provided to The Santiva Chronicle

The Sanibel Historical Museum & Village welcomed the community for an unforgettable evening at Sanibel Cracker Fest 2026, held on Friday, January 31, 2026. The annual benefit celebrated island history, community spirit, and philanthropy while bringing neighbors, local businesses, and supporters together for a festive night.

Guests enjoyed Mission BBQ, lively line dancing led by Valorie Wolf, a Silent Auction featuring numerous donations from local businesses, and Live Auctions led by auctioneer Victor Mayeron, whose enthusiasm helped drive a spirited night of generosity.

The event’s success was made possible by the generous support of sponsors, donors, and local businesses whose contributions, from auction items to sponsorships, helped bring the event to life and advance the Village’s mission to preserve, share, and celebrate Sanibel’s history.

Tracey Tenney and friends

Barbara and Bill Millar

Aimee and David Ulstead

Bill and Nancy McDole

Billy Kirkland

Sally Kirkland, Vanessa Flynt and friend

Valerie Tutor

Rick and Brenda Brown

Mike and Mary Miller

Galye Pence, Allison Parola, Nancy Siegel

Check-in ladies with Sanibel Officer Bober

Doug and Sherry Gentry

Friedrich and Daniela Jaeger

Deb Staley

Mission BBQ charchuterie

Mary Henderson, Celina Kersch, Victor Mayeron

Nancy Sperte

Jeff and Lori Cavanagh

Sanibel Police Officers

Susan and Michael Greenberg

Valorie Wolf line dances

The Cracker Fest Committee

Roger and Christine King

The Museum & Village also extends heartfelt appreciation to its dedicated volunteers, board members, and the Cracker Fest Committee for the many hours of planning and behind-the-scenes work that made the event possible. Special thanks are extended to the Sanibel Police Department for assisting with traffic and ensuring a safe, smooth experience for attendees.

Proceeds from Sanibel Cracker Fest 2026 will support the revitalization of interior exhibits, programs, and educational initiatives that keep Sanibel’s stories alive for future generations.

For more information, visit www.sanibelmuseum.org.

The Sanibel Historical Museum & Village is located at 950 Dunlop Road and is open Wednesday through Sunday, with last ticket sales and Gift Shop purchases available up to one hour before closing.

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