CLOSED EASTER: Also, What Better Place to Celebrate Earth Day? Join Us April 18!
- eraddatz7
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Fort Myers, FL — Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium will be closed in observance of Easter, allowing staff and animals a day of rest before welcoming the community back for an exciting season of events and programming.
The celebration continues the following weekend with the return of the Earth Day Birthday Celebration on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. What better place to celebrate the Earth than with fellow nature nurturers in our community? This is your nature center—let’s celebrate together. This annual event invites families and nature lovers to explore the Center’s 105-acre preserve while enjoying self-guided hikes, live animal presentations, planetarium experiences, local vendors, and hands-on educational programming focused on environmental stewardship. Guests of all ages can connect with nature and learn simple ways to make a positive impact on the planet. GET TICKETS AT THE DOOR OR IN ADVANCE HERE
For visitors traveling from outside the area, discounted accommodations are available through the Center’s hotel partner. Guests can book a special rate here: https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1773342553724&key=CORP&app=resvlink
Summer Camp registration is now open, offering young explorers the chance to get outdoors, discover wildlife, and build a deeper connection with nature. These engaging, hands-on programs feature exciting themes, interactive learning, and up-close encounters with the natural world—all led by experienced educators in a safe and inspiring environment. Camps fill quickly each year, and families are encouraged to register early to secure a spot and give their children an unforgettable summer experience.
Looking ahead, the Center will soon announce its Spring and Summer Planetarium Film Series, featuring an exciting new immersive Pink Floyd experience, a breathtaking butterfly journey narrated by Daisy Ridley, and a fresh lineup of independent dome films. The Center is also proud to welcome the Fort Myers Film Festival experience on May 21–22, 2026, bringing innovative independent cinema into the planetarium setting. Tickets for these special presentations will go on sale soon.
For more information about events, camps, tickets, sponsorship opportunities, or to support the Center’s mission, please visit calusanature.org or contact the organization directly.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
#HolidayLights #SantaMeetAndGreet #HolidayLaserShows #SupportWildlife #NatureLovers #ExploreNature #CalusaNature #NurtureNature
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