EsteroToday.com by Engage Estero

14th Annual Breaking Par for Education: Luau Gala
2026-03-22 17:30 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | The Club at Grandezza, Estero, FL, 33928
Engage Estero was proud to be a sponsor of the 14th Annual Breaking Par for Education fundraiser held March 21st and 22nd at The Club at Grandezza.

The experience started 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. Attendees wore 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, attendees enjoyed 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. Thanks to everyone who joined us in celebrating all he has accomplished with this great organization.

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.

Connected or Consumed? A Panel Discussion Exploring Social Media’s Impact on Public Health, Innovation, and Responsibility
2026-03-24 17:30 - 19:30 | FGCU Cohen Student Union Ballroom
How does social media shape our health, wellbeing, and society?

Hear from a multi-perspective panel of professionals in public health, mental health counseling, law enforcement, education,
and parenting, along with a social media influencer, as they explore challenges, opportunities, and solutions for navigating social media responsibly.

2026 Florida Legislative Wrap Up
2026-03-25 12:00 - 13:30 | Online
A comprehensive review of the 2026 Florida Legislative Session and what it means for planning, land conservation, and local decision-making.

Wading Trip
2026-03-26 10:30 | Big Hickory Island, Bonita Springs
Discover first-hand why estuaries are known as “the cradles of the ocean” and take a refreshing journey into the waters of Estero Bay.

Howard Alan Art and Craft Festival
2026-03-28 10:00 - 2026-03-29 17:00 | Coconut Point Mall, 23181 Via Villagio Drive, FL
Explore unique handcrafted treasures, stunning art pieces, and more at this outdoor festival! Don’t miss a weekend of creativity and fun in a beautiful setting.

Estero Fire Department: Conversation at the Cottage
2026-03-28 13:30 - 14:30 | Estero Historical Society Cottage Museum
Join the Estero Historical Society for an informative and cozy Conversation at the Cottage: Estero Fire Department on Saturday, March 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

Council Meeting
2026-04-01 09:30 - 17:00, 2026-04-15 09:30 - 17:00 | Village of Estero, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
Village meetings are held at the Village Hall at 9401 Corkscrew Palms Blvd in Chambers.
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 agendas and supporting documents can be viewed approximately one week prior to each meeting at https://estero-fl.gov/meetings.

Planning Zoning & Design Board Meeting
2026-04-14 16:30 - 20:00 | Village of Estero, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle, Estero, FL, 33928, United States

Food for Thought Luncheon featuring Estero Fire Rescue Chief Vanderbrook
2026-04-16 11:30 - 13:00 | Embassy Suites Estero
The future of Greater Estero is changing – find out where growth is happening and how our public safety services are planning for the future.
Join the Greater Estero Chamber of Commerce for the April Food for Thought Luncheon featuring Estero Fire Rescue Chief Scott Vanderbrook. There are big plans in store for Estero Fire Rescue as they plan and build new facilities and services to stay ahead of the rapid growth in greater Estero. Learn about the various ways Estero Fire Rescue is leading the way and ensuring the safety of our businesses and residents.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be inspired, informed, and connected!
Thursday, April 16
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Embassy Suites Estero
10450 Corkscrew Commons Dr, Estero, FL 33928
Enjoy a buffet lunch courtesy of the talented chefs at Embassy Suites, and connect with fellow business and community leaders in a relaxed setting.
Tickets:
$30 for Chamber members
$40 for non-members
Get your tickets here: https://business.esterochamber.org/events/

The Road Ahead: Estero Traffic Briefing
2026-04-17 10:00 - 11:30 | Estero Park and Recreation Center
April Community Meeting

April Community & Membership Meeting

A large turnout of 130 Estero area residents identified their most important road and traffic issues at an April 17th Engage Estero Community Meeting. Don Scott, AICP, Executive Director of Lee County’s Metropolitan Planning Office addressed the residents and informed them of many projects in the works.
He also talked about why developments are outpacing road infrastructure. He discussed the funding options, what seemed feasible and what are the ramifications. e.g. Increasing sales tax, impact fees, gas tax.
A question and answer session gave residents a chance to share their various concerns.
The biggest issue seemed to be about the expansion of Interstate 75 from six lanes to 10 lanes. Many residents came prepared with detailed questions and statements regarding the issue of noise and the status of detailed studies being considered by FDOT.
Brian Bollas from the FDOT regional office was also scheduled to speak on the latest I-75 expansion to 10 lanes from 6 lanes, but regrettably had to cancel his attendance one day before the event “due to unforeseen circumstances.” Brian Bollas said FDOT “will be happy to discuss our projects at a future date in the Fall.”
“We take public comments very seriously and scheduling issues does not imply we do not consider public comments important. We welcome and address all comments and until such time when we are available to attend the group’s meeting, the public can submit comments, questions, and concerns via our project website.”
WINK News also attended the event and taped many of the speakers who had questions. Engage Estero indicated at the meeting their plans to provide a copy video to FDOT for their review.
Several speakers from CopperLeaf referenced the need for correct noise abatement and asked that FDOT at least hear their concerns. They were disappointed that FDOT did not attend the meeting.

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Speaker Series: The Civilian Conservation Corps
2026-04-18 09:30 - 11:00 | Villages of Country Creek, 21180 Country Creek Dr, Estero
Join the Estero Historical Society on Saturday, April 18 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 Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC).
Learn how this New Deal program put millions to work during the Great Depression and left a lasting mark on Florida’s parks, forests, and communities.
Tickets are $15 for EHS and BS Historical Society members and $20 for non-members and includes a continental breakfast.
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

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

25 Year Celebration for Centers for Multiple Sclerosis
2026-04-25 16:00 - 20:00 | Centers for Multiple Sclerosis, 8200 Health Center Blvd Ste 104, Estero, FL, 34135, United States
Join the Centers for MS for a special evening that will bring together friends, supporters, and community members to celebrate 25 years of supporting the Center’s mission.
Guests will enjoy a lively atmosphere featuring delicious food, refreshing drinks, and entertainment. The evening offers a wonderful opportunity to connect, unwind, and give back. Cocktail attire.

Tickets are $100 pr person or $150 per couple, and can be reserved online at https://donorbox.org/events/905308/steps/choose_tickets

The Multiple Sclerosis Center of Southwest Florida, dba Centers for Multiple Sclerosis is a 501(c)3 organization.

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

Preparing for the 2026 Election Partnering and Networking for Voter Engagement﻿
2026-05-02 09:00 - 11:00 | The Collaboratory, 2031 Jackson Street, Fort Myers and Online
Get the latest, most accurate updates on:
· Voter Essentials: Registration, ID requirements, and Vote-By-Mail.
· Protection & Security: Ensuring election integrity and restoring voting rights.
· Tools for Success: Utilizing VOTE411 for nonpartisan info.

Florida Repertory Theatre: A Midsummer Night's Dream
2026-05-05 11:00 - 12:00 | South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Parkway, Estero
With mistaken identities, enchanted love potions, and a hilarious group of amateur actors, A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a joyful tale of love, magic, and mischief. This playful and accessible adaptation captures the wonder of Shakespeare’s original while making it fun and engaging for the audience.

Council Meeting
2026-05-06 09:30 - 17:00 | Village of Estero, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
The Village of Estero Council will discuss several important matters at its next meeting on Wednesday, May 6.
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.
Among the items on the agenda:

Updates to impact fees, collected for every new building permit, to increase funds to the Estero and San Carlos Park Fire Districts, which the Village has service agreements with. To comply with Lee County regulations, the fee increases will be stepped up annually through 2029.
A $219,000 contract renewal with Kemper Sports Management, which manages the Estero Sports Park, that would extend its services by 2 years.
A $38,000 contract with Trebilcock Consulting Services for traffic and safety improvements on River Ranch Road.

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 “Council Meeting.”
How to Attend
This Village Council meeting will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 6, in the Council Chambers at Village Hall, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle.
Meetings are also streamed live online and can be accessed here.
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 agendas and supporting documents can be viewed approximately one week prior to each meeting at https://estero-fl.gov/meetings.

Ribbon Cutting for Ideal Nutrition
2026-05-06 11:00 - 14:00 | Ideal Nutrition, 22780 Via Villagio Unit 107, Estero, FL 33928
Join the Greater Estero Chamber of Commerce as we celebrate the Ribbon Cutting for Ideal Nutrition in Estero on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. Festivities run from 11 AM – 2 PM, with the official ribbon cutting at 12:30 PM at their new location: 22780 Via Villagio, Unit 107, Estero.
This lively celebration will feature a DJ, local vendors, special guests, and a raffle for one month of free meals. Guests can also take advantage of an exclusive 15% in-store discount available throughout the day
Ideal Nutrition, a Florida-based meal service company, offers fresh, chef-prepared meals through convenient retail storefronts and delivery options.
“For us, this is more than opening a store,” says the owner. “It’s about building something meaningful in a growing community. Estero is a unique market, and we saw a strong opportunity to introduce a concept that aligns with people’s increasing focus on health, convenience, and quality. We’re excited to be part of that growth and to bring a solution that fits into our customers’ everyday lives.”
Join us in welcoming this exciting addition to our local business community.

Rotary Club of Estero Golf Fundraiser
2026-05-09 | Vasari Country Club, 11250 Via Del Vasari Drive, Bonita Springs
This four person scramble includes breakfast and lunch, hole contests, prizes, silent auction and 50/50 raffle.

“Hank the Brave” Community Storytime
2026-05-09 11:00 - 14:00 | South County Regional Library
Local Author to Host “Hank the Brave” Community Storytime Celebration at South County Regional Library
Southwest Florida author and entrepreneur Dana Eikenberg is introducing families to an unlikely hero—a lovable boxer who freezes over something as small as a fly—in her debut children’s book Hank the Brave, which will be celebrated at a community storytime event on Saturday, May 9, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the South County Regional Library in Estero.
The free, family-friendly event will introduce young readers and their families to Hank, a big-hearted boxer whose story reminds children that bravery doesn’t always look loud or heroic. Sometimes courage grows quietly—especially when love is involved.
Inspired by Eikenberg’s real-life dog Hank, the story follows a lovable boxer who suddenly finds himself afraid of something very small. With patience, encouragement, and the love of his family, Hank discovers that being brave doesn’t mean being fearless—it means trying anyway.
The Hank the Brave Community Storytime Celebration will include:

A live reading of Hank the Brave
• Interactive “Brave Kid” activities for children
• Photo opportunities with life-size character displays
• Meet-the-author time with Dana Eikenberg
• Small giveaways for children—including Hank’s favorite snack from the story: a peanut butter banana bite (for your favorite dog at home)

Eikenberg, founder of the Southwest Florida catering and events company One and Done with Cookie, wrote Hank the Brave after noticing her own dog’s surprising fear. What began as a funny moment at home grew into a story about how love and encouragement help children face fears in their own time.
“This story started as something small and a little funny in our home,” Eikenberg said. “But it became a reminder that bravery often grows from love—someone believing in you enough to help you try.”
The story has already begun to resonate with early readers, particularly families with children navigating everyday fears and moments of hesitation.
Families, young readers, and dog lovers of all ages are welcome to attend.
Event Details
Hank the Brave Community Storytime Celebration
Saturday, May 9, 2026
11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
South County Regional Library (Meeting Room)
21100 Three Oaks Parkway
Estero, Florida
More information:
hankthebrave.com
About the Author
Dana Eikenberg is a Southwest Florida entrepreneur and founder of the catering company One and Done with Cookie. Hank the Brave is her first children’s book and is inspired by her real-life boxer, Hank. The story celebrates quiet courage and the powerful role love plays in helping children face their fears.

Ribbon Cutting for Fuego Pilates
2026-05-09 11:30 - 12:30 | 19970 S Tamiami Trail, Estero, FL 33928
Join the Greater Estero Chamber of Commerce in celebrating the Ribbon Cutting for Fuego Pilates on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 11:30 am. The event starts at 11:30 am at their new location at 19970 S Tamiami Trail, Estero in the Cayo De Estero Shoppes. Come check out their unique Modern Xformer Pilates class options in the new modern studio and take advantage of their Founding Member Specials!

From Swamp to Suburb: The True Cost of Wetland Loss in Florida
2026-05-13 12:00 - 13:30 | Online
This webinar will explore the drivers and consequences of wetland loss in Florida, with a special focus on new data and tools that visualize this change over time, highlighting the Conservancy of Southwest Florida’s recently released wetlands mapping tool.

Women's Breast Health Screening Day
2026-05-14 14:00 - 16:00 | Lee Health Coconut Point Healthy Life Center, 23450 Via Coconut Point, Estero
Schedule a mammogram appointment and enjoy a delicious sample from the Lee Health Demonstration Kitchen and create a fresh flower bouquet.

Walk On The Wild Side
2026-05-15 09:30 - 10:30 | Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach
Learn about the fascinating vegetation and wildlife that reside in our maritime hammock ecosystem and enjoy a little local history along the way.

Cultivating Utopia: ﻿Koreshan Unity Garden Tour
2026-05-16 10:30 - 12:00 | Koreshan State Park 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero, FL 33298
Join Koreshan State Park for a 90-minute guided walking tour of the Koreshan grounds, where you’ll explore historic buildings, stroll through unique plantings, and hear the story of how this fascinating community helped shape Florida’s horticultural history.

Planning Zoning & Design Board Meeting
2026-05-19 16:30 - 20:00 | 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, May 19.
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:

A Proposal by TRG Group to build a mixed-use development with 370 multifamily units and 33,000 square feet of commercial space on an undeveloped 31-acre lot at the corner of Estero Parkway and Three Oaks Parkway.
Rezoning of a 2-acre site slightly south of US 41 and Broadway Ave. E. to allow for the construction of a 16,000-square foot commercial building.
Review of a request to build a two-story, 76,000-square-foot storage building on an existing storage property south of the Publix Shopping Center at Corkscrew Road and US 41.

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.”

Council Meeting
2026-05-20 09:30 - 17:00 | Village of Estero, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle, Estero, FL, 33928, United States
Village meetings are held at the Village Hall at 9401 Corkscrew Palms Blvd in Chambers.
Among the items on the agenda:
• Proposed special assessments for the Sunny Grove Park and Cypress Bend RV Resort sewer conversion projects. The community’s existing onsite “package plant” is failing; this assessment will allow Lee County Solid Waste to begin handling these services, mitigating the current negative impacts on the environment, property values, and water quality. To gain approval for a special assessment under Florida law, the Village must show benefits warranting the expenditure. This special assessment would allow the Village to collect assessments if Sunny Grove or Cypress Bend RV Resort are not able to pay for this construction.
• An interlocal agreement between the Village and Lee County EMS, which will allow for updated impact fees to support these services. The fees were last updated in 2018.
Councilors will also hold a workshop to receive updates on the Bonita-Estero Rail Trail (BERT) project, including corridor acquisitions.
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 agendas and supporting documents can be viewed approximately one week prior to each meeting at https://estero-fl.gov/meetings.

All Hazards Preparedness with Lee County Emergency Management
2026-05-21 14:00 - 15:00 | South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Parkway, Estero
Join Lee County Emergency Management for an informative session on Hurricane Preparedness. Learn critical tips and strategies to protect your home, family, and community when disaster strikes. From creating survival kits, to understanding evacuation routes, this program will equip you with the knowledge you need to face the season with confidence.

Grand Re-opening of Coup Electric Ribbon Cutting
2026-05-22 17:00 - 20:00 | 17251 Alico Center Blvd., Unit 5, Fort Myers, FL 33967
Grand Re-Opening Celebration & Ribbon Cutting – Coup Electric Co.
Join the Greater Estero Chamber of Commerce as we celebrate the newly remodeled space at Coup Electric Co. with a special Grand Re-Opening event!
This celebration will include an official ribbon cutting along with an evening of networking, fun, and community connection. Guests will enjoy food and drinks, plus a unique opportunity to vote for the “Best Electrical Project” created by Coup Electric’s talented technicians. Prizes will be awarded, making this a can’t-miss event!
Date: Friday, May 22
Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: 17251 Alico Center Blvd., Unit 5, Fort Myers, FL 33967
We invite Chamber members, local businesses, and the community to come out, tour the newly renovated space, and celebrate with us.
