Good morning, Naples.

The Naples Zoo added seven American Flamingos to its flock, increasing the total to 19 and moving closer to a breeding goal of 40 birds—five females and two males arrived from Fort Worth, Texas, with most birds between 1 and 3 years old and one a 16-year-old female.

Hundreds gathered Wednesday at the Collier County Fairgrounds for the 68th annual Farm-City Barbecue, where locals celebrated farming and discussed worries over recent immigration raids in Immokalee—farmers expressed concerns over worker uncertainty and the weather affecting crops. Organizers highlighted agriculture’s vital role in the county’s economy.

Today, Bonita Springs non-profit The Cafe of Life is serving Thanksgiving meals to over 500 adults and 250 children at several community locations—LuLu’s Kitchen on Airport-Pulling Road offers a free dinner from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. with take-out available until 4 p.m. Meanwhile, Wonder Gardens will host its annual Wine & Wonder event on Dec. 12—featuring wine samples, food trucks and VIP options to support garden renovations.

Roads in Florida are busy with Thanksgiving travel following deadly crashes that occurred on Wednesday on US-41 near Whispering Pine Way and in Collier County—law enforcement has increased patrols and urged drivers to slow down and buckle up.

Marco Island Center for the Arts is in the midst of its 2025–2026 season with live plays and art exhibitions led by Hyla Crane.

The center offers holiday events, comedy shows and free education programs for local residents and visitors.

Several boat parades will light up Southwest Florida waterways this holiday season as vessels are decked with holiday lights and decor.

In Naples, the 36th Annual Marine Industries Christmas Boat Parade begins at 6 p.m. on Dec 13 and can be seen from local spots — Fort Myers Beach hosts its parade at 6 p.m. on Dec 6 while Marco Island and Cape Coral hold parades on Dec 20, and the Bonita Springs event has been cancelled.

Poachers risk Florida swamps filled with heat and dangerous wildlife to steal the rare ghost orchid near Naples—officials warn that the plant’s slow growth and declining numbers make every theft a major setback.

Researchers stress that once federally listed, stricter penalties will target those who harvest the ghost orchid.

On Thanksgiving Eve, The District in Naples offered guests several bar experiences including a family-friendly outdoor area, a game room, a cozy lounge and a hidden speakeasy with 1920s jazz.

Co-owners Jessy and Chris Lee said the venue provided a welcoming atmosphere—catering to different tastes on a busy pre-holiday night.

Kevin Herrera Live

6-7:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience Kevin's unfiltered comedy inspired by life's challenges and humor found in everyday moments.

Kevin Herrera Live Comedy Show

6-7:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Minimum 2 item purchase — Enjoy Kevin Herrera's raw and relatable comedy inspired by life experiences.

Kelly & Mason Night Lights Concert

6-9 p.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Tickets required — Experience a magical evening with live music under the stars.

Crystal Marie Live Performance

7:00-8:30 PM — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of laughs with comedian Crystal Marie as she showcases her talent.

James Murray Live Comedy Show

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience an interactive stand-up comedy show with James Murray from Impractical Jokers.

Friday Playdate at Estates Library

10 AM – 12 PM — Estates Library — Free entry — Enjoy open playtime with your little ones while connecting with other parents over coffee and pastries.

Johnsonville Night Lights in the Garden

11:59 PM – 1:29 AM — Naples Botanical Garden — Admission fee applies — Experience a tropical winter wonderland illuminated by enchanting lights.

Craig Shoemaker Live Comedy Show

6-7:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Ticket purchase required — Enjoy a night of laughter with the renowned comedian Craig Shoemaker.

Craig Shoemaker Live

7-8:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Ticket purchase required — Experience hilarious stand-up from a celebrated comedian with a rich entertainment history.

Kelly & Mason's Night Lights Performance

6-9 p.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Tickets required — Enjoy a magical evening with Christmas favorites and stunning light displays in the garden.