Dive into peak summer with a calendar full of fun. In Naples, celebrate the country’s independence with a Patriotic Pops performance. In Estero, Cirque du Soleil puts on a show-stopping acrobatics display. And on Pine Island, a tropical fruit fair brings a little sweetness. Don’t miss the following events this month (and check out our 4th of July events blog for holiday festivities).
Now through July 21
The Naples Players present 42nd Street
In this production of the Tony Award-winning musical, follow along as a young starlet tap dances her way to a big break on Broadway. Neurodivergent families can catch a sensory-friendly performance of the show on July 16.
July 5
Patriotic Pops & July 4 Commemoration at Faith Lutheran Church, Naples
The Faith Lutheran Church Concert Series presents a special concert to pay respects to the nation. Members of the Naples Philharmonic Brass Quintet and local armed forces leagues join the musical tribute.
July 5-25
Menagerie at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, Fort Myers
Local artist Julie Obney was one of 56 artists chosen out of nearly 700 applicants to show their work recently in the highly selective, juried All Florida Exhibition. Her latest exhibition demonstrates her new direction with images showcasing light against dark, reflections and vivid hues.
July 5-30
Celebrating Imagination Exhibition at Marco Island Center for the Arts
Six Naples and Marco Island artists present different perceptions from the norm through their unique skill sets and innovative techniques. View the creatives’ paintings, photographs, sculptures, clayworks and textile art.
July 6
Tasting the Tropics at the Naples Botanical Garden
Explore and taste tropical fruits like jackfruit and pineapple during samplings, live demonstrations, tours and themed programs in the garden.
July 11-14
Squirrel Girl Goes to College at Laboratory Theater of Florida, Fort Myers
Based on Marvel Comics superhero Doreen Green, the play follows her entry into college in the guise of a typical student. But, the young do-gooder may have to sacrifice her anonymity to protect her friends from the evil that stirs.
July 12
Jorge Celedón at Seminole Casino, Immokalee
The multiple Latin Grammy Award-winner recently received acclaim at the celebration of Turén, Venezuela’s 300th anniversary. He continues to push boundaries, introducing Colombian folk music, vallenato, across the globe.
July 13
MangoMania at Our Lady of Miraculous Medal Catholic Church, Bokeelia
Pine Island’s long-running tropical fruit fair heralds its reputation as the local mango capital. Activities range from the silly (Mr. MangoHead and biggest mango contests) to the serious (cultivation seminars and mango dish cooking contests). Live music, adult beverages, nursery and other vendors and kids’ games make it a party for all ages.
July 13-21
Legally Blonde the Musical at Fort Myers Theatre
The musical version of the cult classic film follows perky Elle Woods, who’s determined to get her ex-boyfriend back by enrolling in Harvard Law School. The catchy soundtrack chronicles her trials and triumphs along the way as she and her sorority sisters conquer all.
July 20
Candlelight: A Tribute to Queen and a Tribute to Coldplay at Music & Arts Community Center, Fort Myers
Gulf Coast Symphony’s partnership with entertainment group Fever brings the Candlelight series to Fort Myers. The Listeso String Quartet serenades audiences in an intimate setting, with nearly 4,000 flameless candles illuminating the room. Back-to-back, separately ticketed concerts highlight the best-loved works of the timeless rock bands.
July 23
Doug MacLeod at Tribby Arts Center, Fort Myers
The blues singer-songwriter showcases his slide guitar prowess for an evening. The established artist has made a name for himself through his impressive storytelling, winning the 2020 and 2023 Blues Music Awards for Acoustic Artist of the Year.
July 25
Zachary Bartholomew: ‘Balancing Act’ Album Release Concert at Arts Bonita
The composer-pianist celebrates his latest album in this show. The musician reveals the stories behind his new compositions while Grammy Award-winning and world-renowned talents back him in concert.
July 25-28
Cirque du Soleil Corteo at Hertz Arena, Estero
The acrobatic phenomenon returns with its tumbling antics as audiences celebrate the story of the recently deceased Mauro the clown, whose funeral takes place in a circus parade.
July 27
Deric Cahill at Off the Hook Comedy Club, Naples
The rising social media personality (his TikTok alone has nearly 1.5 million followers) lands in Southwest Florida on his first-ever comedy tour. Known for his tongue-in-cheek stance on parenting and adulting, he lays out the logistics of life B.K. (Before Kids) and A.K. (After Kids).
July 30 — Aug. 18
My Way at Players Circle Theater, Fort Myers
The tribute show celebrates the life and career of the crooning legend, featuring classic hits from the singer’s impressive catalog.