KICKSTART THE YEAR WITH COASTAL ADVENTURES!
January on the coast is brimming with opportunities to explore, unwind, and connect. From ranger-guided hikes and stargazing parties to music festivals and the annual Polar Bear Plunge, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re soaking in the natural beauty of Panama City Beach or diving into community events, the coast has plenty to offer this month. Stay tuned as we share the highlights and help you plan your January adventures!
FEATURED EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
Ranger-Guided First Day Hike
Camp Helen State Park | Panama City Beach
January 1 , 2024, 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Join a park ranger on a guided nature hike through Camp Helen State Park and start the year off on the right foot. During the hike, the rangers will share information about the flora and fauna found throughout the park. First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks to encourage people to get outdoors. Hundreds of guided hikes will be organized in all 50 states on New Year’s Day. Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear closed toe shoes. The program is free with paid park entry of $4 per vehicle. Visit their website HERE.
History Tour
Camp Helen State Park | Panama City Beach
January 4, 2024, 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Go beyond your park visit and discover the past and present on a ranger guided history walking tour of the grounds at Camp Helen. Learn about the rich history of Camp Helen’s Historic District, which is a Nationally Registered Historic Place, from the Hicks family building all the way to when Avondale Textile Mill utilized the property for their employee summer retreat . This free tour will begin promptly at 10 am from the Visitor Center. For more information, visit their website HERE.
Ellie Biscuit 20 & 10-Mile Trail Trot
Point Washington State Forest | Santa Rosa Beach
January 4 , 2024, 7:00 a.m.
Billed as a “no frills” kind of race, the Ellie Biscuit 20 & 10-Mile Trail Trot takes place on a beautiful, well-supported course in Point Washington State Forest. All registered runners will also receive the coveted official Ellie Biscuit race hoodie. And to end the race on a high note, enjoy a post-race snack after you finish your race - chili! More HERE.
Rachmaninoff and the Golden Age of Cinema
Barbara W. Nelson Fine Arts Center | Panama City
January 11 , 2024, 7:00 p.m.
The Symphony rolls out the red carpet to welcome back piano virtuoso Ilya Yakushev for a masterful performance of Rachmaninoff’s Concerto No. 2. Then follow the yellow brick road with the Symphony on a journey through the Golden Age of Cinema and a selection of Hollywood’s most memorable movie scores. It’s an evening of drama, adventure, and sweeping melodies worthy of an Oscar! For more information and tickets, visit their website HERE.
30A Songwriters Festival
Multiple Locations | South Walton
January 16th–20th, 2025
The 30A Songwriters Festival is a unique four day music extravaganza held in multiple locations across South Walton. The event features over 125 songwriters and musicians performing original songs in various genres ranging from country to Americana and folk as well as blues and soul. 2025 headliners include Melissa Etheridge, Amos Lee, The Jayhawks, Secret Sisters, Maggie Rose, and the Devon Allman Project. For the full schedule, venues and tickets visit their website HERE.
Stargazing Party: Mars at Opposition
Bay County Public Library | Panama City
January 16, 2024, 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Join fellow astronomy buffs for a planet party at the Bay County Public Library to view Mars as it makes its closest approach to Earth, making the red planet its biggest and brightest. Bring your telescope if you have one. The library will also set up its telescope. Opposition to Mars occurs once every two years, so take advantage of this opportunity where the conditions are ideal to observe it. Learn more HERE.
9th Annual Polar Bear Plunge
The Salty Goat Saloon | Panama City Beach
January 18, 2025, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Get freezin’ for a reason at the annual Salty Goat Polar Plunge with all proceeds and raffles going to the Leukemia Research Foundation in honor of their founder, Gary Gault and all who face this terrible disease. Registration starts at 11 a.m, and the plunge into the gulf begins at 1 p.m. Warm up with a beverage after the plunge and enter the raffle to win prizes from local businesses. For more information visit their Facebook page HERE.
Kids Fishing at St Andrews Marina
St. Andrews Marina | Panama City
January 18, 2024, 10:00 a.m to 2:00 p.m.
Whether you’re an experienced young angler or trying out fishing for the first time, join this fun-filled event which is perfect for kids of all ages. Enjoy a beautiful day by the water and relax while the kids have fun. Bring your fishing gear, or borrow gear at the marina - everyone is welcome! It’s a great way to spend the day with family and friends, soaking up the sun and making memories. Learn more about the event HERE.
Cruise-In Car and Truck Show
Amazing Grace Lutheran Church | Panama City
January 25, 2025, 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Swing by to Amazing Grace Lutheran Church this January for the 4th Annual Car Show and see the cars while enjoying the music and food. Vehicle registration is $20 per car/truck and begins at 9:00 a.m. on the day of the event. Spectators have free admission. There will be People’s Choice Awards for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th place. This event will take place rain or shine. More details can be found HERE.
Torch Run 2025: Fun Run & 5K
Florida State University | Panama City
January 25, 2025, 9:00 a.m.
The Torch Run has been an FSU Panama City tradition since 1989. It is now a timed 5K run. This event is open to all ages of students, alumni and community including two and four-legged walkers, runners, rollers and strollers. To register click HERE.
