How to Celebrate the Fourth of July in Panama City Beach
If you're spending the Fourth of July in Panama City Beach, get ready for more than just fireworks. This is one of the biggest summer holidays on the Gulf Coast, and Panama City Beach celebrates in style—with synchronized light shows, live music, seafood feasts, rooftop parties, and family-friendly events that stretch from July 3 through July 5.
Whether you’re drawn to the beachfront views from Pier Park, planning to catch a show near Grand Lagoon, or looking for a local parade with small-town energy, there’s something for everyone. Here’s how to celebrate Independence Day in PCB this year.
Does Panama City Beach Have 4th of July Fireworks?
Yes! And they’re some of the biggest on the Gulf Coast. In fact, there are multiple firework shows spread over several nights, giving you more than one chance to catch the sparkle.
Here’s a breakdown of every major fireworks display happening in and around Panama City Beach, FL this Fourth of July:
Star Spangled Spectacular at Russell-Fields City Pier
The main event takes place on July 4 with fireworks launched from Russell-Fields City Pier and M.B. Miller County Pier, synced to music via a live radio simulcast. It’s the centerpiece of Panama City Beach's Independence Day celebration, best viewed from Pier Park or the beach.
- Where: Russell-Fields City Pier & M.B. Miller County Pier
- When: July 4, 2025
- Time: 9:00 pm
- Viewing Area: Pier Park and surrounding beachfront
- Simulcast On: Wild Willie 100.1, News Talk 101, Island 106, 97X
Freedom Rocks Fireworks Show at Grand Lagoon
Celebrate early with this July 3 show over Grand Lagoon, near Capt. Anderson’s Marina. It's a local favorite and a great way to kick off the holiday.
- Where: 5550 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City, FL (address of Capt. Anderson’s Marina)
- When: July 3, 2025
- Time: 9:00 pm
- Simulcast: Magic Broadcasting Stations
Light Up the Bay
Also on July 3, Light Up the Bay at Papa Joe’s Bayside delivers another round of fireworks, right along the waterfront. Bring a blanket and enjoy the calm before the big day.
- Where: 4601 U.S. 98, Panama City, FL
- When: July 3
- Time: Around 8:30–9:00 pm
Light Up the Gulf at Boardwalk Beach Resort
If you’re staying through the weekend, Light Up the Gulf offers one more chance to catch fireworks on July 5. This smaller but still stunning show closes out the holiday stretch.
- Where: Boardwalk Beach Resort, 9450 S. Thomas Drive, Panama City, FL
- When: July 5
- Time: 8:30 pm
Live Music and Festivals on the Fourth
In addition to fireworks, PCB also has exciting festivals and events happening through the Fourth of July weekend. From seafood boils to live entertainment, these are some things we're looking forward to:
Salute to Freedom Festival at Panama City Marina
One of the most complete July 4th experiences around, Salute to Freedom features an afternoon of food vendors, artisan booths, a family fun zone, and live music, ending with a fireworks show over St. Andrews Bay that will be simulcast with iHeartMedia (station to be announced).
- Where: Panama City Marina, 1 Harrison Ave. Panama City, FL
- When: July 4
- Time:
- 4:00 pm – Festival Grounds Open
- 5:00 pm – Music by Sons of Saints
- 6:30 pm – Music by Last Left
- 9:00 pm – Fireworks
Red, White & Boil at Harrison’s Kitchen & Bar
If you prefer to celebrate Independence Day with a bit more elbow room and a plate full of seafood, the Red, White & Boil package at Harrison’s Kitchen & Bar is for you. Each reserved table seats up to eight people and includes access to the concerts at the marina, VIP perks, and a classic Gulf Coast seafood boil.
Menu includes:
- 3 lbs Peel and Eat Shrimp
- 2 lbs Snow Crab Clusters
- 3 lbs Whole Crawfish
- 2 lbs Andouille Sausage
- 3 lbs Red Potatoes
- 12 Corn Cobettes
- 12 Hard-Boiled Eggs
- Boil Seasoned with Old Bay, Citrus, Cajun Spices, and Herbs
Event Details:
- Where: 5 Harrison Ave., Panama City, FL
- When: July 4
- Contact: (850) 979-5550 or info@harrisonskitchenandbar.com
Fireworks on 5 at Hotel Indigo
This rooftop experience offers incredible waterfront views, a buffet, drinks, and one of the best seats in town.
- Where: 7 Harrison Ave., Panama City, FL
- When: July 4, 6:00–10:00 pm
- Contact: (877) 846-3446 or casey.suggs@stjoe.com
Lynn Haven 4th of July Parade
Looking for a parade and some old-school charm? Lynn Haven, located about half an hour from PCB, kicks off their 4th of July celebrations early with floats, stilt walkers, live music, and a big finale at Kinsaul Park.
- Where:
- Parade: 9th St. & Hwy 77, Lynn Haven, FL
- Activities: Sharon Sheffield Park
- Fireworks: A.L. Kinsaul Park
- When: July 4
- Time:
- 8:00 am – Opening Ceremony
- 8:45 am – Parade
- 9:00 am – Games, Vendors, Activities
- 6:00 pm – Live Music
- 9:00 pm – Fireworks
Things to Do Beyond the Fireworks
When you're not at a festival or catching a show, spend your days enjoying what PCB does best—beachfront fun. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy the coast before or after the Fourth:
- Deep-sea fishing, dolphin cruises, or eco tours with Capt. Anderson’s Marina
- The Sea Patriot Jet Boat Ride – high-speed turns, ocean spray, and all the excitement you can pack into 40 minutes
- Sunset boat rides and parasailing
- Beach lounging with umbrellas and coolers
- Dining out at local seafood restaurants and waterfront favorites—see our Panama City Beach restaurant picks
- Explore more activities in our Panama City Beach area guide!
Book Your Stay for the Fourth of July
Featured Property: Laketown Wharf 1807
Holiday weekends fill up fast, but if you’re planning a last-minute Fourth of July Panama City Beach getaway, there’s still a spot for you and your family!
At Nautical Properties, our PCB vacation rentals put you close to all the best patriotic fun while also guaranteeing the best rate on your stay! Plus, with the help of our local team, we can help you choose the best things to do during your stay, so this vacation turns into one you’ll remember forever. See all our properties and find your dream getaway today!
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Fourth of July in Panama City Beach
Is July a good time to go to Panama City Beach?
July is a great time to visit Panama City Beach! Though it’ll certainly be hot, that just makes beach days all the more fun. Plus, with excellent things to do, especially around the 4th of July, there’s never a dull moment.
What month can you not drink on the beach in Panama City Beach?
As part of the city’s efforts to keep spring break family-friendly, drinking alcohol on the beach is not allowed during the month of March, but is permitted during July.
What’s the best spot to watch the fireworks in Panama City Beach?
You’ll get a front-row view from Russell-Fields City Pier, Pier Park, or along the beach near Grand Lagoon. For a more exclusive view, try a rooftop seat at Hotel Indigo or reserve a table at Harrison’s Kitchen & Bar.
Where can I see live music on the 4th of July in Panama City Beach?
Check out Aaron Bessant Park near Pier Park during the Star Spangled Spectacular, or head to Panama City Marina for live bands at the Salute to Freedom festival.
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