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FLORIDA
Find your Winter White in Panama City Beach
by Susan B. Barnes
Winter white takes on a new meaning in Panama City Beach, Florida. Billowing clouds drift across a brilliant blue sky, flocks of birds glide along their migration routes, and powder-soft sands shimmer against turquoise waters. It’s an idyllic winter backdrop made warmer by an average of 320 days of sunshine a year and daytime temperatures hovering around 20°C.
Each year, this welcoming Gulf Coast community rolls out the white carpet for its winter residents, inviting them to seasonal celebrations and social gatherings that make everyone feel at home.
Festive Beginnings by the Beach
The fun starts on New Year’s Eve with the Beach Ball Drop at Pier Park and Aaron Bessant Park, recognized among the best New Year’s Eve celebrations by USA TODAY 10Best. Families enjoy a Kids FUN Zone, live music and fireworks at 8 p.m., followed by a midnight ball drop at Celebration Tower and Russell-Fields City Pier.
In January, winter residents reconnect and dance the night away at the Homecoming Dance and Social, followed by the Winter Resident Senior Prom in February.
Golfers tee off during the popular Mystery Golf Challenges, and the season wraps up with the Winter Resident Grand Finale. Three Winter Resident Appreciation Days—held in January and February—celebrate snowbirds’ return to the Gulf Coast with music, prizes and plenty of Florida sunshine.
A Season of Celebration
The festive spirit continues with the Panama City Beach Mardi Gras and Music Festival, typically held in late January or early February, filling the streets with colourful parades, live music and fireworks. Early February brings the Panama City Beach Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival to Aaron Bessant Park, where visitors sample local flavours and craft brews.
Hundreds of gleaming hot rods, classic cars and vintage beauties will shine under the Florida sun during the Emerald Coast Cruisin’ Car Show that rolls into town from March 12th until March 14th, 2026. This high-octane celebration of nostalgia, music and beachside fun is a favourite reason for snowbirds and long-stay visitors to linger a little longer by the Gulf.
Sunshine, Sand and Southern Hospitality
Between festivals, visitors can stroll along the sugar-white shoreline, savour fresh Gulf seafood or simply bask in the coastal sunshine. Local businesses extend special deals and discounts to long-stay guests, helping them make the most of their time along the turquoise coast.
With its blend of beachside fun, community warmth and endless blue skies, Panama City Beach turns winter into something extraordinary—a place where every day feels like a celebration under the sun.
Travel Planner
For the latest information, visit VisitPanamaCityBeach.com
