Sanibel Shell Show and Festival to be Held at Community House

The Sanibel Shell Show will return to the Sanibel Community House on Sanibel Island in March of 2026 to reunite with the 89th annual Shell Festival. Hosted jointly by the Sanibel–Captiva Shell Club and the Sanibel Community Association, (The Community House), this event will be presented as the 89th Sanibel Shell Show and Festival. This world–renowned shell show will feature the very best of Artistic and Scientific competitions, as well as exquisitely crafted shell creations for sale, shell sales and fabulous vendors.

The Sanibel Community House at 2173 Periwinkle Way will provide a comfortable, on–island venue for shell lovers to enjoy, with an outdoor dining area and family–friendly activities such as daily Scavenger Hunts, a kid’s activity area, face painting and a Living Shell exhibit to entertain and educate youngsters about the wonders of conchology/seashells. Bring your family to join in the fun!

Doors will be open from 9am – 3pm on Thursday and Friday, March 5th and 6th, and from 9am – 4pm on Saturday, March 7th.

Proceeds from the 2026 show will support both The Sanibel–Captiva Shell Club’s annual grants program, as well as The Community House programs and operating budget. The annual Sanibel–Captiva Shell Club grants are given towards education and research in the fields of conchology and malacology, as well as for conservation and water quality projects, primarily in Southwest Florida. The Community House has been a central part of the island since 1927, and its mission is to “enrich community spirit through educational, cultural, and social gatherings.”