Southeast Tourism Society Selects Oktoberfest and Boat Parade of Lights as “Signature Events of the Southeast”
Panama City, FL: August 13, 2025 — Southeast Tourism Society (STS) has named Oktoberfest and Boat Parade of Lights in Panama City, Florida as Signature Events of the Southeast for 2025.
This year’s Oktoberfest takes place September 26-27, 2025, transforming Downtown Panama City into a lively celebration of German culture with music, food, and family fun. The Boat Parade of Lights will set sail on December 13, 2025, bringing illuminated vessels to St. Andrews Bay for one of the most magical nights of the year. Signature Events of the Southeast, formerly known as “Top 20 Festival and Event Awards,” was launched as part of the 40th Anniversary celebration of Southeast Tourism Society in 2023. STS has recognized events and festivals around the Southeast since 1985.
Travel industry experts select top events to be highlighted for the year, and STS publicizes them throughout the United States. The complete list is published on both the Travel Media Press Room and Escape to the Southeast® websites and recognized on all Southeast Tourism Society’s social media platforms.
About Oktoberfest
Panama City’s Oktoberfest blends Bavarian tradition with coastal charm, offering two days of celebration in the heart of Downtown. The festivities kick off Friday evening with the popular Volksmarch Beer Crawl, where participants stroll through downtown sampling craft brews from local bars and breweries while enjoying live music along the route. On Saturday, the family-friendly Oktoberfest festival takes over the streets with German music, stein-holding contests, traditional dances, authentic fare such as bratwurst and pretzels, and a variety of activities for all ages. It is a weekend where locals and visitors alike can come together to celebrate culture, community, and coastal hospitality.
About the Boat Parade of Lights
Each December, the waterfront comes alive with a dazzling procession of boats adorned in twinkling holiday lights and creative displays. Thousands of spectators gather along the shores of St. Andrews Bay to watch the glowing vessels glide by. With live music, holiday treats, and a festive atmosphere throughout the historic district, it has become a beloved tradition for families and visitors.
“For more than 40 years, STS has been spotlighting the best festivals and events in the Southeast. Our goal is to highlight the efforts of devoted event organizers and provide additional media exposure and accolades for their events,” said Monica Smith, President and CEO of Southeast Tourism Society. “The Southeast offers so many unique, year-round, opportunities for tourists and festivalgoers to create memories and support the tourism industry-–a vital economic generator for communities.”
Events considered for the STS Signature Events of the Southeast recognition must be at least three years old and have an attendance of at least 1,000. Nominations open in early spring. Members and non-members are eligible to apply. Winning submissions are automatically judged in the Festival or Event of the Year category for STS’s Shining Example Awards.