Love Sanibel Back Returns for a Record-Breaking Third Summer
There is no denying the deep bond that unites the residents, business owners, and visitors of our beautiful sanctuary island. For the third year in a row, the highly anticipated community-wide initiative Love Sanibel Back is returning for the summer.
Organized by Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, this grassroots movement invites everyone to connect, give back, and support the local economy from June 1 through August 9, 2026. This year, the program is bigger than ever, with more than 70 local businesses stepping up to participate.
At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we believe that the true value of Sanibel real estate lies within its unmatched community spirit. Love Sanibel Back is the perfect reflection of the resilience, connection, and gratitude that make our island a true home.
“At its heart, Love Sanibel Back is about more than events — it is about connection, gratitude and resilience. By participating, each of us plays a role in strengthening the spirit and future of our island community.”
— The Rev. William “Bill” Van Oss, Rector
Grab Your Free Swag: Kickoff & Incentives
The magic of Love Sanibel Back is highly visible. By wearing a campaign button or carrying the official tote bag, you unlock exclusive summer perks across the island. Dozens of participating retailers, restaurants, and service providers are offering 10% to 20% off or free classes for new customers to anyone sporting the gear.
How to Get Your Free Tote & Button
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The Farmers Market Kickoff: Stop by the Love Sanibel Back table on May 31, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Sanibel Island Farmers Market (located at City Hall). You can grab your free button and tote, view the full summer schedule, and snap a picture at the brand-new photo booth.
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At the Church Office: If you miss the market, don’t worry! Free buttons and bags are available at the Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church office during regular business hours throughout the summer.
Weekly Themes: 10 Weeks of Spreading Joy
To ensure everyone can participate without feeling the pressure to constantly shop, organizers have expanded the program to include a weekly “Spread Joy” theme centered around what makes Sanibel uniquely special. Residents and visitors are encouraged to share their experiences on Facebook or Instagram using the hashtag #lovesanibelback for a chance to win random prizes.
| Week | Date Range | Theme | Weekly Action |
| Week 1 | June 1 – 7 | Sunrises & Sunsets | Share your favorite island sunrise/sunset photo online. |
| Week 2 | June 8 – 14 | Welcome to Summer | Embrace the sunshine and kick off the seasonal vibes. |
| Week 3 | June 15 – 21 | Eat Local | Support the independent culinary spots shaping our island. |
| Week 4 | June 22 – 28 | Neighbors Connect | Meet up, check in, and strengthen neighborhood bonds. |
| Week 5 | June 29 – July 5 | Gratitude Week | Focus on giving thanks for our resilient community. |
| Week 6 | July 6 – 12 | Christmas in July Week | Mid-summer festive cheer meets tropical paradise. |
| Week 7 | July 13 – 19 | Beach Kindness Week | Protect our shores and spread positivity on the sand. |
| Week 8 | July 20 – 26 | Wild Mile Week | Celebrate the rich, protected wildlife corridors of Sanibel. |
| Week 9 | July 27 – Aug 2 | Give Back Week | Engage in local volunteerism and charitable outreach. |
| Week 10 | Aug 3 – 9 | Celebrate Local Love | A final summer toast to the businesses we cherish. |
Special Summer Events & The Grand Gathering
To keep the momentum going, a series of completely free community gatherings have been scattered across the summer calendar, offering morning, afternoon, and evening options:
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June 25 (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM): Sip, Surprise & Create
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July 7 (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM): Christmas in July
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July 13 (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM): Shell Stroll
The Grand Finale: Love Sanibel Community Gathering
The entire initiative will culminate on November 1, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM at the Sanibel Recreation Center. Designed to welcome back our winter snowbirds, celebrate the end of a quiet summer, and toast to a safe hurricane season, this massive block-party style gathering will feature free food and drinks, nonprofit displays, local door prizes, an art show by The Sanibel School, and a live performance by the Seahorse Chorale.
This incredible summer movement is made possible through partnerships with the City of Sanibel and the SanCap Chamber, alongside premier financial support from the Charitable Foundation of the Islands, Florida Trust Wealth Management, Bank of the Islands, Breakaway Vacation Properties, and Periwinkle Park.
Participating from Afar?
If you aren’t on the island this summer, you can still support our local retail economy! Shop online via the dedicated Love Sanibel Back Online Portal. For more information or questions regarding schedules, visit their Official Website or check out the Love Sanibel Back Linktree.
