“Butterfly Journey” Takes Flight at Earth Day Celebration Tomorrow at CNCP

A must-see giant screen experience at the place to be—where we nurture nature

Fort Myers, FL — Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium invites the community to celebrate Earth Day in unforgettable fashion with the South Florida premiere of Butterfly Journey, an awe-inspiring giant screen experience that reveals the beauty and fragility of our interconnected world—through the eyes of butterflies.

Positioned as the place to be—where we nurture nature, the Center’s annual Earth Day celebration transforms its 105-acre preserve into a vibrant hub of discovery, education, and family fun.

About the Film

Butterfly Journey is an immersive large-format documentary following the incredible migrations of the Monarch and Blue Tiger butterflies. Narrated by Daisy Ridley, the film captures their breathtaking journeys across continents—from the forests of Canada to Mexico, and from Australia’s Daintree Rainforest into the skies.

Through cutting-edge cinematography, audiences will witness:

• The magic of metamorphosis

• Migrations spanning thousands of miles

• The vital role butterflies play as pollinators

• The environmental challenges threatening their survival

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This powerful visual experience brings audiences closer than ever to nature—reminding us how deeply connected all life truly is.

Other Earth Day Event Highlights (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

Guests can enjoy a full day of activities designed for all ages, including:

• 🌿 Self-guided hikes through scenic nature trails

• 🐍 Live animal encounters featuring birds, reptiles, and more

• 🎤 Educational talks and guest speakers

• 🎨 Arts, crafts, games, and scavenger hunts

• 🛍️ Local vendors, refreshments, and fresh lemonade

• 🌱 FREE plant giveaway (while supplies last) from the Florida Forest Service

• 🌍 Special gift: the first 50 guests receive a free mini Earth keepsake

Featured Speakers & Schedule

• 10:30 AM & 1:15 PM — Live Animal Talks

• 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM — Guest presentations featuring:

  • Executive Director Eric Raddatz

  • Dr. Bill Hammond

  • Timothy Watkins, Ecovision

Film Screening Times

Experience Butterfly Journey on the giant screen at:

• 12:00 PM

• 2:00 PM

• 3:00 PM

Ticket Information

• Adults: $13

• Children: $7

• Members: FREE

A Celebration of Nature & Community

“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.

From immersive storytelling to hands-on exploration, Butterfly Journey and the Earth Day celebration offer a meaningful reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the natural world.

Learn More & Reserve Tickets

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

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

About Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium

The Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium is a 105-acre environmental education destination dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to connect with and protect nature through immersive experiences, wildlife education, and conservation programs.

Media Contact:Eric Raddatz

Executive Director

Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium

🦋 Where we nurture nature.

Join us this Earth Day and experience the journey.

Sponsorship Opportunities Available

Sponsorship opportunities are available for all upcoming CNCP events! Your support helps us continue offering these educational programs and ensures that our preserve remains a place for future generations to explore and enjoy. As a sponsor, you’ll receive recognition at our events and visibility among an engaged, community-minded audience.

For more information, contact Eric Raddatz at eraddatz@calusanature.org or call 239-275-3435.

Nurture Nature Campaign: Help Us Preserve Our Sanctuary

We’re excited with the success of our "Nurture Nature" Campaign in 2025, dedicated to improving CNCP’s facilities and educational programs. Your support will help us maintain essential infrastructure, repair boardwalks, preserve local wildlife, and expand our outreach efforts. This campaign is especially important as we work to create a deeper connection between local youth and the natural world—something that’s more vital than ever in an age where technology often pulls us away from nature.

Become a nature nurturer today!

Host Your Event at CNCP

Did you know CNCP offers a unique venue for events? Whether you’re planning a wedding, meeting, or party, our indoor and outdoor spaces offer a beautiful natural setting for any occasion. Contact us to learn more about holding your event at CNCP.

Learn more about rentals and book today!

Beautifica

Every Weekend

Beautifica is a one-of-a-kind visual experience, blending stunning 3D art with the soothing sounds of James Hood. It’s the perfect way to relax and experience a world of hypnotic imagery and sound.

Get your tickets now!

Become a Member Today

When you become a CNCP member, you enjoy a host of exclusive benefits, including:

• Free admission to trails, planetarium shows, and live animal talks

• Discounts on camps, workshops, and select events

• 10% off at the gift shop

• Free or discounted admission to over 180 nature centers nationwide

Join today and connect with nature all year long

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

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