Looking for things to do in Naples and Marco Island this weekend? From Friday, October 16, through Sunday, October 18, 2026, Southwest Florida offers an easy mix of live entertainment, tropical gardens, outdoor shopping, seasonal fun and time near the Gulf. Here is a locally focused itinerary built around event details confirmed with organizers on October 16.
Friday: Art and Comedy on Marco Island
Start the weekend at the Marco Island Center for the Arts, where the outdoor "Day of the Dead" grass wall installation is on view during its October run. The Art Center at 1010 Winterberry Drive lists regular Friday hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For an evening option, the Center's Venturino Comedy Series features Joey Medina, an original member of the Latin Kings of Comedy, at 7:30 p.m. Friday, October 16. The Arts Center Theatre is located at 1089 N. Collier Boulevard, and its box office opens 30 minutes before showtime. Check ticket availability before heading out.
Saturday Morning: Farmers Market and Third Street South
Begin Saturday in Old Naples at the Third Street South Farmers Market, scheduled for October 17 from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. It is a relaxed way to browse local produce and specialty foods before exploring the shops, courtyards and restaurants nearby.
The timing also overlaps with the Bon Marche Sidewalk Sale, running October 15 through October 18 on Third Street South. The organizer says more than 25 businesses are participating, with the event continuing through 7 p.m. Sunday. Because individual store hours may vary, confirm with a favorite shop before making a special trip.
Saturday Midday: Family Planting Day at Naples Botanical Garden
Naples Botanical Garden's Family Planting Day is scheduled for Saturday, October 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The hands-on festival invites visitors to harvest, plant and learn together. The Garden lists regular public hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with 8 a.m. entry for members.
As of October 16, admission is listed at $27 for adults, $12 for children ages 4 through 17, and free for children age 3 and younger and for members. The Garden is at 4820 Bayshore Drive in Naples. Purchasing tickets in advance can make the arrival easier.
Saturday or Sunday: A Seasonal Stop at Mercato
The Mercato Pumpkin Patch adds a touch of fall to a warm Southwest Florida weekend. The published schedule is noon to 7 p.m. Saturday, October 17, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, October 18, at 9127 Strada Place in Naples. Pumpkins are listed at $10, with proceeds supporting SNIP Collier. The event is weather permitting, so check the event page before leaving home.
Sunday: Slow Down and Enjoy the Coastal Lifestyle
Leave part of Sunday unscheduled for the experience that makes this area special: a Gulf walk, a waterfront lunch or a drive through communities you have been curious about. If a move is part of your future plans, browse current Naples homes for sale and Marco Island real estate while the locations and lifestyle are fresh in your mind.
For dining ideas, see our Naples and Marco Island dining guide. Reservations are worth considering for popular weekend dining times.
Planning a Naples or Marco Island Move?
A weekend out is also a useful way to compare the pace, conveniences and surroundings of different parts of Southwest Florida. The Fahey Team can help you connect the lifestyle you enjoy with the homes and communities that fit your goals.
Call 239-595-9093 or contact The Fahey Team to plan a focused real estate tour in Naples or Marco Island.
Event schedules, ticket availability, admission and weather policies can change. Details above were verified from organizer and destination pages on October 16, 2026; use the linked official pages for day-of updates.