Category: Events

  • Pups and People Art Reception Feb. 22

    Pups and People Art Reception Feb. 22

    Join us on February 22 from 2-3 p.m. for an art reception for Pups and People in the Bay County Public Library lobby. Chat with the artists about their work and process! The program is free and open to the public to attend. Light refreshments will be provided. The featured artists are Stacey Cromer, Gary Thrift, and Anne Thrift. The exhibit will be up through February and March.

    Pups by Stacey CromerStacey Cromer (Photographer, Captured Moments Pet Photography):
    “My photography focuses on capturing the personalities and unique spirits of our beloved pets. I employ a vibrant and colorful style, emphasizing vivid hues that bring out the sparkle in their eyes and the joy in their hearts. Through meticulous digital editing, I strive to achieve exquisite detail, ensuring each portrait is a testament to the extraordinary bond we share with our animal companions. My aim is to create lasting artwork that celebrates the pure love and playful energy that pets bring into our lives.”

    Gary Thrift (Photographer, Was and When Photography):
    “As a street photographer, predominantly photographing people and the reality of the human condition, it is sometimes hard to ignore the constant companion that fills so many people’s lives with joy. Dogs! Often referred to as “Man’s best friend’, it is often hard to photograph one without the other. Whether they sit dutifully by their owner’s side, ride shotgun in the car, bark over protectively as a stranger gets too close, or beg under a table for a treat from their owner’s plate, dogs are an integral part of so many people’s lives.”

    Anne Thrift (Painter):
    “Up until now, I had only made a handful of pet pieces as personal gifts or little surprises. Tackling a more unfamiliar yet appealing theme of dogs was both a huge challenge and a welcome departure from my usual specialized subject matter of human anatomical and physiological complexities. A goal of mine in undertaking the Pups and People collection was to represent a spectrum of emotions inherent in the inseparable bond between a dog and its human.”

  • Friends of The Bay County Public Libraries Murder Mystery Dinner Fundraiser Feb. 28

    Friends of The Bay County Public Libraries Murder Mystery Dinner Fundraiser Feb. 28

    The Friends of the Bay County Public Libraries Third Annual Murder Mystery Dinner Fundraiser is Friday, February 28 at 6:30 p.m. held at the FSU Holley Center (4750 Collegiate Drive, Panama City). Tickets must be purchased in advance at $100 plus processing fees. The proceeds of the event go to the Friends, a non-profit organization that supports the programs and activities of the Bay County Public Library. Get ready to put your detective skills to the test as you try to solve a mysterious crime while enjoying a delicious meal, cash bar and silent auction.

    Eventbrite Ticket Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/blood-on-the-bayou-murder-mystery-fundraiser-dinner-tickets-1049899968067.

    This year’s theme is “Blood on the Bayou” where participants can don their finest Mardi Gras mask and join forces with the astute Detective Gunn to solve the case. The interactive performance presented by Improbable Cause Mystery Theater first begins at the prestigious annual masquerade ball hosted by the enchanting Claudette La’Rue, now the sole heiress of the vast Sweet Dreams sugar empire, following the untimely demise of Daddy La’Rue. As Claudette navigates her promising new union with Caleb, the scion of the Louis family, all appears prosperous in both love and business. However, the night takes a sinister turn when a ghastly murder threatens to shatter her sweet dreams. Join us and become part of the detective’s elite Krewe at this unforgettable evening of mystery and drama!

    For more information about The Friends of the Bay County Public Libraries and the event, visit https://baycountylibraryfriends.org.

  • Panama City Symphony Continues its 2024-25 Season

    Panama City Symphony Continues its 2024-25 Season

    The Panama City Symphony bursts into 2025 with four final performances for the 2024-25 Season. Conductor Sergey Bogza’s passion for entertaining, engaging and inspiring his audiences is evident in the exuberant and varied themes he has created for these four shows. All concerts take place at The Barbara W. Nelson Fine Arts Center at Bay High School, 1200 Harrison Avenue, Panama City, FL 32401; tickets may be purchased at PanamaCitySymphony.org.

    Join the Symphony on February 8 for a Tribute to Tchaikovsky featuring Victor Shlyakhtenko, College Division Grand Prize Winner of Panama City Symphony’s Emerging Artist Competition, and the full force of the orchestra. Memorable melodies are contrasted with powerful themes of fate and struggle in Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5. After making his concerto debut in 2014, Victor collaborated with orchestras in concerti by Beethoven, Chopin, Grieg, Liszt, Mendelssohn, Mozart, Tchaikovsky, and Clara Schumann. Victor was a recipient of the U.S. National Chopin Foundation Scholarship from 2016-2019 and a Young Scholar of the Lang International Music Foundation from 2018-2020. The Saturday evening show begins at 7 p.m.

    On March 15, come celebrate the 80th anniversary of My Favorite Things: Music of Rodgers and Hammerstein – a musical collaboration of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein. Take a symphonic journey from Oklahoma! to the South Pacific and experience the melodies of some of America’s most beloved Broadway music. This will be an evening of entertainment that will strike a chord with the young – as well as the young at heart! The Saturday evening show begins at 7 p.m.

    PC Symphony Didi StoneTo conclude the 2024-25 Season, on April 12 enjoy Music of the Cosmos, a celestial adventure featuring fascinating projections and our Emerging Artists Competition Grand Prize Winner (High School Division) Didi Stone. The stage is set for an unforgettable stellar evening among the galaxies, stars, nebulas, and planets. Croft (Didi) Stone is a freshman at the Schwob School of Music; his passion for orchestra led him to the GMEA All-State Orchestra, Emory Junior Chamber Orchestra, Emory Youth Symphony Orchestra, and the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra. The Saturday evening show begins at 7 p.m.

  • Mardi Gras Returns to Panama City Beach Feb. 14-15

    Mardi Gras Returns to Panama City Beach Feb. 14-15

    Visit Panama City Beach invites visitors and residents to celebrate Mardi Gras “Real. Fun. Beach” style at the annual Panama City Beach Mardi Gras and Music Festival, returning February 14-15, 2025. Combining the magic of an authentic Mardi Gras celebration with spectacular views of the destination’s sugar-white sand beaches and turquoise waters, this one-of-a-kind festival offers two days of fun for the whole family, with parades, kids’ activities, live music, and more.

    Panama City Beach Mardi Gras and Music FestivalIn conjunction with the Krewe of Dominique Youx’s great Mardi Gras at the Beach parade, the free festival offers a lineup of activities for all ages, including a Kids Fun Zone and Festival Village, a kids’ parade, a Mardi Gras 5K Fun Run, fireworks, and live music at both Aaron Bessant Park and the Celebration Stage in Pier Park. The event welcomes multi-platinum country artist and Grand Ole Opry member Chris Janson as this year’s headliner, as well as other notable acts including Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band, The Band Feel, Lost Bayou Ramblers, and Double Trouble Zydeco.
    To see a full schedule of events, please visit: https://www.visitpanamacitybeach.com/events/concerts-music-festivals/mardi-gras/

  • Sand Up Comedy Festival Returns Valentine’s Day Weekend with Star Studded Lineup

    Sand Up Comedy Festival Returns Valentine’s Day Weekend with Star Studded Lineup

    Annual event features top comedians and supports local artists and filmmakers through SOWAL Foundation

    Following the unprecedented success of last year’s sold-out inaugural event, the Sand Up Comedy Festival is back for a second year, promising even more laughter and community engagement. Scheduled for Thursday, February 13 – Saturday, February 15, this year’s festival will feature performances at six iconic venues across Walton and Bay Counties, with a stellar lineup of comedians seen on Netflix, Comedy Central, Sirius XM, Drybar Comedy, and Bob Goldthwait’s Misfits & Monsters.

    Whether you’re celebrating with someone special, spending time with friends, or enjoying a solo adventure, the Sand Up Comedy Festival is the perfect way to spend Valentine’s Day weekend—with a side of world-class comedy.

    Featured Venues
    SOWAL House (Rosemary Beach) – A creative hub for intimate performances.
    Distillery 98 (Santa Rosa Beach) – Known for its unique distilled spirits and lively atmosphere.
    Grayton Beer Taproom (Santa Rosa Beach) – A crowd-favorite venue offering locally brewed craft beer.
    Stinky’s Bait Shack (Dune Allen Beach) – A beloved local entertainment venue, serving up more than just laughs.
    Beaches Comedy Club (Panama City Beach) – Panama City Beach’s premier dedicated comedy venue.
    Mosey’s Downtown (Panama City) – A hidden gem perfect for late-night laughs and laid-back vibes.

    “We’re thrilled to build upon last year’s momentum,” says Dave King, President of SOWAL Foundation and co-founder of SOWAL House. “We’re not only bringing world-class comedy to the area but also supporting our local arts community through SOWAL Foundation.”

    Tickets are available now at www.sandupcomedyfest.com. Stay updated on Instagram and Facebook @sandupcomedyfest for exclusive announcements and sneak peeks.

    Supporting Local Creatives Through Laughter
    Sponsorships from the festival benefit SOWAL Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and uplifting local artists, fashion designers, and filmmakers in Walton County and surrounding areas. The Foundation provides essential resources, fosters creative growth, and advocates for artistic expression, believing in the transformative power of the arts to inspire, educate, and unite.

    Festival sponsors are invited to an exclusive Saturday night wrap party at SOWAL House to celebrate the weekend’s success alongside performers, community leaders, and local creatives.

  • Panama City Beach to Welcome Winter Residents with Special Events

    Panama City Beach to Welcome Winter Residents with Special Events

    As cooler temperatures settle in across the north, Visit Panama City Beach is thrilled to welcome winter residents for a season filled with sunshine, community, and real FUN festivities. From the destination’s unforgettable New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop to the Winter Resident Senior Prom, snowbirds seeking a beach escape can delight in a variety of special events, activities, and exclusive deals along the destination’s 27 miles of sugar-white sand beaches and turquoise waters.

    “Each year, we extend a warm welcome to Panama City Beach’s winter residents, who have become an integral part of our community,” says Visit Panama City Beach President and CEO Dan Rowe. “With a full calendar of exciting social events, we look forward to hosting both first-time and returning visitors for a truly memorable winter season.”

    The season’s events kick off in the new year with the annual Homecoming Dance and Social, scheduled for Monday, Jan. 13, at Boardwalk Beach Hotel & Convention Center, followed by the eagerly anticipated Winter Resident Senior Prom on Monday, Feb. 10, at Edgewater Beach and Golf Resort. This year’s Senior Prom, themed “The Emerald City,” promises a magical, Wizard of Oz-inspired celebration.

    Sky Wheel Sunset At Pier ParkOn Feb. 14-15, revel in the spirit of Mardi Gras at the annual Panama City Beach Mardi Gras and Music Festival, a two-day event featuring parades, live music, and more just steps from the destination’s beautiful beaches. The festivities culminate on Thursday, Feb. 20, at Edgewater Beach and Golf Resort with the Winter Resident Grand Finale, a heartfelt farewell and appreciation event for those who call Panama City Beach their home away from home.

    Winter Resident Appreciation Days bring the community together at Boardwalk Beach Hotel & Convention Center, offering complimentary coffee, donuts, and special giveaways. These gatherings, scheduled for Jan. 10, Feb. 7, and Feb. 18, from 8 to 10:30 a.m., provide the perfect opportunity to learn more about the destination’s seasonal activities and mingle with new friends. Tickets for the Homecoming Dance and Social, Senior Prom, and Grand Finale will be available for purchase during Winter Resident Appreciation Days.

    For winter residents seeking even more excitement, the Panama City Beach Mystery Challenge offers the opportunity to win prizes including rounds of golf, entertainment tickets, special event opportunities, and a chance to taste cuisine from the destination’s top restaurants.

    For more information on winter resident events, discounts, and deals in Panama City Beach, visit https://www.visitpanamacitybeach.com/events/winter-resident-events/.

    Events Schedule

    Friday, Jan. 10: Winter Resident Appreciation Day
    8-10:30 a.m. at Boardwalk Beach Hotel & Convention Center (Tickets for Homecoming Dance and Social available)

    Monday, Jan. 13: Homecoming Dance and Social
    4-9 p.m. at Boardwalk Beach Hotel & Convention Center

    Friday, Feb. 7: Winter Resident Appreciation Day
    8-10:30 a.m. at Boardwalk Beach Hotel & Convention Center (Tickets for Senior Prom available)

    Monday, Feb.10: Winter Resident Senior Prom
    4-9 p.m. at Edgewater Beach and Golf Resort

    Friday, Feb. 14 – Saturday, Feb. 15: Panama City Beach Mardi Gras & Music Festival
    Begins at 3:45 p.m. at Pier Park Drive

    Tuesday, Feb.18: Winter Resident Appreciation Day
    8-10:30 a.m. at Boardwalk Beach Hotel & Convention Center (Tickets for Grand Finale available)

    Thursday, Feb. 20: Winter Resident Grand Finale
    4-9 p.m. at Edgewater Beach and Golf Resort

  • Winter Programming Geared For Adults at The Bay County Libraries

    Winter Programming Geared For Adults at The Bay County Libraries

    The Bay County libraries have organized some fantastic adult programming throughout January and February for our residents and winter visitors! If looking for programs highlighting arts, culture, science, and history, the library is the place to be. Library programs are free and open to the public to attend.

    Library cards are free for residents of Bay, Gulf, and Liberty Counties. Non-residents can pick up a Northwest Regional Library System fee card for $20 that is good for a year. Ebooks, eAudiobooks, and over 3,000 magazines are available with your library card through the Libby App, which can be accessed anywhere 24/7. Visit www.nwrls.com to find out more about library programs and services.

    Panama City Beach Public Library is located at 12500 Hutchison Blvd., Panama City Beach. Phone (850) 233-5055.

    Sea Needles
    Fridays at 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. CT
    Bring your knitting, crochet, or quilt projects and join other crafters for an enjoyable time!

    Bingo
    Wednesdays, January 15 and February 12 at 10 a.m. CT
    Play Bingo at the library!

    Gulf World Marine Animal Rescue
    Wednesday, January 22 at 10 a.m. CT
    Lauren Albrittain, Stranding Coordinator for Gulf World Marine Institute, will present on the organization’s history, mission, and conservation work with stranded marine mammals and sea turtles in the FL Panhandle.

    WJHG Chapter Chat (Titles to be announced before each month)
    Tuesdays, January 28 and February 25 at 2 p.m. CT
    Jessica Foster and Mel Zosh from WJHG News Channel 7 will lead the Chapter Chat Book Club. Come join us to talk about this month’s book and just fun conversation in general! Extra copies of each month’s Chapter Chat book will be available to borrow for the Book Club thanks to the Bay County Public Library Foundation. Call the library at (850) 233-5055 to see if they are available for you to borrow or to place you on the list for the next available copy!

    Chess
    Wednesday, January 29 at 10 a.m. CT
    Stop by for a game of chess. Tables set up in library!

    Beach Book Club
    Wednesday, February 5 at 10:30 a.m. CT
    February: The Women by Kristen Hannah
    New members are always welcome. Extra copies of the monthly title are provided by the Bay County Public Library Foundation. Check the Front Desk to see if a copy is available.

    BUMS Ukulele Concert
    Wednesday, February 19 at 10 a.m. CT
    The Bums are always a hit when they perform at the library! Sing along with our local Beach Ukulele Music Society. You’ll be sure to have a great time!

    The Little Mercies Concert
    Wednesday, February 26 at 10 a.m. CT
    Join us for a concert by notable Tallahassee folk trio, Bronwyn Chelette (bass, banjo), Rosalee Walsh (fiddle, banjo) and Shanice Richards (fiddle, guitar). Program sponsored by the Panama City Beach Public Library Foundation.

  • 30A Songwriters Festival Number One Songwriters Festival in the Country

    30A Songwriters Festival Number One Songwriters Festival in the Country

    By Will Estell

    If you consider yourself a fan of great music and the talented songwriters who make the songs you love possible, you will definitely want to make plans to attend the 16th Annual 30A Songwriters Festival—especially since it is now considered the top-rated songwriters’ festival in America—happening along our beautiful beach communities of South Walton and the white sands of Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast.

    30a Songwriters Sassy Lisa LoriThe renowned festival is celebrating its 16th year of Hooks, Lines and Singers January 16 – 20, 2025, with performances on presenting sponsor Grand Boulevard’s main stage in beautiful Miramar Beach, as well as more than 30 other popular venues dotting the map of World Famous 30A.

    This year’s rendition of the popular festival includes headline performances by Grammy award winning rocker Melissa Etheridge; the acoustic Americana sound of Amos Lee; the masterful harmonies and arrangements of The Jayhawks; the blues infused Southern rock of The Devon Allman Project, and the multi-genre sound of Maggie Rose and Secret Sisters.

    The long winter weekend of music and fun has now become the most celebrated songwriters’ festival in the entire country and is revered by artists and music lovers around the globe. With more than 175 artists, encompassing over 225 performances at 30 plus venues, the 16th annual 30A Songwriters Festival most definitely has something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of folk music, rock, soul, country or anything in between, this festival covers it all and does so with some of the best writers and performers to ever grace the stages of these South Walton coastal venues.

    The 2025 lineup is chock-full of phenomenal artists like Holly Williams, Charlie Mars, Shawn Mullins, Mary Gauthier, Jeffrey Steele, Hayes Carll, Lilly Hiatt, Tommy Prine, Grayson Capps, Chuck Cannon, Jeff Black, Randall Bramblett, Kelly Willis, Bob Schneider, Steve Politz, Adam Hood, John Driskell-Hopkins, Dan Bern, Will Kimbrough, Lilly Winwood, Ellis Paul, Darrel Scott, Livingston Taylor, Griffin House, David Ryan Harris, Emerson Hart, Certainly So, Abe Partridge, Chris Stills, Will Hoge, Chastity Brown, Vicki Peterson, Jennifer Lynn Simpson, Sara Hells, Jack Barksdale, Cat Ridgeway, Caitlin Cannon, Bradley Cole Smith, Nelson Nolan, Mike Whitty with The Sand Ole Opry, Cousin Curtis, Ryan Hood, John Cowsill, John Paul White, Ruthie Foster, Black Opry Revue, John Fullbright and numerous others.

    Amos Lee
    Amos Lee

    Additionally, some top-notch writers and performers making their first trip to our beautiful beaches to perform include: Charlie Starr and Benji Shanks of Blackberry Smoke, country sensation Brandy Clark, Chuck Prophet, Josh Joplin Group, Willi Carlisle, Bee Taylor Band, Langhorne Slim, Josh Rouse, Chris Knight, Jontavious Willis, as well as Josh Rouse, Paul McDonald, Jill Sobule, Kyle Davis, Tyler Ramsey, David Borne’, Andrea Von Kampen, Beth Bombara, Anna Grace, Mallory Johnson, and one of my personal favorite new country artists, Jada Cato.

    The popular festival takes place at venues spread across a span of slightly over 30 miles of South Walton beach communities, including the large outdoor main stage facility at Grand Boulevard in Miramar Beach. These live music hotspots include well-known restaurants, entertainment venues, hotel lobbies and cafés dotting the two-lane Scenic Hwy. 30A. And one thing is for sure, if you’re hanging in places like these, near beaches like these, listening to artists like this festival brings, you are most definitely sure to have a fabulous time, that will undoubtedly find you hitting spot after spot for more music and fun.

    I asked multi-hit Nashville songwriter Jeffrey Steele what keeps him coming back year-after-year: He simply lamented, “I always look forward to 30A Songwriters Festival, not only as another opportunity to do what I love, singing and entertaining, but also seeing the fans, my writer friends I don’t see often, and catching up and hangin’ at the beach.”

    From the main stage at Grand Boulevard, featuring Saturday and Sunday’s headliners to popular spots like AJ’s Grayton Beach, Bud & Ally’s, Water Color’s Fish Out of Water, Boat House and Lake House to 30A Café to Rosemary Beach Town Hall, and Old Florida Fish House there is certainly no shortage of venues hosting great songwriters and musicians for this event. Since its inception in 2010, 30A Songwriters Festival has grown year after year, and is one of many endeavors made possible by Walton County Cultural Arts Alliance (CAA), a remarkable organization that adds so much to our coastal community through its artistic and philanthropic endeavors.

    The festival is co-produced by Russell Carter Artist Management, which has been the driving force behind the talent booking since the festival began in 2010. Additionally, 100% of 30A Songwriters Festival’s net profits benefit CAA’s mission to advance the arts in Walton County through education, leadership, advocacy and the funding of special arts related programs within the community.

    Festival Co-Producer, Russell Carter, President of Russell Carter Artist Management, has good reason to be immensely proud of the festival he helped to create.

    “This festival began as a small event and grew quickly into a premier one-of-a-kind musical showcase for world-class songwriters. Our goal is to curate a festival that presents the absolute best in touring songwriters and performers. We want our audiences to experience musicians representing diverse genres of music – jazz, blues, country, folk, Americana, and rock, with just two stipulations – they have to write their own music and they have to be really great at it!” said Carter.

    Grab Your Festival Tickets Today!

    Full weekend passes start at only $445, and premium seating VIP passes at just $1,225. per person, and Premiere VIP passes, with special front row seating at the Grand Boulevard Headliners Stage for only $1,600 pp. (Visit www.30asongwritersfestival.com to buy.) All of these ticket packages come in at quite the bargain considering you have the ability to see and hear so many remarkable songwriters and artists across your four days along the idyllic beach communities of South Walton. In addition to the weekend packages, concert goers can also purchase a limited number of daily headliners, one day and one night, and VIP transportation offerings. In other words, there are a lot of ways to put this year’s 30A Songwriters Festival passes on your short list by visiting their site at 30ASongwritersFestival.com. I hope to see you there. I’ll be the guy in the ball cap and vest with a beer in his hand, his dancing wife by his side and music in his heart!

    Will Estell at 30A Songwriters FestivalWriter Bio: Will Estell is a writer, editor, and Northwest Florida media guru with over 700 published magazine features in an array of genres, including tourism, music, real estate, and automobile editorials. Will has penned one-on-one cover interview features with such well-known artists as Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffett, Alan Jackson, Darius Rucker, Styx, Amy Grant, Sara Evans and numerous others. He is the chief creative officer of Estell Hussey Media, LLC, and over the past 26 years has been instrumental in co-founding twelve new magazine titles from concept to fruition –both for other publishers and himself– as well as serving as editor in chief for numerous others nationally. Originally from the backwoods of rural Mississippi, Will Estell is a father of three who splits his time between Destin and Navarre Beach, along with his wife, ABC 3 Florida news anchor, Laura Hussey-Estell. Will is a regular contributor to Life Media’s family of publications.

  • Panama City Symphony Hosts Third Annual Formal Gala Jan. 8

    Panama City Symphony Hosts Third Annual Formal Gala Jan. 8

    Panama City Symphony is excited to announce its third annual fundraising gala, Bella Notte, featuring guest artist, piano virtuoso Ilya Yakushev from St. Petersburg, Russia. Experience this sophisticated and beautiful night in FSU-PC Holley Center on Wednesday, January 8, 2025.

    Pc Symphony Ilya Yakushev
    Ilya Yakushev

    The Symphony’s cherished Music Director and Conductor, Sergey Bogza, will emcee Bella Notte. In formal attire, we will nurture connections, taste appetizers, sip cocktails, and peruse the silent auction. David Goldflies Jazz Trio will play smooth sounds throughout the evening. We will savor an elegant scrumptious meal prepared by Chef Kyle Swift and the Swiftly Catered team. The evening will crescendo with a stunning performance by Ilya Yakushev, as we enjoy coffee and luscious desserts by Blue Mountain Bakery.

    Bella Notte raises support to fund symphonic concerts, intimate Musically Up Close performances, and music education programs for all ages. Purchase individual tickets, buy a table for you and your friends, or secure the best view with a sponsorship. Please let us know if you would like to donate an item for our silent auction. We want to offer artwork, classes, dining, experiences, vacations, jewelry, event tickets, and more!

    Contact operations director, Ellen Andrews, at (850) 785-7677 for more information or to set up your sponsorship and reserve your table. Seating is limited.

  • PCB New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop Returns with Exciting Additions

    PCB New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop Returns with Exciting Additions

    Visit Panama City Beach invites visitors and residents to ring in the New Year at the annual New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop presented by Coca-Cola on December 31. Named the “Best New Year’s Eve Drop” by USA TODAY 10 Best, the celebration promises fun for all ages with live music, fireworks, and exciting new additions that extend beyond Pier Park, offering attendees more space to spread out and enjoy the festivities. New for 2024, there will be two simultaneous 8 p.m. beach ball drops at Pier Park Drive and Aaron Bessant Park. Throughout the evening, families can also enjoy free kids’ activities at Aaron Bessant Park.
    “One of Panama City Beach’s most anticipated events, New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop brings together families, residents, and visitors for an unforgettable celebration,” says Dan Rowe, President and CEO of Visit Panama City Beach. “With a fantastic lineup of live entertainment, exciting ball drops, and family fun at Aaron Bessant Park, we’re thrilled to offer the most kid-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration you’ll find anywhere.”

    Pcb New Year 1New this year, the Kids FUN Zone at Aaron Bessant Park invites families to kick off the festivities at 4 p.m., with a variety of free activities including slides, obstacle courses, bungee trampolines, friendship bracelet stations, and video games. At the Aaron Bessant Park stage, kids and adults alike can enjoy live performances by Saved by the 90s and Taylor Shines – The Laser Spectacular. A captivating, high-energy show that has enchanted audiences across the country, Taylor Shines – The Laser Spectacular features a mesmerizing combination of Taylor Swift’s chart-topping hits with vibrant laser displays and stunning light effects. This one-of-a-kind performance takes fans on a dazzling journey through Taylor’s iconic music career, creating an unforgettable, immersive experience for Swifties of all ages.

    Throughout the night, the streets in and around Pier Park are closed off to traffic so thousands of revelers can delight in free entertainment and good cheer. At 8 p.m., families with young children or those too excited to wait until midnight can experience the first ball drops of the evening at Aaron Bessant Park and Pier Park Drive, featuring dazzling fireworks and the release of 15,000 beach balls between the two locations.
    On the way to midnight, live music continues at Pier Park with performances by The Life Atlantic and Will Thompson Band, as revelers anticipate the countdown to 2025 and the lowering of a giant LED-lit beach ball on Panama City Beach’s Celebration Tower. Standing over 80 feet tall, this tower is ten feet taller than the pole on One Times Square in Manhattan and can be seen from Russell-Fields Pier, where the second round of fireworks will be launched over the Gulf of Mexico to signal the New Year.

    Schedule of events:

    • New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop | Tuesday, December 31, 2024
    • Kids Beach Ball Drop Event Begins at 4 p.m. (Aaron Bessant Park)
    • Pier Park Event Begins, DJ performs at Celebration Stage Tower Stage at 4 p.m. (Pier Park Drive)
    • Saved by the 90’s performs at 4:30 p.m. (Aaron Bessant Park Stage)
    • Taylor Shines – The Laser Spectacular Performs at 6:30 p.m. (Aaron Bessant Park Stage)
    • DJ Performs Near Ball Drop at Pier Park at 7 p.m. (Croc Stage)
    • Kids’ Beach Ball Drop and Fireworks at 8 p.m. (Aaron Bessant Park and Pier Park Drive)
    • The Life Atlantic Performs at 8:20 p.m. (Celebration Tower Stage)
    • Will Thompson Band Performs at 10 p.m. (Celebration Tower Stage)
    • Countdown Begins at 11:57 p.m. (Pier Park Drive)
    • Fireworks at Midnight (Russell-Fields Pier)
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