Stars, Stripes & Summer Nights
July is all about celebrating summer on the Emerald Coast, with America's 250th birthday adding even more excitement to an already packed calendar. From waterfront fireworks and hometown traditions to live music, outdoor adventures, and community events, there's no shortage of ways to make the most of the season throughout the month. Whether you're celebrating the Fourth of July or simply looking for something fun to do, July offers plenty of reasons to get out and enjoy the coast.
FEATURED EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
Ranger-Led Nature Hike
Camp Helen State Park | Panama City Beach
July 2, 2026, 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Get outdoors and go on a guided tour of Camp Helen State Park! Led by park ranger staff, you’ll learn information about the flora and fauna throughout the park. Dress appropriately for the weather and have a water bottle and insect repellent available. The program is free with paid park entry of $4 per vehicle. Visit their website HERE.
Summer Concert Series
Aaron Bessant Park | Panama City Beach
July 2/9/16/23, 2026, 7:00-9:00 p.m.
The Summer Concert Series continues with free Thursday night shows at Aaron Bessant Park. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy an easygoing evening of live music under the open sky, with July’s lineup featuring Body Double on July 2 (80’s rock), The Lee Boys on July 9 (Sacred Steel – 25th Anniversary Tour), Sons of Saints on July 16 (party rock), Will Thompson Band on July 23 (variety), and John “Papa” Gros on July 30 (NOLA funk and R&B). With coolers, food, and even pets welcome, it’s an easy summer rhythm of live music and coastal nights.
Pier Park Kids Bike Parade
Aaron Bessant Park | Panama City Beach
July 3, 2026, 11:00 a.m to noon
Kick off Independence Day weekend with a patriotic twist as Pier Park hosts its first annual Kids Bike Parade in celebration of America’s 250th birthday. Kids 14 and under are invited to decorate their bikes in red, white, and blue and line up in front of Dave & Buster’s before riding through Pier Park in a festive procession led by VFW Post 10555. Every participant will receive a Pier Park goodie bag and a sweet treat from Marble Slab Creamery, making it a fun, family-friendly way to start the holiday celebration.
Real. Fun. Fourth
Various Venues | Panama City Beach
July 3-4, 2026
Independence Day along the coast lights up in a big way, with multiple fireworks displays set across Panama City Beach and the Grand Lagoon. On July 3, Freedom Rocks Fireworks launches over Grand Lagoon at 8:45 PM, with waterfront viewing, dining specials, and fireworks cruises available throughout the area, while Papa Joe’s Bayside hosts Light Up the Bay with live music, food trucks, and a family-friendly celebration leading into a 9:00 PM show over the water. The celebration continues July 4 with the Star Spangled Spectacular, the Gulf Coast’s largest synchronized fireworks display, lighting up both City and County piers at 9:00 PM, choreographed to music you can tune into via local simulcasts. From marinas to beaches, the entire coastline becomes a front-row seat to one of the most anticipated holiday weekends of the year.
Donut Eating Contest
Aaron Bessant Park | Alys Beach
July 4, 2026, 11:00 a.m to noon
Celebrate Independence Day with one of Alys Beach’s long-standing traditions, the Donut Eating Contest sponsored by Charlie’s Delights. Held in the Amphitheatre, this festive morning gathering brings together children, teens, and adults for friendly competition over fresh handmade donuts, with age-based divisions creating a fun challenge for all participants. Whether competing or cheering from the sidelines, it’s a lighthearted community favorite that brings energy, laughter, and a bit of sweetness to the holiday morning in true Alys Beach fashion. Register HERE.
July 4th Salute to Freedom Festival
Panama City Marina | Panama City
July 4, 2026, 4:00-9:30 p.m.
Celebrate Independence Day with one of the area's biggest waterfront traditions as Salute to Freedom returns to Historic Downtown Panama City. This free, family-friendly festival features live music across two stages, local food vendors, artisan booths, and plenty of activities to enjoy along the shores of St. Andrews Bay. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and settle in for an evening of entertainment before the celebration concludes with a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the bay in honor of America's 250th birthday. For event updates, schedules, and festival information, text JULY4 to (85) 215-1700.
Freedom by the Bay
Panama City Marina | Panama City
July 4, 2026, 8:45 a.m-9:30 p.m.
Lynn Haven's Fourth of July celebration returns with a full day of hometown fun, starting with the annual parade before moving to Kinsaul Park for an evening of live music, food trucks, family activities, and fireworks over the bay. Performances by Taydee Marie and The Band Waleska provide the soundtrack to a festive celebration honoring America's 250th birthday.
Christmas in July
The Arc of the Bay | Panama City
July 18, 2026, 8:00 a.m-2:00 p.m.
Get into the holiday spirit a little early at this festive Christmas in July community sale hosted by The Arc of the Bay. Browse a wide selection of holiday décor, seasonal decorations, furniture, and unique treasures while supporting a meaningful local cause. Every purchase helps fund programs for individuals with disabilities, including bedroom makeovers for children, making this a fun opportunity to shop, give back, and celebrate the season—months ahead of schedule.
