Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral Events Newswire

Florida Child in Need of Extremely Rare Blood- OneBlood Leading Worldwide Search to Locate Donors 12/3/2018 8:00 AM - 12/3/2119

Wed, 05 Dec 2018 14:19:23 GMT

(Orlando, Florida December 3, 2018) OneBlood, the local not-for-profit blood center serving Florida and other parts of the southeast, is leading a worldwide search to find some of the rarest blood in the world. It’s needed to help save two-year-old Zainab, a South Florida girl who is battling neuroblastoma, a very aggressive form of cancer. Zainab’s blood is extremely rare because she is missing a common antigen that most people carry on their red blood cells. The antigen is called “Indian B” (Inb). For a person to be a possible match for Zainab, they must also be missing the Indian B antigen, or the little girl's body will reject the blood. Locating people who are missing the Indian B antigen comes down to genetics. • Statistically, the only people who are likely to be a match for Zainab are people of Pakistani, Indian or Iranian descent. Of these populations, less than 4% of the people are actually missing the Indian B antigen. To be a match for Zainab a donor must meet the following criteria: • Must be exclusively Pakistani, Indian or Iranian descent – meaning the donor’s birth parents are both 100% Pakistani, Indian or Iranian • Must be blood type “O” or “A” • All donations for Zainab must be coordinated with OneBlood in advance to ensure the additional compatibility testing is performed. Visit https://www.oneblood.org/zainab/ for donation information. OneBlood is working closely with other blood centers and the American Rare Donor Program (ARDP), an organization that searches the world for rare blood donors. So far, three matching donors have been located, including a donor that ARDP located in the United Kingdom, near London. It’s the first time OneBlood has ever received an international donor for a local patient. The other two matching donors are from the United States. While it’s promising the three donors have been located, additional donors are needed. Zainab will need blood transfusions for the foreseeable future. To support her long-term blood needs, the search is on to find at least seven to ten compatible donors. OneBlood is sharing Zainab’s story in the hopes more people who meet the specific donor criteria will come forward to donate for the little girl. OneBlood is conducting all compatibility testing of potential donors. So far, more than 1,000 local donations, as well as donations from other parts of the country have been tested and no additional matches have been identified. Media Tool Kit Available • To view OneBlood’s online show about the search for Zainab’s donors, and for details on how to donate and/or host a blood drive for Zainab, please visit https://www.oneblood.org/zainab/. • A media tool kit with video and interviews is available by visiting https://www.dropbox.com/sh/4yrbbtu13mdglv6/AADToakWh9ixj9e4rBKiXYjca?dl=0. ## OneBlood is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) community asset responsible for providing safe, available and affordable blood to more than 200 hospital partners and their patients throughout most of Florida, parts of Georgia, Alabama and South Carolina. Generally healthy people age 16 or older who weigh at least 110 pounds can donate blood. To learn more about OneBlood visit www.oneblood.org.

The Birds of Southwest Florida Exhibit 9/1/2026 9:00 AM - 12/6/2026 5:30 PM

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 16:03:44 GMT

On September 1, The Birds of Southwest Florida exhibit will open in the Edison Caretaker's House at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. The exhibit features multiple panels containing detailed illustrations from John James Audubon, along with quotes from the Edison and Ford families. Antique spy glasses, books on birds, and other bird-related items that had belonged to Mina Edison will also be featured. The exhibit is included with admission to the site and will run through December 6.

Business Card Exchange hosted by AAA Travel 12/1/2026 7:30 AM - 12/1/2026 8:30 AM

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 18:08:28 GMT

For the early birds, the Business Card Exchange is designed for those who cannot get away midday or for those looking for the extra early morning networking from 7:30am - 8:30am. This is your time to meet members of the chamber or host this morning event to get prospect members through your doors. You will find members passionate about networking the first Tuesday of each month at the Business Card Exchange Networking Event.

Join us for this early morning networking event and bring plenty of business cards and be ready to network!

A RESERVATION IS REQUIRED! This is a FREE networking event for Chamber Members and a $35 fee for Non Chamber Members.

If you are interested in hosting a Business Card Exchange at your business or have questions about this Business Card Exchange, contact Lisa Barrella at (239) 549-6900 x103 lisa@capecoralchamber.com

Garden Tour 12/2/2026 10:00 AM - 12/2/2026 11:30 AM

Mon, 02 Nov 2026 12:01:12 GMT

December 2, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Garden tours will be offered on Nov. 4, Dec. 2, Jan. 6, Feb. 3, Mar. 31 at 10 a.m. Horticulturalists lead the behind-the-scenes tours of 20+ acres of historic gardens, walking the grounds where Edison conducted botanical research in his search for natural rubber, discovering fruits and flowers in bloom, and learning the significance and use of many plants onsite.

Registration is limited.

Cost: non-members $35; 50% off for members.

PreK - Busy Bee Botanists 12/4/2026 10:00 AM - 12/4/2026 11:30 AM

Mon, 02 Nov 2026 12:01:16 GMT

December 4, 10am to 11:30am

Pre-schoolers will take nature walks exploring seasonal plants, insects and birds of the Edison Ford Estates. Students learn how to sprout beans and learn about life cycles, sunlight and soil, and build a bird house to take home. Preschoolers learn to sort, follow a routine, follow instructions and stay with tasks in fun play activities.

The Pre-School Program is a 90-minute class with hands-on STEAM activities, learning through play! The class helps introduce educational readiness for kids 18 months to 5 years of age. The series supports developing social and behavioral skills with their classmates and teacher. It is structured with an hour of activities, and half an hour of independent play and snack time. 1 or 2 parents/guardians/family members can accompany the student in class.

Registration required; pricing and details available online at EdisonFord.org.

Shelling and Beach Walks at Sundial Resort 12/4/2026 9:00 AM - 12/4/2026 10:00 AM

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 11:36:20 GMT

Join marine biologists and educators from the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium for guided walks along Sanibel’s shores at Sundial Resort in search of shells and other forms of local marine life. Learn about some of the island’s most beloved and rare shells as well as the mollusks that grow them.

As you gain tips on shelling and find shells, you learn how to identify them and what makes them unique. You will also learn how mollusks fit into our local beach ecosystems that also include birds, turtles, and a wide range of tropical wildlife.

Shelling and Beach Walks are approximately 45-60 minutes. Attendees are encouraged to wear sunscreen and bring a water bottle and a bag for the shells you collect. Participants under 12 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

All walks will begin at 9am. Maximum of 10 participants.

Cost: $15 per adult; $5 per member or child

Bromeliad Sale 12/5/2026 9:00 AM - 12/5/2026 4:00 PM

Mon, 02 Nov 2026 12:01:20 GMT

December 5, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

In partnership with the Caloosahatchee Bromeliad Society, there will be hundreds of different specimens of Bromeliads for sale, including rare species. Experts from the society will be on hand to answer questions about Bromeliads. Parking and admission to the event is free (does not include tours or admission to the museum and laboratory). A limited number of garden carts will be available; guests are encouraged to bring their own.

In addition, the Garden Shoppe will be open and stocked with trees, fruit and vegetable plants, herbs, flowers and more.

Cape Coral Farmers' Market - Club Square 12/5/2026 8:00 AM - 12/5/2026 1:00 PM

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 01:20:20 GMT

The Cape Coral Farmers Market has been a favorite Saturday morning destination for 37 years. Over the years, we have grown to over 125 plus vendors. We are confident that we have all the delicious foods and local crafts that you love to shop for.

Fresh, local & healthy fruits and veggies, including Certified Organic produce, are the core of the market along with homemade and handmade foods and crafts. Fresh baked breads & pastries, homemade pickles, jams & jellies, Gulf fresh seafood, homemade pet treats, handcrafted soaps, essential oils, local honey, made-on-site guacamole & native plants & trees are just some of the fantastic products available.

Since shopping and eating seem to go so well together, the market has endless options. A food truck court and tent vendors offer Crepes, Empanadas, Mexican food, German street food, Pierogis, Pizza, Paninis, Italian food and healthy options like, health smoothies, Acai bowls and salads.

Each season we do our best to give back to the community by offering spaces for non-profits, schools and community groups. Another way we give back is by offering the ability for our EBT/SNAP customers to shop for healthy and affordable food options. We are proud to say that 13 years ago, we were the first market in Lee County to offer ease of shopping for our neighbors.

We are also proud that we were the first market in Lee County to offer Fresh Access Bucks to our EBT/SNAP customers. This program gives $40.00 extra to purchase Florida grown fruits & veggies at the market. A healthy community is a great outcome.

The market also entertains with great musicians performing all year.

We hope that you choose to make the Cape Coral Farmers Market your Saturday Morning Destination!

For more information, call Claudia St Onge at (239) 549-6900 x101, cso@capecoralchamber.com (or) visit the Farmers' Market site at www.capecoralfarmersmarket.com

Holiday Festival of Lights 2026 - Presented by FunToDo.com 12/5/2026 4:00 PM - 12/5/2026 10:00 PM

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 20:45:27 GMT

For over 40 years, the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral has welcomed the holiday season on the first Saturday of December. The Holiday Festival of Lights stands out as one of the largest celebrations in Southwest Florida, bringing together families and businesses. This feel-good event takes place along Cape Coral Parkway in Downtown Cape Coral and features over three-quarters of a mile filled with holiday attractions, performances, vendors, food, and refreshments to celebrate the season.

The highlights of the festival include the official lighting of the city’s Christmas tree and the much-anticipated arrival of Santa Claus. Dignitaries and major sponsors participate in the tree lighting ceremony, after which Santa lights the tree and greets children, offering free photos with him.

Along the 3/4-mile stretch, there will be three holiday performance stages showcasing local dance groups, schools, choirs, and others as they present their festive programs. The Holiday Festival of Lights will feature a variety of sponsors and vendors lining the Parkway, many of whom will offer free gifts and prize registrations, along with food vendors serving an array of delicious festival fare for all attendees. This festival is known as the “biggest small-town holiday celebration” in the country, making it an event you certainly don't want to miss!

For Sponsorship and Vendor Forms visit www.Holidayfestivalcc.com

Homeschool Classes at Edison Ford 12/9/2026 10:00 AM - 12/9/2026 12:00 Noon

Mon, 02 Nov 2026 11:56:58 GMT

Environmental Science and Botany of the Winter Estates

Resource management and ecological awareness dates to early civilizations learning to manage natural resources as in Ancient Mesopotamia and Ancient Greece. Students will learn about ecology, biodiversity, sustainability and environmental stewardship. Students will take nature walks exploring seasonal plants, insects and birds of the Edison Ford Estates. With the concepts of gardening, students will learn how to sprout beans and learn about life cycles, sunlight and soil, construct and engineer a bird house to take home!

December 9 (grades 1-3), 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

December 10 (grades 4-6), 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join us and explore the “living laboratory” of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Our Wild Wizards will challenge your mind and foster collaboration in this homeschool science and engineering series. Classes take place in an outdoor classroom environment (weather permitting). Homeschool classes at Edison Ford are aligned with Next Generation Science and Florida State Standards. Classes are a combination of instruction and hands on activities that are designed to facilitate homeschool or virtual science education.

Registration required; pricing and details available online at EdisonFord.org.

Members $15, Non-Members $25

Sunrise Shell and Mollusk Strolls 12/9/2026 7:00 AM - 12/9/2026 8:30 AM

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 09:23:43 GMT

Join a marine biologist from the Museum on an early-morning, low-tide beach walk to learn about Sanibel’s local mollusks and their shells, and to search for live mollusks. These small group experiences will help participants gain a closer understanding of molluscan biology and biodiversity, and with the cooler seasonal temperatures and timing with very low tides, they are excellent shelling conditions and a good opportunity to find and observe living mollusks. All walks take place at Gulfside City Park on Sanibel and last approximately 60-90 minutes.

Maximum of 15 participants.

Cost: $15 for adults; Adult Museum Member: $5; Child: $5

General Membership Holiday Jingle and Mingle_Copy 12/9/2026 11:30 AM - 12/9/2026 1:00 PM

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 14:15:59 GMT

Join your fellow Chamber members the second Wednesday of each month from 11:30am - 1:00pm at the monthly General Membership Luncheon Meeting. Enjoy the opportunity to network with members of the local business community.

Join us for the December Holiday Jingle and Mingle luncheon. Come enjoy the company of the local business community where we will continue to welcome in the holiday season with networking and an end of the year chamber update.

Please make your reservation ahead of time by clicking on the "Register HERE" button to receive the pre-registration price

$25 - Chamber Members with reservations made by 12:00pm the day prior to
$30 - Chamber Members with reservations made after 12:00pm the day prior
$35 - Non-Chamber Members

*All cancellations must be made 24 hours prior to the event for a refund or credit towards the next meeting.

Education Committee Meeting 12/10/2026 7:30 AM - 12/10/2026 8:30 AM

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 15:16:50 GMT

The goal of the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral Education Committee is to assist our local students, teachers and schools as they prepare for the future. This is done in a number of ways that include but are not limited to; raising funds, providing needed supplies, recognizing achievements and connecting local businesses with local schools. The goal is to help provide a well-rounded, prepared work force for our local businesses in the near future.

The Education Committee consists of local business leaders committed to achieving the committee goals. Annual events include a fund-raiser for scholarship monies and the prestigious Excellence in Education Awards Banquet. This annual event honors one educator and one student from each of our local schools with a special evening where they are presented a plaque and gifts provided by local businesses. Family members are invited to accompany the recipients as local business leaders, school district officials and our government officials honor then for their achievements.

The Education Committee meetings are held on a monthly basis, the second Thursday of every month at 7:30am. This group is always in need of enthusiastic chamber members to serve on this committee.

For more information about the Education Committee, please contact the Donna Germain at (239) 549-6900 x107 or donna@capecoralchamber.com

Homeschool Half-Days - Mollusk Diversity and Adaptations (Ages 5-8) 12/10/2026 2:00 PM - 12/10/2026 4:00 PM

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 14:27:30 GMT

Explore the world of shells and mollusks through new homeschool programs! With more than 85,000 species on the planet, mollusks are very diverse, and many have unique ways of surviving. Students will learn about various molluscan adaptations as well as the diversity of the phylum. After the program, students will have the opportunity to explore the Living Gallery of Aquariums and Great Hall of Shells on their own.

Homeschool Half-Days programs are offered on select Thursdays, September-December, 2-4pm for ages 5-8 and 9-12. Program registration is $25 ($15 for Museum members) and accommodates one homeschool student and one guardian. Students must be supervised by their guardians at all times.

Business After Hours hosted by Fuller Metz Cremation and Funeral Services 12/10/2026 5:30 PM - 12/10/2026 7:30 PM

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 14:09:53 GMT

Join your fellow Chamber members the third Thursday of each month from 5:30pm - 7:30pm at the Business After Hours Networking Event. Enjoy the opportunity to network with 60+ members. We always have networking activities, great giveaways and sponsorship opportunities to expose your business.

Join us for this after work networking event and bring plenty of business cards and be ready to network!

A RESERVATION IS REQUIRED! This is a FREE networking event for Chamber Members and a $35 fee for Non-Chamber Member.

Gardening Class: Holiday Orchid Mount 12/12/2026 10:00 AM - 12/12/2026

Mon, 02 Nov 2026 11:57:08 GMT

December 12, 10 a.m.

Create a beautifully crafted holiday orchid mount suitable for gifting. All materials and light refreshments will be included.

Held in the comfortable air-conditioned Garden Council classroom just off the Larchmont Ave. parking lot. Look for the red “Torry Gate.” Advance registration is required (registration opens October 1 and closes November 22). Register online at EdisonFord.org.

Cost: Members: $50; Non-members: $75

Cape Coral Farmers' Market - Club Square 12/12/2026 8:00 AM - 12/12/2026 1:00 PM

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 01:20:28 GMT

The market also entertains with great musicians performing all year.

We hope that you choose to make the Cape Coral Farmers Market your Saturday Morning Destination!

For more information, call Claudia St Onge at (239) 549-6900 x101, cso@capecoralchamber.com (or) visit the Farmers' Market site at www.capecoralfarmersmarket.com

Silk Scarf Painting Class 12/13/2026 9:00 AM - 12/13/2026 2:30 PM

Mon, 02 Nov 2026 11:57:11 GMT

December 13, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Join artist Marie Dyer for an inspirational and educational workshop surrounded by the gardens of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. In this workshop, you will learn techniques to create your own one of a kind 14? by 72? silk scarf. No experience is required and all materials and inspiration are supplied. Register online at EdisonFord.org.

Members: $100, non-members: $110

Homeschool Half-Days - Mollusk Diversity and Adaptations (Ages 9-12) 12/17/2026 2:00 PM - 12/17/2026 4:00 PM

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 14:27:37 GMT

Christmas Floral Workshop 12/19/2026 10:00 AM - 12/19/2026 12:00 Noon

Mon, 02 Nov 2026 11:57:15 GMT

December 19, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Learn professional floral design techniques while crafting a stunning 12-inch boxwood Christmas tree with fresh red roses that can be used as a centerpiece or a hostess gift. Your creation will stay fresh throughout the holidays. All premium materials will be provided, and you’ll get to take your beautiful creation home. Register online at EdisonFord.org.

Members: $75, non-members: $85

Cape Coral Farmers' Market - Club Square 12/19/2026 8:00 AM - 12/19/2026 1:00 PM

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 01:20:37 GMT

The market also entertains with great musicians performing all year.

We hope that you choose to make the Cape Coral Farmers Market your Saturday Morning Destination!

For more information, call Claudia St Onge at (239) 549-6900 x101, cso@capecoralchamber.com (or) visit the Farmers' Market site at www.capecoralfarmersmarket.com

Decorate Christmas Cookies 12/20/2026 6:00 PM - 12/20/2026 9:00 PM

Mon, 02 Nov 2026 11:57:17 GMT

December 20, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Come decorate cookies and enjoy the Holiday Nights lights! This event provides families with a night out to see the lights and still get the cookies made!

Admission to Holiday Nights is included
Each family will receive a keepsake illuminated ornament
Cold apple cider and lemonade will be served
The river pavilion will be festively decorated, and holiday music will be played in the background

A family ticket is $140.00 (for 4 people and includes admission to Holiday Nights). Additional tickets may be added for $30 each additional (up to 2 additional tickets can be purchased). An extra ticket includes an additional six-piece cookie bundle.

The ticket price includes a Do-it-Yourself Cookie Bundle Kit with 12 cookies, four types of icing, three types of sprinkles, and an instruction card. Cookies are un-frosted sugar cookies, cut in various Christmas-themed shapes. A gluten-free option is available.

Tickets available now online!

RC Builders School Break Camp 12/21/2026 9:00 AM - 12/21/2026 4:00 PM

Mon, 02 Nov 2026 11:57:19 GMT

December 21-23, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Using Lego technics and remote-control campers get their creations in motion. This camp covers simple machines, mechanical concepts, and innovation as campers design, test, and improve their custom RC cars.

Join us as science and history come alive in our “living laboratory!” No experience is necessary to participate in these fun and fast-moving S.T.E.A.M. (science technology, engineering, art, and math) camps. For students currently in grades K-5, unless otherwise noted. Campers must bring lunches, and snacks if desired.

Registration required; pricing and details available online at EdisonFord.org.

Members $135, Non-Members $150

Dueling Pianos 12/21/2026 7:00 PM - 12/21/2026

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 07:35:08 GMT

Dueling Pianos is high-energy, interactive entertainment—part comedy, part improv, part music, part karaoke—where you help shape the show with your requests, so it’s never the same performance twice.

Now Paul and Matt are bringing Dueling Pianos to Cultural Park Theatre, and it’s the perfect night out to share with your Christmas guests—festive, fun, and guaranteed to get everyone laughing and singing along.

Ticket Sales, Refunds & Exchanges Policy

All ticket sales are final. No refunds will be issued once a ticket has been purchased.

BUY TICKETS

Welcome Center and Chamber Offices Closed 12/24/2026 - 12/27/2026

Sun, 06 Sep 2026 18:42:47 GMT

The Chamber Offices and Welcome Center will be closed on Thursday, December 24th and remain closed until December 27th in observation of the Christmas holiday. Our offices will reopen on Monday at 8:00am.

We wish you a wonderful holiday season with your family and friends!

If you need immediate assistance during this time, please visit our website at www.capecoralchamber.com or email info@capecoralchamber.com

Chamber Business Expo at the Cape Coral Farmers' Market - Club Square 12/26/2026 8:00 AM - 12/26/2026 1:00 PM

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 18:18:46 GMT

Showcase your business at the Cape Coral Farmers' Market!

Join us for the business expo last Saturday of each month at the Cape Coral Farmers' Market. Space is limited, so contact us ASAP to reserve your spot.
Chamber Member Price - $100
Non Chamber Member Price - $150

Call Claudia St Onge at (239) 549-6900 x101 or email cso@capecoralchamber.com

The Cape Coral Farmers Market has been a favorite Saturday morning destination for 26 years. Over the years, we have grown to over 125 vendors. We are confident that we have all the delicious foods and local crafts that you love to shop for.

Fresh, local & healthy fruits and veggies, including Certified Organic produce, are the core of the market along with homemade and handmade foods and crafts. Fresh baked breads & pastries, homemade pickles, jams & jellies, Gulf fresh seafood, fresh meats, homemade pet treats, handcrafted soaps, essential oils, local honey, made-on-site guacamole, fresh, cut flowers, native plants & trees are just some of the fantastic products available.

Since shopping and eating seem to go so well together, the market has endless options. A food truck court and tent vendors offer BBQ, Crepes, Empanadas, Mexican food, German street food and healthy options like Kombucha, health smoothies, Acai bowls and salads.

Each season we do our best to give back to the community by offering spaces for non-profits, schools and community groups. Another way we give back is by offering the ability for our EBT/SNAP customers to shop for healthy and affordable food options. We are proud to say that 7 years ago, we were the first market in Lee County to offer ease of shopping for our neighbors.

The market can also be very entertaining with great musicians perform during the season.

We hope that you choose to make the Cape Coral Farmers Market your Saturday Morning Destination!

For more information, call Claudia St Onge at (239) 549-6900 x101, cso@capecoralchamber.com (or) visit the Farmers' Market site at www.capecoralfarmersmarket.com

Cape Coral Farmers' Market - Club Square 12/26/2026 8:00 AM - 12/26/2026 1:00 PM

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 01:20:46 GMT

The market also entertains with great musicians performing all year.

We hope that you choose to make the Cape Coral Farmers Market your Saturday Morning Destination!

For more information, call Claudia St Onge at (239) 549-6900 x101, cso@capecoralchamber.com (or) visit the Farmers' Market site at www.capecoralfarmersmarket.com

Rocket Science School Break Camp 12/28/2026 9:00 AM - 12/28/2026 4:00 PM

Mon, 02 Nov 2026 11:57:03 GMT

December 28-30, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Blast off in this fun camp focused on aeronautics. Campers will learn about important concepts of flight such the Coanda effect, Bernoulli’s principle, and four forces of flight. This camp culminates with launching 2-liter water rockets.

Registration required; pricing and details available online at EdisonFord.org.

Members $135, Non-Members $150

Welcome Center and Chamber Offices Closed 12/31/2026 - 1/3/2027

Sun, 06 Sep 2026 18:44:00 GMT

The Chamber Offices and Welcome Center will be closing at noon on Thursday, December 31st and remain closed until Sunday, January 3rd in celebration of the New Year. Our offices will reopen on Monday at 8:00am.

We wish you a wonderful, fun and safe New Year with your family and friends!

If you need immediate assistance during this time, please visit our website at www.capecoralchamber.com or email info@capecoralchamber.com