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"Bay County's Top 5 Mansion Sales, Forgotten Coast Foodie Road Trip, Thunder Beach Rally, Tootsie's Orchid Lounge Grand Opening, & Cinco de Mayo Festivities!"

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"Bay County's Top 5 Mansion Sales, Forgotten Coast Foodie Road Trip, Thunder Beach Rally, Tootsie's Orchid Lounge Grand Opening, & Cinco de Mayo Festivities!"

"Bay County's Top 5 Mansion Sales, Forgotten Coast Foodie Road Trip, Thunder Beach Rally, Tootsie's Orchid Lounge Grand Opening, & Cinco de Mayo Festivities!"
Discover Bay County's luxury real estate market, explore Highway 98's culinary gems, rev your engines for Thunder Beach Rally, party at Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, and join the Cinco de Mayo fiesta in Panama City! 🌟🍔🏍️🎉🌮 #PanamaCityEvents

Frank Gotaas

May 5, 2026

Trivia Question❓

In Panama City, Florida, what annual event celebrates the city's history with a pirate invasion, live music, and a parade?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

The Bay County luxury real estate market delivered an impressive performance in March 2026, with several multi-million dollar transactions highlighting continued strong demand for premium properties along the Florida Gulf Coast.

 

The top five most expensive home sales ranged from stunning waterfront estates to luxury properties in exclusive gated communities, demonstrating the breadth of high-end inventory available in Panama City Beach.

 

Waterfront locations continue to command top dollar in Bay County's luxury segment. Properties with direct Gulf access, private docks, and panoramic water views led the month's highest-value transactions.

 

Both Panama City and Panama City Beach experienced robust luxury market activity throughout March. Local agents report that inventory remains tight in the most desirable luxury segments.

 

Looking ahead, industry experts project continued strength in Bay County's luxury market through 2026.


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FICA Tip Credit Recovery for Employers

 

RECLAIM YOUR OVERPAID TAXES.

 

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Perfect For:

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Who Qualifies? Food & Beverage Services:

You have employees who customarily receive tips from customers.

You paid the employer portion of Social Security and Medicare taxes on those tips.

 

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Limited Time: Free FICA Audit (Normally $1,500) Go back 3 years

 

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Discover the culinary gems along Florida's Forgotten Coast on this epic Highway 98 road trip. From fresh Gulf seafood in Apalachicola to waterfront dining in Carrabelle, explore the flavors that make this coastal stretch a food lover's paradise.

 

Start your journey in Panama City Beach and work your way east, stopping at local favorites along the scenic route. Each town offers unique dining experiences that showcase the region's rich seafood heritage and Southern hospitality.

 

Whether you're craving oysters pulled fresh from Apalachicola Bay or casual beachfront cafes, this guide covers the must-visit restaurants that define Forgotten Coast cuisine.


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The roar of engines is echoing across Panama City Beach this week as the Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally kicks into high gear.

 

Running from April 29 through May 3, 2026, this premier motorcycle event is drawing thousands of riders and enthusiasts to the World's Most Beautiful Beaches for five days of chrome, camaraderie, and coastal cruising.

 

The rally features the Urban Rides All-Cycle Showdown, Baggers & Tailz Custom Bike Show, and the Thunder Beach Biker Sound Off Competition. With hundreds of national vendors on site, attendees can browse everything from leather gear to performance upgrades.

 

The rally spans four Official Thunder Beach Venues and three Official Partner Venues throughout Panama City Beach. Whether you're a dedicated biker or just curious about the culture, Thunder Beach offers an unforgettable experience through Saturday, May 3rd.


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The Weather Presented by MyPanhandle

Tip of The Day

Visit Shell Island for a day of fun in the sun!


This pristine barrier island is a short boat ride away from Panama City Beach and offers beautiful sandy beaches, clear waters for snorkeling, and opportunities to spot dolphins and other marine wildlife.

Pack your sunscreen, snacks, and plenty of water for a memorable day trip.

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Ready for better internet? If you are a new customer signing up for a Residential or Roam plan, you can get a full month of service credit (up to $120 value) by purchasing your kit through my link. No more buffering—just reliable, high-speed connectivity.
Credit applied 30 days after activation.

Offer valid for new Residential or Roam customers only.

Country music fans, get ready. Tootsie's Orchid Lounge is roaring back to Panama City Beach with a grand opening weekend that promises to be unforgettable.

 

The legendary Nashville honky-tonk is setting up shop at the former Spinnaker Beach Club location on Thomas Drive. The three-story, 7,200-square-foot venue will feature a bandstand, dance floor, swimming pool, and stunning beach views.

 

The grand opening weekend kicks off May 1st with Randy Houser and continues May 2nd with Jake Owen. Best of all? There's no cover charge — completely FREE.

 

Located at 8795 Thomas Drive, the new Tootsie's brings authentic Nashville-style country music to the beach daily.


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American Flag 8x12 FT, Large US Flag USA High Wind with Embroidered Stars, Sewn Stripes, Brass Grommets, DurableOutdoor Outside

 

“As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.”

When you think of Cinco de Mayo celebrations in the Panama City area, your mind might immediately jump to the bustling beaches and crowded boardwalks. But this year, consider staying closer to home.

 

Panama City proper has a vibrant Mexican food scene that's ready to celebrate, offering locals a chance to enjoy authentic cuisine without fighting the beach traffic.

 

Local restaurants along 23rd Street and throughout the downtown area are preparing for one of their busiest nights of the year. Expect to find discounted margaritas, taco specials, and festive decorations creating the perfect setting for your Cinco de Mayo celebration.

 

Celebrating in Panama City means avoiding the highway congestion that inevitably builds up on major holidays. You'll find easier parking, shorter wait times, and a more relaxed atmosphere where you can actually enjoy your meal and conversation.

 

Restaurant owners strongly recommend calling ahead for reservations. Whether you're gathering with friends, enjoying a family dinner, or simply craving authentic Mexican flavors, Panama City offers everything you need for a memorable Cinco de Mayo celebration.


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💡 Answer to Trivia Question:
The annual Pirates of the High Seas Fest celebrates Panama City's history with a pirate invasion, live music, and a parade.
Panama City Spotlight

© 2026 Panama City Spotlight.

Panama City Spotlight is your friendly, go-to guide shining a light on life in Panama City, Florida. It’s a curated collection of local news, can't-miss events, hidden gems, and neighborly shoutouts that celebrate the heart of our coastal community. Find everything you need to know, from the latest happenings to the quiet spots only locals know, right here.

© 2026 Panama City Spotlight.

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