Island Hopper Songwriter Fest returns to Fort Myers Sept. 18

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA (WINK) — The Island Hopper Songwriter Fest will return to Southwest Florida for 10 days in September 2026, featuring more than 60 free performances by singer-songwriters from Broadcast Music, Inc.

The festival will showcase performances across four locations in Lee County. The event will kick off on Captiva Island from Sept. 18-20, then move to Cape Coral from Sept. 21-22, downtown Fort Myers from Sept. 23-24 and conclude at Fort Myers Beach from Sept. 25-27.

The festival will feature performances ranging from acoustic and folk to alternative rock. Most shows will be free, with special ticketed experiences also available, including a Pink Shell Pool Party featuring the festival's headliner and sunset cruise shows.

The Island Hopper Songwriter Fest has been running for 11 years in Southwest Florida. Performers will share not only their songs but also the stories behind them at intimate venues throughout the islands, beaches and neighborhoods of Fort Myers.

An official festival app is available for download with event information. Updates can also be found by joining the festival's email list or following on social media.