What began as an effort to improve access to fresh food and create opportunities for small businesses has grown into an important gathering place for Panama City’s Glenwood community.

The Glenwood Marketplace recently celebrated its second anniversary, marking two years of bringing local farmers, entrepreneurs, families and community organizations together at the A.D. Harris Learning Village.

Organized by the LEAD Coalition of Bay County in partnership with Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, the marketplace was created to support small businesses, encourage healthy living and help restore Glenwood’s historic identity as a neighborhood business corridor.

During the anniversary celebration on August 1, vendors filled the indoor areas of the A.D. Harris Learning Village with locally grown food, handcrafted products and services from area entrepreneurs. Organizers said the market is designed to promote economic opportunity, neighborhood pride and stronger connections among residents.

Helping Local Entrepreneurs Grow

For many small-business owners, community markets provide an affordable way to introduce their products to new customers without the expense of operating a traditional storefront.

The Glenwood Marketplace gives local entrepreneurs a place to display their work, build relationships with shoppers and gain valuable experience growing their businesses.

The LEAD Coalition also offers business-development classes and other resources intended to help residents turn their ideas and talents into sustainable businesses. According to the organization, women- and minority-owned businesses remain at the center of the marketplace’s mission.

In 2025 alone, Glenwood Marketplace hosted 27 markets, welcomed more than 90 vendors and served over 2,000 residents. The LEAD Coalition describes the marketplace as a community-driven resilience hub focused on food access, small-business growth, health and neighborhood connection. 

More Than a Shopping Event

While shopping local is an important part of the experience, Glenwood Marketplace is about more than buying products.

The market gives neighbors an opportunity to meet one another, learn about available community services and support entrepreneurs who live and work in the Panama City area. Visitors may find fresh produce, prepared foods, handmade goods, clothing, artwork, personal-care products and information from local organizations.

The friendly, personal atmosphere is one reason vendors continue returning. During the anniversary celebration, one participating vendor described the joy that can come simply from meeting residents, offering encouragement and sharing a welcoming conversation.

Community Health Day Set for August 15

The next Glenwood Marketplace will take place Saturday, August 15, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the A.D. Harris Learning Village.

The upcoming market will also feature Community Health Day. The Florida Department of Health is expected to provide health screenings, giving residents an opportunity to learn more about their health while visiting the marketplace.

The event offers Bay County residents a simple way to spend a Saturday supporting local businesses, discovering new products and connecting with organizations serving the community.

Glenwood Marketplace Event Details

Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026 “generally held twice each month on the 1st & 3rd Saturdays”
Time: 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Location: A.D. Harris Learning Village
Address: 819 E. 11th Street, Panama City, Florida

Special Event: Community Health Day with health screenings
Admission: Community marketplace; no admission charge has been announced

Glenwood Marketplace is generally held twice each month, on the 1st & 3rd Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors should check the LEAD Coalition’s social media or community calendar for confirmed dates and special events. 

By shopping at Glenwood Marketplace, visitors are doing more than purchasing locally made products. They are helping small businesses gain visibility, supporting healthier food access and investing directly in the continued growth of one of Panama City’s historic neighborhoods.

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