Good morning, Panama City.

On Saturday, St. Andrews Marina hosted the 28th annual Blessing of the Fleet which featured vendors, a fish fry, live music, a boat procession and the burning of winter socks—marking a seasonal change.

Proceeds benefited Second Chance of Northwest Florida, and organizers said the event, the nonprofit's largest fundraiser, will return in 2026.

On Saturday, protestors gathered in the parking lot of Gulf World Marine Park in Panama City Beach to protest reported dolphin deaths and question the treatment of both animals and trainers.

They say the park's conditions—claimed to fall short of what is advertised—are disappointing visitors while the facility remains open.

On Saturday, community volunteers gathered at Dog Beach in Pier Park for a cleanup while Ron Jon Surf Shop donated $10 per volunteer to United Way of Northwest Florida—efforts that help protect local marine life.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officials remind local boaters that National Safe Boating Week (May 17-23) is a chance to review safety practices and required gear such as life jackets, a sound-producing device, and more.

They led a ride-along from Panama City Marina and urged anyone without formal training to sign up for free online courses (a key step to ensure safe boating before summer).

Retailers such as Lowe’s, Wayfair, Pottery Barn and West Elm are offering deep discounts on patio furniture — deals include up to 70% off on outdoor sectionals, dining sets and decor.

Memorial Day is observed on May 26 and Panama City shoppers can take advantage of these offers — a chance to upgrade their backyards for summer.

Award-winning author Cynthia Barnett will speak about her book on the role of seashells in human history at Bay County Public Library on May 27 at 6 p.m. She will explain how these shells were used as money — serving as jewelry and art — and show how climate change and pollution are hurting the marine creatures that create them.

Pirates Voyage Dinner and Show in Panama City Beach will offer preview shows on June 1, 2 and 3 and will officially open on June 6 as cast and crew finish training for the $60 million project—featuring custom-designed costumes, sets and props—while Dolly Parton prepares to host a media event on June 5. Tickets for 2025 shows are now available.

On May 16, Rosenwald High School celebrated its largest graduating class at Tommy Oliver Stadium in Panama City — 148 graduates tossed their caps in the air during the ceremony.

HCA Florida Gulf Coast rescheduled its Nurses Week celebration to Saturday — the event was delayed by weather last week after Nurses Week ran from May 4 to May 10.

Paint Night at House of Henry

6-8:30 p.m. — House of Henry Irish Pub and Restaurant — All materials included — Create strawberry vibes while sipping and painting in a fun atmosphere.

Corey Hall Live Performance

6 PM – 12 AM — Burgunbarrel — Check website for ticket prices — Experience the soulful sound of Gulf Coast musician Corey Hall blending blues and folk elements.

Night of Poets

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Panama City Center for the Arts — No refunds — Experience an evening filled with captivating poetry, music, and art performances that celebrate creativity and expression.

Seashells and the Sound of the Sea

5-6 p.m. — Bay County Public Library — Free entry — Discover the captivating history of seashells and their significance in nature and culture with expert insights from environmental journalist Cynthia Barnett.

Gulf Coast Jam Country Music Festival

May 29- June 1 — Frank Brown Park — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the vibrant country music scene over four days in beautiful Panama City Beach.

Jelly Roll Live Performance

12-4 a.m. — Frank Brown Park — Tickets TBA — Experience genre-bending songs from the rising star Jelly Roll.

The Red Clay Strays Concert

12-4 a.m. — Frank Brown Park — Free entry — Experience the musical journey of the Red Clay Strays from Mobile, Alabama.

On-Site Tour of Superior Residences

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Superior Residences of Panama City Beach — Free entry — Discover top-rated senior living amenities and community activities during an informative tour.

PCPHC Charity Event

5:30-8 p.m. — Papa Joe's Bayside — Donation encouraged — Enjoy live entertainment by Shack N Up while supporting Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Bay County.

BCPL Virtual Book Club

10:30-11:30 a.m. — Bay County Public Library — Free entry — Dive into 'The Grey Wolf' by Louise Penny with fellow book enthusiasts online.