Shake Off the Winter Blues: March Events You Won’t Want to Miss
March is here, and with it comes the perfect weather to enjoy all the outdoor fun the Emerald Coast has to offer! Shake off the winter blues and dive into a month packed with exciting events. From car shows and art festivals to scenic outdoor adventures, the warmer weather means more opportunities to explore, relax, and enjoy. Whether you're interested in discovering local history, enjoying live music under the sun, or indulging in tasty food and drinks, Panama City Beach and the surrounding areas have something for everyone. Mark your calendars—March is the time to get outside and make some unforgettable memories!
FEATURED EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
History Tour
Camp Helen State Park | Panama City Beach
March 1, 2025, 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.
Americana Concerts in the Lodge
Camp Helen State Park | Panama City Beach
March 1, 2025, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Catch the last performance for the Americana Concerts series at Camp Helen State Park with modern folk artists Pail Kamm & Eleanore MacDonald. Tickets are available for purchase for a suggested donation of $15 on the Friends of Camp Helen website HERE. Snacks and beverages will be provided by the Friends of Camp Helen.
Mardi Gras
HarborWalk Village | Destin
March 1, 2025, 2:00-6.30 p.m.
Join in the fun and grab some beads at HarborWalk Village and celebrate Mardi Gras with live music by Fais Do-Do, followed by the float parade at 4 p.m. More on their website HERE.
2nd Annual Dessert Fest
Tommy Oliver Stadium | Panama City
March 1, 2025, 1:00-6.00 p.m.
If you have a sweet tooth do we have a treat for you! Indulge in all kinds of delicious desserts from cupcakes to ice cream. There will be food trucks where you can enjoy a full meal and other fun activities for the whole family to enjoy. General admission tickets are $5 HERE.
Emerald Coast Boat Show
Aaron Bessant Park | Panama City Beach
March 1-2, 2025, 10:00 a.m. to Sunset
The annual Emerald Coast Boat Show features over $40 million marine inventory on display from all major manufacturers and top dealers representing the latest in boats, high tech engines, electronics and marine accessories. The event will feature everything for active, outdoor living including stand up paddleboards and fishing kayaks, outdoor kitchens, diving gear, active wear, and beach cruising bikes. There will be entertainment and gourmet food truck catering. March 2 is Military Appreciation Day where all active and retired military will enjoy free entry. For more information or tickets visit their website HERE.
Sealight Festival
Seascape Resort | Miramar Beach
March 1-31, 2025, 5:00-9:00 p.m.
Thursdays through Sundays, experience a mesmerizing display of handmade Chinese lanterns, crafted by skilled artisans with decades of expertise. Marvel at the breathtaking performances of the award-winning Zigong Acrobatic Troupe, known for their awe-inspiring feats. Beyond the stunning lights and entertainment, explore a lively marketplace featuring unique artisanal gifts, cultural exhibits, delicious food, and fun games. This enchanting walk-through festival is a must-see event for all ages. Tickets can be purchased online HERE.
Ranger-Guided Nature Hike
Camp Helen State Park | Panama City Beach
March 6, 2025, 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.
Emerald Coast Cruizin’
Aaron Bessant Park | Panama City Beach
March 6-8, 2025, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Car lovers, get ready to hit the gas for the Emerald Coast Cruizin’ Spring Show! This high-octane festival brings an impressive lineup of classic cars, hot rods, and muscle cars to Panama City Beach. Along with incredible vehicles on display, enjoy live music, vendor booths, and fun activities for the whole family. This year’s show will be filmed for Sam’s Garage and the Lokar Car Show on MotorTrend. For the full schedule and ticket information visit their official website HERE.
FLLUXE Arts Festival
Center of the Arts | Panama City
March 7-8, 2025
Get ready for a celebration of art at the Florida Luxe Arts Festival! This free event transforms the streets into a living masterpiece with stunning street chalk installations, live painting, music, artisanal vendors, and delicious local eats. Plus, little artists can unleash their creativity in the Kids Chalk Zone! For the schedule and more information visit the Bay Arts Alliance event page HERE.
The Secret Sip
Linkside | Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
March 8, 2025, 4:00-8:00 p.m.
Step into the glamour and intrigue of the Roaring Twenties at The Secret Sip, a Prohibition-era soirée where premium spirits, handcrafted cocktails, and live jazz set the scene for an unforgettable night. With 30 tastings, a cigar lounge, and plenty of bootlegger-worthy revelry, this immersive experience is a must for cocktail connoisseurs and vintage enthusiasts alike. Tickets start at $99, so don your finest flapper fringe or dapper suit and raise a glass to a night of indulgence!
Spring Market
Aaron Bessant Park | Panama City Beach
March 15, 2025, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Head to Aaron Bessant Park for the Spring Market where local vendors will showcase everything from handmade crafts to farm-fresh produce. Enjoy a diverse selection of food trucks serving up delicious bites for every craving.
My Favorite Things: Music of Rodgers and Hammerstein
Barbara W. Nelson Fine Arts Center | Panama City
March 15, 2024, 7:00 p.m.
Experience the timeless melodies of Rodgers and Hammerstein as the Panama City Symphony brings to life beloved selections from classic musicals like The King and I, Oklahoma!, South Pacific, Victory at Sea, The Sound of Music, and Carousel, led by conductor Sergey Bogza. In a special tribute before intermission, the orchestra will honor all five military branches, including a unique arrangement for the U.S. Space Force. Get your tickets HERE.
St. Patrick’s Day Festival
House of Henry | Panama City
March 15-17, 2024, Various TImes
Join the fun at House of Henry Irish Pub for a multi-day St. Patrick’s Day celebration in 2025! The event will feature an exciting mix of activities such as pub crawls, live music, costume contests, stein hoisting competitions, scavenger hunts, and shepherd’s pie eating contests. It’s a family-friendly event with activities for kids, but there will also be plenty of opportunities to let loose and enjoy the festivities. Learn more HERE.
UNwineD Festival
Aaron Bessant Park | Panama City Beach
March 28-29, 2024, Various TImes
Savor a weekend of exceptional wines, craft beers, and gourmet cuisine at the UNwineD Festival on March 28-29. This two-day celebration offers an incredible lineup of tastings from local chefs, live music, and a chic garden party atmosphere. Plus, a portion of all ticket sales supports local charities like Make-A-Wish, Heartland Animal Rescue, and Beach Care Services, making it a perfect way to enjoy the finest flavors while giving back to the community. The event kicks off with the exclusive Southern Living Kickoff Party on March 28. For the full schedule and tickets, visit the event website HERE.
