Free Summer Concert Series Returns to Aaron Bessant Park |
Enjoy free weekly live music every Thursday evening from June through August at Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheater in Panama City Beach. |
Summer evenings in Panama City Beach are about to get a lot more musical. The beloved Free Summer Concert Series is returning to Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheater, offering locals and visitors alike the perfect way to enjoy warm Thursday nights with live music under the stars.
Starting June 4th and running through August 6th, the concert series will feature free performances every Thursday evening from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. This annual tradition has become a cornerstone of summer entertainment in Bay County, drawing families, couples, and music lovers from across the Panhandle.
What to Expect This Summer
The 2026 lineup promises a diverse mix of musical genres, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. From classic rock and country to jazz and beach music, each week brings a new sound to the amphitheater stage. Local favorites and regional touring acts will take turns entertaining the crowds, creating a vibrant atmosphere that captures the spirit of summer on the Emerald Coast.
2026 Summer Concert Series Line UpJune 4 - J and the Causeways (Modern Soul, Funk, R&B) June 11 - Goodbye to Sunshine (Bluegrass) June 18 - Dave Jordan & the NIA (Roots Rock, Americana) June 25 - Shelby Kemp and the Galbraith Sisters July 2 - Body Double (80’s Rock) July 9 -The Lee Boys (Sacred Steel - 25th Anniversary Tour) July 16 - Sons of Saints (Party Rock) July 23 - Will Thompson Band (Variety) July 30 - John “Papa” Gros (NOLA Funk and R&B) August 6 - Gage Cowart Band (Country)
The Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheater provides an ideal setting for these outdoor performances. With its natural acoustics and spacious lawn seating, concertgoers can spread out blankets and lawn chairs to create their own perfect viewing spot. The venue's design ensures great sightlines and sound quality from virtually anywhere on the grounds.
Make It a Family Tradition
One of the best aspects of the Summer Concert Series is its family-friendly atmosphere. Parents can relax while children dance and play on the lawn. The casual, community-oriented vibe makes it easy to meet neighbors and make new friends while enjoying quality entertainment.
Attendees are encouraged to bring coolers with refreshments, though glass containers are prohibited. Pets are welcome, provided they remain on leashes and owners clean up after them. The park's convenient location near Pier Park also means concertgoers can grab dinner at one of the many nearby restaurants before the show.
Planning Your Visit
Aaron Bessant Park is located at 500 W Park Drive in Panama City Beach, just off Front Beach Road. Parking is available on-site and at nearby lots, though arriving early is recommended for the best spots. The concerts are weather-permitting, so it is wise to check local forecasts before heading out.
Whether you are a longtime resident or visiting for the week, the Free Summer Concert Series offers an authentic taste of Panama City Beach community life. Mark your calendars for Thursday evenings this summer and experience why this tradition continues to be one of the most anticipated events of the season. |
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25 Comments
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Hoping the weather cooperates. Too many storms lately. Fingers crossed for clear Thursday nights.
Anybody coming for bluegrass night? Goodbye to Sunshine is supposed to be great live.
Aaron Bessant is one of the best places here for a show. Plenty of space, never feels cramped.
First time I’m taking my parents to one of these. Love the variety in music. Feels welcoming for any age.
Don't forget bug spray! The mosquitoes can get crazy once the sun goes down.
Appreciate they let you bring your own food and drinks. Saves a lot for families!
Wish they’d make it two nights a week. Always over too soon.
Would love more info about the local bands. Some of these names are new to me!
Sons of Saints are awesome live. Panama City Beach always does a nice job hosting these events.
What time should we get there for a good spot? Looks like it’ll get busy quick on the popular nights.
Last year the sound was iffy in spots, hope they fixed the speakers this summer.
It’s always cool to watch the little kids dancing up front. My grandkids get so excited for these Thursdays.
Can’t wait to see how Body Double does. 80’s rock at the beach just feels right.
Never miss the concerts, even if it rains a bit. Lawn chairs, bug spray, and you’re set.
Classic rock, country, jazz, and even some R&B this time. Guess there’s really something for everybody now!
Being close to Pier Park makes this such a good option for families. We grab burgers and then head over. Summer tradition!
Wish they’d throw in a reggae band or two. Maybe next year! Still love the lineup though.
We bring our dog each year. Pro tip: bring a towel for your pup to sit on, the grass gets hot.
July 9th for The Lee Boys! Their anniversary tour will be awesome. Hoping they play for a while.
No glass allowed makes sense, but I wish they’d let us bring wine bottles. Anyway, Gage Cowart Band is a great way to end the series.
Does anyone know if there are shade spots at Aaron Bessant or do we just bring umbrellas? The jazz night sounds good!
Hope there’s enough parking this time. Last summer it was packed by 6:30. Still, the music made it worth the walk.
Always one of my favorite summer things. I wish they’d post a full list of food trucks too!
J and the Causeways to open the series is a nice choice. Haven’t heard them live yet. Hoping their sound carries on the lawn.
So glad to see the concerts are back. My kids love running around the park while we listen to music. Looking forward to the funky bands this year!