River Nights returns with ‘A Night on the Nile’ to benefit the Fort Myers YMCA
The Fort Myers YMCA invites the community to experience an unforgettable evening of entertainment, philanthropy and impact at River Nights 2026: A Night on the Nile on Friday, Sept. 25, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center in downtown Fort Myers.
Guests will experience a night in ancient Egypt while enjoying cocktails, dinner, live music, an exciting auction and an evening dedicated to changing lives throughout the Fort Myers community. Cocktail attire is encouraged as attendees gather to celebrate the YMCA’s mission and invest in local families.
Proceeds from River Nights support the Fort Myers YMCA’s mission by providing financial assistance to families and individuals who otherwise could not access life-changing programs and services. These funds also strengthen community initiatives that reach far beyond the YMCA facility, including youth sports programs, food distribution efforts that help combat hunger, leadership and civic engagement opportunities through Youth in Government, summer camp experiences, wellness programs for seniors and countless opportunities that help people of all ages learn, grow and thrive.
“River Nights is a celebration of what happens when a community comes together,” said Suzie Starks, executive director of the Fort Myers YMCA. “The Fort Myers YMCA is truly a Y without walls. While many people know us as a gym, our reach extends far beyond our building into neighborhoods and communities across Southwest Florida. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who believes in our mission and helps make this work possible.”
Carrie Cane, the Fort Myers YMCA Community Board Chair, said “I invite you to join us for a fun evening as we celebrate the YMCA of Fort Myers and raise awareness about the needs of our neighbors. It is an incredible opportunity to help raise funds for community programming and be a part of our success story.”
Individual tickets are $150, and sponsorship opportunities are still available for businesses and community partners looking to make a lasting difference while receiving valuable recognition before, during, and after the event.
Sponsorship levels range from $1,500 to $10,000.
To purchase tickets, become a sponsor, or learn more about River Nights, visit ymcaswfl.org/events or contact Suzie Starks at suzies@ymcaswfl.org.
The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is at 2301 First St. in downtown Fort Myers.
About YMCA of Southwest Florida
YMCA of Southwest Florida is a leading non-profit, strengthening Southwest Florida communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Driven by its founding mission, the Y has served as a leading non-profit committed to strengthening community for more than 175 years. The Y empowers everyone, no matter who they are or where they’re from, by ensuring access to resources, relationships and opportunities for all to learn, grow and thrive. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives and generations, the Y’s goal is to improve overall health and well-being, ignite youth empowerment and demonstrate the importance of connections in and across our communities.