The holiday season in Bay County is brimming with festive fun and memorable traditions, offering something for everyone to enjoy. From magical train rides and dazzling parades to holiday shopping and heartwarming performances, December in Panama City and Panama City Beach is a time of joy and togetherness. Whether you’re looking to explore the enchantment of the Jingle Bell Express, marvel at the illuminated waters during the Boat Parade of Lights, or kick off the New Year with the iconic Beach Ball Drop, there’s no shortage of holiday cheer. Dive into our guide to the top December events and make this season one to remember!
FEATURED EVENTS
The Jingle Bell Express
Downtown Panama City & St. Andrews | Panama City
December 6th – 21st, 2024
All aboard the Jingle Bell Express! This magical holiday experience connects Downtown Panama City & St. Andrews for riders to enjoy all of the Christmas wonder to be found in the historic neighborhoods. The enchantment and glow of the season can be felt with twinkling light displays, Christmas parades, local shops filled with holiday gifts, and more. It’s family-friendly and FREE! The Jingle Bell Express will run on Friday and Saturday evenings during the first three weekends in December, from 5PM to 9PM providing a delightful opportunity for families and friends to enjoy the magic of the season.
City of Panama City Christmas Parade
Downtown Panama City | Panama City
December 7th, 2024
Come and be part of our Annual Christmas Parade! The procession will start at the intersection of 13th Street and Harrison Avenue, continuing down Harrison Avenue till 6th Street.
Daybreak 76® Panama City Beach Marathon
Pier Park | Panama City Beach
December 7th, 2024
The Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce is proud to host the Daybreak 76® Panama City Beach Marathon presented by Visit Panama City Beach. Set for Saturday, December 7th. The 26.2 mile race is a staple for the community, and the race also includes a 13.1 mile Half-Marathon, 5K, and Kids Fun Run, allowing running fanatics of all levels the opportunity to test their limits alongside the World’s Most Beautiful Beaches. The race begins and ends in Pier Park, with an after party at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville.
PCB Market
7157 W Highway 98 | Panama City Beach
December 7th – 8th, 2024
Mark your calendars for December 7th and 8th! The PCB Market is coming to Panama City Beach, bringing you an unforgettable shopping experience filled with unique finds and local flavors. Get ready to explore over **100 vendors** both inside and outside, showcasing a diverse range of items including: vintage & antique treasures, flea market gems, delicious baked goods, tasty offerings from food trucks, unique secondhand goods, handmade crafts, and more!
Bethlehem Christmas Village
Captain Anderson’s Marina | Panama City Beach
December 11th – 14th, 2024
Join us at Capt. Anderson’s Marina, for our 12th Annual Bethlehem Christmas Village December 11th—14th from 5:30PM to 8:30PM, as we walk through ancient Bethlehem….. being present as Isaiah, Mary and Joseph learn and tell others of the coming of the Christ child. A different charity will benefit each night from the “tax collector” booth in the form of a toy and food drive. Bring your family to this free event and enjoy the petting zoo with free pony rides and a live nativity. 8 local school choirs will perform in addition to many vendors selling everything festive you need for the holiday.
The Nutcracker
Helen Blackburn Arnold Auditorium | Panama City
December 13th—15th, 2024
Join us at the Helen Blackburn Arnold Auditorium for a magical evening of enchantment and holiday cheer! Panama City Ballet is thrilled to present performances of the classic holiday ballet, The Nutcracker. Get ready to be transported to a world of dancing snowflakes, mischievous mice, and a magical journey. This in-person event promises to delight audiences of all ages with its breathtaking choreography, dazzling costumes, and unforgettable live music. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to experience the beauty and grace of The Nutcracker live on stage.
38th Annual Boat Parade of Lights
St. Andrews Bay Yacht Club | Panama City
December 14th, 2024
The holiday season has officially set sail in Panama City, Florida and Destination Panama City is thrilled to announce the much-anticipated Boat Parade of Lights! Once again, we’re teaming up with the City of Panama City to illuminate the waters of St. Andrews Bay during this cherished community tradition. The boat parade will feature a dazzling display of Christmas lights and decorations, transforming St. Andrews Bay into a magical winter wonderland.
New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop
Pier Park | Panama City Beach
December 31st, 2024
Come to Panama City Beach on December 31st to enjoy not one but two great opportunities to welcome in the New Year. The streets of Pier Park are closed off to traffic as thousands of revelers enjoy free live music, entertainment, fireworks, and good cheer. For those too excited to wait until midnight, or for those fans of New Year’s Eve who want to conduct the countdown twice, there are separate Beach Ball Drops at both 8:00 p.m. and midnight. On the way to midnight, bands perform for the gathering crowd, anticipating the countdown to 2025 when a huge, glowing beach ball is lowered to signal the start of the New Year, and another great fireworks display. Time Square has nothing on this Panama City Beach NYE party!