Good morning, Fort Myers.

The Fort Myers Beach Lions Club Shrimp Festival returns this weekend with a 5K run at 9 a.m. at Doc Ford’s, a parade at 10 a.m. from the library, and a shrimp boil along Old San Carlos Boulevard — events that support local scholarships and services.

SWFL Children's Charities, Inc. held its Grand Tasting at the Florida Wine & Food Fest at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa in Bonita Springs on March 5, raising funds for the region's developing pediatric healthcare system (boosting local care).

The 89th Sanibel Shell Show and Festival is underway on Sanibel Island, featuring ocean-inspired art and shell displays at the Sanibel Community House — visitors can explore artistic and scientific exhibits, live mollusk tanks, vendor booths and hands-on demos with a $5 donation ticket for entry.

Prices for a gallon of regular gasoline have risen by almost 36 cents since March 2 at local stations, averaging about $3.24 as supply issues and global tensions create uncertainty.

Experts expect prices to increase further, so drivers should check local apps for deals (AAA data).

FWC reported an extra 15 manatee deaths in Lee County due to cold stress and a watercraft collision — raising the total to 58 this year while six manatees were rescued for rehabilitation.

Officials noted a nearby FPL plant had a shutdown that may have worsened conditions before resuming operations.

On March 5, 2026, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission rescued an injured manatee mother struck over 20 times by a boat propeller as local volunteers and Cape Coral Police aided her safe recovery with her baby staying by her side.

Fort Myers Beach has secured FEMA funding to elevate 25 single-family homes in flood-prone areas above base flood elevation standards, and town officials will help homeowners access funds + reduce future flood risk.

Florida residents will adjust their clocks on March 8 at 2 a.m. to start Daylight Saving Time — moving clocks forward one hour for longer evenings; clocks will be set back on November 1 at 2 a.m. when Standard Time resumes.

The ECS girls basketball team departed for Jacksonville to play in the state semifinals in their fourth consecutive Final Four appearance & seek to reclaim the state championship title they won in 2024.

They will face Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy from Melbourne on Saturday.

Canterbury won 6-4 over Evangelical Christian to claim the Private 8 trophy on Thursday at Evangelical Christian School in Fort Myers.

The Cougars delivered strong pitching + timely hitting to secure their championship.

Yo! Taco Shrimp Run 5k

9-10 a.m. — Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille — Registration fees vary — Participate in a scenic 5k run leading up to the festive Shrimp Festival on Fort Myers Beach.

Dinner on the Diamond

6 p.m. — JetBlue Park — Supports local children’s services — Enjoy dinner at the field while benefiting Golisano Children's Hospital.

Michael D’Amore Live Performance

6 PM — Mango Rita’s Rhythm House — Call for reservation — Enjoy an evening of Doo Wop, Pop, and Soul with fantastic food on a full menu.

Boston Red Sox vs. Minnesota Twins

1:05-2:05 p.m. — Hammond Stadium — Cost Info Requisite — Catch these two MLB teams face off in an exciting spring training game.

Little River Band Concert

6-7:30 p.m. — Caloosa Sound Amphitheater — Ticket purchase required — Experience the iconic harmonies of the Little River Band with classics like 'Reminiscing' under the stars.

Annie Houston Screw Cancer HoopFest

8 AM – 4 PM — Wa-Ke Hatchee Park — Entry fees support cancer research — Celebrate basketball while honoring the legacy of Mrs. Annie Lois Houston.

John Legend Live Performance

7-10 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soulful sounds of EGOT-winning artist John Legend in an unforgettable concert.

Willy Chirino Concert

9 p.m. - 12 a.m. — Caloosa Sound Convention Center — Tickets available — Enjoy the vibrant Cuban rhythms of Willy Chirino live in concert.

Fort Myers Food Pantry

3-6 p.m. — 507 Center Rd — Free entry — Receive free bread, produce, dried goods, and hygiene products for those in need.

The Collectible Buyer Road Tour

9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton Fort Myers at Bell Tower Shops — Free admission — Bring your collectibles for cash offers and free appraisals from seasoned experts.