Get Your Pub Passports For Fort Myers Beach Fun

Recovery is slow but steady on Estero Island following Hurricane Ian. The deadly storm hit a year ago causing some 90% of the island to be uninhabitable. Those restaurants and businesses that have reopened are welcoming visitors back and one local group is helping. If you haven't done so yet, get your Pub Passports for Fort Myers Beach fun this weekend.

This is a project of the Fort Myers Beach Woman's Club to raise money to rebuild their clubhouse. In addition, it helps local businesses by getting butts in the seats at beach bars and restaurants that have reopened.  Here is how it works. First, Passport holders get deals on food and drink. 12 businesses are participating. Stop in with your passport, get a stamp and then the discount or free food and drink item that  they are offering.

I took a trip to Fort Myers Beach a couple of weeks ago, hopping around to the restaurants that were open,  hoping to support as many as possible. They were all packed with people happy to be back on the beach, despite it's somewhat embattled appearance.  It felt good to be back too.

Pub Passports are being sold online, at Wahoo Willies, La Ola and Rude Shrimp. They cost $25. Register those passports online for a chance to win two roundtrip tickets on the Key West Express. There are also prizes for the first 1000 people to visit all 12 stops, and get their passport stamps. The Pub Passports for Fort Myers Beach is good now through the rest of the year, December 31st. Click here to find out more. Have fun getting back to the beach.

We made it through another work week. Time to put your feet up, or put on your dancing shoes, and have some fun in Lee, Charlotte and Collier Counties. Enjoy a music fest, vintage market and more this weekend in SWFL. Here are your Weekend Vibes for September 15-17. We've put together quite a diverse list of local events, including some that are good for the entire family to experience together.

If you like music and food, this weekend has your name written all over it. Not only is it time for the monthly Music Walk in downtown Fort Myers, there is a new music festival. This one celebrates the many genres within the Latin Music category. In addition, there is a celebration of Latin culture at the Lee County Alliance for the Arts. You'll find more on both of these below. And yes. They both have lots of food as well as music.

There is also a steampunk and fantasy convention for something completely different. Don't forget Sizzle Restaurant Dining Week is in full swing. It is a great way to try new restaurants, enjoy creative pre-fix menus and  help feed kids in Southwest Florida. All of the details including a link to the participating restaurants can be found below. In addition, here are some photos from one spot that will make you salivate.

One more thing. If you have any upcoming events that you would like to share with us, please send them here. Enjoy a music fest, vintage market and more this weekend in SWFL. Here are your Weekend Vibes for  September 15-17.  Get out and have some local fun. Cheers.

This happens the third Friday of every month, mostly along First Street in downtown Fort Myers. There is live music almost everywhere, from the galleries and shops, the restaurants and bars. Even on the streets. The party is 6-10

The inaugural Fort Myers Latin Music Festival is Saturday, featuring a huge lineup of performers. Hear music from salsa to reggaeton and everything in between. Food trucks, kids activities and more fun onsite. The event also benefits Music ALIVE SWFL helping local musicians impacted by Hurricane Ian. The event kicks off at noon, runs through 10pm at Caloosa Sound Amphitheater in downtown Fort Myers. Tickets start at $40

This is Sunday at the Lee County Alliance for the Arts on McGregor Blvd. A family event, there will be music, games, kids activities, food trucks and more. Enjoy cultural food and performances while celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. 11am-5pm, Free

This annual event always draws a big crowd to Punta Gorda. Enjoy all kinds of one-of-a-kind creations from nationwide artists. It's Saturday and Sunday from 10-4.  Free and family friendly.

If the vintage look is your thing than this is your show. Find art, clothing, home decor, jewelry, even baked goods, and more at this touring market show. It's a great way to find treasures and support small businesses.Food trucks, live music and more. It's Friday-Sunday at Lee Civic Center in North Fort Myers. 10am-4pm, $12 admission. 12 and younger free.

This steampunk and fantasy convention is Saturday at the German American Social Club in Cape Coral. Get creative, dress up and enjoy live music, crafts, contests and all kinds of crazy fun. Gates open 10am until 6pm. $10, under 12, one free admission per paid adult. Additional kids $5 each.

This metaphysical and holistic healing festival is at Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center in Punta Gorda. Enjoy presentations, meet healthcare professionals, participate in card readings and more. Saturday and Sunday 9:30-5:30. $12

This is a monthly event at Mercato in North Naples. Check out the vintage VWs and other cars around the circle. Food and drink available. This month's charity is Habitat for Humanity. Sunday 9am-11am Free. The below post is from an earlier event.

The annual Sizzle Dining Week is officially underway in Southwest Florida. It's an annual period where some of the best restaurants in Southwest Florida put together fantastic pre-fix lunch and dinner menus. These menus offer outstanding value and encourage diners to get out and try a new place or re-visit an old favorite. Best of all, proceeds benefit Blessings in a Backpack. The event funs through the 27th.