Micaela & Josh Prince of Fort Myers
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A clever and humorous picture book about a skeleton who is falling to pieces and needs help pulling himself together.
A fun and inviting introduction to the joy and wonder of first school days that stars a lovable and mischievous hero!
Follow Boo the Ghost as he celebrates his first Halloween with all his Monster friends! He is a shy little ghost and quickly realizes he is afraid of many things.
Ghoulia is a zombie girl who learns how to navigate her undead life with the land of the living. She is quirky, cute, fun and not that scary.
Whytraditionsmatter morethancandy
ByMandyCarter
Octoberalwaysarriveswiththesame buzzinmyhouse.Costumes,pumpkins, hauntedhouses,and,ofcourse,thebig questioneverykidasks:Howmuch candycanwegetthisyear?
ButwhenIstepbackandreallythink aboutit,thecandyisneverwhatlasts.It disappearsinaweek,sometimesinjusta fewdays.Whatsticksarethetraditions; thelittleritualsI’vebuiltyearafteryear thatmakethisseasonmorethanjust aboutsweets.
Thetraditionsthatlast
Forus,Halloweenwouldn’tbecompletewithoutourfamilymovienight. Everyyear,wevoteonwhichspooky(but nottooscary)movietowatch,andthe kidsgoall-inhelpingcreateanover-thetopspreadofHalloween-themedfood. Thinkeyeballpasta,ghost-shapedcheese andcrackers,andabubblingpunchbowl worthyofanywitch’sbrew.Thatnight hasbecomeamarkeroftheseason, somethingwealllookforwardtoassoon asthecalendarflipstoOctober.
Infact,thekidsloveitsomuchthatin recentyears,they’veaddedafriends’versionofthetradition.Theyinvitetheir buddiesoverfortheirownHalloween movienight,completewiththeirown spookysnacks.Itmakesmesmileto knowthatsomethingwestartedtogether asafamilyhasgrownintoamemory theywanttosharewiththeirfriends,too. Whenmykidswereyounger,October
meantpumpkinpatchesandfallfestivals withhayrides.Thesedays,it’slessabout pettingzoosandpumpkinpicking,and moreaboutbravingscarycornmazes andhauntedhouses.Thethrilllooksdifferent,butthetraditionofdoingsomethingseasonaltogetherremains.
Andthentherearethecostumes.I usedtoloveputtingtogetherfamilythemedoutfits.Itwassofuntocoordinatecostumeswherewealldressedas charactersfromthesamestory.Nowthat mykidsareolder,thosefamilycostumes havepivotedintogroupcostumeswith theirfriendsplusmedoingsomething completelyrandom.Andyouknowwhat? Iloveitjustasmuch.Seeingthemlaugh, plan,andcreatememorieswiththeir peopleisjustanotherreminderthattraditionsdon’thavetostaythesametostay meaningful.Theygrowrightalongside ourkids.
Connectionovercandy
WhenIthinkaboutit,thesetraditions arewhatrootmykidsinasenseoffamily andbelonging.Theyremindusthateven inthechaosofschoolschedules,sports practices,andbusydays,wepauseto celebratetogether.Itdoesn’thavetobe elaborateorexpensive.Whatmattersis theconnection.
Becausethetruthis,ourkidswon’t rememberhowmanyReese’sorKitKats theygotin2025.Buttheywillremember theyeartheyandtheirfriendsgotlostin ahauntedmaze,theHalloweennightwe
made“eyeballpasta”togetherortheway wesatsidebysidewithmatchingsocks duringourannualmovienight.
Growingwiththeseason
Traditionsdon’thavetobeperfector permanent.Theycanshiftasourfamilies shift.Therealgiftisgivingourkidsmemoriesthatmakethemfeelrooted,safe, andjoyful.Andwhentheylookbackone day,Ihopethey’llseethatitwasn’tabout thecandy.Itwasaboutthetimewe carvedouttoexperiencethesilly,spooky, delicious,chaotic,laughter-filled momentsthatmadethisseasonours. Becauseintheend,longafterthe candywrappersaregone,thosetraditions willbethesweetesttreatofall.
MandyMichelleCarter...JustaSWFL momlivingthedream.Shelovesto inspireparentstospendauthentictime withyourkidsandtochaseyourown dreamsunapologetically!Foundon Instagram@mandymcarterandher familyblogatAcupful.com.
Only 4 steps and make your pumpkins look funny or scary! The different shapes give you plenty of options to personalize your pumpkins for Halloween. More Fun, Less Frustrating!
Fenvella Pumpkin Carving Kit www.amazon.com
GIDGETS, GADGETS AND GIZMOS!!
the halloween edition
These super cute Halloween fake tattoos include pumpkins, zombies, skeletons, vampire, witches, lanterns, black cats and other Halloween-related patterns! More importantly, the tattoos will glow at night!
Glow in the Dark Halloween Tattoos www.amazon.com
The challenge of building the tallest pumpkin tower without toppling it provides endless entertainment for everyone. Players also improve their fine motor skills and strategic thinking. Stack 'O Lantern encourages patience, precision, and friendly competition among kids and adults alike.
Stack 'O Lantern www.amazon.com
Get in the spooky spirit with our line of colorful coffin hot chocolates. Mix our Zombie Brew with hot water & watch it magically turn color!
Coffin Cafe Hot Chocolate mcstevens.com
This 4 pack Halloween slime kit comes in four vibrant slime colorspurple, green, white and orange. Each slime comes with Halloweenthemed mix-ins you can mix & match—pair purple with a ghost, green with a cat and spider, white with a skeleton, and orange with a pumpkin—plus other delightful add-ins for extra fun!
Halloween Slime Kit www.amazon.com
Liven up your little one’s playtime with beautiful bubbles and a lovely light show! This 13.5” wand for kids ensures double the fun with its serving of bubbles and light effects!
Halloween Bubble Scepter www.walmart.com
Uncover delightful Halloween-inspired toys in every bath bomb! Kids will love the excitement as each bomb dissolves to reveal a unique, festive toy.
Halloween Bath Bomb www.amazon.com
Gross new shapes, delicious new flavors! Mold your own delicious gummy worms and spiders shapes using a gelatin mixture.
Gummy Candy Lab www.walmart.com
OCTOBER
Things to do
Ongoing
Saturday Storytime
Barnes & Noble - Coconut Point
8052 Mediterranean Drive, Estero
Saturdays • noon 239-427-1799
Crafty Kids Hour!
Miromar Outlets
10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero
Tuesdays • 10 a.m.
Free Kids Crafts, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. near the WINK Playland. 239-948-3766
Wed - 1
Middle Grades ... Would You Rather?
East County Regional Library
881 Gunnery Road, Lehigh Acres
Wednesday, October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 • 4:30 p.m.
Which will you choose and what will your friends say? Meet with staff each week in the Teen Adventureland area where we'll pose fun “would you rather” and “this or that” questions for you to answer during our interactive discussion. Our weekly question is reserved just for grades 6-8 so we can find out what you really think about things. 239-479-4636
Thu - 2
Story time in the Children’s Garden Lakes Park
7330 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers
Thursday, October 2, 16 • 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. will be held on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month starting in October. The Lee County Library staff is inviting you & your kids to sing songs, do a craft & listen to stories Contact Info@LakesPark.org with any questions!
Pokémon Meet-Up
Cape Coral Lee County Public Library
921 S.W. 39th Terrace, Cape Coral
Thursday, October 2 • 4:15 p.m.
For ages 10-15 years. Level up your afternoon with a Pokémon meet-up packed with trading, battling and connecting with other fans. Registration is required. All materials and snacks provided, while supplies last. For ages 10-15 years to attend independently while caregivers wait nearby. Registration is required. 239-479-4636
Chess
Bonita Springs Public Library
10560 Reynolds Street, Bonita Springs
Thursday, October 2, 16, 30 • 2 p.m.
Sharpen your mind by playing a game of chess. We supply the board. For adults & teens. 239-479-4636
Teen Thursday: Photo Scavenger Hunt
East County Regional Library
881 Gunnery Road, Lehigh Acres Thursday, October 2 • 2:30 p.m.
Pick up your scavenger hunt list from the meeting room, then travel the library looking for the items listed and snap a photo of each. Photos must be of the items, in order, with no intervening photos. Bring your phone/photos back to the meeting room when you're done for a snack. For ages 12-18 years. 239-479-4636
Learn, Play & Grow with Healthy Start of SWFL
Pine Island Public Library
10701 Russell Road, Bokeelia.
Thursday, October 2 • 10:30 a.m.
Free developmental screenings will be offered for children ages 2 months - 5 years. Children can enjoy crafts, books, toys and games that help them learn and grow, while parents receive helpful resources. 239-479-4636
Fri - 3
Beetlejuice Double Feature
Riverside Community Center
3061 E Riverside Dr., Fort Myers
Friday, October 3 • 6:30 p.m.
Get ready for a night of mayhem, mischief, and Michael Keaton at his most ghoulishly iconic. Beetlejuice (1988) – The original Tim Burton cult favorite that made you afraid to say his name three times. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024) – He’s back… and it’s stranger than ever! Costumes encouraged. 239-321-7560
Sat - 4
STEM Saturday
North Fort Myers Public Library
2001 N. Tamiami Trail NE, North Fort Myers
Saturday, October 4 • 11 a.m.
For children ages 6 -11 years. Join us for a family-friendly STEM exploration. Each month will feature a different activity based on the aspects of STEM - Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. This is a great opportunity for parents and kids to build, learn and play together. Space is limited. Registration required. 239-479-4636
Barktober Fest & Pet Costume Contest
Gulf Coast Town Center,
10037 Gulf Center Drive, Fort Myers
Saturday, October 4 • 6 - 8 p.m.
Free entertainment, Too Tall Torrie- Stilt-Walking/Balloon Twisting by Way, DJ spinning Halloween Jams & Costume Contest, Touch-A-Truck & Pup Cups with LCSO, Adorable Pet ‘Kissing’ Booth and more! Registration is required to enter the Pet Costume Contest. Help your community - a suggested $5 cash donation or item off the wish at gulfcoasthumanesociety.org
11th Annual Fall Festival & Corn Mazes
Farmer Mikes U-Pick Bonita
26031 Morton Ave, Bonita Springs
October 4 - November 1
We will be open during the week for Pumpkin and Sunflower picking 9 a.m. -5 p.m., festival activities are only open on the weekends. Vendors, bounce houses & bounce pad, Sand & Tire Pit, Fun Hay Maze, Pick your Own Sunflowers, Pedal Bikes & Track, Family Friendly and Haunted Corn Mazes, Axe Throwing (Pay to Play), Pick your own pumpkin patch and more! Maze tickets are available online only. farmermikesupick.com 239-498-4576
Cape Coral Kiwanis KidsFest 2025
544 Cultural Park Blvd, Cape Coral
Saturday, October 4 • 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Get ready for a day of non-stop fun and excitement at Kiwanis KidsFest! Enjoy exciting stage shows, costume contests, games, and tons of giveaways. Admission is free! Plus, kids 12 and under can enjoy free hot dogs and chips (while supply lasts)! capecoralkiwanis.org
STEAM Team: Spooky Science
East County Regional Library
881 Gunnery Road, Lehigh Acres
Saturday, October 4 • 11 a.m.
Kids ages 6-11 years are encouraged to join us each month for STEAM Team where we will focus on one or more STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) elements through fun, hands-on activities and experiments. This month we will explore the science behind glow-in-thedark moon dough and learn how to make expanding jack-o’-lantern balloons. First come, first served. While supplies last. 239-479-4636
Annual Fall Festival
Southern Fresh Farms
8500 Penzance Blvd, Fort Myers
October 4 - November 2
Every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Come join us for a fun family day full of hayrides, bounce house, animals, fun vendors, live music and tons of fun! 239-768-0309. southernfreshfarms.com
Bones & Bales Fall Festival
Gator Mike's Family Fun Park
35 Northeast Pine Island Road, Cape Coral, October 4 - 26
Enjoy Skeleton Mazes, Face Painting, Pumpkin Patches, Vendors, Balloon Artists, A Hay Bale play area and more! Every Saturday & Sunday in October from noon -6 p.m. $10 Adult Admission - $5 Children's Admission. www.gatormikes.com
In-Store Kids Workshops: Haunted Candy Box
Home Depot - Local Home Depot locations
Saturday, October 4 • 9 a.m. to noon
Time to pull out your apron! First Saturday of every month for this fun, free event. www.homedepot.com/c/kids-workshop
"How to Train Your Dragon" Party
Pine Island Public Library
10701 Russell Road, Bokeelia
Saturday, October 4 • 1 p.m.
Do you love dragons? Join us for a roaring good time at this fun and interactive program designed for "How to Train Your Dragon" fans. Themed crafts, games, activities and refreshments will be provided. For ages 6 - 11 years. 239-479-4636
Kid's Fishing
Bass Pro Shops
10040 Gulf Center Dr, Fort Myers
Saturday, October 4 • 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Join us on the Bass Pro Lake for some fishing! We provide rods, reels and bait (everything you would need) to catch some fish. Outfitters are available to help with baiting hooks and showing kids how to fish. 239-461-7800
Things to do
Boo at the Zoo
Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd, Naples
October 10 -12 and 17-19 • 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
This year, your Zoo is bringing the movies to life and mythical magic throughout the Zoo! Guests will enjoy the Zoo magically transformed to a living movie scene, complete with costumed characters and trick-or-treating for kids 12 and under. Laugh in the face of danger as you meet a dinosaur, sail away with pirates on the Pirate Expedition Cruise, and meet mini unicorns! We invite you to be our guest as you meet some of the most royal princesses in the land, assemble with some of your favorite superheroes, marvel at a live show, and dance the day away with music. Join us for a party that gets bigger and better around every turn! All the fun is included in regular Zoo admission! www.napleszoo.org
Sun - 5
Young Eagles Rally & Pancake Breakfast
EAA Chapter 66 House at Page Field
5200 Captain Channing Page Dr., Fort Myers
Sunday, October 5 • 8 a.m.
The Young Eagles program is designed to teach youth, ages 11-17 about general aviation. You are welcome to participate in all ground activities as many times as you wish. However, the flights are limited to first flights for children 11-17. The Young Eagles first flight program is free of charge. Breakfast available for $10 per person. www.youngeaglesday.org
6th Annual Blessing of the Pets
Cape Coral Animal Shelter
325 SW 2nd Avenue, Cape Coral
Sunday, October 5 • 2 p.m.
The Cape Coral Animal Shelter invites the community to gather with their beloved pets for a heartwarming tradition. Arrive early at 1:30 p.m. capecoralanimalshelter.com
Mon - 6
Let's Play
East County Regional Library
881 Gunnery Road, Lehigh Acres
Monday, October 6, 20, 27 • 2:30 – 5 p.m.
Join friends and friendly competitors alike for games of strategy, chance and fun. Bring your own game or choose from the library's collection of chess sets, card games, board games, role playing games, Wii and more. Learn to play a new game the first Monday of each month from 2:30-3 p.m. Keep the game going or pick up a different game of your choosing. This month we're playing One Night Werewolf. 239-479-4636
Holocaust Survivor Stories
Bonita Springs Public Library
10560 Reynolds Street, Bonita Springs
Monday, October 6 • 1 p.m.
Holocaust survivors, or children of survivors, will share their families' personal experiences before, during and after the Holocaust and address why it is so important to take action against hatred and indifference. Registration is required. 239-479-4636
Tue - 7
Children's Halloween Costume Swap
Bonita Springs Public Library
10560 Reynolds Street, Bonita Springs
Tuesday, October 7 • 4 – 7 p.m.
Drop off new or gently used Halloween costumes and accessories for children through age 12 years at the Children’s department before Oct. Swap will be Oct. 7 from 4-6 p.m. Following the ticket holder swap times, the event will open to everyone until 7 p.m. Donations will only be accepted at the Bonita Springs Library Children's Department. 239-479-4636
Mini Ninja Mingle + Brunch
Ultimate Ninjas Academy
9281 College Pkwy, Fort Myers
Tuesday, October 7 • 11a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Designed for children 10 months-3 years. A playful parent-and-child experience designed to help little ones build balance, coordination, and confidence through music, games, and soft obstacle exploration. While kids develop key motor skills and reach important milestones, parents get to enjoy quality bonding time and connect with other families in a fun, supportive environment. Snacks provided and discounts at Living Vine Café next door. Space is limited! $10 Preregistration required! fortmyers.academy@ultimateninjas.com 239-990-6799
Build-It
East County Regional Library
881 Gunnery Road, Lehigh Acres
Tuesday, October 7 • 6 p.m.
Use your imagination to build. Create something unique using engineering toys like Brain Flakes, Lego and more and we'll put your 3D design on display for viewing. This program is intended for children ages 5-13 years. Can't make it? Stop by and build with our materials anytime. We'll add your creation to our display. 239-479-4636
Anime Club: 3D Pens
Fort Myers Regional Library
2450 First St., Fort Myers
Tuesday, October 7 • 4 p.m.
For ages 12-18 years. Create your own anime character using 3D pens. Supplies will be provided. Registration is required. 239-479-4636
Anime Hour
Riverdale Public Library
2421 Buckingham Road, Fort Myers
Tuesday, October 7 • 2:30 p.m.
Enjoy an hour of anime entertainment, creative expression and lively discussions. This program is specially curated for anime enthusiasts to indulge in their passion for Japanese animation while hanging out among like-minded peers. Snacks provided and cosplay encouraged. For teens ages 12-18 years. 239-479-4636
Dungeons and Dragons at the Library
Northwest Regional Library
519 Chiquita Blvd. N., Cape Coral
Tuesday, October 7, 21 • 3 p.m.
Join us for an epic tabletop adventure where you'll explore magical lands, face fearsome creatures and shape your own heroic story. Everything is provided - character sheets, dice, pencils and snacks. For ages 12-18 years. All are welcome. 239-479-4636
Magic: The Gathering (teen)
Dunbar Jupiter Hammon Public Library
3095 Blount St., Fort Myers
Tuesday, October 7, 21 • 5:30 p.m.
Join us for free play of Magic: The Gathering, perfect for both seasoned players and those new to the game. All participants will be entered into a raffle to win booster packs, so don't miss your chance to score some new cards. 239-479-4636
Thu - 9
DIY Craft Club: Wizarding Wands (teen)
North Fort Myers Public Library
2001 N. Tamiami Trail NE, North Fort Myers
Thursday, October 9 • 2 p.m.
Unleash your inner magic by creating your custom wand. From shaping and painting to adding enchanting details, you'll design a oneof-a-kind accessory. Supplies provided. Registration is required and is guaranteed until the start of the program. 239-479-4636
STEAM Club
Cape Coral Lee County Public Library
921 S.W. 39th Terrace, Cape Coral
Thursday, October 9 • 4 p.m.
Be ready for fun experiments and projects as we explore the world of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math). This program is intended for ages 5-11 years. This month's theme is DIY Mini Golf. Dress for mess. Your registration is only guaranteed until the start of the program. All materials provided. 239-479-4636
Teen Thursday: High School Karaoke
East County Regional Library
881 Gunnery Road, Lehigh Acres
Thursday, October 9 • 2:30 p.m.
Flex your skills in a friendly competition against fellow teens to determine who will bring down the house. Sing solo or with friends to win ultimate bragging rights. Sign-up the first 10 minutes of the program. Participants will perform in the order they register. Open to teens aged 12 -18 years. 239-479-4636
Special Family Storytime:
Fire Safety and Awareness
Pine Island Public Library
10701 Russell Road, Bokeelia
Thursday, October 9 • 10:30 a.m.
For children through age 5 years and caregivers. Join us for this special storytime and learn about fire safety with our friends from the Pine Island Fire Department. Firefighters will be here to demonstrate their firefighter suits and equipment. Storytime tickets are available at the customer service desk the day of the event on a first come, first served basis. 239-479-4636
Sat - 11
Family Build It
Cape Coral Lee County Public Library
921 S.W. 39th Terrace, Cape Coral
Saturday, October 11 • 10 a.m.
For all ages. Drop in for building challenges the whole family will enjoy. No registration required. Materials are provided. 239-479-4636
Read to Dogs
North Fort Myers Public Library
2001 N. Tamiami Trail NE, North Fort Myers
Saturday, October 11 • 11 a.m.
Join us at the library to read to the dogs. The dogs are registered therapy animals who volunteer with their owner/handlers as a team to help improve the literacy skills of children. You can read down fines or just encourage a love of reading in your children with reading to the dogs. 239-479-4636
Bilingual Storytime
Fort Myers Regional Library
2450 First St., Fort Myers
Saturday, October 11 • 10 a.m.
For children through age 5 years and caregivers. This fun and engaging storytime for children and caregivers promotes and reinforces early literacy skills and language development. Stories, music, movement and activities are shared in both English and Spanish. Registration is required and guarantees your spot until the start of the program. 239-479-4636
Riverside is 25
Riverside Community Center
3061 E Riverside Dr., Fort Myers
Saturday, October 11 • 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Join us as we mark a special milestone—25 years of community, connection, and fun! Bring the whole family for an unforgettable day filled with: Live DJ & entertainment, bounce houses & games for kids, raffles & prizes, food trucks, community performances and more. Free Admission. 239-321-7560
Things to do
Fall Festival
Scarecrows in the Park!
Lakes Park, 7330 Gladiolus Dr, Fort Myers
October 10 - 31
The Fall Festival will include a pumpkin patch, inflatables, hayrides, Scarecrows in the Park, the Halloween Express train and concessions. Parking for the Fall Festival event is $3 per vehicle. Prices vary per activity. For more information visit www.leeparks.org/lakespark or call 239-533-7578.
Saturday, October 11 continued
East County Craft Club:
Cranberry Orange Candles (teen) East County Regional Library
881 Gunnery Road, Lehigh Acres
Saturday, October 11 • 2 p.m.
Join an instructor-led craft class and create seasonally scented cranberry-orange layered candles. Hot elements will be in use. Registration is required. In person attendance closes 15 minutes into the program. 239-479-4636
Scary Skele-bration
William "Bill" Austen Youth Center
315 SW 2nd Ave, Cape Coral
Saturday, October 11 • 5 - 8 p.m.
It’s spooky season! Kids can dress up and have fun making their way through a mini maze full of excitement. After, they will enjoy a night of costume contest, games and prizes! This is a parent drop off event. 239-242-3950
Trunk or Treat
Milestones Learning Center -Estero
19850 Breckenridge Dr, Estero
Saturday, October 11 • 5 p.m. - sunset
Join us for a fun-filled evening of Halloween festivities! Trick-or-Treat from decorated trunks, Prizes for the best trunks and costumes, Pizza available for $1 per slice. This event is open to the public – invite your friends and family to join the fun. 239-301-2962
Clothing Swap: Library Edition
Northwest Regional Library
519 Chiquita Blvd. N., Cape Coral Saturday, October 11 • 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Refresh your wardrobe at our community clothing swap. To participate, please bring five to 10 items of clothing that are clean and in good condition to Meeting Room A between 9 and 10 a.m. Return at 10:30 a.m. for the swap. Attire of all ages, sizes and styles is welcome, including costumes. We will not accept event t-shirts, shoes, undergarments or anything stained, ripped or faded. 239-479-4636
Dive-in Movies – Aladdin
Sun Splash Family Waterpark
500 W Lake Kennedy Dr, Cape Coral Saturday, October 11 • 4 p.m.
Summer Nights just got better at Sun Splash! Join us for Dive-in Movies at Paradise Cove Wave Pool on select Saturdays at 4 p.m. Free with park admission. 239-574-0558
Greater Naples Dog Club: Dog Show
Lee Civic Center
11831 Bayshore Rd, North Fort Myers October 11-12 greaternaplesdogclub.org
Boo-tanical Evening
Wonder Gardens
27180 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs Saturday, October 11 • 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Fun decorations, special animal enrichment food trucks, family games &activities and more. 239-992-2591
Read to Dogs
East County Regional Library
881 Gunnery Road, Lehigh Acres Saturday, October 11 • 11 a.m.
Practice your literacy skills with a furry friend. Children ages 6-11 years are invited to select a book to read aloud and then join our registered therapy dog and their owner/handler on the storytime carpet for gentle pets and stories. 239-479-4636
Junior Ranger Program
Lovers Key State Park - Community Room 8700 Estero Boulevard Fort Myers Beach, Saturday, October 11 • 10 a.m.
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. Reservations are required. Free with park entry fee. 239-707-6328
To sign up: visit loverskey.eventbrite.com.
Mon - 13
Lego Club
Bonita Springs Public Library
10560 Reynolds Street, Bonita Springs Monday, October 13 • 4 p.m.
Drop in for this special event and get creative with Lego building challenges. All materials are provided; just bring your creativity. This program is intended for children ages 3-11 years. 239-479-4636
Tue - 14
Family Cardboard Challenge
Bonita Springs Public Library
10560 Reynolds Street, Bonita Springs Tuesday, October 14 • 5 p.m.
If you can imagine it, you can build it. Use our Make-do building tools to design and build your own cardboard creation. Registration is required. Your reservation is guaranteed only until the start of the program. For children ages 5-12 with a parent or caregiver. 239-479-4636
Book Buzz
East County Regional Library
881 Gunnery Road, Lehigh Acres Tuesday, October 14 • 4:30 p.m.
Share your favorite book, listen to what others are reading, or just hang out and read quietly. Learn about our monthly Teens Read & Win contest and how you can participate to win. At the meeting we will announce our September winners and entries for the October drawing will be accepted. Open to tweens and teens aged 11-18 years. 239-479-4636
Indoor Mini Golf
Fort Myers Regional Library
2450 First St., Fort Myers Tuesday, October 14 • 4 p.m.
For ages 11 - 18 years. Have you ever played mini golf in the library? Can you defeat the course that includes various ramps, mazes and obstacles? Now is your chance to put your putting skills to use. 239-479-4636
STEAM Meet-Up
Northwest Regional Library
519 Chiquita Blvd. N., Cape Coral Tuesday, October 14 • 6 p.m.
Join us for our STEAM monthly meet-up. During this session we will be tapping into our imagination, creativity and inventive spirit with Cubelets. Cubelets are modular robot building blocks that snap together magnetically to create interactive robots without the need for programming or wiring. 239-479-4636
Lego Club: Fall Fun
Pine Island Public Library
10701 Russell Road, Bokeelia Tuesday, October 14 • 4 p.m.
Join us for a short story and creative brickbuilding activities. Lego are provided for use during this program. 239-479-4636
Registration Required 239-479-4636
Toddler
For ages 18 - 36 months and caregivers. Toddlers and caregivers move and groove to stories, music, rhymes and activities during this interactive storytime that builds language and motor skills. Space is limited.
Bonita Springs Public Library
10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, 15, 22
Fort Myers Regional Library
10 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7, 14
Lakes Regional Library
11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 6, 13
Northwest Regional Library
10:30 & 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, 8, 15
Preschool
For ages 3 - 5. Preschoolers develop school readiness skills through books, rhymes, songs and movement. While parents wait nearby in the library building. Space is limited.
Cape Coral Lee County Public Library
9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, 8, 15
Dunbar Jupiter Hammon Public Library
10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 3, 10, 17
East County Regional Library
10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, 8, 15
Fort Myers Regional Library
10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, 8, 15
Lakes Regional Library
11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, 8, 15
Northwest Regional Library
10:30 & 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 2, 9, 16
Family
For children through age 5 and caregivers. Families with young children enjoy a variety of stories, songs, rhymes and movement activities designed to promote and reinforce literacy and language development. Registration is required. Space is limited.
Bonita Springs Public Library
10:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 2, 16, 23
Cape Coral Lee County Public Library
10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, 8, 15
10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7, 14
East County Regional Library
6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 6, 13
10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7, 14
Lakes Regional Library
10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, 8, 15
North Fort Myers Public Library
11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, 8, 15
Northwest Regional Library
10:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 18
Riverdale Branch Library
10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 3, 10, 17
10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 11
Estero Recreation Center
10 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7, 21
IMAG At Night Enter the World of Wizarding
IMAG, 2000 Cranford Avenue, Fort Myers
Friday, October 17 • 5 - 7 p.m.
Come dressed in your costumes for an evening of Potions and Charms. As you enter the world of wizarding! you will learn how to make a wand and a potion book to take home at the end of the evening. In addition, you can make invisible ink maps and a Snitch Catapult and meet up with some IMAG mythical creatures. For our Harry Potter fans, we will play trivia, Sort House Trait Cards, and have fun on this magical adventure evening. For information, call 239-243-0043 or visit theIMAG.org.
Tuesday, October 14 continued
Haunted Lego Build
Riverdale Public Library
2421 Buckingham Road, Fort Myers
Tuesday, October 14 • 5 p.m.
Designed for school-aged children ages 6-12 years, this hands-on event lets kids unleash their creativity and engineering skills while diving into the spooky spirit of the season. Participants will be encouraged to design and build haunted houses, creepy creatures and more using Lego bricks. 239-479-4636
Wed - 15
Fishing Clinic
Lovers Key State Park - Community Room
8700 Estero Boulevard Fort Myers Beach, Wednesday, October 15 • 10 a.m.
Join park naturalists to learn more about fishing in Southwest Florida. You’ll discuss a variety of tackle and fresh bait rigs, discover the best places to drop a line at the park, and learn the rules and regulations for fishing in SW Florida. Free with paid park entry. To sign up: visit loverskey.eventbrite.com. 239-707-6328
Firefighter Fun & Safety
North Fort Myers Public Library
2001 N. Tamiami Trail NE, North Fort Myers
Wednesday, October 15 • 4 p.m.
For children ages 5 years and up. The North Fort Myers Fire Department is rolling in for a special program designed to turn you into a fire safety pro. Explore a genuine fire truck and get essential safety lessons directly from our local firefighters. No registration required. 239-479-4636
Wednesday Night - Boo-Vies - The Addams Family
Backyard Social
16371 Corporate Commerce Way, Fort Myers
Wednesday, October 15 • 6 p.m.
Family Friendly Movies on the Lawn (all ages welcome) Free popcorn! Come early to snag your spot, enjoy drinks & bites, and settle in for a cozy night of fall fun! The movie for October 22 will be BeetleJuice. backyardsocial.com
Thu - 16
Haunted Teen Thursday
Cape Coral Lee County Public Library
921 S.W. 39th Terrace, Cape Coral
Thursday, October 16 • 4 p.m.
For ages 11-18 years. Dare to design a haunted house mini golf course. Teens will work together to construct a spooky, glow-in-the-dark golf course based on various haunted house themes. Once the course is complete, it's time to face the frights - if you're brave enough! No registration required. Supplies and snacks provided. For ages 11-18 years. 239-479-4636
Fri - 17
Shrek The Musical Fort Myers Theatre
16120 San Carlos Boulevard, Fort Myers October 17 - 26
Based on the Oscar-winning animation film, Shrek The Musical is a Tony Award-winning fairy tale adventure, featuring all new songs and a sidesplitting book by David LindsayAbaire. Shrek brings all the beloved characters you know from the film to life on stage and proves there's more to the story than meets the ears. ftmyerstheatre.com
40th Annual Oktoberfest
German American Social Club of Cape Coral
2101 SW Pine Island Rd, Cape Coral
October 17, 18, 19 and October 24, 25, 26
It’s our BIG 4-0 and we’re celebrating in true Bavarian style! Get ready for two jam-packed weekends of German food, music, dancing, and more! Admission: $10 at the gate, children under 12 are free. Free parking. Rain or Shine –the party goes on! 239-283-1400
Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley
Broadway Palm Children’s Theatre
1380 Colonial Boulevard, Fort Myers
October 17 - November 14
Stanley is your average 10-year old boy. One morning, he mysteriously wakes up flat! Join Stanley as he embarks on an adventure around the globe searching for a solution to his unusual problem. 239-278-4422
The Vampire Circus
Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall
13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers
Friday, October 17 • 8 p.m.
Heralded as a mix of circus cabaret and theatre, The Vampire Circus is a mysterious, tantalizing, fun, dark, cutting-edge production guaranteed to amaze the senses. 239-489-3033
Parent's Night Out - Halloween
Four Freedoms Park
4818 Tarpon Ct, Cape Coral
Friday, October 17 • 6 - 9 p.m.
Drop your child off for a night of fun! Kids will get to do crafts, games, activities, and dinner will be provided. Ages 4-12. We will be doing two groups with younger and older children. The crafts and activities will be age appropriate for each group. $20. 239-574-0804
Trunk or Treat!
Mercola Market of Cape Coral
125 Southwest 3rd Pl, Cape Coral
Friday, October 17 • 5 – 7 p.m.
Bring the whole family for a spooktacular evening of Halloween fun! Enjoy trick-or-treating around creatively decorated trunks, tasty bites, games, and festive activities for everyone. Music, food truck, yard games and more. Don’t miss this year’s Trunk or Treat — a night of candy, costumes, and community fun in Cape Coral! www.mercolamarketcc.com
Sat - 18
Lowes Kid’s DIYer Workshop: Play Firehouse
14960 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers
Saturday, October 18 • 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
The fun alarm is ringing! Let your kid celebrate Fire Safety Month with mini-firehouse workshop by Lowe's and First Alert. Mini-builders get to create their own miniature firehouse complete with a working pole. This hands-on project encourages creativity and introduces kids to the importance of fire safety. Fun allaround! 239-433-9255
Pumpkin Patch Pals
Gator Trails Park
3612 Garden Blvd, Cape Coral,
Saturday, October 18 • 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Get ready to take home a basketball-sized pumpkin for carving (one per family), paint a sugar pumpkin, and dive into three fabulous craft tables and games. $20 for the first child and $2 for each additional child (parents are free). Don’t forget – Must pre-register by October 13! This event is geared for 2 -7 years old but all are welcome!! For more information or to register call 239-242-3506.
Trunk or Treat
Coast Elite Gymnastics
6360 Arc Way Fort Myers
Saturday, October 18 • 2 - 4 p.m.
Open gym, bounce house, candy and activities. 239-936-8467
Trunk or Treat
Motor City Grille
16571 South Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers
Saturday, October 18 • 6-8 p.m.
Bring the whole family for a spooky fun night of decorated cars, candy, music, and more! FREE Admission – Costumes encouraged! Food available inside & enjoy 10% off your meal! 586-713-3226
Baby Rhyme Time
Bonita Springs Public Library 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs 10:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 13, 20
Cape Coral Lee County Public Library
921 S.W. 39th Terrace, Cape Coral
9:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7, 14
Fort Myers Regional Library 2450 First St., Fort Myers
10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 2, 9, 16
Lakes Regional Library 15290 Bass Road, Fort Myers
110 a.m. Monday, Oct. 6, 13
North Fort Myers Public Library 2001 N. Tamiami Trail NE, N. Fort Myers
111 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 2, 9, 16
Northwest Regional Library
519 Chiquita Blvd. N., Cape Coral
10:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 6, 13
For babies up to 18 months. Babies and caregivers wiggle and giggle to stories, action rhymes, and songs while building early literacy skills in a supportive environment. Space is limited. Arrive early and visit the children's desk to check in. First come, first served. 239-479-4636
Things to do
Saturday, October 18 continued
Fall Festival
Edison and Ford Winter Estates
2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers
Saturday, October 18 • 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Come spend the day with us as you stroll along and shop at the craft vendor booths, get something to eat and drink, and listen to music. Be one of the few to climb the historic Banyan Tree, pick out a pumpkin and more! The festival is free to attend; however, there is a fee to participate in each activity, and visitors are encouraged to bring cash. Admission to the museum, laboratory, and riverside of the property requires an additional ticket. 239-334-7419
Fall Festival
Creative World School
11961 Fairway Lakes Drive, Fort Myers
Saturday, October 18 • 10 a.m. - Noon
Join us for a fun-filled Fall Festival with games, crafts, and more! Bring the whole family for a day of fall fun! 239-235-3184
Teen Paracord Project
Lakes Regional Library
15290 Bass Road, Fort Myers
Saturday, October 18 • 2 p.m.
Teens will learn how to make a basic cobra knot paracord bracelet, keychain or lanyard. For ages 12-18 years. Registration is not required. While supplies last. 239-479-4636
Gateway Hay Day 2025
Gateway Church
3241 Griffin Drive Fort Myers
Saturday, October 18 · 5 - 7:30 p.m.
Join us for a fun-filled evening at Hay Day, an amazing community fall festival for families in Southwest Florida! This free event is perfect for all ages, offering a variety of activities that capture the spirit of the season. Enjoy hayrides, a petting zoo, bounce houses, games, music, a photo booth, face painting, free food, and delicious seasonal treats. 239-561-2550
Community Safety & Fire Prevention Day
Lehigh Acres Fire Control and Rescue District
49 Homestead Rd S, Lehigh Acres
Saturday, October 18 • 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Our Community Safety & Fire Prevention Day is a fun, family-friendly event! Join us on the bus loop in front of Veterans Park Academy to visit with firefighters, law enforcement, county workers, and other community service organizations who will have their vehicles and services on display for children (and adults!) to explore. The crowd-favorite Extrication Demonstration (firefighters demonstrate how they use extrication tools to remove patients from a crashed vehicle) will take place at 11:30 a.m. 239-303-5300
Wicked Ball
Fort Myers Regional Library
2450 First St., Fort Myers
Saturday, October 18 • 2 p.m.
For ages 12-18 years. Celebrate the enchanting film “Wicked” with a party in our own re-created Ozdust Ballroom. There will be dancing, crafts, snacks and lots of magical moments. Ballroom attire is encouraged but not required. Registration is required. 239-479-4636
Kid Craft Saturday
North Fort Myers Public Library
2001 N. Tamiami Trail NE, North Fort Myers Saturday, October 18 • 11 a.m.
For ages 6-11 years. Children and their families are invited to join us for a morning of crafting. All supplies will be provided; just bring your creativity. Space is limited. Registration is required and is guaranteed until the start of the program. 239-479-4636
Frightfully Fun Fest
Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Fort Myers
13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers
Saturday, October 18 • 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
There will be a costume parade, bouncehouse, games, pumpkin decorating, trunk or treating, face-painting, story-telling, surprises and treats. Visit with our local first responders and see the fire trucks, ambulances and more! $5/person admission includes all activities (food will be available for an additional charge). Children 3 and under FREE. To register, go to www.uucfm.org
Spooktacular Night at Estero Park
Estero Recreation Center
9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero Saturday, October 18 • 5 - 8:45 p.m.
Come out to the park for a night of family friendly and spooktacular fun. Enjoy a trunk-ortreat, food trucks and a donation drive benefiting the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW). Stay for a Movie in the Park, featuring “The Minecraft Movie,” rated PG, starting at 7:15 p.m. Bring chairs or blankets. Family Initiative’s Sensory Trailer will be on-site for anyone needing a quiet space during the event. Admission is free. www.leeparks.org/estero 239-533-1470
Fall Fest
Cultural Park
528 Cultural Park Boulevard, Cape Coral Saturday, October 18 • 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Vendors, art, crafts, food trucks, children's activities, games & more! Children's costume contest for children 12 and under at noon. Free admission & free parking. www.llsnevents.com
All-Abilities Kids Storytime
Lakes Regional Library
15290 Bass Road, Fort Myers
Saturday, October 18 • 10 a.m.
For ages 3-12 years and caregivers. This storytime emphasizes books, music, and sensory experiences designed for children with adaptive needs and their families. Using visual schedule boards, stories are told through multiple modalities and are followed by sensory activities that may include bubbles, movement and song activities. Class size is limited, ages 3-12 years, plus their parents or caregivers. 239-479-4636
Family Fun Day
Alliance for the Arts
10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers
Saturday, October 18 • 10 a.m. to noon.
Drop in for free, hands-on family fun! Explore something new every month like art making, gallery activities, games and more – all inspired by artworks on view in the gallery, famous artists, national holidays and artistic traditions around the world. 239-939-2787
Not-So-Scary Storytime
Cape Coral Lee County Public Library
921 S.W. 39th Terrace, Cape Coral
Saturday, October 18 • 10:30 a.m.
Join us for some not-so-scary Halloween stories, rhymes and music. Costumes are welcomed. This program is for children ages 2-5 years with a caregiver. Space is limited. Tickets are available 30 minutes before the start of the program at the Youth Desk. 239-479-4636
Halloween Spooktacular
Golisano Children's Museum of Naples
15080 Livingston Rd., Naples
Saturday, October 18 • Register for time
This eerie-sistable event will take place at three designated times throughout the day and the museum will only be open for members and guests with Halloween Spooktacular event tickets. Come dressed in your favorite costumes for Halloween activities, games, trick or treating, and more! Reservations required. cmon.org
Let’s Sing Taylor - A Live Band Experience
Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall
13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers
Saturday, October 18 • 8 p.m.
The ultimate tribute to the music of Taylor Swift. We can show you incredible things, including the most faithful and lively covers of Queen Taylor’s expansive catalog. 239-481-4849
Halloween Ghost/Scavenger Hunt on Horseback
NFS Ranch
21900 Williams Dr, North Fort Myers
Saturday, October 18 • 4 p.m.
Fun Ride Scavenger Hunt - Ride out along the trail and search for spooky items hidden along the way from 4 - 6 p.m. Perfect for beginners, kids, and families. $20 entry | Kids 12 & under $10. Spooky Ghost Hunt (7 p.m.) As night falls, grab your flashlight and head out on horseback for a thrilling ride through the woods to hunt down hidden “ghosts”! Prizes awarded to riders who find them all! $35 entry. Riders may enter either the Fun Ride or the Ghost Hunt, not both. Bring your own horse or rent one of ours! Spots are limited 239-940-2771
Coloring Club
Northwest Regional Library
519 Chiquita Blvd. N., Cape Coral
Saturday, October 18 • 2 p.m.
Join us for a relaxing afternoon of coloring while making new friends. All supplies will be provided, but feel free to bring your own coloring books if you wish. 239-479-4636
Mon - 20
Costume Bubble Dance Party
East County Regional Library
881 Gunnery Road, Lehigh Acres
Monday, October 20 • 6 p.m.
Wednesday, October 22 • 10:30 a.m.
Families with children through age 5 years are invited to dance, sing and play with bubbles. Costumes are not required but strongly encouraged. 239-479-4636
Tue - 21
Halloween Blacklight Bingo
Bonita Springs Public Library
10560 Reynolds Street, Bonita Springs
Tuesday, October 21 • 5:30 p.m.
Come dressed in your costume or UV reflective clothing to enjoy candy, spook-tacular prizes, music and more. Registration is required. Your reservation is guaranteed only until the start of the program. For children ages 6-11 years with a parent or caregiver. 239-479-4636
Teen Pumpkin Painting
Riverdale Public Library
2421 Buckingham Road, Fort Myers
Tuesday, October 21 • 2:30 p.m.
Whether you're a seasoned artist, or just looking to have fun, this event is perfect for teens who want to add a splash of color and personality to their Halloween season. Supplies will be provided. Registration is required. 239-479-4636
Things to do
Trunk or Treat
Innovation Preparatory Academy
6851 Lancer Avenue, Fort Myers
Friday, October 24 • 6 - 7:30 p.m.
Join our school for our annual Trunk or Treat!
We will be open to the community! Come by and meet our team and check out the school! Any questions contact cashley1@inprepsfm.org
Tuesday, October 21 continued
True Tours Presents Haunted Fort Myers
North Fort Myers Public Library (teen)
2001 N. Tamiami Trail NE, North Fort Myers
Tuesday, October 21 • 4 p.m.
A ghost story is the past screaming to be remembered. In Fort Myers, the past never stays quiet for long. From the wandering spirit taking in all First Street has to offer to the children and their principal at the city's first school, to the abandoned hotel where tragic souls still stroll from room to room. Fort Myers' past is very much alive and willing to show itself if you're willing to listen. Come along with True Tours and tour buildings you've walked by but never knew had a secret to tell. 239-479-4636
Kids Monster Trivia
East County Regional Library
881 Gunnery Road, Lehigh Acres
Tuesday, October 21 • 6 p.m.
Match wits with other elementary-aged contestants to see who can guess the spooky monsters. Famous monsters from books, TV and movies will be featured in the trivia questions. Assemble your team beforehand or join one at the event. This program is intended for children ages 5-11 years. 239-479-4636
Falling For Bubbles
Fort Myers Regional Library
2450 First St., Fort Myers
Tuesday, October 21 • 10 a.m.
For children ages 18-36 months and caregivers. Celebrate fall and bubbles at your library. Toddlers will have a chance to engage in fun seasonal activities & all things bubbles. Registration is required and guarantees your spot until the start of the program. 239-479-4636
Coding With Kai
Fort Myers Regional Library
2450 First St., Fort Myers
Tuesday, October 21 • 4 p.m.
For ages 11-18 years. Engage in augmented and virtual reality by using Kai's Clan coding program. Teens will code their robots and merge their physical and virtual world's to create one learning playground. Registration is required. 239-479-4636
Ghost Family Portraits
Lakes Regional Library
15290 Bass Road, Fort Myers
Tuesday, October 21 • 6 p.m.
Create a fun, ghostly portrait of your own family. All supplies provided. For ages 6-11 years. No registration is required, but space and supplies are limited. 239-479-4636
Wed - 22
Preschool Playdough Playdate
Fort Myers Regional Library
2450 First St., Fort Myers
Wednesday, October 22 • 10 a.m.
For children ages 3-5 years. Let your child's imagination flow as we pull out all the tools to have some playdough fun. Preschoolers will enjoy this wonderful sensory experience that encourages creativity, socialization and develops fine motor skills. Registration is required and guarantees your spot until the start of the program. 239-479-4636
Lee Health Emotional Regulation Storytime
North Fort Myers Public Library
2001 N. Tamiami Trail NE, North Fort Myers
Wednesday, October 22 • 11 a.m.
Join us for an awesome storytime about emotional regulation with Lee Health. Children will be exposed to tools for emotional regulation and engage in singing, reading and creative fun. For ages 2-6 years. 239-479-4636
Thu - 23
Bubblemania
Fort Myers Regional Library
2450 First St., Fort Myers
Thursday, October 23 • 10 a.m.
Soapy bubbles everywhere. Join us for an exciting morning of bubble blowing as we listen to our favorite tunes. 239-479-4636
Free Halloween Community Night Alliance for the Arts
10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers
Thursday, October 23 • 5 - 7 p.m.
Treats, Halloween themed art activities, tour the trick or treat house and more! Costumes optional but encouraged. 239-939-2787
Monster Mash Musical Storytime
Cape Coral Lee County Public Library
921 S.W. 39th Terrace, Cape Coral
Thursday, October 23 • 10 a.m.
For children through age 5 years. Join us for a monstrously storytime with a visit from local musician, Jon Dunnicliff, who will bring the beat to our not-too-scary, monster-themed storytime with live music and interactive songs. Costumes encouraged. No registration required, but space is limited, ages through age 5 years with a caregiver. Tickets available 30 minutes before the start of the program. 239-479-4636
7th Annual Wicked Walk
Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center
2301 First Street, Fort Myers
Thursday, October 23 • 6 – 9 p.m.
Friday, October 24 • 6:30 – 8 p.m.
A spooky celebration of art, music, and student achievement in Lee County schools! Step into a oneof-a-kind haunted, interactive theatrical experience where the ghosts of Decades Past come to life through original art, installations, skits, dances, and musical performances created by over 150 talented student artists. Guided by local art and music teachers, these young performers transform the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center into an immersive world of eerie stories, classic monsters, and hauntingly creative surprises. Wicked Walk highlights the incredible talents of student dancers, musicians, actors, and visual artists while raising support for arts education. Tours depart every 20 minutes. Tickets: $15 adults, $5 children. www.sbdac.com
Preschool Halloween Fun
Lakes Regional Library
15290 Bass Road, Fort Myers
Thursday, October 23 • 10:30 a.m.
Join us for not-so-scary Halloween games, activities and crafts. For ages birth-5 years. No registration is required, but space and supplies are limited. 239-479-4636
Fall Festival: Camp Read S'more
Northwest Regional Library
519 Chiquita Blvd. N., Cape Coral
Thursday, October 23 • 10 a.m.
Celebrate the fall season by making crafts, visiting learning stations and more in this hands-on program. For babies & children through 5 years. 239-479-4636
Teen Thursday: Crafternoon - Gel Printing
East County Regional Library
881 Gunnery Road, Lehigh Acres
Thursday, October 23 • 2:30 p.m.
Use gel plates and acrylic paints to create original works of art. Supplies will be provided but feel free to bring your own stencils, brushes or found objects to create unique patterns and textures for your prints.
Open to ages 12-18 years. 239-479-4636
Children's Entrepreneur Market at Family Fun Night
Bell Tower Shopping Centre
13499 S Cleveland Ave, Fort Myers
Thursday, October 23 • 5 - 7 p.m.
Packed with activities for all ages-but the highlight of the night is The Children's Entrepreneur Market, where young innovators showcase their talents and sell their handmade goods, treats, and creative services. Get ready to unleash your creativity at our Pumpkin Decorating Station - a festive favorite for kids and adults alike! Whether you're a budding artist or just love getting crafty, this hands-on activity lets you transform your very own pumpkin into a seasonal masterpiece. Don’t miss the pumpkin bounce house and the corn maze - two fall favorites that promise fun for all ages! belltowerfl.com
Fri - 24
Not-So-Scary Storytime
Dunbar Jupiter Hammon Public Library
3095 Blount St., Fort Myers
Friday, October 24 • 10 a.m.
Children through age 5 years and their caregivers are invited to a festive, fall-themed storytime filled with age-appropriate Halloween stories, music and a fun seasonal craft. 239-479-4636
Trunk or Treat
Oasis Elementary South
3415 Oasis Blvd, Cape Coral
Friday, October 24 • 6 - 8p.m.
Join us for this year's Trunk or Treat event! Food trucks will be on site and gift cards will be awarded for the top 3 decorated vehicles! Grab a friend, put on a costume and come ready for tons of fun and plenty of costume/character photo ops! 239- 542-1577
Trunk or Treat
Cape Coral City Hall
1015 Cultural Park Blvd.
Friday, October 24 • 5 p.m.
This free Halloween event offers a safe environment to come together and celebrate the start of the holiday season, including candy giveaways (while supplies last), scavenger hunt, interactive inflatables, a trackless train, a drone show, and a Halloween costume contest. Be sure to bring your lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the festivities! Anyone with children 5 years and younger may join us at 5 p.m. to enjoy the trunk displays and candy at their own leisure. Starting at 6 p.m., children of all ages will be welcome. Don’t forget to bring your own bags! www.capecoral.gov
Things to do
Free Halloween
Community Night
Alliance for the Arts
10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers
Thursday, October 23 • 5 - 7 p.m.
Treats, Halloween themed art activities, tour the trick or treat house and more!
Costumes optional but encouraged. 239-939-2787
Friday, October 24 continued
Annual Family Fall Festival
North Fort Myers Park and Recreation Center
2000 North Recreation Park Way, N. Fort Myers
Friday, October 24 • 6 - 8:30 p.m.
Get your costumes and trick-or-treat bags ready
This is a free family event for all ages. Activities include a costume contest, candy, games, a photo booth, a live DJ, prizes and more. Community businesses and organizations will have booths set up with information, samples of products and candy. Admission is free. For information visit www.leeparks.org/nfm or call 239-533-7200.
Fright Night
Bay Oaks Recreation Campus
2731 Oak Street, Fort Myers Beach
Friday, October 24 • 6 - 9 p.m.
Join us if you dare… for a spooktacular night of Halloween fun! Costumes, candy, and chills await! Mark your calendars because Fright Night is BACK - returning for another year of fright and fun! Enjoy music, food trucks, inflatables, costume contests, candy, games, and more! $5. per family. 239-765-4222
True Tours Presents Haunted Fort Myers
Pine Island Public Library (teen)
10701 Russell Road, Bokeelia
Friday, October 24 • 3 p.m.
In Fort Myers, the past never stays quiet for long. From the wandering spirit taking in all First Street has to offer, to the children and their principal at the city's first school, to the abandoned hotel where tragic souls still stroll from room to room, Fort Myers' past is very much alive and willing to show itself if you're willing to listen. Come along with True Tours tour buildings you've walked by but never knew had a secret to tell by night. 239-479-4636
Spooky Counting Craft
Riverdale Public Library
2421 Buckingham Road, Fort Myers
Friday, October 24 • 10 a.m.
Designed for ages 3-5 years, this playful session combines early math skills with creativity as children count, glue and color a spooky craft. 239-479-4636
Trunk or Treat & Fall Festival 2025
Pine Island Elementary School
10699 Tipton Dr, Bokeelia
Friday, October 24 • 5 - 7 p.m.
Games, food, trunk or treat, bounce houses and more! Gates open for setup at 4 p.m. to set up! pineislandkiwanis.org
The Play That Goes Wrong
North Fort Myers High Theatre
October 24–25 at 7 p.m. & October 26 at 2 p.m.
Get ready to laugh until it hurts—because at North Fort Myers High School, everything that can go wrong will go wrong!Packed with slapstick humor, outrageous mishaps, and a set that seems to have a mind of its own, this play guarantees an evening of nonstop hilarity. Tickets are $7 for students, $12 for adults and can be purchased in advanced a www.ticketleap.events /events/northfortmyerstheatre.
Monster Mash Bash
Veterans Park
55 Homestead Rd S, Lehigh Acres
Friday, October 24 • 6 - 8:30 p.m.
A free Halloween-themed event filled with fun for the whole family. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed in their best costumes and enjoy the event's amenities, which include a trick-or-treat trail, live music and entertainment, a tent-decorating contest, vendors and much more. Admission is free. 239-533-7530 www.leeparks.org/veterans
Sat - 25
Halloween Party
Southern Starz
915 SE 14th Place, Cape Coral Saturday, October 25 • 7 - 11 p.m. 239-574-0034
Crosspoint’s Trunk or Treat
Crosspoint Church
204 SW 11th Pl, Cape Coral Saturday, October 25 • 4 - 7 p.m.
Come walk from trunk to trunk in your favorite costume and hit the candy jackpot! Trunk or Treat, inflatables, games. and more. Food will be available for purchase from some of SWFL’s favorite food trucks. Non-Food Treats also available for those with allergies! Free family fun all for free & everyone is invited! crosspointcape.com
Trunk or Treat/Movie in the Park
Wa-Ke Hatchee Park and Recreation Center
16760 Bass Rd, Fort Myers Saturday, October 25 • 6:30 p.m.
Enjoy a frightfully fun evening for the whole family. Come in your favorite costume and start the night with trunk-or-treating. Stay for a Movie in the Park featuring “The Goonies,” rated PG, starting at 8 p.m. Bring blankets and chairs. Food trucks will be on-site. Admission is free. www.leeparks.org. 239-533-6850.
Fire Department Open House
Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Department
5700 Pine Island Rd NW, Bokeelia Saturday, October 25 • 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Come join us for FREE family fun! This year’s Open House festivities include pumpkin patch, fire apparatus tours, live forcible entry demonstration, Safety trailer (education for kids), face painting, games, fall-themed photo-op station, tasty refreshments and more! pineislandfire.org
Kids Day
Miromar Outlets - WINK Playland
10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero
Saturday, October 25 • 10 a.m. - noon
Join us the last Saturday of every month at WINK Playland for a morning of family fun! Free face painting & crafts. Free Pizza from Luigi’s Pizza e Pasta and ice cream coupons from Dairy Queen. Bring the kids for a playful and delicious experience. miromaroutlets.com
Not So Spooky Outdoor Movie
Grace Church
13 Se 21st Place, Cape Coral
Saturday, October 25 • 6:30 p.m. Join us for a night of Fall Family Fun! We’ll have a costume contest with prizes for the keiki (kids), fun games for all ages (yes, even grown-ups), and plenty of tasty concessions for sale—pizza, nachos, candy, and more. Bring your lawn chairs, invite your friends and neighbors, and get ready for a spooktacular night under the stars together. 239-574-7161
Cape Coral First Kids Fall Festival
Cape Coral First Methodist
4118 Coronado Pkwy, Cape Coral
Saturday, October 25 • 2 - 4 p.m.
The afternoon promises to be filled with music, candy, games and more. 239- 542-4051
Dive-in Movies – Nightmare Before Christmas
Sun Splash Family Waterpark
500 W Lake Kennedy Dr, Cape Coral
Saturday, October 25 • 4 p.m.
Summer Nights just got better at Sun Splash!
Join us for Dive-in Movies at Paradise Cove Wave Pool on select Saturdays at 4 p.m. Movies are FREE with park admission. 239-574-0558
Fall Fest
Mercola Market of Cape Coral
125 Southwest 3rd Pl, Cape Coral
Saturday, October 25 • 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Celebrate the season of fall with a day packed full of family fun, delicious food, and community spirit! Live Music, Food Truck, Vendor Market, bounce houses, character appearances and more. www.mercolamarketcc.com
Farmer Joe’s 2nd Annual Fall Fest
Farmer Joe's
1401 SW Pine Island Road, Cape Coral
Saturday, October 25 • 11a.m. – 2 p.m.
Enjoy a day full of family fun: Food & drinks, local vendors, inflatable corn maze, pumpkin decorating & face painting, hayrides, games & more. Presale tickets available starting Monday at our Events Desk or Customer Service Desk—Buy 10, Get 3 free! (Tickets are for concessions.) Bring the whole family out for fall fun. 239-510-4385
Annual Halloween Event
Flamingo Island Flea Market
11902 Bonita Beach Rd SE, Bonita Springs
Saturday, October 25 • 10 a.m.
Clown balloon animals, bounce house, dunk tank, face painting, soft touch dart board, trick or treating (market wide), pumpkin decorating contest, live music, pet costume contest, child costume contest and more. flamingoisland.com
North Nation Fall Festival
2050 North Recreation Park Way, N. Fort Myers
Saturday, October 25 • 4:30 p.m.
Bounce houses, games, food trucks & candy! It will be fun for the whole family! For information email lovenorthbaseball@gmail.com
Game Day
Fort Myers Regional Library
2450 First St., Fort Myers
Saturday, October 25 • 2 p.m.
For children ages 5-12 years. Now's the time to have fun and get competitive. There will be a variety of board and interactive games to play. Bring your game face. 239-479-4636
Trunk or Treat & Movie in the Park - The Goonies
Wa-ke Hatchee Park and Recreation Center
16760 Bass Rd., Fort Myers
Saturday, October 25 • 6:30 p.m.
Come dressed in costume. Food trucks available. 239-533-6850
Teen Interactive Movie
Pine Island Public Library
10701 Russell Road, Bokeelia
Saturday, October 25 • 2 p.m.
Bring your friends for a spooky good time. Shout, throw things and eat movie-inspired treats at this special film screening. 239-479-4636
Things to do
Fall Festival
Faith United Methodist Church
15690 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers
Saturday, October 25 • 5-7 p.m.
It’s free and open to the community, so invite your friends! Come out and enjoy the petting zoo, pony rides, food, inflatables, music, face painting, candy, games, snow cones and more! Everything is free. 239-482-2030
Saturday, October 25 continued
Gulf Coast Symphony - Hogwarts Halloween
Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall
13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers
Saturday, October 25 • 1 p.m.
The fun begins with a festive costume contest and family-friendly activities designed to delight witches, wizards, and Muggles alike. Dress in your best magical attire and enjoy themed pre-concert fun before the Symphony takes the stage. At 2 p.m., the Gulf Coast Symphony will perform a thrilling program of music inspired by the Harry Potter films and other spooky favorites that will transport audiences straight into the wizarding world. For tickets, call 239-481-4849 or visit gulfcoastsymphony.org.
Lego Club
Northwest Regional Library
519 Chiquita Blvd. N., Cape Coral
Saturday, October 25 • 1 p.m.
Explore your creativity through building with Legos. What will you make? This is a fun activity the whole family will enjoy. For all ages and all materials are provided. 239-479-4636
Trunk or Treat
Gateway Trinity Lutheran Church
11381 Gateway Blvd, Fort Myers
Saturday, October 25 • 6 p.m. Games! Candy! Hayrides! Costumes! Prizes! GTLC's Annual Trunk or Treat is back again, scaring up a howling good time for all the boos and ghouls. Wear your costume, bring a treat bag, and get ready to vote on your favorite decorated trunk. Admission is free and open to the public! 239-561-1188
Fall Fest & Spooktacular Trick or Treating
Bell Tower Shops
13499 US 41 (S. Cleveland Ave) Fort Myers
Saturday, October 25 • 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Join us for the Fall Fest & Spooktacular Trick or Treating at Bell Tower and enjoy all that Bell Tower has to offer! www.llsnevents.com
Ghosts & Ghouls Candy Crawl
Gulf Coast Town Center, 10037 Gulf Center Drive, Fort Myers
Saturday, October 25 • 5 p.m.
Join Gulf Coast Town Center for Ghosts & Ghouls Candy Crawl (5-7 p.m.) and Costume Contest (7-8 p.m.) This free event will be from 5-8 p.m. throughout the center with a Halloween party in the courtyard. Trick or treat, balloon artist, face painting, roaming characters and more! Registration required for costume contest. www.gulfcoasttowncenter.com/events
Trunk or Treat /Movie
Babcock Ranch - Founder's Square
42850 Crescent Loop, Punta Gorda
Saturday, October 25 • 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Get ready for a spooktacular night of candy, costumes, and community fun at Babcock Ranch! Join us for a festive trunk-or-treat followed by a Halloween movie! Decorate your golf cart, bring candy, and enjoy the fun as trick-or-treaters show off their spookiest costumes. Golf carts will line up in Founders Square for a safe, exciting community night. When the trick-or-treating is done and the trunks are empty, the Halloween fun continues! Stick around after Trunk or Treat for a hauntingly good time as we screen Halloween Town.Come in costume and keep the spooky spirit alive. Ghouls, goblins, and witches of all ages are welcome! Grab your blankets, cozy up under the stars, and get ready for a night of frights, laughs, and Halloween magic. babcockranch.com
3rd Annual Trunk or Treat
Torched Bar & Grill
2408 Surfside Blvd., Cape Coral
Saturday, October 25 • 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Candy for the kids, costume contest with prizes, games & activities for all ages, music & festive fun for the whole family and more! This is a free, family-friendly community event, costumes encouraged for kids and adults. 239-257-2870
Boo Bash
Riverside Community Center
3061 E Riverside Dr, Fort Myers
Saturday, October 25 • 6 - 9 p.m.
Join us for the ultimate Halloween dance party packed with thrills and chills: DJ spinning all your favorite hits, Spooky games & festive crafts, Delicious eats from the food truck, Costume Contest with prizes for the most creative, funniest & spookiest looks! Wear your best costume, bring your friends, and get ready for a frightfully fun night you won’t forget! 239-321-7560
Annual Halloween Event
Fleamasters Flea Market & Grand Pavilion
4135 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Fort Myers
Saturday, October 25 • 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Booth or Treat Trail with sellers in the market, free face painting, bounce house, costume contest at 2 p.m. with a DJ Spinning the Spooky Hits located in the Grand Pavillion. fleamastersfleamarket.com
Sun - 26
Spooktacular Surfside Market
Hopsized Brewing
9201 Cockleshell Court, Bonita Springs
50 + vendors, food, music, drinks, kids zone, candy, shopping and more! 239-317-2287
Fall-O-Ween Fest
College Plaza shopping center
8595 College Pkwy, Fort Myers
Saturday, October 26 • 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Join us for a free event full of festive fall fun for the whole family! We’re giving away hundreds of pumpkins for kids to decorate (first come, first served)—plus exciting activities, entertainment, and seasonal treats. Touch a Truck –11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., 19 ft River Run Slide, Corn Maze, Pumpkin Bounce House, Pumpkin Decorating Station (free pumpkins for kids— while supplies last!), Face Painters & Balloon Twister, Unicyclist Performer, Kettle Corn & more! Trick-or-Treating throughout the Plaza –visit participating stores for candy and giveaways! dlcmgmt.com
Free Trunk or Treat
Lehigh Acres Church of the Nazarene 211 Lee Blvd, Lehigh Acres, Saturday, October 26 • 5 p.m.
Games,and crafts for the family, hayrides, food trucks and more. Food trunks open at 6 p.m. 239-369-4001
Mon - 27
Make A Cute Ghost
Captiva Memorial Library
11560 Chapin Lane on Captiva October 27 - 31
Use your imagination and get into the spooky spirit by making your own cotton ball ghosts. This is a DIY passive craft, while supplies last. 239-479-4636
Haunted Southwest Florida (teen)
Cape Coral Lee County Public Library
921 S.W. 39th Terrace, Cape Coral
Monday, October 27 • 4 p.m.
Join Christopher Balzano as he discusses his newest book, "Haunted Southwest Florida." A writer, researcher, folklorist and current host of the podcast “Tripping on Legends,” he has been documenting the unexplained since 1994. Registration is required. 239-479-4636
Haunted Theatre Walk
The Belle Theatre
2708 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral
October 27–30 • 6:30-9:30 p.m. (each night)
This unique event is designed for the whole family, with admission just a $5 donation per person or $20 per family. The walk ends with a festive table treating event—a creative twist on trunk-or-treat, with decorated tables full of goodies. The Haunted Walk will also feature a SensoryFriendly Night, offering reduced lighting effects, lower sound volumes, and a more relaxed atmosphere so all families can enjoy the fun. Tickets for the Haunted Walk can be purchased at the door, on the night of the event. TheBelleTheatre.com or give us a call at 239-323-5533
Tue - 28
Read to the Dogs
Bonita Springs Public Library
10560 Reynolds Street, Bonita Springs
Tuesday, October 28 • 5 p.m.
Join us at the library to read to dogs. These registered therapy animals volunteer with their owner/handlers as a team to help improve the literacy skills of children. Participating children can read down their fines or develop a love of reading by reading to dogs. Upon arrival, visit the Youth Desk to pick up a ticket to receive a time slot. 239-479-4636
Not-So-Scary Boo Bash
Fort Myers Regional Library
2450 First St., Fort Myers
Tuesday, October 28 • 10 a.m.
For children ages 18 -36 months and caregivers. Join us for spooktacular stories, songs and crafts. You are encouraged to wear your costume as we parade inside the library. Registration is required and guarantees your spot until the start of the program. 239-479-4636
Elementary Pumpkin Patch Dirt Pudding
East County Regional Library
881 Gunnery Road, Lehigh Acres
Tuesday, October 28 • 6 p.m.
Make your own edible dirt pudding pumpkin patch. Your cups will be full of chocolate pudding, cookie crumbles, candy corn pumpkins and gummy worms. First come, first served. Supplies are limited. For kids in grades K-5. 239-479-4636
Middle Grades Pumpkin Patch Dirt Pudding
East County Regional Library
881 Gunnery Road, Lehigh Acres
Tuesday, October 28 • 4:30 p.m.
Make your own edible dirt pudding pumpkin patch. Your cups will be full of chocolate pudding, cookie crumbles, candy corn pumpkins and gummy worms. First come, first served. Supplies are limited. Open to kids in grades 6-8. 239-479-4636
Wed - 29
Little Monster Mash
North Fort Myers Public Library
2001 N. Tamiami Trail NE, North Fort Myers
Wednesday, October 29 • 11 a.m.
Get ready to stomp, slither and shake at the Little Monster Mash Halloween party for kids. We'll have monster tunes, spooky crafts and giggling games. Come in costume and join the fun. For babies and children through age 11 years. 239-479-4636
Things to do
Ninja Halloween Party
Ultimate Ninjas Academy
9281 College Pkwy, Fort Myers
Wednesday, October 29 • 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Join us for our Biggest Event of the year and the best Halloween Party in town. Get your little one dressed up and join us for fun games, obstacle course adventures, pizza & prizes. Each child will receive a $10 Gift card! Drop off or stay for kids 4-10+. Option to stay close by and enjoy specials next door at Living Vine Café. Kids 3 or under need parental supervision. $25. Space is limited! Preregistration required! fortmyers.academy@ultimateninjas.com 239-990-6799 ultimateninjas.com/academy
Wednesday, October 29 continued
True Tours Presents Haunted Fort Myers
East County Regional Library (teen)
881 Gunnery Road, Lehigh Acres
Wednesday, October 29 • 4 p.m.
A ghost story is the past screaming to be remembered. In Fort Myers, the past never stays quiet for long. From the wandering spirit taking in all First Street has to offer, to the children and their principal at the city's first school, to the abandoned hotel where tragic souls still stroll from room to room, Fort Myers past is very much alive. Come along with True Tours and tour buildings you've walked by but never knew had a secret to tell by night. 239-479-4636
Pre-K Full STEAM Ahead
Fort Myers Regional Library
2450 First St., Fort Myers
Wednesday, October 29 • 10 a.m.
For ages 3-5 years. Preschoolers will have the opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering, art and math concepts through activities, stories and crafts. Preschoolers are invited to dress up in costume. Registration is required and guarantees your spot until the start of the program. 239-479-4636
Trunk or Treat - A Hocus Pocus Halloween STARS Complex & Programs
2980 Edison Ave, Fort Myers
Wednesday, October 29 • 6 - 8 p.m.
Bounce houses, face painting, games & prizes, rock wall, food & drinks. 239-321-7545
DIY Spooky & Cute Cemetariums
Northwest Regional Library
519 Chiquita Blvd. N., Cape Coral
Wednesday, October 29 • 2:30 p.m.
Step into the Teen Zone and craft your very own spooky mini escape. Think terrariums with a haunted twist. All supplies provided while they last. For ages 12-18 years. 239-479-4636
Thu - 30
Boo Bash
Cape Coral Lee County Public Library
921 S.W. 39th Terrace, Cape Coral
Thursday, October 30 • 10 a.m.
For children through age 5 years. Putt, play and craft the morning away. Preschoolers can test their skills on our mini golf course and get creative with Halloween crafts. Babies can explore their own special play zone. Costumes encouraged. No registration is required. All supplies are available while they last. 239-479-4636
Halloween Celebration
Atrium at Liberty Park
1321 NE 24th Ave, Cape Coral
Thursday, October 30 • 3 p.m.
Please join us for an in house Trick or Treat event from 3-6 p.m. Grab candy from multiple rooms and even take a tour through our Haunted House. Open to the public, all ages welcome. 239-800-9020
Zine Crafting Workshop
North Fort Myers Public Library
2001 N. Tamiami Trail NE, North Fort Myers
Thursday, October 30 • 2 p.m.
Discover the art of self-publishing at this handson workshop. A zine is a booklet that is typically handmade and used to advocate, share ideas or express oneself. Learn about the history of zines and explore creative techniques by making your very own. All materials will be provided. Registration is required and is guaranteed until the start of the program. 239-479-4636
Not-So-Spooky Family Storytime
Pine Island Public Library
10701 Russell Road, Bokeelia
Thursday, October 30 • 10:30 a.m.
For children through age 5 years and caregivers. Join us for this family friendly, Halloween-themed storytime. Don't be afraid to wear your costume. Stories, songs, games, crafts and a light snack will be provided. 239-479-4636
FALLoween Storytime & Costume Parade
East County Regional Library
881 Gunnery Road, Lehigh Acres
Thursday, October 30 • 10:30 a.m.
Put on your sparkliest, scariest or silliest costumes and join us for a spooktacular FALLoween storytime. After the storytime and treat bag decorating, all children will be invited to join a costume parade throughout the library and pick up some hauntingly delicious treats. Costumes are encouraged but not required. For children through age 5 years. 239-479-4636
Baby Boo and You
Fort Myers Regional Library
2450 First St., Fort Myers
Thursday, October 30 • 10 a.m.
For babies through 18 months. Our littlest readers are invited to dress up and join us for a fun-filled fall celebration. There will be friendly songs, a keepsake craft and plenty of giggleworthy moments. Registration is required. 239-479-4636
Fri - 31
Monster Mash Costume Dance Party
Dunbar Jupiter Hammon Public Library
3095 Blount St., Fort Myers
Friday, October 31 • 10 a.m.
Join us for a lively, hour-long dance party designed especially for children through age 5 years and their caregivers. Costumes and dressup are encouraged for extra fun on the dance floor. 239-479-4636
Teen Movie Day + Food Truck
East County Regional Library
881 Gunnery Road, Lehigh Acres
Friday, October 31 • 2:30 p.m.
Catch a film with friends. Join us for a scary teen movie matinee. The Dawg Pound food truck will be on-site if you would like to purchase refreshments. Open to patrons ages 12-18 years. Rated PG-13. The movie title is subject to change. 239-479-4636
Fort Myers Fall Fest
2400 First Street, Fort Myers
Entrances: Jackson Street & First Street
Friday, October 31 • 5:30 p.m.
The Fort Myers Fall Fest marks the beginning of a new seasonal tradition, with a night of music, fun, and community spirit. Adults: $20, Ages 13–17: $10 & Kids 12 & under: Free. 239-789-1391
Costume Storytime
Riverdale Public Library
2421 Buckingham Road, Fort Myers
Friday, October 31 • 10 a.m.
Filled with not-so-scary stories, silly songs and fun rhymes, perfect for little ghouls and goblins. Kids are encouraged to come dressed in their favorite costumes for a festive and frightfully fun morning. 239-479-4636
Halloween at Cultural Park Theatre
528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral
Friday, October 31 • 8:30 p.m.
Stop by the theatre in costume to pick up a treat and enjoy a few festive surprises. Whether you’re out trick-or-treating or just want to say hello, we’ll be and welcoming neighbors of all ages. 239-772-5862
Fall Festival/Trunk or Treat
First Christian Church of Cape Coral
2620 Country Club Blvd, Cape Coral
Friday, October 31 • 6 - 8 p.m.
There will be music, candy and fun for the entire family! 239-574-7272
Trick or Treat
Downtown Bonita
Friday, October 31 • 5 - 9 p.m.
Happy Halloween! Bring the family to trick or treat down Old 41 RD: From Dean Street to Wilson Street. ceremonybrewing.com
Fall Festival
McGregor Baptist Church
3750 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers
Friday, October 31 • 6 - 8 p.m.
Fall Festival is a family friendly event for all ages! Visit a line of ornately decorated cars, have fun, and grab some candy. Food trucks will be available to purchase meals. This event is for everyone! mcgregor.net
Fair at Fenway South
JetBlue Park, 11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers
October 31 - November 16
Shows, food, carnival rides, games and attractions. fairatfenway.com
PUMPKIN PATCHES
...at a glance
Cypress Lake United Methodist Church
8570 Cypress Lake Dr., Fort Myers October 12 - 31
Monday-Friday 3-7pm, Saturday-Sunday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. (till sold out) 239-482-1250
Edison and Ford Winter Estates
2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers Saturday, October 18 • 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. 239-334-7419
Farmer Mikes U Pick
26031 Morton Ave., Bonita Springs Weekends through November 1 239-498-4576
Gator Mike's Family Fun Park
35 NE Pine Island Rd, Cape Coral October 4-26 • Noon - 6 p.m. 239-267-1133
Lakes Park
7330 Gladiolus Dr, Fort Myers October 11 - 31 239-332-2453
Prana Farms
6026 Sweden Blvd, Punta Gorda October 2 - 6, 9 - 13, 16 - 20, 23 - 27 • 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. www.prana-farms.com
Southern Fresh Farms
8500 Penzance Blvd., Fort Myers Weekends through November 2 239-633 7705
FESTIVAL ROAD TRIPS
HARVEST FESTIVAL
Dakin Dairy Farms, 30771 Betts Rd., Myakka City
October 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, and 26
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Food Trucks • Vendors • Live Music • Kid Zone
Pumpkins • Corn Maze • Sunflower U Pick
Touch A Tractor • Calf Cuddles • Kid ATVs
Lawn Mover Racing • Pumpkin Cannon
Admission $20, 5 years and under free. Free parking 941-322-2802
PUMPKIN FESTIVAL
Hunsader Farms, 5500 C.R. 675 Bradenton October 11-12, 18-19, 25-26 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Craft Show • Live Music • Live Shows • Pumpkins • Kid's Pumpkin Games Tiny Town Pioneer Trades Village • Hayrides • Pony Rides • Scarecrows Homemade Ice Cream • Farm Roasted Sweet Corn • Food Galore
Pumpkin Pie • Petting Zoo • Barnyard Playground • Face Painting Pedal
Carts • Corn Maze $2 • Children’s Train Ride $2 • Big Train Ride $3 • Juggler
Admission 10 years+ $15, Children 5-9 years $5 Children under 5 years FREE. *Cash Only* www.hunsaderfarms.com
Stepstopreventgettingtheflu
ByDr.StaciVanWinkle
Whatistheflu?
Thefluisacontagiousrespiratoryinfectionthatiscaused bytheinfluenzavirus.Symptomscanincludefever,chills,dry cough,muscleaches,fatigue,and occasionallyvomitinganddiarrhea.A personwiththeflumaynothaveallof thesesymptoms.
HowcanIgettheflu?
Theinfluenzaviruscanbecontractedwhenpeoplecomeincontactwith infectedindividuals(thosewithsymptomsandthosewithoutsymptoms) throughdropletsthatcontainthevirus fromcoughing,sneezingandeventalking.Theseinfecteddropletsareinhaled throughthemouthandnose.Onecan alsogettheinfectionbycomingincontactwithinfectedsurfacesandobjectsandthentouchingthemouth,eyes,ornose. Peoplewiththeflumaybeinfectiousonedaypriortosymptomsstartingandupto5to7daysaftersymptomsbegin.
HowcanIpreventfromgettingtheflu?
Thereareseveralthingsthatyoucandotopreventfrom gettingtheflu.Theseinclude:
•Gettingthefluvaccine
•Washhandsfrequently
•Avoidtouchingeyes,mouth,andnose
•Avoidclosecontactwiththosewhoaresick •Ifyouaresickstayhomesoastonotinfectothers •Covermouthandnosewhencoughingandsneezing •Eatinghealthy,gettingplentyofrest,exercisingregularly.
Whoshouldgetthefluvaccine?
TheCDCrecommendsthatthose6monthsoldandolder shouldgetthefluvaccine.
WhyshouldIconsidergettingthefluvaccine?
Thefluinfectioncanbeunpredictable.Somepeoplehavea mildinfectionwhileothersbecomeveryillandunfortunately, insomecases,deathmayresulteveninpeoplewhowerepreviouslyhealthy.Theinfluenzavirusleavesapersonsusceptible toinfectionlikepneumonia,canleadtodehydration,andcan worsenchronicmedicalconditions(lungdisease,heartdisease,renaldisease).
Asalwayspleasediscussyourquestionsandconcernwith yourphysician.Andconsultwithyourphysicianbeforegetting yourfluvaccine.Haveasafeandhealthyfluseason.
StaciVanWinkle,M.D.,isafamilymedicinedoctorwithPhysicians’PrimaryCareof SouthwestFlorida)withofficesthroughout LeeCounty.www.ppcswfl.com
Smartsnackingforkids; easytipsforbusyfamilies
Snackingisanormal partofachild’sday.Infact, mostkidseatseveraltimes betweenmealsandthat’s okay!Thekeyismaking surethosesnacksareboth healthyandwell-timed,so theydon’tspoiltheir appetiteformeals.
Expertssuggesttwo snacksadayforyounger childrenandonetotwofor olderkids.Withalittle planning,snackscanbe bothnutritiousandfun.
TheFloridaDepartment ofHealthinLeeCounty WICProgramnutritionists havesomerecommendationsforsimplewaysto makesnacktimeeasierfor youandmoreexcitingfor yourkids:
•Trytoincludetwoto threefoodgroupsineach snack.Thishelpskidsgeta varietyofnutrientsand keepsthemfulllonger.
•Avoidgivingsnacks tooclosetomealtime. Goodtimesforsnacks includerightafterschool, beforesportspractice,ora coupleofhoursbefore meals.
•Createasnackzonein thefridgewithpre-cut
fruits,veggies,cheese sticks,orslicedlunch meat.
•Keepafruitbowlon thecounter.Whenhealthy optionsareinplainsight, kidsaremorelikelytograb them.
•Useclearcontainers forcut-upveggieslike cucumbers,carrots,and cherrytomatoes.Pairthem withranchoranother favoritedip.
EasySnacksThatPacka Punch
•Unsweeteneddry cerealwithyogurtandnuts
•Lunchmeatwrapped aroundpearslices
•Tomatoandcream cheeseoncrackers
•Slicedcheesewith applewedges
•Tortillachipswith salsaorhummus
Snacksdon’thavetobe fancyortime-consuming. Withalittleprepandcreativity,youcanofferyour kidstastyoptionsthatfuel theirbodiesandminds.
Findmoreinformation onhowtokeepyourchild healthy,visitonlineat Lee.FloridaHealth.gov.
FastTraxopensinFortMyers
FastTraxEntertainmentopenedSept.5inFortMyers.The newattractionisbeingcalledFloridaʼslargestindoorkart trackwhichalsoincludesduckpinbowling,arcade, immersiveVRexperiencesandfullservicedining.FastTrax Entertainmentislocatedat14501GlobalParkway(nextto HeadPinzFortMyers).FastTraxisopenMondayto Thursday3to11p.m.,Friday3p.m.tomidnight,Saturday 11a.m.to1a.m.andSunday11a.m.to11p.m.Three levelsofkartingareoffered:Adult(13andolder),junior (ages7-13)kartingandkiddiekarts(ages3-6). Findoutmoreatfasttraxent.com
TheMusicalAdventures ofFlatStanleyonstage atBroadwayPalmChildren’sTheatre
BroadwayPalmChildren’s Theatreisbringingabeloved storybookcharactertolife withTheMusicalAdventures ofFlatStanley,playingOct. 17throughNov.14.
Thisdelightfulmusical, basedonJeffBrown’sclassic children’sbook,isperfectfor kidsofallagesandthe youngatheart.
MeetStanleyLambchop, yourordinary,everyday,runof-the-millten-year-old— untilthedayhewakesup flat!Suddenly,Stanleycan slipunderdoors,travelthe worldinanenvelope,and experienceadventureshe neverdreamedpossible. FromHollywoodtoParisand beyond,Stanley’sjourneyis filledwithfun,music,and
valuablelessonsabout friendshipandbeingtrueto yourself.
Withcatchysongs,lively characters,andafast-paced story,TheMusical AdventuresofFlatStanley makesforafun-filledfamily outing.Aftereachperformance,theaudiencewillhave thechancetoaskthecast questions,makingtheexperienceextraspecialforkids.
BroadwayPalmChildren’s Theatreperformancesare matineeswithafamily friendlylunchbuffet.Tickets canbereservedbycalling 239-278-4422,byvisiting BroadwayPalm.com,orby stoppingbytheboxofficeat 1380ColonialBlvd.inFort Myers.
BuschGardensSweetacular
Thisfall,guestscan createunforgettable memoriesatBuschGardensTampaBay’sfamilyfriendlyevent.Kandy’s SpooktacularCelebration runseverySaturdayand SundaythroughOct.26 fromnoonto4p.m. OtherHalloweenexperiencesforkidsinclude trickortreating,costume parade,storytime, SpookyKookyScience, TaffyTwist’sBlackCat DancePartyandJackO LanternScavengerHunt. BuschGardens.com
BrickorTreatatLegoland
LegolandFloridaResort’s BrickorTreatisofficially openfortheHalloween season.Runningevery SaturdayandSundayin October,guestscanenjoya monsterificcelebration featuringimmersiveexperienceswithfanfavoriteLEGO characters,interactiveshows, exclusivefoodofferings, trick-or-treating,andthe MonsterSkytaculardrone show.Thiskid-friendlyevent istheonlytimeofyearwhere guestscanmeetthepark’s exclusiveLEGOmonster characters,enjoyspecial immersiveHalloween shows,andgotrick-or-treatingtocollectloadsofcandy. Legoland.com
