Quentin Boys, Author at SWFL Family

Fourth of July Events in Collier and Lee Counties

Quentin Boys — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 21:52:15 +0000

Fourth of July events in Collier and Lee Counties offer more than just fireworks—they’re a full celebration of community and patriotism. From festive parades and historical tributes to family-friendly festivals, concerts, and 5Ks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re starting your day early in Naples or capping it off with fireworks in Marco Island, these events make it easy to celebrate the red, white, and blue!

Fourth of July Run/Walk 5k – Naples

Celebrate the 4th of July by running, run/walking, or walking a 5K. Proceeds of the GCR Firecracker 5K will go to the Gulf Coast Runners Youth Development Fund
The 5 K course runs from 10th Street to the southern entrance of Fleischmann Park, looping twice.

July 4, 7 am
Fleischmann Park
stepoutside.org/event/fourth-of-july-5k-2025-07-04-naples-fl.html

Free Admission to Naples Botanical Garden – Naples

Naples Botanical Garden is offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy the scenic setting of their garden for free on Independence Day. This is a great way to find some peace and relaxation at the beginning of the big celebration.

July 4, 8 am – 2 pm
Naples Botanical Garden
https://www.naplesgarden.org/events/4th-of-july-2/

CANCELLED: Naples Fourth of July Parade

Bring your lawn chairs and set yourself up for the annual Naples Fourth of July parade. This tradition will kick off your patriotic day with floats and performances throughout the morning. Come early to beat the traffic. CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER.

~~July 4, 9 am~~
Downtown Naples, 5th Ave South
neafamily.com/calendar/#/details/fourth-of-july-parade/14265930/2025-06-25T21

Bonita Springs Independence Day Parade – Bonita Springs

The annual Bonita Springs Independence Day parade on Old 41 features floats throwing candy and the local firefighters who have organized the event since 1958. View the parade from the Rooftop at Riverside, where they are hosting a Red, White, and Mimosas event with a $35 entry fee.

July 4, 9 am
10450 Reynolds Street
www.napleslive239.com/event/bonita-springs-independence-day-parade

Estero Historical Society Cottage Museum 4th of July Celebration

Celebrate Independence Day with History & Fun! Step back in time as Jacob Winge, in full period costume, delivers a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence.

July 4, 9:00 am – 10:30 am
285 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero
www.esterohistoricalsociety.com/event/annual-4th-of-july-celebration-2

Babcock Ranch Independence Day Celebration – Babcock Ranch

Celebrate the Fourth with a family-friendly evening of live music, food trucks, and a drone show at Founder’s Square. The fun kicks off with a DJ and yard games.

July 4, 4 – 9:30 pm
Founder’s Square, Babcock Ranch
www.babcockranchliving.com

Freedom Fest 2025 – Lehigh Acres

This community celebration at Victory Town Center includes music, food vendors, kids’ activities, and a colorful fireworks show after sunset.

July 4, 5 pm – fireworks to follow
1201 Taylor Lane Extension, Lehigh Acres
www.lehighacrescitizens.org

Red, White & Boom – Cape Coral

Enjoy the largest single-day event in Southwest Florida at the Red, White & Boom celebration in Cape Coral. Attendees can expect an evening filled with musical performances by DJ Rifik, Brendan Walter, Mikalay Williams, and renowned country artist George Birge, all with a climactic fireworks finale.

July 4, 5 pm – 10 pm
Cape Coral Bridge, 1015 Cultural Park Blvd
www.capeboom.com/home

Downtown Fort Myers 4th of July Celebration

Head over to the Fort Myers River District for Independence Day. Beginning with a performance of the Star Spangled Banner, followed by The Caloosa River Band playing music you can dance to while the fireworks go off at the finale. This event is Is free with options for paid VIP seating.

July 4, 6 pm – 10 pm
Caloosa Sound Amphitheatre, 2101 Edwards Drive
www.luminaryhotel.com/events/downtown-fort-myers-4th-of-july-celebration-2025

Mighty Mussels Fourth of July Fireworks & Family Picnic

Celebrate the Fourth of July with an all-American evening of baseball, food, and fireworks at Hammond Stadium. Families can also reserve the Fourth of July Family Picnic Special.

July 4, 7 pm (gates open at 6 pm)
14400 Six Mile Cypress Parkway, Fort Myers
www.milb.com/fort-myers

Fort Myers Beach Fireworks Show

Enjoy a dazzling fireworks display launched from the pier over the Gulf of Mexico. Arrive early for best parking and beach space.

July 4, 9 pm
Fort Myers Beach Pier
www.fortmyersbeachfl.gov

Naples Pier Fireworks – Naples

Go down to the Naples pier for the annual fireworks display from a barge just west of the pier.

July 4, 9 pm
Naples Pier
neafamily.com/calendar/#/details/fireworks-at-naples-pier/14265929/2025-06-25T21

Marco Island Fireworks – Marco Island

With a scenic Gulf Coast backdrop, this is the perfect way to spend your Fourth of July celebration. Bring chairs, flashlights, and patience for beach traffic.

July 4, 9 pm
South Marco Island Beach
www.cityofmarcoisland.com/o/comi/article/2270642

The post Fourth of July Events in Collier and Lee Counties appeared first on SWFL Family.

Family-Friendly Theater Performances in Southwest Florida This Summer

Quentin Boys — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 19:59:09 +0000

Are you ready to start defying gravity? Family-friendly theater performances in Southwest Florida this summer offer a wide range of engaging productions perfect for all ages. From Spongebob saving Bikini Bottom from a volcanic eruption to Matilda freeing her fellow students with newfound powers, there’s no shortage of exciting stories taking the stage. Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing, a cool escape from the heat, or a unique date night idea, these shows will keep audiences entertained all season long. Explore the lineup below and start .

Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre – Fort Myers

1380 Colonial Blvd. Ft. Myers

The Spongebob Musical: Youth Edition
Come along with Spongebob as he brings his friends with him on an adventure to save Bikini Bottom from a volcano eruption in this adventure filled with musical numbers and overflowing talent.
Dates: June 12 – June 27
https://broadwaypalm.com/shows/spongebob-square-pants/

Legally Blonde: The Musical
If you’re prepared to laugh a lot then look no further to watch Legally Blonde. Follow Elle Woods on her journey to Harvard as she beats the odds in her own, fashionable, way. By the end of the show you’ll be saying: Omigod you guys! Dates: May 30 – June 28
https://broadwaypalm.com/shows/legally-blonde/

The Naples Players – Naples

701 5th Ave S, Naples

Six: Teen Edition
“Six: Teen Edition” is a vibrant, high-energy musical adaptation of the popular show Six, tailored for a younger audience. In this student-produced version, middle school students will audition for the roles of the six wives of King Henry VIII, each vying for the title of lead singer in a pop concert-style competition. Dates: June 28 – 29

Beetlejuice, JR
It’s showtime! The ghost-with-the-most takes the stage in Beetlejuice JR., a frightfully funny musical based on the hit film and Broadway sensation. Dates: July 19 – 22

Ride the Cyclone, The Musical: High School Edition
“Ride the Cyclone: High School Edition” is a darkly comedic and thought-provoking musical that delves into the themes of life, death, and self-discovery. Dates: August 2 – 3

Sweeny Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street: Teen Edition
Follow Sweeny Todd in this dark but oddly humorous tale of revenge against the people who previously incarcerated him. With dark ballads and dry humor, you can expect a compelling story to unfold.
Dates: August 8 – 10
https://naplesplayers.org/tnpa-productions/

Gulfshore Playhouse – Naples

100 Goodlette-Frank Rd, Naples

Roald Dahl’s Matilda Jr. The Musical
Experience the journey of the miracle child, Matilda, as she frees the “revolting children” of her school from the oppressive headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, in this humorous and fun-filled adventure.
Dates: July 25 – July 27
https://www.gulfshoreplayhouse.org/shows-events/matildatix/

The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical
See a fresh new take on the classic novel with this rockin’ musical. Follow Percy Jackson to camp half-blood and experience the whole story of his quest to find his mother and clear his name from the gods.
Dates: June 27 – June 29
https://www.gulfshoreplayhouse.org/shows-events/tlttix/

Children for the Arts – Naples

The Pulte Center Stage, St. John The Evangelist Church, 625 111th Avenue North

Alice in Wonderland
Go with Alice down the rabbit hole and discover Wonderland in this classic production. This production features children ages 6-15 in a Summer intensive where they only need one night to wow you. Tickets for this event are not pre-sold. A $10 donation is suggested at the door.
Date: July 25
https://www.childrenforthearts.com

Florida Repertory Theatre – Fort Myers

2268 Bay St, Fort Myers

Annie Jr.
Accompany Annie on her quest to find the parents who abandoned her at the orphanage that the cruel Miss Hannigan oppresses. Experience the heart of Annie as she charms everyone despite starting with nothing.
Dates: June 23 – July 3
https://ci.ovationtix.com/36930/production/1236300?performanceId=11623203

The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition
Join Dorothy as she is thrust into the Land of Oz in this timeless classic musical adventure. See as she comes across her newfound friends and helps them with their issues, all the while trying to find her way back home to Kansas
Dates: July 7 – July 18
https://ci.ovationtix.com/36930/production/1236305

Peter Pan Jr.
Witness the fairytale story of Peter Pan and Tinkerbell as they take the Darling children on a magical adventure that they’ll never forget all the while crossing paths with Captain Hook and a ticking crocodile.
Dates: July 21 – August 1
https://ci.ovationtix.com/36930/production/1236306

Naples Performing Arts Center – Naples

MAC at The Community School of Naples: 13275 Livingston Rd, Naples

Frozen Kids
Watch a Jr. production of the famous Disney movie musical, Frozen. Follow Anna and Hans on their quest to find their sister Elsa and save Arendelle from the threat that looms over it.
Dates: June 27 & June 28
https://www.tix.com/ticket-sales/naplesperformingartscenter/5030

Chicago: Teen Edition
Experience the classic musical of Chicago. Follow Roxie Hart on her journey to be the next vaudevillian and live a lavishly devilish life filled with publicity.
Dates: July 31 & August 1
https://naplesperformingartscenter.com/

Alliance for the Arts – Fort Myers

10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers

In the Heights
This is a musical that seamlessly blends culture and music, creating a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else. Immersing you into the Washington Heights, you follow Graffiti Pete and many of his friends and family in the bustling lives they all lead.
Dates: June 26 – June 29
https://www.artinlee.org/event/youth-theatre-presents-in-the-heights/2025-06-26/

The post Family-Friendly Theater Performances in Southwest Florida This Summer appeared first on SWFL Family.

Free Outdoor Concerts in Collier and Lee Counties This Summer

Quentin Boys — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 18:41:47 +0000

Hear that beat in the air? Southwest Florida’s Collier and Lee counties are hosting free live outdoor concerts this summer. Whether you’re planning a fun night out with the kids or a relaxed date night under the stars, enjoy diverse musical performances in scenic outdoor settings.

Live Music in Collier County

Stan’s Sunday Funday – Marco Island
Presented at the Goodland waterfront, Stan’s Idle Hour Seafood Restaurant hosts various events and bands every Sunday of the month. They typically host local rock and country bands/artists, such as Rock Republic and the Shane Duncan Band, from 1-6:30 p.m. every Sunday. The whole scenery creates a perfect setting for a sunny summer day in Marco Island.

Stan’s Idle Hour Seafood Restaurant
221 Harbour Pl N, Goodland
www.stansidlehourgoodland.com

Food & Thought Live Music – Naples
Seated at the center of Naples, you can find the local restaurant Food & Thought. You can find liAay various artists throughout the month, from Thursday to Saturday, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. You can catch jazz bands and open mic nights all month long while surrounded by the plants in their courtyard.

Food & Thought
2132 Tamiami Trl, Naples
foodandthought1.com

Sunset Melodies Concert Series – Marco Island
The Sunset Melodies series continues to bring top tribute bands to Veterans Community Park on Marco Island. While some events are ticketed, many are free and open to the public. These concerts offer a relaxed atmosphere with food trucks and a family-friendly environment. Attendees can enjoy performances by tribute bands covering artists like Fleetwood Mac and Bob Seger.
Veterans Community Park
901 Park Ave, Marco Island
www.sunsetmelodies.com

Mercato Nights Music Series – Naples
Residents can expect an evening of live music from talented artists and cover bands every Thursday of the month from June 5th to December 4th. Families can enjoy the wonderful outdoor setting of Mercato while enjoying the music from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. People are welcome to bring lawn chairs to enjoy the music, but outside food and beverages are not permitted.

Mercato
9127 Strada Place, Naples
https://experiencemercato.com/events

The Sugarshack – Bonita Springs
Sugarshack Downtown in Bonita Springs offers live music five nights a week, typically Wednesday through Sunday, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.. Combining performances from local and regional artists/bands paired with the food they offer there creates a vibrant atmosphere for guests. With play areas and live art, this spot serves as a good place to bring the kids as well.

The Sugarshack
27421 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs
https://www.sugarshackdowntown.com

Music in the Town Center – Ave Maria
The town of Ave Maria hosts music every week with their weekly showcase of local talent. Every Tuesday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. you can expect to see musical performances by local bands and artists at the Ave Maria town center. Ave Maria is also offering a Christmas in July event in the town square on July 19 from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. hosting festive live music and Christmas themed decor all the while spreading some early holiday cheer during the summer months!

Town Center of Ave Maria
5076 Annunciation Circle, Ave Maria
www.avemaria.com/news-and-events/events

Live Music in Lee County

Island Hopper Songwriter Fest – Fort Myers Beach
Scheduled for September 19–28, 2025, this festival features over 100 free performances by BMI’s top singer-songwriters at intimate island venues. Recognized as one of the top music festivals in the U.S., it offers a unique opportunity to experience live music in a picturesque setting. While the event falls outside the summer months, it’s worth noting for those planning ahead.
www.island-hopperfest.visitfortmyers.com

Bayside Park Concert Series – Fort Myers Beach
Every Sunday in June, the Bayside Park Concert Series presents free live performances at Bayside Veterans Park, located at the corner of Old San Carlos Blvd. and 1st Street in Fort Myers Beach. Concerts run from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. and feature a variety of local bands. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and well-behaved pets on a leash. Please note that outside food and beverages are not permitted.

Bayside Park, Fort Myers Beach
Corner of Old San Carlos Blvd and 1st Street
www.fortmyersbeach.org/events/bayside-concert-series

Alliance for the Arts – Fort Myers
During the second Wednesday of every month, the Alliance for the Arts hosts a free live music event with their Wednesday night market. This event goes from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., featuring live music, food trucks, local vendors, and art activities for kids. As well as serving a stage for local music, they also have an open mic so people from around can bring their own bit of talent to the stage.

Art Center in Fort Myers
10091 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers
https://www.artinlee.org/

First Friday Concert Series – Fort Myers
On June 6, 2025, Gulf Coast Town Center hosts its First Friday Concert Series from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. in the courtyard between GameTime and Burntwood Tavern. This free event features live music performances, and attendees are invited to bring their own chairs. Food and beverages from the center’s restaurants are available for purchase; however, coolers and outside food and drinks are not permitted.

Gulf Coast Town Center
In the courtyard
www.gulfcoasttowncenter.com/event/concert-series-4

Music Walk – Downtown Fort Myers
On Friday, June 20, 2025, from 6:00 to 9:30 p.m., the Fort Myers Music Walk takes place in the River District. Experience live music at over a dozen venues, including restaurants, galleries, and bars, along with street performers. The event showcases a range of music, from indie rock to jazz and classical, and is free to attend.

Downtown Fort Myers
https://m.facebook.com/fortmyersmusicwalk/

Concert in the Park – Cape Coral
The City of Cape Coral Parks and Recreation Department typically hosts free concerts in the Park events during the summer months. These concerts feature local bands and are held at scenic locations like the Cape Coral Yacht Club Beach. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs to enjoy the music.

https://www.capecoral.gov/department/parks_and_recreationhome/special_events/concert_in_the_park.php

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Best Ice Cream in Southwest Florida: Top Spots in Collier and Lee Counties

Quentin Boys — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 19:18:37 +0000

Looking to beat the heat in Southwest Florida? Whether you’re in Collier or Lee County—Naples, Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, or Marco Island—there’s no sweeter way to cool off than with a scoop of local ice cream. From classic parlors to boozy blends and nitrogen creations, we’ve rounded up the best ice cream spots in Southwest Florida to help you chill out all summer.

Ave Maria

Meltz Ice Cream
5076 Annunciation Cir., Ave Maria
786-419-5690
Sells unique rolled ice cream along with many other sweets you can top it with.
www.meltzicecream.com

Immokalee

Mi Ranchito Ice Cream & Cakes
710 W Main St., Immokalee
239-657-1766
A variety of ice cream, soft serve, and shakes.
Facebook: @Mi.Ranchito, Instagram: @miranchitoinc

Naples

Bontá Bakery
824 Fifth Ave. S., Naples
239-234-6631
Unusual flavors of ice cream, along with pastries and sandwiches.
www.bontabakery.com

Fernweh Ice Cream
2740 Bayshore Dr., Naples
239-304-8922
Locally owned ice cream store with interesting ice cream combos and exclusive boozy flavors.
Facebook: @fernwehicecream

Häagen-Dazs
5455 Tamiami Trl., Naples • 239-591-1144
2002 Tamiami Trl., Naples • 239-263-4900
www.icecream.com

M&M’s Cafe & Royal Scoop
1200 Fifth Ave. S., Naples
239-261-5317
Situated in the middle of the Tin City Waterfront Shops.
www.cafemnm.com

Naples Ice Cream Shoppe
1269 Airport-Pulling Rd. S., Naples
239-331-8905
Features 32+ flavors of super-premium ice cream (including vegan options), acai bowls, and milkshakes.
www.naplesicecreamshoppe.com

Scoops Ice Cream
15215 Collier Blvd, #318, Naples
239-304-8122
2378 Immokalee Rd, Naples
239-734-3403
Select from over 60 flavors of homemade premium ice cream. They have many gluten-free, nut-free, and dairy-free flavors to choose from. Acai, pitaya, and coconut bowls are also on the menu.
www.scoopsofnaples.com

Subzero Nitrogen Ice Cream
2359 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples
239-260-5716
Combines ice cream and science by using liquid nitrogen to make each ice cream to order in front of the customers.
www.subzeroicecream.com

Bonita Springs

For Heaven Shakes
27515 Old 41 Rd., Bonita Springs
239-495-0647
A little hole-in-the-wall offering big flavor.
Intagram: @for_heaven_shakes_icecream

Sweet Melissa’s Homemade Ice Cream & Key Lime Pies
4445 Bonita Beach Rd. SW, Bonita Springs
239-388-3808
Sweet Melissa’s employees help customers find what best suits their sweet tooth.
www.bonitabeachsweets.com

Tipsy Udder
25261 Chamber of Commerce Drive, Bonita Springs
239-949-7172
Known for offering ice cream flavors you wouldn’t find anywhere else.
www.tipsyudder.com

Estero/Fort Myers

Insomnia Cookies
19800 Village Center Dr., Fort Myers
605-318-7766
A small assortment of homemade ice cream flavors to pair with cookies.
insomniacookies.com

Le Macaron – French Pastries
10801 Corkscrew Rd., Estero • 239-949-2116
A vast selection of ice cream flavors along with a large assortment of macarons.
www.lemacaron-us.com

Peter’s German Cafe
1412 Dean St., Fort Myers
239-400-5282
Located in the Fort Myers River District,
Peter’s German Café offers a wide variety of ice cream flavors, plus sandwiches and coffee.
Facebook: @petersicecreamofficial

San Carlos Scoops
18731 Three Oaks Pkwy., Fort Myers
239-412-3525
sancarlosscoops.com

Sospiri Italian Café and Gelato
23151 Village Shops Way, Estero
239-237-6223
Cool off with gelato while shopping at
Coconut Point Mall.
www.mysospiri.square.site

Wonderland Cookie Dough & Ice Cream
5781 Bayshore Rd., North Fort Myers
239-327-4161
The interior is based on Alice in Wonderland, and the ice cream is just as whimsical.
Facebook: @WonderlandCookieDoughSWFL

Cape Coral

Spaghy
3521 Del Prado Blvd. S., Cape Coral
239-471-7613
This shop puts an interesting “twist” on ice cream by plating it into strands, giving an almost spaghetti look to the ice cream.
www.spaghy.com

The Ice Cream Club of Cape Coral
2384 Surfside Blvd., Cape Coral
239-282-2582
This family owned shop has parlor-style ice cream, yogurt, and related products.
www.icecreamclubcapecoral.com

The French Press
5789 Cape Harbour Dr., Cape Coral
239-542-0212
A sizable selection of eye-catching flavors that scream sweetness. The store also serves breakfast.
www.thefrenchpressfl.com

Marco Island

Beebe’s Ice Cream
599 S Collier Blvd., Marco Island
239-642-9800
Located in the middle of Marco Walk plaza surrounded by restaurants.
www.marcowalkplaza.combeebes.html

Mr. Bentley’s Homemade Ice Cream
1035 N. Collier Blvd., Marco Island
239-970-0608
www.mrbentleysicecream.com

Sweet Annie’s Ice Cream & Candy Shoppe
692 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island
239-642-7180
Large selection of ice cream paired with retro candies and sodas.
www.sweetanniesmarcoisland.com