Country music fans already have another major summer weekend to look forward to as Gulf Coast Jam prepares to return to Panama City Beach from Thursday, June 3, through Sunday, June 6, 2027.

The four-day outdoor music festival will once again transform Frank Brown Park into one of the biggest country music destinations on the Gulf Coast. The newest announcement adds Luke Bryan as the Friday-night headliner on June 4, joining previously announced Saturday headliner Jason Aldean.

With two of modern country music’s most recognizable performers now confirmed, excitement surrounding Gulf Coast Jam 2027 is already building nearly a year before the gates open.

Luke Bryan Returns to the Coast

Luke Bryan will headline Gulf Coast Jam on Friday, June 4. Known for high-energy concerts and a long list of country hits, Bryan has remained one of the genre’s most popular touring performers for more than a decade.

Panama City may be best known for fresh Gulf seafood, but sometimes nothing satisfies quite like a thick ribeye, a tender filet or a perfectly seasoned New York strip sizzling from the grill.

To create this Panhandle Fork guide, we looked beyond restaurants that simply offer one steak entrée. We considered the quality and variety of cuts, cooking style, atmosphere, local reputation and the overall dining experience. Because Panama City proper has a limited number of dedicated steakhouses, this list covers the greater Panama City area, including Panama City Beach.

The result is a mixture of longtime local landmarks, independent restaurants, polished special-occasion destinations and familiar national steakhouses.

Christmas is arriving early in Historic Downtown Panama City as local shops, restaurants and bars come together for the Christmas in July Sip & Stroll on Friday, July 17.

The event will run from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., giving residents and visitors an opportunity to explore downtown while enjoying seasonal drinks, sweet treats, shopping specials and plenty of holiday atmosphere. Activities will take place throughout the historic district, centered around Harrison Avenue and the surrounding downtown streets. 

Event Details

Date: Friday, July 17, 2026
Time: 4:00–7:00 p.m.
Location: Historic Downtown Panama City
Main area: Harrison Avenue and participating downtown businesses

Instead of waiting until December, downtown merchants are bringing out the decorations, Christmas music and holiday-inspired offerings in the middle of summer. Participating businesses are expected to feature a mixture of themed drinks, desserts, retail promotions and seasonal specials throughout the evening.

Visitors can make their way from business to business at their own pace, stopping for something cold to drink, browsing locally owned boutiques or finding an early Christmas gift. The event provides a relaxed way to spend a Friday evening while supporting the independent businesses that help give downtown Panama City its character.

Christmas is arriving early in Historic Downtown Panama City as the Panama City Farmers’ Market hosts its 5th Annual Christmas in July Market on Saturday, July 18, 2026.

The special market will take place from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. along Harrison Avenue, stretching from Fourth Street toward Beach Drive. Organizers expect more than 130 vendors, making this year’s celebration the largest Christmas in July Market held downtown so far.

Visitors can spend the morning browsing a large selection of farm-fresh produce, locally raised meats, baked goods, specialty foods, artwork, handcrafted gifts, jewelry, home décor and other products offered by local farmers, makers and small-business owners.

The regular Panama City Farmers’ Market is known for combining local shopping with food trucks, live music and a friendly community atmosphere. The Christmas in July edition will add holiday-themed activities and festive entertainment throughout downtown.

Christmas cheer is arriving early in Panama City as The Sunday Social Market hosts its Christmas in July celebration on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at the Bay County Fairgrounds.

The market will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at 2230 East 15th Street in Panama City. Admission is free, giving families, residents and visitors an affordable way to spend a summer Sunday while supporting local businesses.

The Christmas in July market will feature local vendors, handmade merchandise, food trucks and a variety of unique finds. Shoppers can browse vendor booths filled with gifts, crafts, clothing, accessories, home décor, specialty products and other locally offered items.

Although the calendar may say July, guests can expect a cheerful holiday atmosphere mixed with the relaxed feel of a community summer market. It is an opportunity to get an early start on Christmas shopping, find a one-of-a-kind gift or simply enjoy an afternoon exploring what Bay County’s small businesses and local makers have to offer.

The free Summer Concert Series is back at Aaron Bessant Park in Panama City Beach! Every Thursday evening from June through August, locals and visitors can enjoy live music performances at the beautiful amphitheater.

These family-friendly concerts feature a variety of musical genres and local talent, making them the perfect way to spend a summer evening on the coast. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets to enjoy an unforgettable night under the stars.

The Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheater provides an incredible outdoor venue with great acoustics and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're a Panama City Beach resident or just visiting for the summer, these free concerts are a fantastic way to experience the local music scene and community spirit.

Mark your calendars for Thursday nights this summer and don't miss out on this wonderful Panama City Beach tradition!