Mike and Dawn Miller at The Whale have announced two big events to help drive more people to Fort Myers Beach this Summer. JobuFest and Anniversary Rock Fest are being rolled out.
On Saturday, May 30th, JobuFest returns for another afternoon of island fun, tropical cocktails, live music, and the legendary Jobu ritual meant to “ward off hurricanes” and bring good vibes to the island community for the season ahead.
Inspired by the iconic baseball movie tradition but fully reimagined with Fort Myers Beach energy, JobuFest has quickly become one of the island’s most unique summer gatherings. Guests can expect tiki décor, island music, themed drinks, photo opportunities, and a special ceremonial offering to Jobu as the community gathers to celebrate resilience, humor, and the start of summer.
The official toast to Jobu ceremony will begin at 5:45 p.m.
“This event started as something fun and quirky, but it’s become a celebration of island culture and community,” said Dawn Miller, owner of The Whale and founder of What’s Up FMB. “After everything Fort Myers Beach has been through, events like this remind us why people love this island so much.” The event will take place in The Whale parking lot and outdoor areas, with festivities concluding shortly after the ceremonial toast.
On Saturday, June 13, The Whale will host its Anniversary Rock Fest, celebrating the anniversary of Dawn and Mike Miller’s purchase of The Whale in June 2022 and the unforgettable journey that followed.
The event will feature live music throughout the day, including performances by Hair Daze leading into headlining performance by Rock Republic, along with food and drink specials, island-inspired cocktails, and a high-energy summer celebration atmosphere.
Just months after purchasing The Whale in June 2022, Hurricane Ian devastated Fort Myers Beach in September 2022, destroying the original property and changing the island forever. Refusing to give up, the team continued operating under a tent while rebuilding plans moved forward. Ground was officially broken on the new property in May 2024, culminating in the highly anticipated grand reopening in November 2025.
“This anniversary means so much because it represents every stage of the journey — the excitement, the heartbreak, the rebuilding, and the incredible support from this community,” Miller said. “The Whale has become more than a restaurant to us. It’s part of the Fort Myers Beach comeback story, and we’re proud to celebrate that with everyone who stood beside us.”
If anyone hasn’t seen Rock Republic be sure & come by! They put on a heluva show!