Panama City Beach known for its 360 annual days of sunshine, 27 miles of sugar-white sand beaches and brilliant emerald green waters, will be home to an exciting variety of family-friendly festivals and events. or every type of traveler this fall. Whether an athlete, biker, country music fan, lobster lover, pirate seeker or Bloody Mary aficionado, locals and visitors alike will have something to look forward to this season in Panama City Beach.
Check out these events coming to the beach this autumn and be sure to mark your calendar!
Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam
Panama City Beach’s seventh annual Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam is back this Labor Day weekend, bigger and better than ever with headliners including Tim McGraw, Jason Aldean, and Kid Rock. Festivalgoers will enjoy listening to the very best of today’s country music on one of the world’s most beautiful sugar-white sand beaches. As the sun begins to set, patrons can ride free shuttles to the headline stage at Frank Brown Park.
Panama City Beach Oktoberfest
Locals and visitors alike will raise a glass and don their lederhosen for this annual celebration of German heritage. Authentic German beer and brats are the star of the show, while this year’s festivities will feature stein hosting competitions, live music and plenty of activities for the kids.
Pirates of the High Seas Fest
Columbus Day weekend will bring a treasure trove of fun-filled adventures to Panama City Beach with the Pirates of the High Seas Fest. Taking place throughout the Grand Lagoon and in Pier Park, the festival includes an ensemble of parades and sword-swinging showdowns, a pirate invasion, a Treasure Drop and fireworks display.
Schooners Lobster Festival & Tournament
This week-long celebration welcomes lobster lovers from near and far for the biggest lobster tournament and festival in the area. Attendees can expect live music, contests and lots of delicious Florida Lobster. Held at Schooners Last Local Beach Club, this event is a must for foodies of all ages.
Thunder Beach Autumn Motorcycle Rally
Known as "The Most Biker Friendly FREE Rally in the United States," Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally is held twice yearly in Panama City Beach- the first weekend in May and mid-October. Bikers from around the country enjoy scenic rides along the Emerald Coast, live entertainment and local cuisine.
IRONMAN Florida
What began as a challenge between groups of Navy SEALS has become one of the most recognized endurance events in the world. IRONMAN is a statement of excellence, passion and commitment that is a true test of mental and physical toughness. The Florida edition of the challenge serves as one of the most popular races on the circuit. Panama City Beach has proven to have the best combination of perfect temperatures and beautiful scenery for this competition.
Emerald Coast Cruzin’ Car Show
The bi-annual car show at Aaron Bessant Park is perfect for families and features thousands of hot rods and classic cars. Events include a swap meet, parade, cruiz-ins, block party, car auction, giveaways, live music from country music legends and more.
Bloody Mary & Music Festival
This year’s fourth annual Bloody Mary & Music Festival will feature 20 local businesses competing in a friendly but fierce competition to determine who makes the best Bloody Mary in Panama City Beach. The winner will be crowned the “Big Tomato” and will be awarded the four-foot, tomato-topped trophy to keep until next year’s event.
Beach Home for the Holidays
After enjoying plenty of Thanksgiving turkey, locals and visitors alike can wave goodbye to fall and usher in the most wonderful time of the year in Panama City Beach. A great holiday tradition for the entire family, guests can kick off the Christmas season with free holiday concerts at Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheater, seasonal-themed events like campfires and s’mores, meet-and-greet with Santa, a Christmas tree-lighting celebration and more.
For more events in Panama City Beach, visit our event calendar here.
