“Butterfly Journey” Premieres in South Florida at Earth Day Celebration at Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium

Fort Myers, FL – The stunning giant-screen film Butterfly Journey, narrated by Daisy Ridley, will make its South Florida premiere at the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium during the annual Earth Day Birthday Celebration on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

This immersive fulldome experience invites audiences into the delicate yet resilient world of butterflies, following the awe-inspiring migrations of Blue Tigers in Australia and Monarchs across North America and Mexico. Using cutting-edge slow-motion, drone, and macro cinematography, the film reveals the beauty of metamorphosis, the scale of their journeys, and the environmental challenges they face in a changing climate.

The premiere screening is part of a full day of family-friendly programming celebrating Earth Day and promoting environmental stewardship. Set within the Center’s 105-acre preserve, the event offers hands-on activities, educational experiences, and opportunities to connect with nature.

Event Highlights Include:

• Self-guided hikes through scenic nature trails

• Live animal shows with educational wildlife presentations

• Additional Earth Day films in the planetarium

• Guest speaker William Hammond

• Guided outdoor activities and hands-on learning opportunities

• Vendors offering handmade goods and local crafts

• Refreshments available from local vendors

• Educational presentations focused on sustainability and environmental protection

“This event is a wonderful opportunity for families and community members to come together, explore nature, and learn simple ways we can all make a positive impact on the environment,” said Executive Director Eric Raddatz.

Ticket Information:

• Adults: $13

• Kids: $7

• Members: Free

The Earth Day Birthday Celebration promises a fun and meaningful day for the entire family. Attendees are encouraged to bring comfortable walking shoes and a love for the outdoors.

“Butterfly Journey” Premieres in South Florida at Earth Day Celebration at Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium

Watch trailer here: https://vimeo.com/1008195571

More info here: https://www.calusanature.org/post/butterfly-journey-premieres-in-south-florida-at-earth-day-celebration-at-calusa-nature-center-pl

About Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium:

Founded in 1969, the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium has served as Southwest Florida's premier environmental education destination for over 50 years. CNCP is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, and donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Sponsorship and partnership opportunities are also available for those interested in making a significant impact together with us. The 105-acre sanctuary houses butterfly gardens, bird aviaries, nature trails, and the only public planetarium in the region. CNCP provides educational experiences that promote environmental awareness, scientific discovery, and a lifelong love of nature, inspiring future generations of environmental stewards and advocates.

• A Special Thank You: We extend our heartfelt thanks to Ace Hardware, the place with the helpful hardware folks, as well as continuing supporters, including Vulcan Materials, R4 Roofing, Aux Delicies, Famous Dave’s, The City of Fort Myers, HERC, SWFL PRODUCE,  Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, The Fred and Jean Allegretti Foundation, Heitman House, Babcock Ranch and the Fort Myers Film Festival.

• Stay Connected Cozy at home? Experience the Calusa Nature Center virtually. Visit our YouTube channel for fun videos! ! 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! 

Media Contact:

Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.calusanature.org or contact Eric Raddatz, Executive Director, at eraddatz@calusanature.org.

Phone: (239) 275-3435

Website: calusanature.org