FALLing for Seasonal Festivities in Estero

After a long, hot, rainy summer, it is finally FALL in Estero! I know we are all looking forward to those cool, crisp evening temperatures … the splendor of colorful autumn leaves … the smell of bonfires … changing our wardrobes from shorts and flip-flops to jackets and boots … Really???

I digress. Sorry that was 60+ years ago in another time and place. Those of you who migrated to Southwest Florida and have lived here for a while understand. If you are a newcomer to the area, you may be in for a huge surprise! Fall in Estero is nothing like you enjoyed someplace up north. To begin with, everyone is still holding their breath because we have two more months of hurricane season and we are praying that we successfully dodge any serious storm damage. Sadly, those cool, crisp temperatures are highly unlikely for Halloween, and we feel sorry for the trick-or-treaters suffocating under their costumes and masks! And the only things that change colors are the out-of-state license plates from our returning northern neighbors.

In spite of the fact that, weather-wise, October is not much different than August and September in Southwest Florida, there are a number of recurring, seasonal activities that remind us it really is fall.

Our cover story, “Three-peat COMPLETE!” will give you an insider look as Estero’s record-setting Florida Everblades take to the ice, ready to defend their back-to-back-to-back Kelly Cup championships. The 2024-25 season begins October 25 with the raising of the Kelly Cup Championship banner. Relief from the heat and exciting hockey action is always on ice at “Hockey Nights in Estero.”

Next, check out our roundup of “EERIE-sistable Fall Fun” to discover seasonal activities around Southwest Florida for all ages. Festive, family-friendly options include a movie in the park, animal interactions at the Wonder Gardens and picking your own pumpkins off the vine at Farmer Mike’s. There’s also Trick-or-Treating at the Bell Tower Shops (think A/C!) and the annually anticipated Scarecrows in the Park at Lakes Park. We’re sure you will find one or two activities to enjoy with family or friends.

While driving around town, everyone is always asking, “Do you know what is going on at such-and-such location?” Well, this month’s Village Connection answers many of those questions. Read about the many new developments now under construction and coming soon in the Village of Estero.

Another fall event not to miss is the Village of Estero Veterans Day celebration. We invite everyone to join our community in honoring its veterans and first responders on Saturday, Nov. 9 (details in the Village Connection).

As we all settle into fall, what better way to beat the heat than to relax in a beautiful, romantic Italian eatery, sipping on a flavorful glass of wine? We did that recently at El Gaucho Trattoria, the newest concept of the husband/wife team of Mariano Maldonado and Rocio Navarette (owners of the award-winning El Gaucho Inca  restaurants in Fort Myers and Estero). Imagine capturing the flavors of Italy by way of Argentina, and you will begin to appreciate our experience. If you visit, we know you will find many of our favorites becoming yours.

 

Until next time, remember to…

                                    Enjoy the Good Life, Estero Life!!

 

Gary

Gary Israel, President & Publisher

Estero Life Magazine