Celebrate the Holiday Season with Lights, Membership Deals, and More!
FORT MYERS, FL – This holiday season, Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium invites you to join in the spirit of giving, gratitude, and celebration with an exciting lineup of events and special offers. From Black Friday deals and Giving Tuesday campaigns to the greatest holiday lights show in Southwest Florida, there's something for everyone at the Nature Center this season. In addition to our beautiful nature trails, bird aviaries, and cool creatures like amphibians and gators, the Calusa Nature Center offers a variety of engaging exhibits and educational programs that bring the wonders of Southwest Florida's wildlife and ecosystems to life.
Celebrate Gratitude and Nature this Thanksgiving
As we gather with loved ones to give thanks, Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium extends heartfelt appreciation to the community for its continued support in nurturing and preserving the wonders of nature. “This season, let’s take a moment to appreciate the beauty around us – from the stars above to the wildlife in our own backyards,” said Eric Raddatz, Executive Director of Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium. “We are deeply grateful for the incredible support of our visitors, volunteers, and members. It is because of them that we are able to continue our important work in environmental education and wildlife conservation and preservation. Wishing everyone a peaceful and joyous Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and the natural wonders that inspire us every day.”
Black Friday Sale: Save 20% on New Memberships!
This Black Friday, November 29, Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium is offering an exclusive 20% off new memberships—a perfect holiday gift for the nature lovers in your life! Memberships provide unlimited access to the Center’s nature trails, exhibits, planetarium shows, and more, plus discounts on camps, workshops, and special events. Whether you’re a student, family, or grandparent, there’s a membership for everyone.
Membership options start as low as $15 per year. Use code #BLACKFRIDAY at checkout to claim your discount and enjoy a full year of exploration and adventure. Don’t miss this opportunity to support the Center’s vital environmental education and conservation programs while enjoying year-round access to the wonders of nature.
Giving Tuesday: Nurture Nature Campaign
On December 3, Giving Tuesday, Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium invites supporters to participate in the “Nurture Nature” campaign. Donations help fund essential wildlife rehabilitation efforts, environmental education programs, and the preservation of the Center’s 105-acre sanctuary. Every contribution plays a vital role in sustaining the natural beauty of Southwest Florida for future generations.
“We are deeply grateful for the generosity of our community,” said Raddatz. “Your support enables us to continue providing educational opportunities for people of all ages and caring for injured wildlife. By contributing to the Nurture Nature campaign, you’re helping ensure that future generations can continue to experience the wonder of nature that we all cherish.”
Holiday Lights Celebration: A Winter Wonderland Awaits!
Mark your calendars for the Holiday Lights Celebration at Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, December 6-29, 2024. This spectacular event features over a million twinkling lights along the Center’s beautiful ⅓-mile Pine Loop Trail, transforming the grounds into a magical winter wonderland. Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM, guests can stroll the illuminated trail, enjoy festive treats like hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows, and experience the magic of the season.
VIP Santa Meet & Greet: Families will have the chance to meet Santa Claus in person during the event, making it an unforgettable experience for children of all ages!
Upgrade Your Visit with Holiday Laser Shows!
For an extra dose of holiday magic, upgrade your visit and enjoy the Holiday Laser Shows in the planetarium for just $15. These dazzling laser displays set to your favorite holiday music are a must-see, adding a vibrant new dimension to the holiday festivities.
VIP Opening Night Gala
Get a sneak peek at the Holiday Lights event by attending the VIP Opening Night Gala on December 5, featuring red carpet entrance, festive drinks, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, and exclusive access to the Holiday Lights trail before it opens to the public. VIP tickets are available for $50 and include all gala festivities along with a chance to enjoy cozy firepits and mingle with fellow guests.
Event Details:
What: Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium’s Holiday Lights CelebrationWhen: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, December 6-29, 2024, 6:00 PM – 9:30 PMWhere: Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, 3450 Ortiz Avenue, Fort Myers, FLTicket Pricing:
General Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for children (ages 3-11), free for members
VIP Gala (December 5 only): $50
Holiday Laser Show Upgrade: $15
A portion of the proceeds from all ticket sales directly supports Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium’s wildlife conservation programs and environmental education efforts.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit calusanature.org.
• A Special Thank You: We extend our heartfelt thanks to our new sponsor 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, Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, The Fred and Jean Allegretti Foundation, Heitman House, and the Fort Myers Film Festival.
• Stay Connected Cozy at home? Experience the Calusa Nature Center virtually! 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!
About Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium
Founded in 1969, Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium has served as a cornerstone of environmental education in Southwest Florida for over 50 years. The 105-acre sanctuary features nature trails, live animal exhibits, bird aviaries, and the only public planetarium in the region. The Center is dedicated to fostering a lifelong love of nature and promoting environmental stewardship. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Center relies on community support to continue its mission to inspire future generations to care for and protect the world around them.
For more information on membership, events, and how to support the Center, visit calusanature.org.
Media Contact:
Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium
Email: eraddatz@calusanature.org
Phone: (239) 275-3435
Website: calusanature.org
#HolidayLights #SantaMeetAndGreet #HolidayLaserShows #SupportWildlife #GivingTuesday #BlackFriday #NatureLovers #ExploreNature #CalusaNature #NurtureNature
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