Events: Things to Do in Ave Maria, Florida

This weekend kicks off a packed calendar of free events in Ave Maria as Southwest Florida’s high season gets underway. Visitors from across the country and around the world are arriving to enjoy the Gulf Coast lifestyle, joining Maple Ridge residents for a lineup of all-ages activities. Just an easy drive from Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Ave Maria is an ideal destination for locals and explorers alike.

Sunshine State Steak Cook Off – Saturday, January 24th from 2:00pm to 6:30pm

The Knights of Columbus’ 16th annual charity steak competition returns to the Ave Maria Town Center for a high-energy afternoon of food and fun. Guests can enjoy live music and entertainment, a bustling beer garden, a farmers market, and inflatables for kids. As the evening approaches, grill masters will face off to prepare 2,000 mouthwatering steak dinners served from 5:00–6:00 p.m., with winners announced at 6:30 p.m.

Taste of Ave – Saturday, January 31st from noon to 5:00pm

Savor delicious bites from local grills and restaurants, shop one-of-a-kind finds at boutique stores, and explore a lively farmers market featuring more than 50 vendors. Enjoy live music from hometown favorites TreeHause and the Back Country Boys, free-entry raffles hosted by community businesses, family-friendly fun with the Biz Kidz Expo and inflatables, and booths showcasing talented artisans and small businesses.

Ave Maria Farmer’s Market – Saturday, Feb. 7th & every Saturday 11/1 – 03/25 from 9:00am to 2:00pm

Stroll through a vibrant lineup of more than 50 local vendors offering everything from fresh, organic produce and colorful flowers to raw honey, artisanal foods, baked goods, distinctive home décor, handcrafted accessories, ceramics, and more.

Blues, Brews & BBQ – Saturday, Feb. 14th from noon to 5:00pm

One of Southwest Florida’s most popular annual events in Ave Maria Town Center features full sets from two of the region’s biggest blues acts, Deb & The Dynamics and Old School. Guests can check out vintage and elite-performance car displays, savor finger-lickin’ barbecue and food truck favorites, and sip from a wide selection of craft beers. Browse unique finds from retail vendors while kids enjoy face painting, a petting zoo, and interactive activities.

FC Naples Soccer Club Fan Fest – Saturday, Feb. 21st from 9:00am to 1:00pm

FC Naples Fan Fest arrives at Ave Maria’s North Park with a morning team practice where fans can watch drills, conditioning sessions, and skill demonstrations up close. After practice, players will meet fans for autographs and photo opportunities. The celebration continues with food trucks, sports and local vendors, soccer-themed inflatable field games, DJ entertainment, and giveaways. Experience the vibrant atmosphere outside the stadium as the bond between a professional club and its community takes center stage.

Trolley Tours & Live Music – Tuesday, Feb. 24th & every Tuesday 01/13 – 03/13 – hourly from 11:00am to 2:00pm

Climb aboard the Ave Maria trolley and experience Collier County’s ‘Community of the Year’ on a complimentary, 1-hour narrated trolley tour experience. Sit back and listen to fascinating facts and stories of the town’s history as you explore charming streets, take in live music and soak up the community atmosphere.

Mimosas at Maple Ridge – Saturday, March 7th from 11:00am to 4:00pm

Join us for a relaxed, come-and-go model home event where guests are invited to tour our beautifully designed homes, sip on mimosas, and mingle with the Maple Ridge sales team. It’s the perfect chance to explore the community, ask questions, and get a feel for the lifestyle — no pressure, just good vibes and great homes.

Shamrock Festival – Saturday, March 14th from noon to 5:00pm

Experience the spirit of Ireland at Ave Maria’s award-winning Shamrock Festival, featuring live traditional music, lively Celtic dance performances, and spirited contests throughout the day. Enjoy family-friendly activities, a petting zoo, Irish soda bread competition, and festive surprises from roaming entertainers—all coming together for a fun-filled celebration of music, culture, and community.

Margaritas & Taco Festival – Saturday, March 28th from noon to 5:00pm

Ave Maria turns up the south-of-the-border flavor with its annual Margarita & Taco Festival in the Town Center. Settle in with lawn chairs and enjoy live sets from DJ BlackOut and El Gato Sloea while savoring authentic Mexican bites, sweet treats, and a variety of refreshing margaritas. The fun continues with the Twins & Jungle Friends primate show, wrestling entertainment, a Cool Cruisers high-performance and vintage car show, local artisans and farmers market, and plenty of activities for kids—making it a fiesta the whole family can enjoy, rain or shine.