Sunday is October 1st and local Halloween events are beginning to kick off this weekend. In addition, this week was the one year anniversary of Hurricane Ian. The two are almost a perfect combination when it comes to terrifying. Below we have events highlighting both, from Fort Myers Beach to Cape Coral, Port Charlotte and more. Along with a big event for foodies in Naples. We’ve got the scoop. What to do this weekend in Southwest Florida, September 29-October 1. Here are your Weekend Vibes.

zombie with arms extend sideways in a city street.

More Halloween events are opening in Southwest Florida this week. We have a complete list of where to find them coming up shortly.

Fort Myers Beach officials just unveiled a replica of the iconic clock in Times Square. The beloved beach welcome symbol was swept off of its concrete pedestal and out to sea by Hurricane Ian. Now there is a new one and new symbol of hope in hurricane recovery efforts. The beach and many other venues around Southwest Florida are still hosting live music for he Island Hopper Song Writer Festival. It is the last weekend to participate.

Also this weekend in Southwest Florida

In addition to the Food and Wine Experience in Naples, Cape Coral is hosting an Italian festival. Both have lots of food and entertainment. Scroll down for details. Animal lovers also have a couple of events take note of. All things reptiles are featured at an expo in Port Charlotte. And regardless of what kind of animal you have, you can get it blessed Sunday in Cape Coral. All of the details are below.

One more thing. If you have any upcoming events that you would like to share with us, please send them here. Here are your Weekend Vibes for  September 29-October 1.  Get out and have some local fun. Cheers.

  • Cape Coral Together, Resilience Rally

    Hosted by The  City of Cape Coral, this event commemorates the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Ian while supporting local non-profits in assisting residents who are still in need following the storm. Enjoy live music, food trucks, and more. Admission is donation non-perishable food, hygiene products and similar supplies. Friday, 6-10 at the German American Social Club on Pine Island Road, Cape Coral. Find more info here

  • USA Today Food And Wine Experience

    Sample food from local chefs and other culinary leaders and enjoy cooking demos. All while sipping beer, wine and a range of spirits. It’s time for the annual USA TODAY Wine & Food Experience. The event is Saturday from 1-4 at the Paradise Coast Sports Complex in Naples. VIP admission is noon. Tickets start at $65. Purchase here.

  • Festa Italiana Cape Coral

    If you love Italian food and heritage, this is for you. A fund raiser for the Cape Coral Museum of History, the event honors the area’s many Italian-American residents, the family friendly event features cooking demonstrations, gams, entertainment and food. There is even a dinner and show featuring singer Michael D’Amore. Saturday 12pm-5pm at the German American Social Club on Pine Island Road in Cape Coral. Dinner show 6pm. Tickets start at $10. Click here for more info. 

  • Halloween Returns To Gator Mikes

    This weekend kicks off the Halloween experience at Gator Mikes. This year it is Frightmare on 78: Back from the dead. Muster your courage to take the haunted hike through Gator Mike’s wooded area. You never know what you will encounter along the way. Be prepared to scream. Opening night is Friday. The event takes place every weekend through October 28. Tickets start at $20. Gator Mike’s Family Fun Park is on Pine Island Road in Cape Coral. Click here for more.

  • ReptiCon

    Like anything and everything to do with reptiles? From accessories, to vendors, to actual animals,  ReptiCon is the place to be this weekend. The event is Saturday and Sunday from 10am-4pm at the Charlotte County Fairgrounds in Port Charlotte. Tickets prices vary.  More here.

  • Blessing Of The Pets

    The 4th Annual Feast Day of St. Francis is Sunday at the Cape Coral Animal Shelter. St Francis is the patron saint of animals. Get your pets blessed by members of the clergy at 2pm. All pets are welcomed. In addition to the blessings, there  are pet vendors, pet photos and food. Free. Donations accepted. More info here. 

Sign Up For The B In The Know Newsletter

Music and entertainment stories, SWFL happenings, exclusive contests, games, and more inside every newsletter.

*
By clicking "Subscribe" I agree to the website's terms of Service and Privacy Policy. I understand I can unsubscribe at any time.