The holidays in Panama City beach are truly unmatched! From larger-than-life Christmas displays and sparkling lights to festive markets, the beach transforms into a wonderland of cheer. Whether you’re checking off your annual traditions or creating new ones, you’ll find countless ways to celebrate, snap photos, and soak in the magic of the season right here in PCB.
Pirates Voyage
Dolly Parton’s newest development, Pirates Voyage Dinner and Show, is the perfect stop for all things Christmas this time of year! During the holidays, they truly get in the festive spirit by decorating the outside of their building with 30-foot-tall Christmas trees and snowmen. But the holiday cheer doesn’t stop there. Once you’re done getting your photos taken outside, find your seat inside and experience a true pirate’s Christmas story.
Santa in Pier Park
Obviously, you have to get photos with Santa during the holiday season – it’s tradition! Luckily, Pier Park always delivers. The jolly one will be available for photos daily from November 28 through Christmas Eve. Find Santa in his new beach house in the Town Center across from Dillard’s. Visit their website and reserve you picture date and time with Santa.
Aaron Bessant Park
Immediately following Thanksgiving, Aaron Bessant Park is turned into a winter wonderland, known as Beach Home for the Holidays. During the event Aaron Bessant’s giant Christmas tree is light and stays glowing until the new year. Benches throughout in Aaron Bessant Park are also decorated in festive signs, offering multiple holiday backdrops that fit any personality.
Christmas Cruise
Many boating companies close for the winter season, but St. Andrews State Park stays lively and festive, offering a Christmas Cruise featuring a festive sunset cruise filled with twinkling lights, hot cocoa, holiday music, and breathtaking views of the Gulf. Book your seat now!
Christmas Village at PCB Market
Looking for the perfect place for unique holiday shopping in Panama City Beach? Christmas Village at PCB Market is the spot. This festive holiday event features seasonal attractions like Santa’s Workshop & Photo Spot, a Cookie & Cocoa Corner, holiday music, and a variety of local artisans, crafters, and gift vendors.
Last Minute Market
Come on down to the Last Minute Marker Winter Farmers Market at Aaron Bessant Park for a festive, open-air shopping experience perfect for last-minute holiday finds! Wander beneath the trees as you browse handmade gifts, unique goods, and delicious treats from local vendors. With décor, tasty food trucks, and plenty of seasonal spirit, it’s an easy way to wrap up your holiday shopping in true Panama City Beach style.
New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop
To close out the holiday season, celebrate New Year's Eve on the beach December 31! A family-friendly countdown at 8pm culminates with fireworks, live music and 15,000 beach balls being dropped over the crowd. As the seconds tick down to midnight, thousands watch the Celebration Tower as a glowing beach ball descends to signify the start of a New Year and kicks off a second round of fireworks!
