Panama City, Fla., March 16, 2016 – Panama City, a diverse and dynamic destination, is offering an array of events in 2016 ranging from world-class fishing tournaments to a festival celebrating cutting-edge digital projection art. With more fun-filled events than ever before, the 2016 schedule includes diverse events sure to appeal to visitors of all ages.

“We are pleased to offer an enticing lineup of events and activities throughout 2016,” said Jennifer Vigil, President and CEO of Destination Panama City. “Whether it’s witnessing some of the area’s most talented fishermen catch redfish or discovering the area’s creative community, this year promises to deliver plenty of memorable moments.”

The following events will be held in Panama City in 2016:

Blessing of the Fleet and Great Porsche Armada, April 9

The traditional beginning of shrimping season begins

Dog Fest Walk and Roll, April 16, 2016

As the local rendition of Canine Companions for Independence’s nationwide signature fundraising event series, Dog Fest Walk’n Roll will take place at Al Helms Dog Park. In addition to the leisurely walk, the event will include food and shopping and fun and games for adults, children and dogs. For more information please visit www.cci.org/dogfestpanamacity.

booksALIVE!, April 27 – 30, 2016

Hosted by Bay County Public Library Foundation, the annual booksALIVE! festival will include events highlighted by two literary giants: a luncheon with keynote speaker New York Times Best Seller Winston Groom, author of Forrest Gump, and a bourbon tasting with Pulitzer Prize winner Rick Bragg. Rounding out the weekend will be live music and social events, including a Lowcountry Boil and an outdoor screening of Forrest Gump on the marina overlooking picturesque St. Andrew Bay. For more information please visit www.booksalive.net.

Columbus Ships Pinta and Niña, May 6 – 11

Authentic replicas of Columbus’ iconic ships Pinta and Niña will dock at Panama City’s Municipal Marina for five days. The Niña was completely hand-built using old-world craftsmanship without employing power tools. Both ships are authentic replicas of the Portuguese caravels that introduced Europeans to the New World during the
Age of Discovery. Visitors are encouraged to board both vessels for a walk-aboard, self-guided tour to learn what life was like on what historians refer to as “the Space Shuttles of the 15th century.” With advanced reservations, groups can experience a 30-minute guided tour. To arrange a tour, please email Columbus Foundation at [email protected] or dial 1-787-672-2152.

IFA Lucas Oil Redfish Open, June 3 – 4, 2016

Presented by Cabela’s, the Inshore Fishing Association (IFA) in conjunction with Lucas Oil has announced a 2-day redfish fishing event. Featuring a made-for-TV competition on a handful of networks, the competition will have a 100% cash payout. For more information please visit www.ifatours.com/open/pro-am-schedule.

Emerald Coast Professional Redfish Series, June 25, Sept. 24 and Nov. 5

Presented by Emerald Coast Redfish Circuit, a family-oriented fishing club based in the Florida Panhandle, the Emerald Coast Professional Redfish Series is the premier redfish tournament series on the Emerald Coast. For more information please visit www.theredfishclub.com.

A-Class Catamaran North American Championships, July 18 – 24, 2016

Hosted by Sail Newport Rhode Island, A-Class Catamaran North American Championships will take place at St. Andrews Bay Yacht Club. The championships will kick off on Sunday, May 17 at Little Villages, an outdoor entertainment venue, with live music and tasty treats by Finns Island Style Grub and social activities will continue on throughout the week. For more information please visit www.acatnorthamericans.com.

Hobie Kayak Championship, Oct. 7 – 8, 2016

The IFA Kayak Tour presented by Hobie Fishing offers unprecedented sponsor bonuses, and television coverage and over 100% payback. For more information please visit www.ifatours.com/kayak-tour

Public Eye Soar Projection Festival, Nov. 4 – 5, 2016

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. This event is free, and all ages are welcome to this family friendly event of light, color and imagination. For more information please visit www.publiceyesoar.net.