As Tropical Storm Bertha moves across the northern Gulf of America, Bay County Emergency Management is urging residents to use the storm as a reminder to review evacuation plans and finish assembling their hurricane supply kits.

The message from local officials is simple: do not wait until a hurricane is headed directly toward Bay County before beginning preparations.

Tropical Storm Bertha developed in the Gulf south of the Florida Panhandle and strengthened to maximum sustained winds near 60 mph by Tuesday, July 21. Although the storm’s projected path was shifting west toward Louisiana, Bertha was still expected to produce heavy rain, gusty winds, rough surf, dangerous rip currents and possible coastal flooding across portions of the northern Gulf Coast.

For Bay County residents, the storm serves as an early-season warning that tropical systems can develop quickly and that their effects may extend far beyond the forecast center line.

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.

Panama City Beach has long been celebrated for its sugar-white sands and emerald waters, but beneath the surface lies another world of adventure. The area's fishing charters offer some of the finest angling opportunities on the Gulf Coast.

Local charter companies like Emerald Empire Charters, Gulf Coast Getaways, and Reel Adventures Charters cater to everyone from first-time fishermen to seasoned pros. Whether you prefer inshore adventures targeting redfish and speckled trout or offshore excursions for grouper and king mackerel, there's a charter perfectly suited to your needs.

Most charters provide all necessary equipment, handle fishing licenses, and even offer fish cleaning services. The spring and summer months are particularly rewarding as water temperatures rise and fish become more active.

Discover why Panama City Beach truly is an angler's paradise and how you can reel in your own Gulf Coast adventure.

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 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.

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.

Bay County commissioners have approved a six-month moratorium on certain large-scale data centers, temporarily preventing qualifying projects from moving forward in unincorporated areas of the county.

The moratorium was approved during the Bay County Commission’s regular meeting on July 7, 2026, following a public hearing and months of discussion about the rapid growth of artificial intelligence and the massive computer facilities needed to support it.

The county’s meeting agenda described the action as a temporary moratorium on “large scale data centers.” County Attorney Brian Leebrick said the pause applies to data centers requiring more than five megawatts of electricity.

The moratorium is not a permanent ban. Instead, it gives county planners and commissioners time to determine whether Bay County’s existing land-development rules adequately address facilities that can require enormous amounts of electricity, water, land and utility infrastructure.

During the six-month period, county staff is expected to study how data centers should be defined, where they might be allowed and what development standards should apply to them. Officials also plan to consult with electric providers, water and sewer utilities, and other stakeholders before recommending permanent regulations.

Historic Downtown Panama City will come alive Saturday morning as the Panama City Farmers’ Market returns to Harrison Avenue on July 11, 2026.

From 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., residents and visitors can stroll through the heart of downtown while shopping for fresh produce, locally made foods, handcrafted gifts and other unique items offered by area farmers, artists and small-business owners.

The weekly outdoor market is centered near McKenzie Park and 218 Harrison Avenue. For the July 11 market, vendors are scheduled to set up along Harrison Avenue between Fourth Street and Government Street. The downtown market is held every Saturday from 8:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

Treasure hunters, bargain shoppers and collectors will have another reason to explore Panama City Beach this weekend when the PCB Market Summer Swap Meet opens Saturday, July 11, and continues Sunday, July 12, 2026.

The PCB Market Summer Swap Meet is held every weekend at 7157 W. Highway 98, inside Beachwalk Plaza in Panama City Beach. Saturday’s shopping hours are 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., followed by Sunday hours from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Admission is free.

Promoted as a weekend to “Buy, Sell, Trade and Treasure Hunt,” the Summer Swap Meet invites shoppers to browse an assortment of merchandise from local vendors, collectors, artisans and independent sellers. Visitors may discover antiques, vintage goods, collectibles, clothing, handmade crafts, home décor, secondhand merchandise and other unexpected finds.

Part of the fun of a swap meet is never knowing exactly what will be waiting at the next table or booth. One shopper may be looking for a vintage decoration, while another might discover sports memorabilia, coastal décor, boutique clothing or a useful household item at a bargain price.

Bay County was alive with red, white, and blue as locals and visitors honored America’s 250th birthday across Panama City, Panama City Beach, and Lynn Haven.

Festivities began Friday evening at Papa Joe’s Bayside with live music, waterfront food, and fireworks, offering families a relaxed start to the weekend near the bay.

Meanwhile, Grand Lagoon’s Freedom Rocks Fireworks Show filled the marina with crowds enjoying dazzling displays.

On Independence Day, Historic Downtown Panama City hosted its Salute to Freedom Festival with live bands and food, though a barge mishap cut the fireworks short—leading to a rescheduled grand finale the following night.

Panama City Beach’s Star Spangled Spectacular and Lynn Haven’s parade and evening celebration brought classic traditions, music, and vibrant fireworks.

Each event highlighted Bay County’s mix of community spirit, patriotism, and coastal fun, making it a weekend to remember.

Panama City kicks off the Fourth of July weekend early with Celebrate America & The Memorial Trail, a free community event on Thursday, July 2, 2026, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Garden Club at Bay Memorial Park.

This family-friendly gathering honors America’s upcoming 250th anniversary and offers residents a first look at proposed improvements to the beloved Memorial Trail.

Guests can enjoy yard games, complimentary hot dogs and ice cream, and participate in Star-Spangled Trivia.

A special appearance by Benjamin Franklin brings history to life and connects the festivities to the nation’s founding story.

The heart of the event is community engagement — residents can view project plans, meet partner organizations, and help shape the future of Bay Memorial Park.

The evolving Memorial Trail aims to honor veterans, foster reflection, and strengthen local pride, making this event a meaningful start to Independence Day weekend.

Gulf World Marine Park was a beloved Panama City Beach landmark for over 50 years, drawing families to dolphin shows and animal encounters since its 1970 debut.

In 2025, the park abruptly closed after mounting controversy over animal welfare, including multiple dolphin deaths, poor facility conditions, and increased scrutiny from regulators.

High-profile incidents, such as the death of Jett, a bottlenose dolphin injured during a public show, intensified calls for accountability. Samira’s tragic passing followed soon after, further igniting public concern.

The parent company, The Dolphin Company, filed for bankruptcy in March 2025, leading Gulf World into court proceedings and ultimately ceasing operations.

Now acquired by By The Sea Resorts, redevelopment plans for the prominent Front Beach Road site remain uncertain.

The closure not only marks the end of a local legacy but highlights evolving community attitudes toward animal attractions and the future of Panama City Beach’s tourism identity.

Panama City Beach families can kick off the Fourth of July weekend with the Pier Park Kids Bike Parade on Friday, July 3, 2026.

The event runs from 11:00 a.m. to noon at Pier Park Town Center, open to kids 14 and under, inviting colorful bicycle decorations and plenty of patriotic flair.

Children are encouraged to show off their red, white, and blue spirit, whether on bikes, tricycles, or decorated rides.

Members of VFW Post 10555 will lead the parade, giving it a special hometown and veteran-honoring feel.

Each participant receives free ice cream after the parade, making for a sweet morning celebration before fireworks light up the evening sky.

The parade is part of the city’s Real. Fun. Fourth. festivities, with events and fireworks happening July 3–5 for America’s 250th birthday.

This cheerful tradition offers families a fun, safe, and memorable way to be part of the holiday excitement in Panama City Beach.

Every summer, Panama City Beach transforms into a crucial nesting ground for sea turtles, drawing attention from locals and visitors alike.

The nonprofit Panama City Beach Turtle Watch works tirelessly to protect these ancient reptiles, patrolling the shoreline from St. Andrews State Park to Camp Helen State Park during nesting season.

Loggerheads are the most frequent nesters, with females coming ashore at night to lay roughly 100 eggs each.

Green turtles and leatherbacks also make rare appearances, crossing vast ocean distances to reach the sands.

Residents and guests are urged to keep the beach clean, dark, and flat by removing all belongings, reducing lights at night, and filling in holes.

Protecting these nesting areas not only preserves sea turtle populations but helps maintain Panama City Beach’s unique coastal ecosystem for future generations.

This year’s Fourth of July in Bay County comes with special meaning, as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026.

Communities across Panama City, Panama City Beach, and Lynn Haven are preparing memorable events that capture both the festive spirit and historical significance of Independence Day.

Panama City will host the Salute to Freedom Festival at the Downtown Marina, featuring live music, food vendors, and a spectacular fireworks display over St. Andrews Bay.

Panama City Beach will offer a multi-day Real. Fun. Fourth. celebration, highlighted by the Star Spangled Spectacular with fireworks from city piers and lively beach crowds.

Lynn Haven’s 250th Birthday Celebration delivers small-town charm with a patriotic parade, local music, food trucks, and fireworks at A.L. Kinsaul Park.

Each event invites residents and visitors to unite in honoring freedom, community, and the spirit of July 4th—ensuring there’s a celebration for everyone.

Mosey’s Downtown transforms into Panama City’s creative epicenter on Sunday, June 28, with two unforgettable shows presented by Cabaret on The Bay.

The evening kicks off at 8:00 PM with Love, Sweet Love, a heartfelt tribute concert featuring classics by Burt Bacharach performed by standout local talent.

Expect lush harmonies, romantic nostalgia, and an intimate, early-evening atmosphere that brings golden‑era melodies to life.

At 10:00 PM, the vibe shifts to bold and vibrant with Praise God For Pasties—a lively burlesque and book-signing party celebrating Panama City author Pamela G. Holmes and her psychological thriller.

The late-night celebration blends comedy, dance, and immersive performances in a cheeky nod to local artistry.

One ticket at the door covers both experiences, promising a full night of music, community, and creative connection.

Groove Fest 2026 returns to downtown Panama City on Saturday, June 27, promising an unforgettable night of rhythm, soul, and community vibes beside the scenic St. Andrews Bay.

This six-hour festival fills the marina with live R&B, soul, and groove-driven performances by Tracie Spencer, Sunshine Anderson, Jones, KD Dawson, Teddy V, and standout saxophonist Preston Thomas.

Doors open at 3:30 p.m., so early arrival is encouraged to grab a prime spot.

Tickets range from $36 general admission (BYOC) to $459 for premium eight-seat tables, making the event accessible for every group size.

Attendees can expect local food trucks, boutique vendors, free parking, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere with open-air dancing and unbeatable views.

Groove Fest remains a beloved Gulf Coast tradition, promising soulful tunes, delicious food, and plenty of summertime joy for all.

Father’s Day in Panama City is a heartfelt celebration honoring dads, stepdads, grandfathers, and father-figures who guide and uplift local families.

The community spirit shines with gatherings featuring food, music, and warm hospitality along the Gulf Coast.

This weekend, Bay County offers memorable experiences — from creative workshops like custom clock building at L&C Artistry, where families craft keepsakes together, to live stand-up at Mosey’s Downtown, headlined by national comic Andy Forrester.

At Little Village in St. Andrews, residents can enjoy live music from Martin Rodriguez, unique shopping, and $1 off drafts all day, making an easygoing afternoon for celebrating dads.

For younger families, a Daddy & Me Paint Along at Out of the Box Art Studio creates colorful handprint keepsakes in a relaxed setting.

However you choose to celebrate, it’s about connection, laughter, and honoring the fathers who matter most.

Panama City will mark the 7th Annual Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 20, 2026, with a free, family-friendly event at McKenzie Park downtown.

The celebration will run from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, inviting the whole community to enjoy live music, local vendors, delicious food trucks, and lively fellowship.

Juneteenth, observed every June 19, honors the end of slavery in the United States and became a federal holiday in 2021.

This historic day is commemorated with joy and reflection through music, food, and storytelling, spotlighting African American resilience and achievement.

The annual event has become a beloved tradition in Panama City, bringing residents together downtown to celebrate freedom, community, and local culture.

This year’s gathering at McKenzie Park invites everyone to unite and honor the significance of Juneteenth in a welcoming, festive atmosphere.

The Panama City Center for the Arts was buzzing with creativity, community spirit, and eco-friendly innovation on Saturday night as the Eco-Couture Trash Market took over Downtown Panama City for an unforgettable zero-waste fashion experience.

With a theme centered on wearable trash-to-fashion creativity, the event brought together local artists, designers, models, musicians, and community groups for a night that celebrated sustainability, imagination, and the power of collective artistry.

Every piece on the runway was crafted from repurposed, recycled, or reclaimed materials, proving that "trash" can be transformed into breathtaking, high-concept couture. From intricate paper constructions to bold plastic-woven silhouettes, each look told its own story of reinvention and purpose.

Read the full article to see the incredible local talent, sponsors, and stunning creations that made this event a night to remember.

Flag Day holds special meaning in Panama City, where the nation’s enduring symbol—the United States flag—is celebrated each June with coastal pride.

As America marks its 250th Anniversary, local communities join in National Flag Week, which begins on June 14, honoring the date the Stars and Stripes were first adopted in 1777.

Across the city, flags grace porches, businesses, marinas, and parks, reflecting a deep sense of unity amid military families, veterans, and residents alike.

Local organizations and schools mark the week with ceremonies, educational events, and stories of service, teaching younger generations the true meaning of the flag’s red, white, and blue.

This week bridges springtime remembrance with summer celebrations like the 250th Liberty Bash on June 20 at Millville Waterfront Park and the Salute to Freedom Festival on July 4.

In Panama City, patriotism continues to shine, uniting the community through gratitude and celebration.

Panama City invites the community to celebrate America's 250th anniversary at the 250th Liberty Bash on Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Millville Waterfront Park & Amphitheater.

This free festival features an incredible lineup of live music including Salt Rock Revival, GreenHead Band, Kevin Johnson, Good For Nothing Band, Landon Stewart, and Lily Lumpkin. The FREE Kids Zone offers arts & crafts, face painting, hair sparkle, and bouncy houses to keep children entertained throughout the day.

Additional highlights include a politician dunk tank fundraiser, Best Dressed Adult & Kid contests, food trucks, local vendors, and community booths. Ample parking and free shuttle service make attending hassle-free.

Bring your lawn chairs, family, friends, and patriotic spirit to this historic community celebration. Rain date is June 27. Don't miss this opportunity to mark 250 years of American history with your neighbors at this unforgettable Panama City event!

As the United States approaches its historic 250th anniversary, Panama City and Bay County are preparing a vibrant lineup of celebrations to honor this momentous milestone in American history. Communities across the region are coming together to mark the semiquincentennial with events that showcase local pride and patriotism.

The celebration calendar features several standout events, including the July 4th Salute to Freedom festival at the Panama City Marina, the 250th Liberty Bash at Millville Waterfront Park, and the return of the beloved Gulf Coast Salute Air Show at Panama City Beach. Each event offers unique opportunities for families, veterans, and community members to participate in the festivities.

Local organizers have worked diligently to create programming that honors both national heritage and local Bay County traditions. From historical society gatherings to contemporary concerts and fireworks displays, there's something for everyone to enjoy as we commemorate 250 years of American independence together.

Read on for a complete guide to all the patriotic events happening in our community, including dates, locations, and what you can expect at each celebration. Mark your calendars and join your neighbors in making this anniversary one to remember!

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is hosting two license-free fishing weekends in June 2026, giving everyone a chance to fish without a license.

Saltwater fishing is free June 6-7, while freshwater fishing is free June 13-14.

Both residents and visitors can fish recreationally during these dates, making it the perfect time for families or newcomers to try out the sport.

Anglers also enjoy waivers for snook and spiny lobster permits on saltwater days, and fishing is allowed from boats, piers, or the shore.

All catch limits, size regulations, and gear rules still apply.

This annual event invites more people outdoors and helps foster a love of fishing in the community.

Grab your rods—and take advantage of Florida’s free fishing days this June!

Panama City welcomes the 2nd Annual Scholarship Rodeo at Bay County Fairgrounds, promising two exciting nights of rodeo thrills, big rides, and heartfelt community spirit in support of local students.

The event, happening June 5 and 6, 2026, features top cowboys and cowgirls from across the region, competing for big prizes in events like bull riding, saddle bronc, barrel racing, and more.

Organized by Let ’em Buck Productions and sanctioned by the Professional Cowboy Association, the rodeo brings western heritage alive while raising scholarship funds for Bay County students.

Visitors can also enjoy tasty eats from local food trucks, shop western-themed vendors, and join in family-friendly activities.

Every ticket offers a fun-filled night and helps shape deserving local futures—making this beloved event a true win for the community.

For many families in Northwest Florida, the cost of sports equipment can be the difference between a child sitting on the sidelines or stepping onto the field. United Way of Northwest Florida is working to change that through Play It Forward, an annual Youth Sports Equipment Swap Meet that connects students with the gear they need to participate in athletics.

The program addresses a very real challenge facing local families. High equipment costs often prevent children from joining a sport they are excited about or continuing one they already love. By offering free, good quality equipment, Play It Forward removes one of the most common barriers to participation.

Research shows that children who play sports between ages nine and eighteen are five to six times more likely to stay active as adults. Beyond physical health, sports provide important mental and emotional benefits including lower rates of anxiety and depression, higher self-esteem, and stronger academic outcomes.

Community members can support the program by donating gently used equipment, volunteering at events, or sponsoring the initiative. Through this effort, United Way helps create a more inclusive sports environment where every young person has a fair chance to play.

Bay County commissioners are considering a temporary halt on new artificial intelligence data center development as concerns mount over demands on the region’s infrastructure, water supply, and long-term planning.

Growing interest from major tech companies has sparked debate among officials and residents about balancing economic opportunities with the impact of these massive facilities.

Commission Chairman Bill Dozier emphasized caution, noting that data centers often use significant energy and water, running 24/7 to power digital services and AI technologies.

Environmental advocates urge restraint to protect the aquifer and local utilities, while business leaders warn that a pause could discourage investors and cost the region jobs.

During the moratorium, county planners will review infrastructure needs, zoning, and possible regulatory updates before future projects advance.

Public input will be sought at an upcoming hearing, as Bay County weighs careful, community-first decision-making on the future of AI data centers.

What started as a modest gathering in March has blossomed into one of Panama City's most vibrant community events. The Sunday Social Market at the Bay County Fairgrounds has doubled in size since its launch, now showcasing 77 local vendors who bring their unique products and passion to eager shoppers each month.

The market was created with a simple mission: give local businesses a place to shine. Vendors like Soul Space Wellness Cafe and Bay&Boho Boutique have found the market to be an invaluable platform for connecting with customers and growing their brands.

Through its partnership with BFF Animal Rescue, the market has also helped find loving homes for dogs in need. The next Sunday Social Market is scheduled for June 14 with a delightful "Sweet Summertime" theme perfect for the season.

Come discover why 77 vendors and thousands of shoppers have made this market their monthly tradition at the Bay County Fairgrounds.

Excitement is building in Panama City Beach as Gulf Coast Jam organizers revealed Jason Aldean as the first headliner for the 2027 festival. The announcement lit up the skies over Frank Brown Park with a breathtaking drone show, drawing roaring cheers from fans gathered for the reveal.

The 15th annual Gulf Coast Jam is set for June 3–6, 2027, and is already generating major buzz among country music fans across the region. With Aldean at the helm, attendees can expect a high-energy weekend packed with standout country performances and that signature coastal charm that makes this festival a must-attend event.

Tickets are on sale now, and with past sell-outs, fans are urged to reserve their spots early. Organizers promise more headline announcements soon, following this year's star-studded lineup featuring Keith Urban, Chris Stapleton, Riley Green, and Post Malone. Gulf Coast Jam remains the ultimate blend of music, beach vibes, and community spirit on the Florida Panhandle.

Mark your calendars for June 3-6, 2027 and get ready for an unforgettable weekend of country music under the stars at Panama City Beach!

Tyndall Air Force Base is undergoing one of the most significant military construction projects in U.S. history, with the $4.9 billion rebuild positioning the Panama City installation as the future home of America's most advanced fighter jets.

The transformation represents a massive investment in Bay County's economic future while establishing Tyndall as a cutting-edge center for next-generation air dominance operations. The F-35 mission will bring thousands of military personnel and civilian contractors to the region.

The rebuild follows Hurricane Michael's devastation in 2018, with military planners creating a modern, resilient installation capable of supporting the Air Force's most sophisticated aircraft and missions.

Local business leaders have welcomed the investment, noting that construction has created hundreds of jobs for Bay County contractors. Once operational, the base will support thousands of permanent positions.