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Tucked away


                                                   in Historic Downtown Bonita Springs, Florida,


                                                   the Wonder Gardens offers a rare glimpse of



                                                                         “Old Florida”.




   www.WonderGardens.org














              or 90 years this unique attraction invites visitors to admire   Family Fun Day
              exotic flora and observe a variety of rescued birds, reptiles
        F and animals. The Wonder Gardens offers an intimate          Sunday, February 1,   11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
        setting where guests can engage closely and meaningfully with   A vibrant, all ages community celebration!
        nature—capturing a sense of discovery and wonder. A regional   A fun-filled day featuring hands on activities, local
        historic landmark, the Wonder Gardens is recognized for its   entertainment, vendors, games, animal interactions, and delicious
        charm and economic impact, welcoming thousands of visitors   food and refreshments. Family Fun Day is designed to spark
        each year.                                                  wonder in the next generation while honoring the values that have
           The Wonder Gardens serves as a living testament to its   sustained the Wonder Gardens for nearly a century.
        mission. The site is more than a scenic garden; it’s a safe haven   The celebration is more than celebrating our past—it’s about
        for Florida alligators, flamingos, macaws, pythons, turtles and its   looking forward with excitement for the future. Proceeds from the
        newest addition of otters. It is a place where “the past meets the   weekend support Wonder Gardens’ mission and its goal of raising
        future” through wildlife education and conservation.
                                                                    $1 million toward its “Renew the Wonder” master plan. The funds
           The Wonder Gardens’ staff, Board leadership, and the
                                                                    raised through this once in a lifetime celebration will advance the
        City of Bonita Springs have unveiled a bold new vision to guide
                                                                    mission and maintain the gardens, enhance educational programs,
        the organization into the future. With a clear, sustainable direction
                                                                    expand habitat areas and ensure the sanctuary remains a vibrant
        for the future, the master plan brings their vision to life,
                                                                    resource for years to come.
        outlining a “roadmap” for continued growth and improvement.
                                              th
           As the Wonder Gardens approaches its 90  anniversary, the   Whether you attend the elegant evening or the family
                                                                    friendly day, this milestone offers a way for the public to engage
        community is invited to join in a celebration shaped to honor its
        legacy and future. The weekend long event, dubbed “Celebrating   meaningfully with the gardens, support rescue and education
        90 Years of Wonder”, spans two days of entertainment and    programs, and become part of the story of this local treasure.
        community.                                                    Celebrate with us and purchase tickets online at
                                                                    www.WonderGardens.org Tickets for
           Night of Wonder                                          Night of Wonder and Family Fun Day will sell
           Saturday, January 31,   6 – 9 p.m.                       fast—and attendance caps or waitlists may apply. Even if you don’t
           Patron Ticketed Reception,   5 p.m.                      attend the anniversary weekend, a visit to the Wonder Gardens is
           A captivating evening set throughout the Wonder Gardens’   worthwhile. Plan a visit, join a guided tour, or bring the family for
        lush grounds. Enjoy sumptuous bites from local restaurants, live   a memorable afternoon among botanicals and wildlife.
        entertainment, animal encounters, our Fund the Future Paddle   This 90 anniversary celebration marks a tribute to the
                                                                             th
        Raise, mystery auction items, and a special wine pull hosted by   past and an investment in the future. By attending, you’ll be
        Peter Busch, Gulf Coast News, as MC, with Shannon Livingston
                                                                    supporting a living sanctuary that has delighted generations
        as Auctioneer. The evening is designed to engage both legacy
                                                                    and will continue to inspire for years ahead.
        supporters and a new generation of donors. The VIP experience   Mark your calendar, secure your spot, and be a
        includes an additional hour with intimate animal encounters, chef
        specialties, unique photo opportunities and a meet and greet with   part of this celebration of wonder.
        Wonder Gardens leadership at a special reception at the
        Karen Moe Teahouse.
     Life in Naples | December 2025                                                                                          23
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