Naples
Today
Friday, January 2nd, 2026
Good morning, Naples. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 2nd of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Naples Children Foundation has announced a live auction lot called The Picture of Health at the Naples Winter Wine Festival to raise funds for children’s essential healthcare, with live bidding on Saturday, Jan. 31, and online bids offered from Friday, Jan. 23 to Tuesday, Feb. 3 (organizers urge community support). Life In Naples
- ➤ The Moss and Canady families have kept a tradition of four-generation Sunday dinners for almost 20 years at 5:00 p.m. on Marco Island — a meeting that honors over 50 years of local history and deep community bonds. Coastal Breeze News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Robin Bache Gray is adding her creative flair to Naples’ art scene through Gallerie Indigo and her upcoming role as President of The Naples Players. Beau Jest will run at the Kizzie Theater from Jan. 14 to Feb. 15, 2026 & tickets are available now. Life In Naples
- ➤ Local historian Lois Bolin, with former sheriff Tim Guerrette and Brian Markel, will train volunteer interviewers to record Collier County veterans' stories ahead of America's 250th birthday on July 4, 2026. The effort will help preserve local histories for future generations. Life In Naples
- ➤ Straight Outta Florida is a 90-minute comedy show opening Jan. 13 at The Norris Center Theatre in Naples, featuring Betsy Bennett and Rick Compton in multiple roles; it runs every other Tuesday through April (tickets available via Eventbrite or by calling 239-213-3049). Naples Daily News
- ➤ Rookery Bay Festival of Birds will run January 15-19 with guided field trips and bird activities around Southwest Florida, including a keynote presentation by Paul N. Gray at a reception on Jan. 15 (preregistration is required). Coastal Breeze News
- ➤ Ray Carroll, a longtime real estate appraiser and history expert, recounted how early public works plus modern infrastructure spurred Naples’ growth from public beaches to a regional airport. His chronicle ties past milestones to today’s community development as the city welcomes 2026. Life In Naples
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The Immokalee Foundation has supported over 18,000 students in 34 years and is guiding more than 1,300 this year with internships, summer camps, and mentoring. It offers career pathways in fields like healthcare and construction to boost local workforce readiness. Life In Naples
- ➤ AAUW Greater Naples Branch hosts a free public meeting at Grace Lutheran Church, Fellowship Hall (860 Banyan Blvd) on Saturday, Jan. 10 with Dr. Tom Felke discussing poverty's impact on Florida women; refreshments begin at 9:30 a.m. before the talk at 10:00 a.m. Florida Weekly
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Residents can boost mental wellness this January as the DLC Wellness Institute encourages intentional living during National Be on Purpose Month in Naples. The institute advises setting mindful goals—like small acts of self-care—rather than overwhelming resolutions to build lasting balance. Life In Naples
- ➤ Collier County officials urge safe e-bike use as more residents ride electric bicycles on local roads and sidewalks. New ordinances require speed limits (15 mph on sidewalks) and helmet use for riders under 16 to help prevent crashes. Life In Naples
- ➤ In 2025, the Collier Mosquito Control District celebrated 75 years of service after evolving from a single truck to a modern fleet of planes, helicopters, drones & trucks providing science-based mosquito control. The district will upgrade its Naples Airport facilities to continue protecting the community. Life In Naples
- ➤ Healthcare Network’s telehealth services let families schedule secure virtual doctor visits from home (avoiding travel and long waiting rooms) for follow-ups and check-ups around Naples. Life In Naples
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Local columnist Karen Coney Coplin reflects on 31 years in Naples and shares 10 resolutions for the community in 2026. Her list inspires residents to embrace the city’s evolving charm, balance growth with nostalgia, and savor new dining spots + the enduring beauty of old Naples. Life In Naples
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Family Storytime and Craft
10:30-11:00 a.m. — Golden Gate Branch — Free entry — Enjoy a morning of stories, songs, and crafts for all ages.
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AAA Travel Expo
11 AM – 5 PM — AAA Naples — Free entry — Discover amazing vacation deals and travel tips with travel experts at the Naples Travel Show!
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Comedian Vicki Barbolak Live
2-3:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Tickets available — Enjoy laughs with Comedian Vicki Barbolak in a lively setting.
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Artful Arrangements: Floral Interpretations of Original Art
1-5 p.m. — Naples Art District — $20.00 – $50.00 — Explore a captivating blend of fine art and floral designs at this unique event.
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Third Street South Farmers Market
7:30-11:30 a.m. — Third Street South — Free entry — Enjoy fresh produce, baked goods, and local delights in a lively family-friendly atmosphere.
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Sourdough 101
5-8 p.m. — Twist Gallery — Ticket plus $2.50 service fee — Learn the art of sourdough baking with hands-on tutorials and take home a loaf.
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Hammock Sound Bath Experience
6-7 p.m. — Omaya Studio — Refunds available up to 7 days prior — Immerse in a tranquil floating sound bath combined with yoga and breathwork for rejuvenation.
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Naples Boat Show
10 AM – 5 PM — Naples Boat Show — Entry details not specified — Experience the largest premier recreational show in the Naples-Marco Island area featuring marinas, boat dealers, and marine-related businesses.
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Sterling Silver Jewelry Making Workshop
10:30 PM - 1 AM — 3570 Bayshore Dr, Naples, FL — $250 total — Create beautiful sterling silver jewelry using Precious Metal Clay in a hands-on workshop.
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The Financial Wake-Up Call Seminar
6-8 p.m. — 5003 Tamiami Trl E — Free entry — Gain practical financial insights while enjoying music and networking opportunities.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
We suffer more often in imagination than in reality.
~ Seneca
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