By Lee Ann Leonard
While Pier Park, Panama City Beach’s unofficial downtown, is always known for its eye candy, eye-catching decorations join the party during the holidays!
Palm trees and even the iconic arch sparkle with dazzling lights. Photo ops, like Ron Jon Surf Shop’s lifeguard stand, boast holiday touches. Colorfully decorated trees peek out from glowing shop windows. Shoppers stroll a little slower as they take in the transformation.
The merry mall is made even more festive by Santa’s arrival! The jolly one is available for photos daily through Christmas Eve. Visitors can stop by his Pier Park beach house on the Boardwalk next to Paradise Found or visit Pier Park’s website to secure their session. Beachy Beach Real Estate and Ellis Agency Insurance are proud sponsors of the experience.
On Saturday, December 14, the Optimist Club of the Beaches’ Christmas Parade will travel through the center, spreading Christmas cheer and candy! The parade, which features festive floats, decorated vehicles, marching bands and more, is slated to start at 5 p.m. The parade will travel from the Sharky’s overflow parking lot and head west on Front Beach Road before turning into Pier Park. From Pier Park Drive, the parade will turn north at the roundabout and then travel east down Stingray Drive, ending behind Target.
Santa will return to his Pier Park home after the parade to help make memories. Guests who book their Santa photos on parade day will receive a special gift with purchase: a 4” x 6” light-up Christmas picture frame valued at $30! Gift it or use it to display one of your pictures with Santa.
The events and holiday light display confirm what many already believe: Pier Park has always been more than just a mall. The shopping, dining and entertainment complex is a gathering place where friends and families can connect while enjoying holiday traditions.
We look forward to making yours merry at the mall!
