Flying High In Charlotte County The Florida International Airshow Returns

It has been two years since the biggest aviation event in Southwest Florida has taken flight.  Flying high in Charlotte County the Florida International Airshow returns to Punta Gorda in November. In addition,  the famous Thunderbirds are scheduled to perform for the finale. The Thunderbirds are the United States Airforce's elite jet demonstration team and they always draw big crowds.

Prior to that, it was the COVID pandemic that caused disruptions. Mark your calendars now for the airshow's return on November 4th and 5th.  The show features both aerial and static performances and demonstrations. You can expect stunt planes, aerial acrobatics, parachute performances, and much more.  It's also a chance to get up close to vintage planes and meet the people who fly them.

Tickets are on sale and organizers are expecting bigger crowds than ever. Predictions are that some 15,000 people will pass through the gates. The money raised goes to support numerous local charities and non profit organizations. Since its inception, the event has pumped some $3-million into the coffers of local charities and organizations.

If you buy general admission tickets, you'll need to bring your own chairs. Parking is free. The show is for all ages, including the little ones. In fact, there will be a fun zone for kids to keep them entertained when not looking to the sky. However, leave your fury, four legged friends at home.

Flying High in Charlotte County he Florida International Airshow returns and aviation enthusiast from around the state are making plans to attend once again.

Mother Nature teased us this week with a cool taste of fall. It was enough to get Southwest Floridians excited to be outdoors again. The calendar is full of opportunities to do just that. There are dozens of seasonal festivities this weekend in Southwest Florida including Punta Gorda, Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Bonita Springs and Naples. We've got the top ones listed here to help with your FOMO (fear of missing out.)

More and more Halloween festivities are taking place this weekend. Several include trick or treating for the kids and costume contests. By the way, I spoke to a local pediatrician this week and she has some tips for cutting down on sugar and staying safe while trick or treating. Click here to find out more. On the other side of the coin, there is a local race this weekend to help burn some of that sugar. Finally, there is acomprehensive list of Halloween events in Southwest Florida right  here.

Besides Halloween, Octoberfest has finally at the German American Social Club in Cape Coral. This annual celebration is not only the biggest in Southwest Florida. It is also one of the biggest Octoberfest parties in the entire state of Florida. The World's largest bounce house is also coming to the area and this is not your backyard party variety. This one has obstacle courses, sports zones and more. It looks to be a fun activity for both kids and adults. Scroll down for the details.

One more thing. If you have any upcoming events that you would like to share, please send them here. There are dozens of seasonal festivities this weekend in Southwest Florida and we've got the rundown to help you plan. Here are your Weekend Vibes for  October 20-22.  Get out and have some local fun. Cheers.

It's the biggest party of the year at the German American Social Club in Cape Coral. The club flies in bands from Germany, have a festival queen, tap kegs, and encourage lots of dancing and merriment. Of course they serve lots of great German food. The fun is Friday through Sunday this weekend and next.  More information here. 

The fun inflates Friday and goes through Sunday. It is 16,000 square feet of activity. There is an obstacle course, a sports zone,  and lots more. Sessions are three hours each. Tickets start at $22. It's at JetBlue Park. More information here.

This kids Halloween event is at Vineyards Community Park. Kids get to build their own haunted house using a variety of cookies, candy and frosting. Ages 4-12. Registration required. Friday 5-6:30. More information here.

This is a new event at Big Corkscrew Island Regional Park in Naples. Pick up wristbands to particpate at the park's community center in advance.  Besides candy there will be crafts, prizes, costume contest, music and more. The fun goes from 6-9. $5. More information here.

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

Trick or Treat with the kids at numerous locations in downtown Cape Coral. There will even be a limo bus to  help with transportation accross the parkway. Besides candy and trinkets, you could score some gift cards as well.  like gift cards to awesome local places. Stop by the photo booth too.  Saturday 12-4, More information and tickets here.

Saturday from 7-11 in downtown Cape Coral. Hop on the trolley and visit 11 different restaurants and bars. Each will feature a Halloween themed drink, candy and more. Win great prizes and there is a costume contest. Early check in is 6pm at Big John's Plaza. More info here.

This annual event is at Riverside Park in Bointa Springs Saturday. Bring chairs and blankets to watch the movie “Casper.”  The park is decorated, there are free pumpkins, pumpkin decorating, trick-or-treating, photo booths, food, drink and more.  5:30-9 p.m. Free. More info here.

Run off that Halloween candy at this event. Get themed medals and dress in costumes you can run in . Saturday at North Collier Regional Park in Naples. More information here.

See the latest trends and meet industry specialist for tips and supplies for your home and garden. Charlotte Harbor Events and Conference Center in Punta Gorda. Saturday and Sunday 10-4. Free. More information here.