The first month of the year is bursting with activities for Southwest Florida families. From a circus performance in Fort Myers to a cooking workshop in Cape Coral, January is brimming with opportunities to create memories together. Save the dates for these events.
Jan. 2
Music, Sound and Art Make-and-Take Workshop at Artis—Naples, The Baker Museum
Little creators immerse themselves in the art of sound, experimenting with printmaking techniques that let them craft and record personalized greeting cards. The workshop, inspired by the museum’s simultaneously running Rafael Lozano-Hemmer: Obra Sonora exhibit, draws on the internationally celebrated artist’s works. Learn More
Jan. 2 and 3
The Science Behind Art Camp at Edison and Ford Winter Estates, Fort Myers
Young inventors fuse the expressive power of art with the precision of science, crafting moiré patterns that mimic the look of sound wave interference. The creatives take their skills a step further, experimenting with depth by sketching and constructing 2D and 3D drawings. Afterward, kids explore light spectrums through spectroscopes before they design unique games inspired by Sir Isaac Newton’s laws of motion. Learn More
Jan. 9
Olaf’s Cozy Kitchen Party at Chef’s In Progress, Cape Coral
Budding cooks ages 6 to 15 whip up winter magic treats inspired by everyone’s favorite snowman from Disney’s Frozen. Roll, bake and glaze Olaf’s scrumptious cinnamon rolls for a warm treat. For those looking for a lighter bite, unleash creativity by decorating melted Olaf yogurt cups topped with blueberries or coconut. Learn More
Jan. 10-13
Cirque Italia Water Circus: Gold Unit at JetBlue Park, Fort Myers
Aspiring acrobats are in for a treat under the white and blue big top. Marvel as performers from around the world balance, juggle and contort on a shimmering stage filled with 35,000 gallons of water. Learn More
Jan. 11
Solar Observation with Southwest Florida Astronomical Society at Punta Gorda Charlotte Library
Future astronomers use telescopes designed for secure observation to gaze up at the galaxy above. Little ones explore solar flares, prominences, sunspots and other surface features of Earth’s closest star. Learn More
Jan. 11, 18, 25
Stories in the Shade at McGuire Park, Port Charlotte
Children ages 6 and under cozy up with family members on blankets and chairs for a whimsical, picnic-style story hour on the lawn. Between rhythmic spoken tales, kiddos sway to music as they create chalk art, explore sign language, twirl ribbons and blow bubbles. Learn More
Jan. 18
Meet Me at the Carnival Family Day at Collier Museum at Government Center, Naples
The new year starts with classic carnival games. Daring littles take a stand with balloon darts and Coca-Cola bottle ring tosses to try their luck winning prizes. As the young ones play, indulge in fair-favorite treats like cotton candy and buttery popcorn. Learn More
Jan. 18
Your First Mud Run at North Naples Church
Parents join first-time runners (ages 5 and up) on this 2-mile-long mud course hosted by the Village School of Naples. Climb, crawl and splash together through more than 15 thrilling obstacles. Learn More
Jan. 20
Draw Together! Creative Arts Workshop for Families at Naples Botanical Garden
In this 90-minute class, youngsters and chaperones tour the Garden’s lush tropical and sub-tropical collections, drawing inspiration from the intricate cacti and succulents. Guided by an instructor, families transform their chosen plant into a sketch before refining it with expert-led techniques and vibrant pastels. Learn More
Jan. 27
24th Annual Cape Coral Kiwanis KidsFest at the German American Social Club
Energetic minis dive head-first into a day of wonders. Activities cater to all diverse interests—bounce houses feed playful spirits, face painting lends a creative outlet and interactive exhibits foster curious minds. When it’s time to recharge, local food vendors offer tasty bites to satisfy tiny appetites. Learn More