"The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you." - B.B. King

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge is set for an exciting comeback in Panama City Beach, bringing its legendary country music vibe to the former Spinnaker Beach Club location on Thomas Drive.

The reopening is planned for February 2026, marking a return after Tootsie’s previous Pier Park spot closed in 2023.

Owner Steve Smith aims to breathe new life into the beachside landmark, envisioning a fresh start steeped in music tradition.

The new venue promises frequent live shows, with top-tier country stars like Luke Bryan, Riley Green, and Cole Swindell already expressing interest in performing.

Tootsie’s is also gearing up to hire about 200 employees, offering opportunities for locals eager to join a vibrant entertainment hub.

Excitement is building as the city readies for Tootsie’s highly anticipated return to the beach community.

Panama City Beach is set for major economic growth in 2026, fueled by key developments and a rising population.

The metro area saw a 3.8% increase in population from July 2023 to July 2024, making it the second-fastest-growing metro area nationwide.

Bay County will soon benefit from IAG Aero Group’s $107 million investment, bringing 500 high-wage jobs and an estimated $479 million boost in household income over the next decade.

The Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport is expanding its terminal with a $100 million project, set to improve connectivity and drive more tourism into the region.

Local real estate trends show a shift toward a balanced market, with stable prices and increased inventory, while new residential construction rises to meet sustained demand.

These strategic changes highlight a vibrant outlook for the city’s future.

Spotlight Sponsor

Wyndham Resort

Perfect for the Gulf Coast Jam 2026

$1,500 includes taxes and fees.

1 Bedroom Deluxe, Upper Level, Beach view and access.

1 King, 1 Bunk Bed, 1 Queen Sofa Sleeper, sleeps 6.

Full Kitchen, Stove, Refrigerator, Dishwasher, Washer/Dryer and more.

Swimming Pool, Hot Tub, Beach Access.

Exercise room, Free Parking Garage

Location: 14700 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach, FL

Email: [email protected] with Subject Line SPOTLIGHT10 for more information.

For 10% discount code: SPOTLIGHT10

CareerSource Gulf Coast will host the 39th Annual Bay County Job Fair on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Gulf Coast State College Student Union East in Panama City.

Job seekers are invited from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with a special priority hour from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. for veterans, active-duty military, and their families.

The event will feature leading Bay County employers in healthcare, education, hospitality, manufacturing, and more, all seeking to fill diverse positions.

Advance registration is encouraged for a faster entry and event updates, though walk-ins are always welcome.

Attendees are urged to update resumes, research employers, and dress professionally to stand out.

CareerSource Gulf Coast offers free support including career coaching, resume help, and job referrals—helping connect local talent with top opportunities.

For assistance, call (850) 872-4340 or visit a local job center.

Weather Presented by MyPanhandle

FLLUXE, the Florida Luxe Arts Festival, returns to Historic Downtown Panama City for its sixth year, set to light up the city from March 6 to March 8, 2026.

This free, family-friendly celebration transforms city streets into an energetic, open-air gallery, featuring vibrant music, artisan vendors, and interactive installations by both local and visiting artists.

Highlights include the lively return of the Madonnaro street painting festival and hands-on workshops led by acclaimed chalk artists, offering the public a rare glimpse into their creative process.

In a collaboration with Public Eye SOAR, the festival will dazzle audiences with digital projection art and striking light displays, blending tradition and innovation.

Live performances from local musicians set the festival’s upbeat tone, with main events centered at the Center for the Arts and Four Points Plaza.

As downtown thrives with fresh businesses, FLLUXE stands as a bold showcase of Panama City’s artistic spirit and community pride.

New Clients Only. A new client is someone who did not use H&R Block or Block Advisors to file their 2024 tax return.

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is set to bring new energy to Panama City Beach, launching a major hiring event on February 15th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Captain Anderson’s Event Center, 5550 N Lagoon Dr #2.

The iconic venue aims to fill around 200 roles ahead of its grand opening at 8795 Thomas Drive, the former site of Spinnaker Beach Club.

This three-story, 7,200-square-foot space, now revitalized after Hurricane Michael, promises live Nashville-style country music, a dance floor, pool, and panoramic beach views.

Tootsie’s will be family-friendly until 8 p.m., then strictly 21+ with ID, offering no cover except for special events.

Guests can expect a varied menu of seafood, burgers, wings, and a signature country boil, with full service most days until 9 p.m.

The opening is targeted for late February 2026, with potential performances by country stars like Luke Bryan and Riley Green.

This hiring drive marks a unique chance to join a dynamic new hub for music and fun in the local community.

Have you missed any previous PanamaCitySpotlight.com articles?

You can find them all HERE! 

👉 Like and Follow us on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/PanamaCitySpotlight

👉 Join our Facebook Group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/PanamaCitySpotlight