provided to The Santiva Chronicle
The City of Sanibel and the City of Sanibel’s 50th Anniversary Workgroup are pleased to announce the installation of the Sanibel Time Capsule-Honoring our Past, Charting Our Future on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 11 a.m. in front of Sanibel City Hall. This historic ceremony marks the official conclusion of the City’s 18-month celebration honoring Sanibel’s 50th Anniversary.
Following the installation ceremony, the community is invited to “Lunch & Legacy: Gathering Together at the Table,” proudly presented by Bank of the Islands, the 50th Anniversary Lead Sponsor, on the grounds behind City Hall. Bank of the Islands will provide food, fun, and fanfare as the Sanibel community comes together to commemorate this once-in-a-generation moment.
“Bank of the Islands is honored to stand with our community as we celebrate Sanibel’s history and invest in its future,” said Robbie Roepstorff, President of Bank of the Islands. “Supporting this milestone event reflects our deep commitment to this island, its people, and the legacy we are helping preserve for the next generation.”
The journey toward this milestone began on November 5, 2024, when City officials and the 50th Anniversary Workgroup gathered to unearth the time capsule buried on that same day, some 40 years prior.
Since the opening of that time capsule, Sanibel has honored its past, celebrated its present, and invested in its future through a series of meaningful community events, including; 50+ Years of First Responders, the annual Sanibel Spring Egg Hunt, July 4th Celebrations at the Recreation Center, and—now in its second year—the community’s kick off to the holiday season, A Very Sanibel Tree Lighting. In total, these events have engaged more than 4,000 residents, guests, and visitors, underscoring the community’s extraordinary spirit.
“As we close this chapter of the 50th Anniversary, we look forward to creating a moment that future generations will one day rediscover,” said Andrea Miller, Director of Recreation and city staff liaison of the 50th Anniversary Workgroup. “This time capsule represents the memories, milestones, and spirit that make Sanibel the extraordinary community it is.”
In the weeks leading up to the event, the city will share Time Capsule Tuesday updates, offering exciting previews of what’s to come on the big day. These updates will include special entertainment, exclusive opportunities for a small number of community members to contribute items to the time capsule, firsthand looks at what’s going inside the time capsule, and additional surprises planned for January 10.
The City of Sanibel and Bank of the Islands invite all residents, visitors, and community partners to join us for this historic celebration.
For more information, contact the Sanibel Recreation Department at 239-472-0345.