Good morning, Naples.

On March 16, 2026, the Naples Children Foundation awarded $30.6 million to nearly 50 nonprofits at a grant ceremony held at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburon (funds were raised during the Naples Winter Wine Festival).

Gulf Coast Restaurant Week is underway on the island with local restaurants showcasing island-inspired dishes and competing for the People’s Choice Award.

Join the Taste of the Islands event at Sanibel City Hall on Saturday at 11 a.m. for food, drinks & live music that supports wildlife rehabilitation.

Mann Hall unveiled its 2026-27 Broadway season with adaptations of books and movies (The Notebook, The Great Gatsby, Clue, Water for Elephants, and Hell’s Kitchen) plus special shows from Cirque du Soleil, SIX, and Jersey Boys.

Subscriptions are on sale now and single tickets begin in the fall.

On Tuesday, Mar. 17, Palm Beach County recorded $4 a gallon for gas—the highest in Florida—while Naples gas stood at $3.96.

AAA said the rise stems from seasonal changes and higher local operating costs amid global supply issues.

Six Collier County Public Schools educators were surprised today by the Golden Apple Prize Patrol as it honored their dedication to teaching in a public recognition event.

The initiative highlights the ongoing commitment to quality education in the local community.

Collier County’s first diverging diamond interchange at I-75 and Pine Ridge Road has marked one year of construction and will complete in mid-2027 while nighttime lane and ramp closures affect motorists; a similar project is underway at Daniels Parkway in Lee County.

Pollen season is still active in Naples as fine yellow dust from wind-pollinated trees causes itchy eyes and congestion.

UF/IFAS experts advise residents to wash off pollen from cars and clothes promptly and to limit outdoor activities during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

The Mucky Duck reopened in Captiva on March 14 after being closed since late 2024 due to hurricane damage.

The historic restaurant offers indoor and outdoor dining with its restored English-style pub look and familiar menu favorites.

Sara Breault, a shell collector from North Naples, has shared her rare junonia shell finds and collection tips on Instagram (urging new shellers to search in the water at low tide).

Her passion, sparked after Hurricane Ian, continues to inspire as she catalogs treasures from local beaches.

Publix introduces four decadent spring cookies with flavors such as Vanilla Celebration, Double Chocolate, Double Cookies and Cream, and Raspberry Cream Cheese, available now at local Publix bakeries and online.

Additional new flavors will be available this summer (check in-store for updates).

Thursday Night Trivia

7-8:30 p.m. — K.C.‘s Parrot 41 — Free to play — Compete in team trivia for prizes every Thursday night.

Friday After 5

5-8 p.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Check website for entry costs — Celebrate spring with live music and explore the Garden after-hours.

Stand-Up Comedy with Kevin Nealon

6-9:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Two-item minimum purchase required — Experience the dry wit and humor of Emmy-nominated comedian Kevin Nealon on stage.

Diana Ross Concert

7-10 p.m. — Artis—Naples — Tickets starting at $1867 — Experience an unforgettable evening with the legendary Diana Ross performing live.

Monday Trivia Night

7-8:30 p.m. — Midnight Tavern — Free to play — Compete in a fun-filled trivia night with friends and great prizes.

Hammock Sound Bath Experience

7-8 p.m. — Omaya Studio — Free parking — Immerse yourself in a tranquil journey of yoga and sound for an energy restoration.

Comedian Troy Bond Live

6:00-9:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Admission fees apply — Experience sharp crowdwork and hilarious sketches from rising comedian Troy Bond.

Jamie Lissow Stand-Up Comedy Show

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Ticket purchase required — Enjoy a night of laughs with comedian Jamie Lissow, known for his witty performances and television appearances.

Friday After 5

5-8 p.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Full menu available — Experience a vibrant evening with live music and explore the Garden after-hours.

Great Inflatable 5K

8 AM – 12 PM — Naples Classical Academy — Entry Fee Required — Bounce, climb, and sprint through the most hilarious inflatable obstacle course experience.