As the cooler air settles in, tonight is perfect night for enjoying Music Under the Stars! Join us for an evening of acoustic Americana music outdoor concert, and if you’re looking for a spine-chilling adventure, venture into our Haunted Walk this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for the most bone-chilling experience you’ll ever encounter. Get your tickets now or at the door!
• TONIGHT: Music Under the Stars
October 17: 7 PM
Join us as we partner with the Americana Community Music Association for an evening of professional-quality acoustic Americana music in the Planetarium. Enjoy local and touring musicians Brian Smalley, Bill Metts, and Roy Schneider as they share their songs and stories. Tickets available now!
• Get Ready for a Spine-Chilling Adventure!
October 18, 19, 20, 25, 26 and 27: 7:30-10:30 PM
Do you know how eerie 105 acres of unspoiled Florida preserves can be at night? "Best Haunted Walk I've ever been to," and "Can I go again" are what folks are saying of our Haunted Walk this year! Venture into our haunted trails, where the spirits of nature and ghoulish creatures come alive! This isn’t just a walk in the park—it’s a heart-pounding adventure designed to send chills down your spine while supporting a noble cause. The Haunted Walk serves as a crucial fundraiser, ensuring our beloved animal residents receive the care they need for the upcoming year. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Brought to you in part by Sanibel Captiva Community Bank and R4 Roofing! Tickets available now!
• Also Coming Up at the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium:
Homeschool: Cryptozoology
October 17: 10 AM - 3 PM
Explore the mysteries of Florida’s cryptid species! Join us for hands-on activities, crafts, and a short hike as we delve into the tales of creatures like the Wampus cat and the skunk ape.
• YOUniverse
October 24: 5:30 - 7 PM
Experience the cosmos and the energy that connects us all in this 90-minute session of elemental sound and cosmic harmony under the stars.
• Nature Explorers: Water
November 2: 9 - 11 AMThis drop-off program for children ages 5-11 will explore the water cycle and conservation through engaging activities and discussions.
• Forest Bathing
November 11:
9:30 - 11:30 AM
Join a certified guide for a nature-based wellness practice that reduces stress and anxiety while reconnecting you to nature and self.
• Holiday Lights
Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from December 6 - 29: 6 - 9:30 PM
Celebrate the season with us! Enjoy holiday music, hot chocolate, and a fully decorated Pint Loop Trail.
• Mesmerica
Experience a visual music journey that combines mesmerizing music with visually hypnotic 3D art, creating a transcendent experience.
Connect with nature your way. Become a Member today!
Membership Benefits:
Free admission to our center trails, planetarium shows, and live animal talks for one year
10% discount on gift shop purchases
Discounts on camps, workshops, and select special events
Free or discounted admission to over 180 nature centers nationwide
Daily Programming:
Tuesday - Saturday:
12:15 PM & 2:15 PM: Planetarium Show
1:15 PM: Animal Talk
Sunday:
12:15 PM, 2:15 PM, & 3:15 PM: Planetarium Show
1:15 PM: Animal Talk
• Support Our Renovation: Help us bring our newly renovated Planetarium to life by donating to our capital campaign here. Explore special sponsorship opportunities, including naming rights for Planetarium seats and other key features here. 💖
In the News/On Air
• Full-Dome Films Debut at Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium in Cooperation with Fort Myers Film Festival! Beginning in 2025, the Fort Myers Film Festival, in cooperation with the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, will introduce full-dome films, marking a significant expansion of immersive storytelling in the region. Led by Director Eric Raddatz, this initiative will feature 360-degree cinematography, with a call for submissions to independent filmmakers. The festival is set to run from May 14 to 18, 2025, positioning Fort Myers as a pioneer in this exciting cinematic trend. Check out WGCU coverage by Tom Hall here.
SWFL Fresh Podcast:
Enjoy the recent podcast drop featuring our very own Heather Preston and Eric Raddatz! S3 EP8: Sailing Through the Cosmos: Heather Preston’s Astronomical Adventures https://lnkd.in/ePTHCFkF
• A Special Thank You: We extend our heartfelt thanks to our supporters, including Vulcan Materials, R4 Roofing, Aux Delicies, Famous Dave’s, The City of Fort Myers, Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, The Fred and Jean Allegretti Foundation, Heitman House, and the Fort Myers Film Festival.
• Stay Connected Cozy at home? Experience the Calusa Nature Center virtually! Enjoy our FREE T360 tour from your couch: #HomeBoundAdventures #NatureAtHome. Immerse yourself in our fresh interactive education videos here. Make your event unforgettable with one of Florida's unique venues! From weddings and showers to meetings and parties, we offer stunning indoor and outdoor spaces. Reach out now to reserve your date!
• Stay connected and learn more about our events and programming by visiting www.calusanature.org or following us on social media. For a recent look at our renovation updates, check out the NBC2 story here.
For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact:
Contact: Eric Raddatz
Executive Director
Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium
3450 Ortiz Avenue
Fort Myers, FL 33905
Email: eraddatz@calusanature.org
Phone: 239.275.3435
Website: www.calusanature.org
We look forward to celebrating fall with you and sharing our newly renovated Planetarium!
Comments