Panama City, FL – December 17, 2024 — The 38th Annual Boat Parade of Lights once again illuminated St. Andrews Bay with a breathtaking display of holiday spirit, community pride, and creative brilliance. This cherished Panama City tradition brought together locals and visitors alike to witness a spectacular showcase of festively adorned vessels cruising along the waterfront.

The parade route meandered along seven miles of the bayfront, from St. Andrews Yacht Club all the way to the Hathaway Bridge. Highlights and spectacular viewing locations included the Holiday Village at the Downtown Panama City Marina, Deck the Drews festivities hosted by Keep St. Andrews Salty, the Merry & Bright Bayside Night at Papa Joe’s Bayside, and a dockside watch party at Sun Harbor Marina.

Celebrating the 2024 Winners & Honorable Mentions

People’s Choice Prize (Valued at over $800)

• Boat 12 – Reel Lady
• Captain: Derrick Dorsey
• Message: Merry Christmas from the Reel Lady crew at Gulf Coast Excursions! Offering private dolphin tours, day trips, and fishing charters.

 

Judges’ Choice Prize (Valued at over $450)

• Boat 10 – Big Bee
• Captains: Rory & Marianne Drew
• Theme: “Blues in the Drews” featuring local soloist, Dionzia, the seven-member “Up 2 You” choir ensemble led by Jerome Page, and “Atomic Alice” as a live angel at the ship’s bow. This 1946 tugboat, built by the Arnold Walker Shipyard in Pascagoula, Mississippi, was a crowd favorite.

 

Destination Panama City’s Choice Prize (Valued at over $275)

• Boat 3 – Serenity Now
• Captain: Max McCord
• Theme: This old diesel trawler embraced its quirky charm, exuding a “George Costanza”-like spirit—awkward, persistent, and undeniably lovable. Captain McCord and crew shared plenty of holiday joy.

 

Spotlight on the Judges
This year’s Judges’ Choice prize was determined by a panel of local celebrities, each bringing unique perspectives to the table:

• Tess Connell – Morning Show Host and APD of 92.5 WPAP
• Jayson Kretzer – Executive Director of Bay Arts Alliance
• Patrick Chapin – President & CEO of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce
• Gina Littleton – President & CEO of United Way of Northwest Florida

These dedicated judges deliberated carefully to recognize the exceptional creativity and effort behind the “Big Bee” display, ultimately selecting it as their top choice.

 

Community Partners & Sponsors
The success of this beloved event would not have been possible without the support of community partners and sponsors. Special thanks to iHeartMedia Panama City, 92.5 WPAP, Sunny 98.5, Bay Cars, Fuel Mule Fillup, Redfish Foundation, House of Henry, and the City of Panama City. Their generosity and support brought holiday magic to Panama City’s waterfront.

 

Mark Your Calendar for 2025!
The Boat Parade of Lights continues to grow in popularity each year, and plans are already underway for next year’s event. Save the date for the 39th Annual Panama City Boat Parade of Lights on Saturday, December 13, 2025. With even more creativity, community pride, and holiday spirit on display, it’s sure to be an unforgettable night on the bay.

 

Thank You, Panama City!
On behalf of the City of Panama City and Destination Panama City, we extend our deepest gratitude to all who participated, voted, and attended this year’s event. Your enthusiasm, support, and festive spirit continue to make the Boat Parade of Lights a cherished holiday tradition for our community. From every twinkling boat to every smiling face, this event is a testament to the unity and vibrancy of our beloved city. We can’t wait to see you next year!