Free events in Ave Maria, FL

The 16th annual backpack giveaway supports students in Immokalee and nearby communities with 1,900 backpacks filled with school supplies for elementary and middle school children. Children must be present to receive a backpack and must be accompanied by a trusted adult or sibling. More than 50 local nonprofits will share resources, and there will be free food, services, entertainment, giveaways, and more.

Jewelry by Kaye Krest showcases handcrafted beaded and wire wrap designs at the Fort Myers Farmers Market, featuring gemstones and Sanibel Island seashells. The selection also includes unique creations in resin and polymer clay, offering plenty of variety. This downtown market highlights local food and operates year round.

Incoming Heights Kindergarten families are gathering at Rutenberg Park Playground for a relaxed meetup. Children can play and make friends while parents connect with other Heights families ahead of the new school year. Pack a water bottle for your child. Hosted by the Heights Elementary PTA.

Shop locally at the Fort Myers Farmers Market in downtown Fort Myers. The market runs every Saturday morning and features a variety of fresh goods from area vendors. Plan to visit on this date during the scheduled market hours.

Celebrate the new school year at Gulf Coast Town Center with a free, family friendly back to school bash. Expect live performances, hands on games and activities, photo spots, giveaways, and special offers from participating businesses. Kids can step into the Superhero and Real Hero Costume Contest by dressing as a favorite superhero or a real life hero such as a police officer, firefighter, teacher, military member, healthcare worker, or another community hero. Select participants will receive prizes. Families can also explore the Children's Entrepreneur Market featuring more than 50 businesses run by kids, showcasing creativity and products from young entrepreneurs. The celebration includes visits from local partners and first responders, plenty of fun throughout the center, and a Teacher Appreciation recognition. Community members can nominate an outstanding local teacher for a chance to receive a $250 prize, with the recipient honored during the event. Nomination details coming soon. Admission is free.

This family friendly bingo event at Elks Lodge welcomes all ages. Admission is free, with online pre-registration required. Expect featured items such as boomsticks, a TV, coolers, Bluetooth speakers, and more, along with a general raffle and a silent auction. A $10 meal option offers two slices of pizza and a drink. Questions can be directed to the organizers.

This event offers free oil changes when you provide your own oil and oil filter. To participate, register for a free account on the website connected to a free app that will be available in app stores soon.

Join us for Harvest Oasis Community Garden Maintenance Day, a hands-on community event where you’ll help care for the garden by planting and weeding. It’s an in-person volunteer session at the outdoor garden pavilion. Come ready to get your hands dirty, wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes, and bring a refillable water bottle. Tools, plus snacks and water, will be provided.

Take part in a free vinyasa yoga class suitable for all experience levels at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa. The class is held in the Royal Palm Courtyard, and the lobby can assist with directions. Hotel guests and community members are welcome. Bring your own mat or borrow one provided on site. Please use the guest public parking lot, with validation available at the lobby after class. Expect a calming flow that blends breath and movement to help you feel refreshed.

Test your knowledge at a friendly trivia night where participants can compete and have fun alongside other players. Play is free with a drink purchase, and the first-place finisher earns free drinks.

KEH Camera is coming to Creative Photo and Digital Imaging for a limited time so you can sell your used photography gear for an instant quote and get paid on the spot. This is a walk-in event, so no ticket is needed. Bring your clean, working camera equipment, along with a charged battery and charger, and a photo ID since payment requires it. KEH is not currently purchasing certain items, including darkroom equipment, small digital point-and-shoot cameras under 6 megapixels, several older film formats, certain video cameras, and studio lighting that needs a powerpack or hot lights.