Panama City Beach is known for its vibrant culture and endless entertainment, and it’s no wonder why so many people flock to this coastal paradise throughout the year. From thrilling music festivals to exciting food events, there is something for everyone in this beach town. Discover the annual events and festivals that make Panama City Beach a must-visit destination, and get ready to immerse yourself in a world of celebration and joy.
Pier Park Summer Concert Series
Overview
The Pier Park Summer Concert Series is a highly anticipated event in Panama City Beach. It offers an incredible lineup of musical performances throughout the summer, creating a vibrant and entertaining atmosphere for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re a fan of rock, pop, country, or any other genre, you’re sure to find a show that suits your taste at the Pier Park Summer Concert Series.
Location and Dates
The Pier Park Summer Concert Series takes place at Pier Park, an iconic open-air shopping and entertainment center in Panama City Beach. Located at 600 Pier Park Drive, this venue provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying live music with friends and family. The concerts usually kick off in late May or early June and continue until August, giving you plenty of opportunities to experience the magic of the event.
Featured Artists
The lineup for the Pier Park Summer Concert Series is always impressive, featuring both well-known and up-and-coming artists. In the past, renowned musicians such as Zac Brown Band, Jason Aldean, and The Beach Boys have graced the stage, drawing crowds of music enthusiasts. Each year, organizers strive to bring a diverse range of performers, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Seabreeze Jazz Festival
Overview
The Seabreeze Jazz Festival is a premier event for jazz lovers in the Panama City Beach area. This four-day festival celebrates the smooth sounds of jazz, enchanting listeners with captivating performances by world-class artists. From smooth jazz to contemporary jazz, this festival showcases the best of the genre, making it a must-attend for any jazz enthusiast.
Location and Dates
The Seabreeze Jazz Festival takes place at Aaron Bessant Park, a stunning outdoor venue located at 500 West Park Drive in Panama City Beach. With its lush greenery and scenic views, the park provides an idyllic setting for enjoying live music. The festival is typically held in April, allowing attendees to embrace the beautiful spring weather while immersing themselves in the melodic tunes of jazz.
Key Performers
The Seabreeze Jazz Festival never disappoints when it comes to its lineup of performers. Esteemed jazz artists like Boney James, Peter White, and Brian Culbertson have graced the stage in previous years, captivating the audience with their exceptional talent. With a focus on both established and emerging jazz musicians, this festival showcases the rich diversity within the genre, ensuring a sensational experience for all attendees.
Pirates of the High Seas Fest
Overview
Ahoy, matey! The Pirates of the High Seas Fest is a swashbuckling adventure that brings together pirates of all ages. This family-friendly event embraces the spirit of the high seas, immersing attendees in an enchanting world of nautical fun and excitement. From thrilling activities to captivating entertainment, this festival offers unique experiences that will make you feel like a true pirate.
Location and Dates
The Pirates of the High Seas Fest takes place in the heart of Panama City Beach. The exact locations may vary from year to year, but the festival generally encompasses various areas along Front Beach Road and Pier Park. This allows attendees to explore different parts of the city while indulging in all the pirate-themed festivities. The festival is usually held during the last weekend of October, giving you an opportunity to celebrate Halloween with a touch of piracy.
Activities and Entertainment
During the Pirates of the High Seas Fest, you can expect a wide array of activities and entertainment options. From scavenger hunts and costume contests to live performances and pirate parades, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Take part in sword fighting demonstrations, watch breathtaking fireworks displays, or simply soak up the lively atmosphere as pirates roam the streets. This festival truly captures the imagination and brings out the inner pirate in all of us.
Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally
Overview
Rev your engines and join the Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally, one of the largest motorcycle events in the Southeast. This thrilling rally gathers motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the country to celebrate their love for the open road. With a mix of organized rides, live music, and vendors offering everything from bike accessories to mouthwatering food, this event is a haven for bikers and motorcycle enthusiasts.
Location and Dates
The Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally takes place at various locations in Panama City Beach. The primary hub for the rally is the Thunder Beach Motorcycle Festival Grounds on Frank Brown Park Drive. However, events and rides also spread across the city, allowing attendees to explore different parts of Panama City Beach while enjoying the rally. The rally is typically held twice a year, in spring and fall, providing ample opportunities for bikers to come together.
Schedule of Events
The rally offers an extensive schedule of events to keep bikers entertained throughout their stay. From poker runs and bike shows to live concerts and stunt shows, there’s never a dull moment during the Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally. Explore the vendor villages, where you can browse a wide range of motorcycle gear and accessories. Join organized rides that take you on picturesque routes showcasing the beauty of Panama City Beach. Whether you’re a hardcore biker or a casual motorcycle enthusiast, this rally has something to offer for everyone.
Spring Jam Music Festival
Overview
The Spring Jam Music Festival is a music lover’s paradise, where the sounds of various genres come together to create an unforgettable experience. This multi-day festival celebrates the arrival of spring with an impressive lineup of artists, promising attendees a memorable weekend filled with exceptional music and good vibes.
Location and Dates
The Spring Jam Music Festival takes place at Aaron Bessant Park, a picturesque outdoor venue situated in Panama City Beach. Nestled amidst nature, the park provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying live music against the backdrop of spring blooms. The festival typically occurs in late April, giving attendees the opportunity to bask in the pleasant weather while soaking up the incredible tunes.
Featured Artists
With its diverse lineup, the Spring Jam Music Festival caters to a wide range of musical preferences. From country and rock to hip hop and pop, there’s something for everyone at this festival. Past performers have included chart-topping artists like Luke Bryan, Florida Georgia Line, and Thomas Rhett, ensuring a high-energy and entertaining experience for all attendees. Immerse yourself in the music, sing along to your favorite songs, and make lasting memories at the Spring Jam Music Festival.
Panama City Beach Mardi Gras and Music Festival
Overview
Laissez les bons temps rouler! The Panama City Beach Mardi Gras and Music Festival brings the vibrant spirit of New Orleans to the shores of Panama City Beach. This lively event captures the essence of Mardi Gras with its colorful parades, lively music, and festive atmosphere. Whether you’re familiar with the Mardi Gras traditions or want to experience them for the first time, this festival promises a celebration like no other.
Location and Dates
The Panama City Beach Mardi Gras and Music Festival takes place in the heart of the city. The exact locations may vary, but the festivities are typically centered around Pier Park and the surrounding areas. The festival occurs in the weeks leading up to Fat Tuesday, the culmination of the Mardi Gras season. This allows attendees to experience the excitement and energy of Mardi Gras while enjoying the beautiful coastal setting of Panama City Beach.
Parade and Activities
One of the highlights of the Panama City Beach Mardi Gras and Music Festival is the vibrant parade that winds its way through the streets. Adorned in colorful costumes and masks, participants throw beads, doubloons, and other trinkets to eager crowds. The parade features marching bands, decorated floats, and talented performers, creating a spectacle of music and dance. In addition to the parade, the festival also offers live music, delicious food, and interactive activities that transport you straight to the heart of New Orleans.
Emerald Coast Cruzin’ Car Show
Overview
Calling all car enthusiasts! The Emerald Coast Cruzin’ Car Show is an annual event that showcases some of the most impressive automobile creations. This four-day car show brings together collectors, builders, and admirers of all things automotive. With a wide variety of classic cars, hot rods, and custom vehicles on display, this event offers a thrilling experience for those with a passion for automobiles.
Location and Dates
The Emerald Coast Cruzin’ Car Show takes place at Aaron Bessant Park in Panama City Beach. This expansive outdoor venue provides ample space for showcasing the stunning vehicles and accommodating the enthusiastic crowd. The car show typically occurs in the spring, allowing attendees to enjoy the pleasant weather while exploring the incredible lineup of cars.
Car Show Events
The car show features a range of exciting events and activities to keep attendees entertained. Marvel at the meticulously restored classic cars as they compete for awards in various categories. Enjoy live music performances that set the tone for a fun-filled day. Engage with fellow car enthusiasts and share knowledge about automobiles at the vendor booths. From burnout competitions to celebrity appearances, the Emerald Coast Cruzin’ Car Show is a must-visit event for anyone with a fascination for the world of cars.
UNwineD
Overview
Unwind and savor the finer things in life at UNwineD, a gourmet experience and wine tasting event in Panama City Beach. This two-day festival invites guests to indulge in delectable cuisine, sample exquisite wines, and embrace the luxurious side of beach life. UNwineD offers a sophisticated ambiance, making it the perfect event for those who appreciate the art of culinary excellence.
Location and Dates
UNwineD takes place at the beautiful Aaron Bessant Park, providing a serene and picturesque setting for the festival. Located in the heart of Panama City Beach, the park’s natural beauty enhances the overall experience, creating an idyllic environment for savoring gourmet delights. The festival is typically held in March, allowing attendees to escape the winter blues and revel in the warmth of early spring.
Gourmet Experience and Tastings
At UNwineD, master chefs from local and renowned restaurants come together to showcase their culinary prowess. Attendees can sample a wide array of gourmet dishes, ranging from fresh seafood to artisanal desserts. With live cooking demonstrations and interactive experiences, this festival offers a unique opportunity to witness culinary creations in action.
Of course, no gourmet event would be complete without wine. At UNwineD, guests can explore a curated selection of wines from vineyards around the world. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply appreciate a fine glass of vino, this festival allows you to discover new flavors, learn about wine pairings, and elevate your palate.
Seabreeze Jazz Festival
Overview
The Seabreeze Jazz Festival is a premier event for jazz lovers in the Panama City Beach area. This four-day festival celebrates the smooth sounds of jazz, enchanting listeners with captivating performances by world-class artists. From smooth jazz to contemporary jazz, this festival showcases the best of the genre, making it a must-attend for any jazz enthusiast.
Location and Dates
The Seabreeze Jazz Festival takes place at Aaron Bessant Park, a stunning outdoor venue located at 500 West Park Drive in Panama City Beach. With its lush greenery and scenic views, the park provides an idyllic setting for enjoying live music. The festival is typically held in April, allowing attendees to embrace the beautiful spring weather while immersing themselves in the melodic tunes of jazz.
Key Performers
The Seabreeze Jazz Festival never disappoints when it comes to its lineup of performers. Esteemed jazz artists like Boney James, Peter White, and Brian Culbertson have graced the stage in previous years, captivating the audience with their exceptional talent. With a focus on both established and emerging jazz musicians, this festival showcases the rich diversity within the genre, ensuring a sensational experience for all attendees.
Christmas Boat Parade
Overview
Add a touch of holiday magic to your Panama City Beach experience with the Christmas Boat Parade. This festive event combines the beauty of decorated boats with the joyous spirit of the holiday season. Whether you’re a participant in the parade or a spectator watching from the shoreline, the Christmas Boat Parade is a delightful way to celebrate Christmas in Panama City Beach.
Location and Dates
The Christmas Boat Parade takes place on the sparkling waters of Panama City Beach, showcasing boats adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. The parade route varies each year, offering attendees different viewing locations along the coastline. The event typically occurs in early December, allowing both locals and visitors to embrace the holiday cheer while taking in the scenic beauty of the Gulf of Mexico.
Boat Decoration and Parade Route
Participants of the Christmas Boat Parade go all out when it comes to decorating their vessels. Elaborate light displays, holiday-themed decorations, and even costumed characters can be seen onboard the boats. As the boats make their way along the designated parade route, spectators line the shoreline to cheer them on and experience the magical ambiance. From traditional Christmas carols playing in the background to the reflection of the lights on the water, the Christmas Boat Parade is a sight to behold and a truly festive experience.
In conclusion, Panama City Beach offers a plethora of annual events and festivals that cater to a wide range of interests. From music enthusiasts to adventure seekers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant coastal city. Whether you’re attending the Pier Park Summer Concert Series, exploring the world of jazz at the Seabreeze Jazz Festival, or immersing yourself in the festivities of the Pirates of the High Seas Fest, each event offers a unique and memorable experience. So mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready to make lasting memories at these incredible annual events in Panama City Beach.