Panama City is on the cusp of becoming an artist’s and art lover’s mecca since establishing itself as a diverse and dynamic destination for both the performing and visual arts. “Panama City is on the rise as a destination for the arts, and we are thrilled to welcome visitors who come to experience our bustling arts scene in addition to the world-class water activities we have long been known for,” said Jennifer Vigil, President and CEO of Destination Panama City. “In the past, our culture has largely been guided by its proximity to the water, so our evolution as an artistic destination is the perfect complement.”

Downtown serves as Panama City’s art and theater district, anchored by the stage of the 1936 art deco Martin Theater, the 2,500-seat auditorium at the Marina Civic Center and the City Arts Co-Op, a 7,000-square-foot facility with performance and studio space. These venues host a range of events from local talent to international touring acts and Broadway performances.

The Panama City Center for the Arts provides cultural enrichment through a wide range of art courses including painting, sculpture and digital design. Each spring, The Centre and Bay Arts Alliance host the Bay Annual, a juried art contest and exhibition featuring the work of local artists residing in 16 Panhandle counties.

From Music Matters, a grassroots campaign credited with revitalizing the Panama City music scene, to the 200-person Ukulele Orchestra of St. Andrews, Panama City’s thriving music scene is experiencing a major breakthrough. In the Fall, downtown Panama City comes alive with light, sound and art during Public Eye SOAR, a digital projection art festival that transforms downtown’s streetscape with animations and films.