Southwest Florida welcomes winter with more than just holiday-themed events. This month, exuberant outings and inspiring exhibits abound. In Naples, the Grant Thornton Invitational brings the top PGA and LPGA players together for a Southwest Florida tournament. In Estero, Jim Gaffigan brings the house down in a New Year’s Eve show. And in Fort Myers, Florida Repertory Theatre puts on a one-man show with impressive flair. Don’t miss these December events.
Through Dec. 20
An Unconventional Lens at Method & Concept, Naples
Experience the art of photography in a new light through the works of more than six contemporary photographers, each using the medium to express their unique view. Stop by the gallery during the Naples Design District Holiday Stroll on December 4 for an evening reception featuring artists, live music and refreshments. Learn More
Dec. 3-17
Cloud Tree at East West Fine Art, Naples
Moscow artist Stanislav Plutenko explores the dissonance between man’s spiritual nature and carnal desires, drawing inspiration from lucid dreaming. This collection of works selected by the gallery analyzes the human condition and revitalizes timeless lessons from biblical stories. Learn More
Dec. 6 and 7
Toadfrog at Koreshan State Park, Estero
Join Ghostbird Theatre Company on the grounds of the historic Koreshan State Park for a production drawing from Shakespeare’s pastoral comedy, As You Like It. This outdoor staging features music, poems and narrative storytelling and is best suited for audiences 16 and older. Learn More
Dec. 7
2024 JOG N JAM: A FISH of SANCAP 10k/5k and Concert Celebration on Sanibel Island
Lace up your sneakers for this jaunt that begins and ends at Sanibel Community House. The race benefits FISH of SANCAP, an organization dedicated to uplifting the Sanibel and Captiva Islands through food programs, education support, senior services and financial assistance. Stick around after the race for a beach concert and fireworks show hosted at ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa. Learn More
Dec. 9
United Arts Collier’s Winter Wonderland Art Mixer at Paragon Theaters, Naples
Join United Arts Collier artists for their quarterly art mixer, and watch as they create stunning seasonal works during the event. The winter wonderland-themed affair includes a complimentary screening of a holiday film, a vibraphone performance from a UAC musician and holiday treats like cookies and eggnog. Learn More
Dec. 9-15
Grant Thornton Invitational at Tiburón Golf Club and The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón
The best PGA and LPGA golfers team up and vie for $4 million in prize money at the annual charity tournament. Tickets to the tournament include admission to Live Fest on December 14, where legendary artists like rock band Goo Goo Dolls and country music group Old Dominion perform. Learn More
Dec. 10 — Jan. 12
Fully Committed at Florida Repertory Theatre, Fort Myers
Prepare to laugh out loud at this one-man show featuring Florida Rep actor Kraig Swartz playing 40 roles. The comedy tells the story of Sam, an actor working a day job manning the reservation line at Manhattan’s best restaurant. Antics ensue as diners go to outrageous lengths to book a table. Learn More
Dec. 11-31
Climbing the Art Ladder: The Use of Color in Pop Art at Aldo Castillo Gallery, Naples
Following in the footsteps of Pop Art greats Andy Warhol and James Rosenquist, Ancizar Marin’s exhibition of sculptures and installations captures movement and color through a myriad of materials such as Polaroids, fiberglass and magnets. From a school of swimming fish to climbers and window washers, the 3D works are a joyful and dynamic expression of activity. Learn More
Dec. 13 and 14
Naples Philharmonic Masterworks: A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Artis—Naples
In this showcase, Kazakh composer Meilina Tsui introduces the world premiere of her new work, Floridian Symphony, ahead of the main event. Later, Shakespeare comes to life with the late composer Felix Mendelssohn’s iconic Violin Concerto and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Narrator Tama Matheson performs scenes from the play throughout the concert, melding theater and music. Learn More
Dec. 19
The Dauntless Dr. Snyder: Physician, Hotelier and Politician in the Swamp at Museum of the Everglades, Everglades City
Museum manager Thomas Lockyear regales visitors with the story of Dr. Kenneth E. Snyder’s remarkable life and impact on Southwest Florida. Photos and tales from the Snyder family’s personal collection recount the doctor’s many efforts and achievements, including his airboat-traveled house calls in his physician days. Learn More
Dec. 24, 26-29
Some Like it Hot at Artis—Naples
The Broadway national tour production of the Tony Award-winning musical rolls into Naples just in time for the end of the year. Set in the Prohibition era, the show tells the story of two musicians who escape to Chicago after witnessing a mob hit, with eccentric dance numbers to boot. Learn More
Dec. 28 and 29
14th Annual Coconut Point New Year’s Weekend Art Festival, Estero
Peruse works from a mix of more than 100 national and local artists at this yearly festival. Scout for art pieces and trinkets, including jewelry, paintings and life-size sculptures, to add to your collection. While shopping, take advantage of the food options available to purchase at the event, or swing by one of Coconut Point’s many restaurants. Learn More
Dec. 31
Jim Gaffigan at Hertz Arena, Estero
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a roaring good time. The seven-time Grammy Award-nominated comedian finds humor in everything as he pokes fun at himself and the happenings of daily life, from weight loss to the experience of parenting teenagers. Learn More