Good morning, Panama City.

A local food truck+craft beer festival will take place Feb.

7 and 8 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Aaron Bessant Park, offering residents a chance to sample diverse flavors in a relaxed setting.

Panama City Beach safety officials reported the area is more prepared for the 2026 beach season than ever before — new safety enhancements are planned to boost protection for visitors as the season approaches.

Pizza Hut closed several Florida locations since 2024 and announced plans to shutter 250 underperforming outlets nationwide as part of a new strategy after a 3% drop in same-store sales + the chain is testing modern changes like self-service kiosks and a Hut ‘N Go drive-thru.

The Ghetto Palace is set to re-open this weekend in Panama City for live music and community events, with a refreshed design (more details on programming will be shared soon).

The SOWAL Comedy Festival runs from Feb.

12 through Feb. 14 at Distillery 98, Wild Olives and SOWAL House in Rosemary Beach, featuring headliners Peter Wong, Anjelica Scannura and Carter Deems + a special dinner at Wild Olives for couples on a fun date-night.

State lawmakers Patronis and Bilirakis introduced the Save for Success Act to let first-time homebuyers use tuition savings on closing costs and mortgage payments.

The proposed bill awaits further legislative review.

Crews are repairing a water main break on Beck Avenue near 98, which has led to road closures between 98 and West 17th Street, and drivers should use alternate routes.

Local businesses in Panama City Beach support new spring break ordinances set by police (designed to curb alcohol abuse, loitering, and violence) as they prepare for the upcoming busy season.

The measures will help create a safer environment during spring break events.

Meals on Wheels volunteers delivered nutritious meals + provided personal check-ins to Bay County seniors on Feb.

5, offering care beyond food to support their well-being.

Bay County recognized its top girls golfers on Feb.

5 by naming Freshman Missy Perdue Girls Golfer of the Year and awarding Keith Roberts of Rutherford as Girls Golf Coach of the Year (for building a competitive team).

Bay High hosted a signing day on Feb.

5, 2026, where five athletes including Maddox Memmen + Javar Bowden + Omari Johnson + Alex Baker + Camdyn Havel signed to continue their sports careers at universities; the event celebrated their strong high school performances.

Fire Piano Show featuring Brandon Giles

5:30-9 p.m. — Neons Bar 72 — Dinner event — Light up your Valentine's Day with an unforgettable performance combining piano music and fiery entertainment.

Gaither Vocal Band Concert

5-7 p.m. — Hiland Park Baptist Church — Tickets starting at $90 — Experience unforgettable harmonies with the Gaither Vocal Band live in concert.

MSBL Sunshine Classic 2026

All day — Publix Sports Park — Free entry — Experience thrilling men's senior league baseball action with live streaming highlights.

Gumbo Cook-Off

10 a.m. — Mexico Beach Boat Ramp — Entry fee varies — Enjoy a flavorful competition with live entertainment and community spirit.

10th Annual Shaddai Shriner’s Rodeo

5 PM – 10 PM — Central Panhandle Fair in Bay County — $20 — Experience thrilling rodeo action and community spirit at this annual event.

KoSA Bougie Bingo 2026

5:30-11:30 p.m. — The KOSA Event Center — $15.00 – $800.00 — Experience a night of luxury and laughter with the Krewe of St. Andrews' bingo fundraiser.