Snowbirds and Locals Agree: These Are the Best Things to Do in Panama City Beach in the Winter

This post is all about the best things to do in Panama City Beach in the winter.

Every year, snowbirds and savvy travelers flock to Panama City Beach for fall and winter getaways—and it’s easy to see why. While Central and South Florida stay balmy, the cooler temps in the panhandle, sometimes dipping into the 30s, deliver a refreshing hint of holiday magic. There are some really special things to do in Panama City Beach in the winter.

From Christmas festivities to family-friendly New Year’s celebrations, PCB rolls out a calendar packed with seasonal events and holiday-themed activities. Whether you’re here to unwind by the water or keep your days action-packed, Panama City Beach offers the perfect coastal escape. Trust me—this is one trip you’ll be glad you took!

Table of Contents:

Emerald Coast Cruizin’

Panama City Beach’s Classic Car Show is a must-see for car enthusiasts and anyone looking for a fun excuse to enjoy the (slightly cooler) fall weather. Emerald Coast Cruizin’ offers more than just vintage and custom rides—attendees can soak in the atmosphere with live music, delicious food and drinks, kids’ activities, raffles, and, of course, exciting car awards. It’s a fantastic mix of nostalgia and entertainment, perfect for all ages. Check out the Fall 2024 schedule of events below, along with future dates, so that you can plan ahead for this iconic celebration of all things automotive!

Beach Home for the Holidays

Who needs snow when you have sand, sea, and festive cheer? At the annual Beach Home for the Holidays, Panama City Beach transforms into a coastal winter wonderland. Despite temps hovering around a cozy 70 degrees, this event delivers all the holiday vibes with live music, campfires, S’mores, hot cocoa, and, of course, Santa himself. Add in photo ops, holiday movies, dazzling Christmas tree lighting, kids’ activities, and a grand fireworks display, and you’ve got a seasonal celebration like no other. This year’s festivities will occur on November 29-30, 2024, the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving. It’s the perfect way to kick off your holiday season—PCB style!

Schedule Of Events

Panama City Beach Marathon

Not every runner laces up their sneakers with beach vibes in mind, but the Daybreak 76 PCB Marathon makes a strong case for it. Taking place on December 6, 2025, this event has something for everyone, including a Kid’s Fun Run, 5K, Half-Marathon, and full Marathon. Better yet, it’s a Boston Marathon qualifier. The course winds along Front Beach Road, offering stunning Gulf views to keep you motivated with every step. With the start and finish at Pier Park, you’ll enjoy a festive atmosphere that blends fitness with PCB’s signature coastal charm. Running a marathon never looked so good!

New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop

Get ready for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration in Panama City Beach! The festivities kick off at 4 pm at Aaron Bessant Park, where kids’ activities and local vendors set the stage for an evening of fun. By 5:35 pm, the party shifts to Pier Park with live music in front of the iconic Ball Drop Tower, ramping up the energy for the first big event.

At 8 pm, it’s time for the family-friendly highlight: 10,000 beach balls rain down from the sky as fireworks light up the night. But the fun doesn’t stop there! From 8:20 pm until midnight, live music and party vibes take over Pier Park, keeping the excitement alive.

Finally, as the clock strikes midnight, all eyes turn to the main ball drop, followed by a breathtaking fireworks finale to welcome the New Year in style. Whether you’re there for the kids or the late-night fun, this celebration is one for the books!

Mardi Gras Parade and Music Festival

If you’re visiting Panama City Beach in January/February, don’t miss the vibrant Mardi Gras Parade and Music Festival, a two-day celebration packed with family-friendly fun and festive flair. On Friday, February 14, the festivities kick off with float tours on Pier Park Drive, a Kids Fun Zone, and the official opening ceremonies, complete with a Kids Parade. The excitement ramps up with a lively Second Line Parade and a performance by Chubby Carrier & The Bayou Swamp Band.

The fun continues on Saturday, February 15, starting bright and early with the Mardi Gras 5K Fun Run at Frank Brown Park. The Kids Fun Zone and Festival Village reopen at noon, offering activities for all ages, while live music fills the air with performances by The Band Feel, Chris Janson (headliner), and the energetic Lost Bayou Ramblers. The highlight of the day is the Krewe of Dominique Youx Mardi Gras Parade, which winds through Powell Adams and Front Beach Road, dazzling the crowd with floats, beads, and endless excitement. The evening wraps up with a performance by Double Trouble Zydeco (6p) and stunning fireworks over the pier (7:15p).

With parades, music, fireworks, and plenty of candy and beads to go around, this Mardi Gras celebration is the perfect blend of coastal charm and carnival spirit!

PCB Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival

Finally, one of my favorite things to do in Panama City Beach in the winter is the PCB Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival. Great food, great beer, great weather—you just can’t beat it! We always bring the kids (and our doggie) for the music and the festivities. Even though my kids are getting a little older, they still love the jump houses, face paintings, and balloon art. From February 8 to 9, 2025, Aaron Bessant Park will host 30 fan-favorite food trucks and the area’s top craft beers. Buy your tickets in advance to save a little money.

Things to do in Panama City Beach in the winter

When it comes to things to do in Panama City Beach in the winter, the options are as plentiful as the sunshine. From festive parades and fireworks to savory food festivals and cozy beach vibes, PCB has become the ultimate winter getaway. So, pack your bags, bring your crew (including the doggie!), and let the good times roll—because winter at the beach is anything but boring!