This Fourth of July is more than a holiday. In 2026, the United States marks 250 years since the founding of the nation, and Panama City is celebrating in a big way. The 4th of July in Panama City means a free, family-friendly festival on the shores of St. Andrews Bay, two stages of live music, food vendors, kids activities, and one of the most spectacular fireworks displays on the Gulf Coast. There is no better place to celebrate America’s 250th birthday than right here on the water.

Salute to Freedom 4th of July Festival 2026

Saturday, July 4, 2026 | 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM
Panama City Marina | 1 Harrison Avenue, Panama City, FL Free and open to the public

The July 4th Salute to Freedom Festival returns to Historic Downtown Panama City on the Panama City Marina for an afternoon of patriotic family fun culminating in a spectacular fireworks display. This year’s celebration carries special significance as the nation marks 250 years of independence.

Live Music on Two Stages

This year’s Salute to Freedom brings two full stages of live entertainment running from 4:00 PM until the start of the fireworks.

Stage 1

• 4:00 PM — Zack Miller Band
• 6:00 PM — 12Eleven
• 8:00 PM — Last Left

Stage 2

• 5:00 PM — Anne Cline and The Dirty Peaches
• 7:00 PM — Sons of Saints

With overlapping sets across both stages, the music never stops from the moment the gates open.

FREE Kids Activities – Americana Crafts, Balloon Fun, and More!

The Salute to Freedom kid zone is a full afternoon of free entertainment for the little ones. Here is what to look forward to:

• Giant flag painting craft to be donated to the Bay County Historical Society
• Stilt walkers twisting up colorful balloon creations
• Patriotic photo ops with Lady Liberty on stilts
• Show your love for Panama City with the iconic LovePC sign

The St. Joe Community Foundation sponsors the Kids Zone, keeping all activities completely free for families.

Food, Vendors, and More

With an array of food vendors serving up summer flavors and an eclectic mix of artisan crafts, jewelry, boutique clothing, and more, there is plenty to explore throughout the afternoon. Cool off in the Innovations Financial Credit Union Cooling Zone, grab a cold drink from Buffalo Rock-Pepsi, or stop by the History Class Brewing Company craft beer area. Browse the vendor area, soak in the live music, and settle in for a full day on the waterfront.

Fireworks Over the Bay

At 9:00 PM, the sky over St. Andrews Bay lights up for one of the most breathtaking fireworks displays on the Gulf Coast. Watching the show reflected on the calm bay water with the Panama City waterfront as your backdrop is a Salute to Freedom tradition, and in 2026 it carries the added significance of celebrating 250 years of American independence.

Bring a blanket or chairs to the Panama City Marina and claim your spot early. Seating is not provided at the event.

For an elevated experience, the VIP Fireworks on 5 event at Steam on 5 atop Hotel Indigo offers panoramic waterfront views, a buffet menu, and a complimentary drink ticket. Seating is extremely limited — call 877-846-3446 to reserve your spot.

Thank You to Our 2026 Sponsors

The Salute to Freedom Festival is made possible by the generous support of our sponsors:

• Beverage Sponsor: Buffalo Rock Pepsi
• Kids Zone Sponsor: The St. Joe Community Foundation
• Official Radio Sponsor: iHeart Media
• Official Television Sponsor: WJHG
• Craft Beer Sponsor: History Class Brewing Company
• Cooling Zone Sponsor: Innovations Financial Credit Union
• Fireworks Sponsor: Bill Cramer Chevrolet GMC

More Independence Day Fun in Panama City

Plan Your Stay for 4th of July in Panama City

Make a full weekend of it. Panama City’s historic neighborhoods, waterfront dining, and bayside activities make for the perfect extended stay around the holiday. Browse all accommodations to find the right fit for your group, and keep an eye on the events calendar for everything happening in the city around the 4th of July weekend.

Frequently Asked Questions

When and where is the 4th of July festival in Panama City, FL in 2026?

The Salute to Freedom 4th of July Festival takes place on Saturday, July 4, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM at the Panama City Marina, located at 1 Harrison Avenue in Historic Downtown Panama City. The event is free and open to the public.

Is the 4th of July festival in Panama City free?

Yes. The Salute to Freedom Festival is completely free and open to the public. Food, beverages, and vendor purchases are at your own expense. A cash bar is available on site with ID required.

What time are the fireworks during the 4th of July in Panama City?

The fireworks display over St. Andrews Bay begins at 9:00 PM on July 4, 2026. Bring chairs or a blanket to the Panama City Marina and arrive early to find a great spot along the waterfront.

Who is performing at the 2026 Salute to Freedom Festival?

The 2026 festival features two stages of live music. Stage 1 performances include the Zack Miller Band at 4:00 PM, 12Eleven at 6:00 PM, and Last Left at 8:00 PM. Stage 2 features Anne Cline and The Dirty Peaches at 5:00 PM and Sons of Saints at 7:00 PM.

Why is the 4th of July 2026 especially significant?

July 4, 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of American independence, known as the United States Semiquincentennial. Panama City’s Salute to Freedom Festival this year celebrates not just another Fourth of July but a once-in-a-generation milestone in American history — making it one of the most memorable 4th of July celebrations in Panama City’s history.