Plans for the annual celebration of our Calusa Blueway are evolving. We’ve got something for everyone – even VIPs.

Check out details as they are posted at www.CalusaBluewayPaddlingFestival.com. And for now, read on for some highlights.

Very Important Paddlers: Our wristband program gives you added value as you explore the Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel. The blue band is made of recycled materials. Use it at shops, restaurants, spas, attractions and more throughout Lee County. Keep it as a wearable souvenir after the festival.

Paddlers’ packages and lodging: Certified green hotels are onboard. Packages abound with extras like drinks-for-two included, access to freshwater hoses, a guided tour of a historic site, a laminated nautical chart as a welcome gift and more.

Nighttime fun: There’s practically something for every sunset you’re here. Join in a Gulf-front complimentary happy hour with Canoe & Kayak magazine and Sea Kayaker magazine at Pink Shell Resort on Fort Myers Beach. Dress up as a pirate, sea wench or native for the Calusa Costume Ball at Tarpon Lodge, Pine Island. Enjoy Southern hospitality while raising funds to help a river at a Bonita Springs fish fry. Did someone say Blueway Beach Block Party?

Club happenings: Bring a boat or just yourself for the picnic and pig roast for kayaking clubs and enthusiasts from around the Southeast. Hear from the first circumnavigator of Florida – in a kayak, that is. Meet the man who mapped the trail. Come for bluegrass and raffles, socializing and sunset paddling at San Carlos RV Park & Island Resort.

Monofilament Madness: Rid the blueway of discarded fishing line and join in Keep Lee County Beautiful Inc.'s annual waterway cleanup. Return to one of two sites to tally your trash and enjoy a free lunch.

Geocaching: Use a GPS for a modern-day treasure hunt at a Cape Coral-based waterfront event. The Resort at Marina Village is waiting for you.

Yak it up with fish: The annual catch-and-release fishing tournament kicks off Halloween weekend with a Prawn Broker captain’s meeting in Fort Myers and a tournament digital weigh-in at Randell Research Center, Pineland. Hey anglers, did we mention Tarpon Lodge is across the street?

Roll up your sleeves and race: Competitive events on the Imperial River kick off the festival with the annual Paddle of the Pass in Matlacha wrapping it up.

Explore cultural sites: Pick a Saturday and learn about the seafaring people for whom the blueway is named. Mound House on Fort Myers Beach and Randell Research Center at Pineland celebrate the Calusas and will be hubs for the festival’s two weekends with speakers, food, activities and eco-fun.