July 4th is around the corner, and it’s going to be a busy season in Bay County. The News Herald has compiled this guide to let you know about all of the events planned to celebrate the holiday this year. We encourage you to keep checking this guide for the latest information.
Here’s why this year’s July 4 is different
America is celebrating its 250th birthday this year, so you can anticipate the biggest July 4th weekend in recent memory. America 250 will be a massive nationwide celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Join the USA TODAY Network in celebrating and exploring our history
Go America! It’s your 250th birthday! Subscribe to our weekly USA 250 newsletter https://profile.usatoday.com/newsletters/usa-250/
Where to celebrate in Bay County
Fireworks
2025 July 4th Salute to Freedom Festival
This event will be on July 4 at 1 Harrison Ave., Panama City from 4-9:30 p.m. The Panama City Marina will have a full afternoon of patriotic activities. This family friendly event is free and open to the public.
This event is a family-friendly festival on the shores of St. Andrews Bay. It will feature two stages of live music, food vendors, kids activities, and spectacular fireworks.
Fireworks on 5
Celebrate Independence Day in style at the VIP Exclusive Event at Steam on 5, located atop Hotel Indigo Panama City Marina.
Red, White, and Boil
Enjoy a front-row seat to the festivities with Harrisons Kitchen & Bar‘s Red, White & Boil package, featuring a reserved table, a delicious seafood boil, VIP perks, and exclusive access to concerts at the marina.
How has Panama City contributed to American history?
There are many examples. Here’s one:
Following World War II, the U.S. Navy established the Naval Support Activity Panama City. It is home to the largest Navy Dive School in the world, training all U.S. military divers. The base has been vital in developing advanced diving and marine technologies for the U.S. Armed Forces.
Some key links to help you plan
Here is the link to the upcoming weather forecasts in Bay County. Be sure to check the forecast regularly as July 4th nears.
Panamacity.org is the link to the Bay County Chamber of Commerce website, where you can keep up with all of the events going on in Bay County.
Some other ways to appreciate our area
Consider visiting Russell-Fields City Pier (16101 Front Beach Road) and M.B. Miller County Pier (12213 Front Beach Road) before or after the July 4th celebrations.
Panama City Marina (1 Harrison Ave.) is another great location to celebrate the holiday. Electric fireworks are displayed along with a wide variety of family-friendly events.
Do you know of a July 4th event going on in Bay County? Email details to DCSmith@usatodayco.com
This article originally appeared on The News Herald: Your complete guide to America’s 250th birthday in Bay County
Reporting by DeonTay Smith, Panama City News Herald / The News Herald
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By DeonTay Smith, Panama City News Herald | USA TODAY Network
