Panama City Beach Area Events

The fact that the sun shines most days means that the fun never stops in Panama City Beach. In fact, the city hosts special events just about every month of the year.

One of the newest and most exciting brings country music’s brightest stars to Frank Brown Park. Held in early September, the Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam attracts thousands of visitors to performances by Blake Shelton, Lady Antebellum, Keith Urban, Miranda Lambert, Toby Keith, Trace Adkins, Brantley Gilbert, the Charlie Daniels Band, Darryl Worley, and more.

Another popular musical event attracts scores of jazz lovers to Pier Park every spring. Held in April, the Seabreeze Jazz Festival regularly hosts Grammy Award-winning artists such as George Benson, David Sanborn, Al Jarreau, and Norman Brown.

Hundreds of visitors return to Panama City Beach every November for the Florida Ironman Triathlon, which has been held in the city since 1999. Athletes come from all over the country to compete in this grueling swimming, biking, and running event.

Another popular event Panama City has hosted for many years is the Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally. Held every spring and fall, the rally, which offers live entertainment, parades, contests, and more, is one of the biggest free biker gatherings in the country.

These are just a few of the activities Panama City hosts regularly. Check out our calendar of events for an up-to-date list of what’s going on while you’re in town.

October 2025

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Panama City Beach Oktoberfest

Get ready for German food, beer and music with this three-day festival! Panama City Beach's Oktoberfest will feature a massive, authentic tent and two outdoor beer gardens alongside a variety of activities for families and kids.

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Oct 03 - Oct 05, 2025

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Pirates of the High Seas & Renaissance Fest

This free celebration offers an action-packed weekend filled with everything from a fire circus to live mermaid shows. And for some extra fun, travel back in time with the newer Renaissance addition where festival-goers can enjoy the enchanted marketplace alongside sword demonstrations and more. 

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Oct 10 - Oct 12, 2025

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Paws in the Park

Paws in the Park is the ultimate celebration for all animal lovers in Panama City Beach. Bring your furry friends and browse a variety of vendors, adoption booths and exciting demonstrations!

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Oct 19 - Oct 29, 2025

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Thunder Beach Fall Motorcycle Rally

Spread across a variety of destinations in Panama City Beach, the biannual Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally offers unique experiences at every location. Enjoy everything from national motorcycle vendors and exciting bike shows to live entertainment and a breathtaking ride along the beach.

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Oct 22 - Oct 26, 2025

November 2025

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Panama City Beach Ironman

Become an Ironman in this internationally recognized competition by swimming 2.4 miles in the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, biking 112 miles through stunning Florida pines and running 26.2 miles along the Emerald Coast shoreline. With flat courses and warm waters, this race is perfect for first timers or experienced athletes looking to set personal records. There is also a Half Ironman available.

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Nov 01, 2025

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Emerald Coast Cruizin' Fall

The biannual Emerald Coast Cruizin' Car Show returns to Aaron Bessant Park this fall. This family friendly event is a giant outdoor show room with something on display for every automotive enthusiast!

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Nov 06 - Nov 08, 2025

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Beach Home for the Holidays

Beach Home for the Holidays is an exciting fun-filled weekend bringing in a festive vibe for the holiday season. The event includes everything from orchestra and ballet performances to the tree lighting and a visit from Santa. Be sure to check the website for exact schedules!

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Nov 28 - Nov 29, 2025

December 2025

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New Year's Eve Beach Ball Drop

Ring in the New Year with the ultimate New Year’s Eve celebration in Panama City Beach! Named the “Best New Year’s Eve Drop” by USA Today 10Best, this exciting event has fun for all ages with fireworks, life music, a Kids Fun Zone and more. Attendees can enjoy the 8:00 PM Kids’ Beach Ball Drop or wait until midnight to countdown the end of 2024 with one of the world’s largest beach balls.

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Dec 31, 2025 - Oct 01, 2026