2025-12-03 09:30 - 21:30, 2025-12-17 09:30 - 21:30 | Village of Estero, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle, Estero, FL, 33928, United States

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

Book Discussion: The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
2025-12-03 14:00 - 15:00 | Estero Park & Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Room 103B, Estero
In 1975, when a camp counselor discovers the 13-year-old daughter of the summer camp’s owner has disappeared just like her brother 14 years earlier, a panicked search begins as the secrets of the Van Laar family and the blue-collar community working in its shadow are revealed.

Cooking Demo: Strong Body, Smooth Recovery: ﻿Nutrition for Surgery
2025-12-04 11:00 - 12:00 | Healthy Life Center – Coconut Point, 23450 Via Coconut Point Estero
Join a Registered Dietitian and a Nurse Practitioner as they share how the right nutrition can strengthen recovery, reduce complications, and boost healing.

24th Annual Pottery Sale
2025-12-05 10:00 - 17:00 | Arts Complex (facing the Library), FGCU Campus
Beautiful, functional clay works from FGCU’s talented Ceramics Studio alumni are featured at this annual event, along with contributions from current faculty, students and community participants.

19th Annual Empty Bowls Fundraiser
2025-12-05 11:30 - 17:00 | Arts Complex (facing the Library), FGCU Campus
The FGCU Empty Bowls Fundraiser is committed to helping neighbors in need who are experiencing food insecurity through support for the food pantry at Interfaith Charities of South Lee. As always, there will be handmade bowls and delicious soups, dedicated student volunteers, and the friends, colleagues and community participants that make this support possible.

The Big One is Still Coming
2025-12-05 15:00 - 16:30 | Florida Blue, 8041 Plaza del Lago Drive
Dr. Michael Osterholm from the University of Minnesota discusses pandemic preparedness.

Toy Match Toy Drive
2025-12-06 11:00 - 19:00 | Coconut Point Mall
2ND ANNUAL TOY MATCH TOY DRIVE
Join Brittany Skotak & The Skotak Group as a sponsor of the Toy Match Toy Drive in Estero at Coconut Point Mall at Toy World on Saturday, December 6, 2025.
Santa himself making a special appearance to greet families, take photos, we will match any new toy donated with another new toy creating a ripple effect of generosity that will benefit even more families this holiday season.

Holiday Celebration & Tropical Parade
2025-12-06 11:00 - 20:00 | Coconut Point, Cinema Way Circle
Tropical Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting – Saturday, Dec. 6 from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Flavor Food Zone (all day): Enjoy delicious bites from participating Coconut Point restaurants in Cinema Circle.
Charity Car, Truck & Vendor Show (11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.): Free Admission cruise-in
Arts & Crafts Show (11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.): Find unique art, crafts and holiday gifts!

Planning, Zoning & Design Board Meeting
2025-12-09 16:30 - 21:30 | Village of Estero, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
The Village of Estero Planning, Zoning and Design Board will discuss several important matters at its next meeting on Tuesday, December 9.
These meetings are an opportunity for residents to learn more about growth, development, and zoning changes within Estero and to voice questions, concerns, and comments on these topics.
Items for discussion on the agenda include:

An application to demolish the former Perkin’s restaurant at Corkscrew Road and Ben Hill Griffin Parkway to build a new Chik-fil-A restaurant with dual drive-thru. Village staff recommends approval with some updates to the proposed development plan. A public information meeting on the topic was held in June.
Proposed paint colors for a refresh of Coconut Point Mall will be shared.

Residents who wish to comment during the meeting should complete a Public Comment Card. E-comment forms are also available before meetings and must be returned by noon the day before the meeting.
The full agenda and supporting documents can be viewed here by clicking on “Planning Zoning and Design Board Meeting.”
Learn more here.
How to Attend
This Village Planning, Zoning and Design Board meeting will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9, in the Council Chambers at Village Hall, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle.
Meetings are also streamed live online and can be accessed here.

Songwriters Showcase at Koreshan State Park
2025-12-09 19:00 - 21:00 | Koreshan State Park 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero, FL 33298
The Friends of Koreshan State Park have partnered with the Americana Community Music Association (ACMA) to present monthly concerts featuring all-original music by talented local artists.

﻿Oh My Aching Head
2025-12-10 12:00 - 13:00 | Florida Blue, 8041 Plaza del Lago Drive
In this presentation, Florida Blue will review common symptoms and triggers for four types of headaches – sinus, cluster, tension and migraines. Plus, you’ll learn about what you can do that may prevent and or minimize your aching head.

Rethinking Roads: A Complete Streets Approach to Safer Communities
2025-12-10 12:00 - 13:30 | Online
What does it look like when roads are designed for people, not just cars? This free webinar from 1000 Friends of Florida will explore how communities are putting Complete Streets principles into action, prioritizing safety, equity, and multimodal access for all users.

Right Plant for Every Place
2025-12-11 13:00 - 15:00 | 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!

2050 LONG RANGE TRANSPORTATION PLAN Public Hearing
2025-12-12 09:00 - 11:00 | Lee County Administration East Facility, 2201 Second Street, Room 118, Fort Myers, Florida
The Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization will hold a Public Hearing for the Adoption of the 2050 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) on December 12, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. The meeting will be held at the Lee County Administration East Facility, 2201 Second Street, Room 118, Fort Myers, Florida. This location is accessible by transit by LeeTran Route 20 and more information on service can be found at www.rideleetran.com. The 2050 Transportation Plan Adoption Summary Report and further information on the Long Range Plan can be found here: https://leempo.com/plans/long-range-transportation-plan/ The Long Range Plan identifies the cost feasible transportation projects for roads, transit and bicycle/pedestrian improvements through the year 2050.

Community & Membership Meeting: Traffic Survey, Septic to Sewer, Estero RiverPark
2025-12-12 10:00 - 11:30 | Estero Park & Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
The public is invited to join us for the December Engage Estero Community & Membership Meeting for updates on major projects affecting the Greater Estero Area.
Topics include:
1. Final Results of the Village of Estero’s 2024 Traffic Study by Steve Sarkozy, David Willems and Leah Holmes
2. Update of the Septic to Sewer Program by David Willems from the Village of Estero, and an
3. Update of the Estero RiverPark by David Willems.
The meeting will be held Thursday, December 11 at the Estero Park and Recreation Center starting at 10:00 am.
The meeting is free and open to the public, but reservations have reached capacity.
The meeting will be recorded and posted to our YouTube channel @EngageEstero, so subscribe to be notified if you cannot make it.

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

Lee County Sheriff's Program: R.E.A.D.Y Women's Basic Self-Defense Class
2025-12-17 11:00 - 12:30 | Healthy Life Center – Coconut Point, 23450 Via Coconut Point Estero
LCSOs Heather Turco will go over personal safety and situational awareness, then teach you important and simple tactics action you can take, if you are ever threatened, facing a potential assault or worse, someone puts their hands on you. Lunch will be provided.

South County Regional Library Reopens
2025-12-18 09:00 - 17:00 | 21100 Three Oaks Parkway, Estero
The newly renovated South County Regional Library reopens to the public! Hours of operation will be 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., Monday through Wednesday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., on Thursday, and 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., on Friday and Saturday at their 21100 Three Oaks Parkway location. A ribbon cutting will be held in January.

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

"Boat America" Course
2025-12-20 | Pine Ridge Community Center, 15660 Pine Ridge Rd., Fort Myers, Fl, 33908
With Southwest Florida’s waterways bustling, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 91 of Fort Myers Beach is excited to announce a crucial opportunity for local families and boaters: the “Boat America” Responsible Boating Course on Saturday, December 20, 2025. This comprehensive class is designed to equip every family member with the knowledge and skills needed for safe, confident, and enjoyable adventures on the water.
Whether you’re a seasoned captain, a new boat owner, or simply a family looking to enhance your safety on the water, the “Boat America” course is your essential guide. Taught by experienced and dedicated Coast Guard Auxiliarists, this engaging program covers everything from navigation rules and essential safety equipment to emergency procedures and responsible environmental practices. Participants will learn how to:
· Understand the “Rules of the Road”: Navigate confidently and safely alongside other vessels.
· Equip Your Boat Properly: Know what safety gear is required and how to use it effectively.
· Handle Emergencies: Be prepared for unexpected situations, from adverse weather to mechanical issues.
· Protect Our Waters: Learn best practices for environmentally conscious boating.
· Ensure Family Safety: Special emphasis is placed on safeguarding children and all passengers aboard.
“Boating is a cherished part of the Southwest Florida lifestyle, and for many, it’s a wonderful family activity,” said Robert Guenthner, Flotilla Commander of Flotilla 91, Fort Myers Beach. “Our ‘Boat America’ course goes beyond just meeting legal requirements; it empowers families with the confidence and knowledge to prevent incidents and truly enjoy their time on the water. Every family member, regardless of age, benefits from understanding these vital safety principles.”
Even experienced boaters will find this course a valuable refresher, ensuring they are up-to-date on the latest regulations and best practices. Plus, many insurance companies offer discounts to those who complete approved boating safety courses.
Event Details:
· What: Boat America Class on Responsible Boating
· When: Saturday, December 20th, 2025
· Where: Pine Ridge Community Center, 15660 Pine Ridge Rd., Fort Myers, FL, 33908.
· Hosted by: U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 91, Fort Myers Beach
· Cost: $45 per person; Students under 17 years old are free when accompanied by a paying adult
· Registration: Online at https://www.aux91fmb.org/safeboating or 239-690-6780

Junior Ranger Program
2025-12-20 09:00 - 10:00 | Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach
Join a park ranger for a Junior Ranger educational program and accompanying activity to explore the four components of the Junior Ranger program: natural resources, cultural resources, recreation, and service. Participants will be eligible for Junior Ranger passport stamps with the successful completion of each component.

Parents Night Out Christmas Edition
2025-12-20 17:00 - 20:00 | FL

Beach Cleanup
2025-12-27 08:00 - 09:00 | Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach
Join a park ranger for a beach cleanup at Mid-Beach. Enjoy a lovely hour on the beach as you do your part to keep our state park (and planet!) clean. Participants will record the types of trash they collect, and the findings will help inform park messaging.

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
