While much of the country braves winter’s coldest months, those in the know head to Panama City Beach—where the season unfolds with coffee socials, themed dances, beachfront days and traditions that extend well beyond the holidays. For winter residents, the destination offers more than sunshine; it delivers a welcoming sense of community and opportunities to connect and settle into coastal life. 

 

New for the 2025–2026 season, Visit Panama City Beach is introducing Beachcomber Barrie’s Bucket List Passport, a fun, interactive way for winter residents to experience the destination. Designed to encourage visitors to explore local favorites and attend seasonal events, the passport turns the season into a self-guided adventure. 

 

“Having lived in Panama City Beach for nearly 50 years, sharing real, authentic recommendations with visitors to help them experience the destination like a local has been incredibly rewarding,” said Barrie Ainslie, director of visitor services for Visit Panama City Beach. “Winter residents may come here for the weather, but they return year after year for the friendships, the routines and the feeling of being part of the community. The Bucket List grew out of those daily interactions—highlighting the little things that make this place feel like home.” 

 

Winter days in Panama City Beach often begin with neighborhood gatherings, where residents connect over complimentary coffee and fresh donuts. The season is anchored by longtime favorites, including the Winter Resident Homecoming Dance & Social, the popular Senior Prom and the Winter Resident Grand Finale, a celebratory send-off honoring those who call Panama City Beach their home away from home each winter. Between signature events, the calendar remains full with art classes, golf challenges, wine tastings and live music. 

 

How the Bucket List Passport Works:

Winter residents can pick up a Bucket List Passport at select winter resident events or at the Visitor Center. Participants collect stamps by attending events and completing activities throughout the season. Those who complete the passport and turn it in will automatically receive a Real. Fun. Beach. coffee mug and be entered into four VIP prize drawings, held each Tuesday in February. Winners will be announced through the official PCB Winter Residents Facebook Group.

 

Signature Winter Events Include:

  • Friday, Jan. 9, 2026 — Winter Resident Appreciation Day 
  • Friday, Jan. 16, 2026 — Winter Resident Homecoming Dance & Social 
  • Friday–Saturday, Jan. 30–31, 2026 — Panama City Beach Mardi Gras & Music Festival 
  • Friday, Feb. 6, 2026 — Winter Resident Appreciation Day 
  • Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026 — Winter Resident Senior Prom 
  • Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026 — Winter Resident Appreciation Day 
  • Friday, Feb. 20, 2026 — Winter Resident Grand Finale 

 

For full event details and information on the Winter Resident Bucket List Passport, visit visitpanamacitybeach.com/events/winter-resident-events.

 

For general destination images, visit: https://bit.ly/3ExUVts.