Panama City Beach Fl., not to be confused with Panama City, the next town over, is in northwestern Florida. It offers a welcoming mix of Southern charm and sugar white sand, with plenty of fresh seafood befitting its location on the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you are here for a family getaway or with a group of friends, you will find plenty of fun free things to do in Panama City Beach.
Fun Free Things to Do in Panama City Beach Fl
Long known for its emerald-green waters and sugar white sandy shores, Panama City Beach is a year-round warm-weather destination. You will find events throughout the year that appeal to visitors of all ages – to be enjoyed on land, sand and sea. Below is an overview of fun free things to do in Panama City Beach all year long.
Fun Things to Do: Mardi Gras Festival and Parade, February
This family-friendly festival is presented by The Krewe of Dominique Youx. It’s a terrific alternative for travelers hoping to experience the culture and celebration of Mardi Gras while enjoying a seaside vacation. The renowned festivities of Bourbon Street come to Panama City Beach’s Pier Park for two days of fabulous floats, masked performers, colorful costumes, a signature parade and street party complete with Cajun food and fireworks.
Free Things to Do: Kids Fishing Rodeo, April
Every April on a Saturday, Frank Brown Park invites kids ages 16 and under to join a fishing rodeo. Kids get hot dogs, fishing rods, and tackle boxes.
Free Things to Do: Summer Concert Series
Listen to free concerts in June, July and August at the Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheater next to Pier Park. Bring your own lawn chairs or blanket. Coolers, pets and food allowed.
Fun Things to Do: Star Spangled Spectacular at Pier Park, July 4
Panama City Beach celebrates Fourth of July in style at Pier Park. Families can enjoy a day filled with live entertainment, children’s activities, tasty food and drinks, as well as a breathtaking fireworks display at 9pm.
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Fun Things to Do: Pirates of the High Seas Festival, October
Columbus Day weekend brings a wave of fun-filled adventures to Panama City Beach with the Pirates of the High Seas Fest. Taking place throughout the coastal community, the festival includes an ensemble of parades and sword-swinging showdowns. It culminates in a dueling fireworks display reenacting The Battle of the Seven Seas.
Free Things to Do: Annual Jazz by the Bay, October
Listen to jazz for free each fall at the Oaks by the Bay Park.
Fun Things to Do: Annual Thunder Beach Rally, May and October
Known as “The Most Biker Friendly FREE Rally in the United States,” the Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally is held twice each year in Panama City Beach Fl. Bikers from around the country enjoy scenic rides along the Emerald Coast, live entertainment and local cuisine.
Panama City Beach Conservation Park
Boardwalks and 24 miles of unpaved trails welcome hikers and bikers to these wetlands. Reclaimed water has helped restore the natural setting. Find local flora and fauna and enjoy the picnic tables.
New Year’s Eve
On December 31, the countdown celebration begins seconds before midnight as an 800-pound glowing beach ball descends, lighting up at the stroke of midnight to signify the New Year. The multi-generational portion of the event is held earlier in the evening with fireworks and a family ball drop, consisting of 10,000 inflatable beach balls dropped from the sky.
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