Panama City Beach captivates visitors with its 27 miles of sugar-white sand and crystal-clear emerald waters. Breathtaking coastal views and gentle ocean breezes make it a picturesque paradise perfect for relaxation and celebration, and it only gets better as winter rolls around.
Looking for the ideal place to welcome Santa Claus and sing Christmas carols in sunshine-saturated Florida? Check out our condo rentals, perfect for groups or the whole family.
Curious about what Christmas in Panama City Beach has to offer? Enjoy a unique celebration with sunny beaches, festive events, and family-friendly activities like Santa visits, tree lightings, and live music performances during Panama City Beach Christmas. Read on to learn more.
What is Christmas in Panama City Beach Like?
Photo Credit: Catherine Cornish
Christmas in Panama City Beach is a delightful blend of sunny beach days and festive holiday traditions. The city comes alive with a plethora of holiday events, including campfires, tree lightings, and opportunities for family photos with Santa. Here, it is not just about the decorations but also about the unique experience of celebrating Christmas by the sea.
From elaborately decorated streets to community events, the holiday spirit is palpable everywhere you go. Imagine enjoying a beautiful sunset on the beach, followed by an evening of festive cheer at some of the best PCB bars.
Whether you are a fan of traditional holiday activities or looking for something new, Panama City Beach offers a perfect mix of both.
Christmas Weather in PCB
One of the most appealing aspects of spending Christmas in Panama City Beach is the weather. During December, this region of the Gulf Coast experiences mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor festivities.
Daytime temperatures typically range from the mid-60s°F, providing a comfortable climate for beach activities and holiday events. As the sun sets, temperatures dip into the low 50s°F, so be sure to bring a cozy sweater for those evening strolls.
While the likelihood of rain slightly increases towards the end of December, rainy days remain relatively low, ensuring that most holiday plans go uninterrupted.
Overall, the weather in PCB during Christmas is perfect for enjoying both the beach and the festive activities. It’s one of the best times of year to plan your visit.
Is Panama City Beach Busy This Time of Year?
The holiday season in Panama City Beach draws a noticeable influx of visitors, creating a bustling atmosphere filled with holiday cheer. Many tourists and locals flock to the area to partake in festive activities with sunshine on the side.
Despite the increase in visitors, the crowds are significantly smaller compared to the peak summer months, offering a pleasant balance between excitement and tranquility.
Restaurants in the area remain largely open throughout December, providing a variety of dining options and drinking holes. Just be sure to check the opening hours of individual establishments for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.
2025 Holiday Events in Panama City Beach
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Panama City Beach hosts vibrant events all year round, but its holiday offerings are particularly special. Here are the highlights:
Beach Home for the Holidays
- Website: www.visitpanamacitybeach.com/events/holiday-events/beach-home-for-the-holidays
- Dates: November 28 & 29, 2025
The Beach Home for the Holidays event at Aaron Bessant Park is a highlight of the Thanksgiving weekend in Panama City Beach.
This event features concerts, a Christmas tree lighting, and a variety of family activities. The state-of-the-art amphitheater at the park hosts various performances, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Families can enjoy campfires and s’mores in Santa’s village, and holiday movie screenings in a cozy and festive environment. The event also features performances by local ballet and symphony groups, including the Panama City Symphony Orchestra, and a spectacular fireworks display.
This is the perfect place for entertainment to kick off the holiday season with loved ones.
Breakfast With Santa
- Website: www.daveandbusters.com/us/en/holidaydeals/breakfast-with-santa
- Dates: December 7, 2025, 9 AM
If you’re looking for a unique way to have the children meet the big man in red, head to Dave & Buster’s for a special Breakfast With Santa event. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet along with unlimited gaming opportunities in the arcade.
This event is perfect for families, offering a chance for kids to get a photo with Santa Claus and share their holiday wishes. As the kids get started playing games, they’re also likely to make some new friends. It’s a delightful way to start the day and create lasting holiday memories.
Panama City Beach Christmas Parade
- Website: optimistpcb.org/christmas-parade
- Dates: December 13, 2025, 4.30 PM
The Christmas Parade in Panama City Beach is a beloved tradition that takes place on the second Saturday of December each year. The parade features local school marching bands, elaborately decorated floats, and specialty vehicles, creating a vibrant community celebration.
Starting at sunset, around 4:30 to 4:45 PM, the parade lights up the night with festive displays. Candy is passed out to spectators by parade walkers in this magical event, which never fails to bring the community together.
Things to Do in Panama City Beach During Christmas
Photo Credit: Sven Hansche
There’s no shortage of fun activities to try in Panama City Beach, but if you’re visiting over Christmas, be sure to embark on these festive activities.
1. Enjoy Festive Beach Activities
Start your day with a morning stroll along the beautiful beaches of Panama City Beach, where you can witness a breathtaking sunrise or sunset cruise that sets the perfect tone for a festive day.
The mild December weather makes it ideal for engaging in water sports. Rent a paddleboard, kayak, or jet ski to explore the crystal-clear waters, or try parasailing to soak in the holiday cheer from a unique vantage point. You can even book a Dolphin tour.
The holiday season also brings the opportunity to put a unique spin on classic beach activities. Imagine building Christmas-themed sandcastles or playing beach volleyball in a festive costume.
2. Shop Til you Drop: Holiday Shopping Experiences
Holiday shopping in Panama City Beach is a delightful experience, with markets and stores decked out in festive decorations. In December each year, PCB hosts a Very Merry Night Market featuring local crafts and gifts perfect for holiday presents.
Pier Park is a popular shopping complex and lifestyle center with a huge variety of chain and independent stores. It’s a must-visit during the holiday season. It even hosts photos with Santa on select dates from late November until Christmas Eve.
For those seeking a more intimate shopping vibe, The Shoppes at Edgewater offers unique boutiques ideal for finding special gifts. Don’t miss out on Shipwreck LTD for beach-themed souvenirs, perfect for gifting during the holiday season.
Whether you’re looking for traditional holiday items or unique beach gifts, local shops in PCB have it all.
3. Explore Family-Friendly Attractions
Panama City Beach is a haven for family-friendly activities that embrace the holiday spirit.
WonderWorks is a themed adventure park featuring over 100 hands-on exhibits, making it a perfect spot for family fun.
Frank Brown Park is a great place for energetic kids to have fun, with recreational facilities including playgrounds, basketball courts, a fishing pond, and picnic areas.
Families can also enjoy beach bonfires, volleyball, and even horseback riding along the shore. These activities provide a wonderful way to bond with loved ones while soaking in the festive atmosphere.
Christmas Dining Delights: Where to Eat in PCB
When it comes to dining, Panama City Beach offers a variety of options to savor delicious food during the holiday season. No matter if you’re looking for brunch, lunch, or dinner, PCB has a huge variety of eateries to choose from, and many are open on Christmas Day.
Barefoot Hide-A-Way Bar & Grill often opens on Christmas Day, offering a festive atmosphere and hearty meals. Harpoon Harry’s is another great spot known for its welcoming ambiance and indulgent traditional Christmas buffet.
Several places in town regularly host Christmas buffets on the holiday or the days surrounding it.
Book Your Panama City Beach Christmas Vacation Rental
Christmas in Panama City Beach is a unique and magical experience, combining the best of beach life with festive holiday traditions.
Choosing the right vacation rental can make your Christmas in Panama City Beach even more special. Here at The Pines, you can expect a festive, family-friendly atmosphere within easy reach of a huge variety of restaurants, activities, and amenities.
Start planning your holiday getaway with us now and prepare for an unforgettable Christmas in the sun.