September on the Coast: Music, Markets & More
Grab your shades and your sense of adventure - September’s packed with festival fun, tasty bites, live tunes, and plenty of ways to enjoy the sunshine with the community.
FEATURED EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
Ranger-led Nature Hike
Camp Helen State Park | Panama City Beach
September 4, 2025, 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.
Art Break Day
Historic St Andrews | Panama City
September 5, 2025, 12:00-6:00 p.m.
Art Break Day is back in St. Andrews on Friday, September 5, from 12–6 PM, inviting everyone to pause their routine and get creative. Hosted by Floriopolis and supported by local merchants and the St. Joe Community Foundation, this annual event transforms the district into an open-air arts hub. You’ll find free art experiences for kids and adults scattered throughout Beck Avenue and nearby streets - everything from painting and drawing to hands-on community projects. Whether you bring your own sketchbook or dive into the supplies provided, the goal is simple: take a break and make art. It’s casual, welcoming, and completely free - rain or shine - so grab a friend, wander through St. Andrews, and let your creativity flow. More information HERE.
History Tour
Camp Helen State Park | Panama City Beach
September 6, 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.
Soundwave Concert Series
HarborWalk Village | Destin
September 6/13/20, 2025, 6:00-9:00 p.m.
The September Soundwave Series brings live music and good vibes to HarborWalk Village every Saturday night! From 6–9 PM, a different local band will rock the main stage with everything from soulful tunes to high-energy jams. While you enjoy the music, sip on free beverage samples from event sponsors and take in the lively harbor atmosphere. With cool September nights, waterfront views, and plenty of dining and entertainment options, it’s the perfect way to wrap up your week in Destin. Concert lineup coming soon, visit their website HERE.
Harley Family Fun Festival
Harley-Davidson | Panama City Beach
September 12-14, 2025, 12:00-3:00 p.m.
Rev up the fun at the 2nd Annual Harley Family Fun Festival happening September 12–14 at Harley-Davidson of Panama City Beach! This three-day event packs in something for everyone—live music every day, food trucks, vendors, bike shows, and thrilling stunt performances. Friday night kicks off with Bike Night, featuring live music from Eazy Rider, a custom hat bar, raffle, and giveaways. On Saturday, the action continues with Touch-A-Truck Community Day, where families can meet first responders, plus live music from Salt Rock Revival and jaw-dropping stunts from the Globe of Death and Golden Riders. Sunday wraps up with pet adoptions, demo rides, more stunt shows, and live music by Gage Cowart. With excitement for all ages, this festival is set to be bigger and better than ever. Register your bikes for Bike Night HERE.
Backstage Pass
Marina Lawn | Panama City
September 18/25, 2025, 7:00-9:00 p.m.
Backstage Pass is back this fall, bringing six weeks of live music to the Marina Lawn in Downtown Panama City. Starting Thursday, September 11, and running through October 16, this beloved Bay Arts Alliance concert series features a new regional band each week, with performances beginning at 7 PM right on the shores of St. Andrews Bay. Pack your picnic blankets and folding chairs, or grab a bite from one of the many nearby restaurants before settling in for the show. The lineup kicks off September 18 with Still Standing and continues September 25 with Royal Horses, with more acts to follow in October. With its mix of genres and family-friendly atmosphere, Backstage Pass is the perfect way to spend a Thursday night by the water.
Paddle for Peace
Grayton Beach | Santa Rosa
September 20, 2025, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
The 5th Annual Paddle for Peace invites the community to come together on the water for a cause that’s bigger than paddling alone. Organized by Gulf Therapy, this meaningful event combines the healing power of the Gulf with the strength of community, encouraging participants to set intentions, release stress, and honor loved ones impacted by mental health struggles. Funds raised help provide paddleboards for future outings and support collaborations with local wellness specialists, ensuring people can access both physical and mental health resources. Beyond the paddle, the day includes live music, food, raffles, and plenty of opportunities to connect. It’s a unique mix of reflection, movement, and joy—all dedicated to promoting peace of mind and unity. Register HERE.
Burgers, Bourbon & Beer Festival
HarborWalk Village | Destin
September 20, 2025, 12:00-3:00 p.m.
The 5th Annual Burgers, Bourbon & Beer Festival is back on the Destin Harbor, serving up an afternoon of flavor and fun for a great cause. Set for Saturday, September 20, 2025, this lively festival invites guests to savor gourmet burgers, sip smooth bourbons, and enjoy refreshing craft beers—all while supporting the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast. Every ticket sold helps provide programs and resources for local youth, making this event as meaningful as it is delicious. With unbeatable food, drinks, and waterfront views, it’s a perfect way to spend a September Saturday in Destin.
Tickets HERE.
Downtown Panama City Volksmarch
Historic Downtown | Panama City
September 26, 2025, 5:00-9:00 p.m.
Toast, savor, and explore at the Volksmarch with craft beers, traditional German fare, and live music at local pubs and eateries. Sample everything from festbiers, pumpkin ales, and Riesling to currywurst, bratwurst, and German-inspired desserts, all while soaking up the Oktoberfest spirit. Don’t forget to get your event passport stamped at each stop for a chance to win an exclusive Oktoberfest prize basket - prost to a lively celebration of Bavarian culture and community spirit! More information HERE.
47th Annual Seafood Festival
Harbor Boardwalk | Destin
September 26-28, 2025, 5:00-10:00 p.m.
The 47th Annual Destin Seafood Festival returns September 26–28, bringing three full days of food, fun, and live entertainment along the Destin Harbor. This free festival is one of the area’s most celebrated traditions and also kicks off the month-long Destin Fishing Rodeo. Guests can explore over 75 vendor booths, enjoy fresh seafood from local favorites, check out the Kids Zone, and catch live music across five stages. New this year is a VIP experience featuring tastings from local chefs and breweries, plus a special appearance by Stalekracker on the VIP Stage Sunday, September 28. With tons of new additions planned for 2025, this year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever. VIP tickets and more information HERE.
Race for the Bays
Conservation Park | Panama City Beach
September 27, 2025, 7:30-11:00 a.m.
Celebrate National Estuaries Week with the Race for the Bays in Panama City Beach, a scenic trail run through Conservation Park. Choose your distance from a 1K run/walk, 5K fun run, or 10K run—perfect for runners and walkers of all levels. Registration fees: 1K run/walk $25, 5K fun run $30, 10K run $35. All courses feature well-groomed trails, boardwalks, and stroller-friendly paths through marshes and woods, and dogs on leashes are welcome. Proceeds benefit the St. Andrew and St. Joseph Bays Estuary Program, supporting wetland protection and sustainable forestry practices. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or enjoying a leisurely walk, it’s a meaningful way to connect with nature and the community. Register HERE.
Fall Festival & Market
Aaron Bessant Park | Panama City Beach
September 27, 2025, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m
Enjoy a fun-filled Fall Festival & Market perfect for the whole family! Take part in fall-themed crafts and activities, browse fresh produce and handmade goods at the Farmers Market, and savor delicious bites from local food trucks. Live music from a local DJ adds to the festive atmosphere, creating the perfect backdrop for a day of community fun. Plus, the first 400 visitors will receive a complimentary tote bag to kick off the season. More HERE.
