Good morning, Panama City.

On Thanksgiving, guests at El Governor Resort gathered for a meal that marked Mexico Beach’s recovery from recent challenges—tornado damage from a month ago and lingering repairs after Hurricane Michael—and the hotel reopened on Nov 21 with limited capacity, aiming for a full reopening by mid-December.

Local nonprofit organizer Machell Akins has served a full Thanksgiving meal with turkey, macaroni and cheese, and yams at the corner of East Sixth Street and Magnolia Avenue for seven years.

The event also gives personal hygiene products and will return before Christmas — to support those in need.

The Knights of Columbus cooked their annual Thanksgiving feast by preparing over 100 meals—helping feed Bay County seniors—and showed longtime commitment to the community.

Volunteers packed turkey dinners—ensuring each senior got a hot meal—and delivered them with Meals on Wheels.

Airport officials said full parking lots and opened overflow lots with shuttle service on Wednesday as many travelers headed out for Thanksgiving—AAA warns drivers to leave early to beat heavy traffic.

They expect Saturday through Monday to be the busiest days with people coming in to enjoy the good weather and area attractions.

Jessica Foster spoke with author Dr. Brittany Penner about her memoir Children Like Us—where she explained her challenges growing up as an adopted Metis woman in a Mennonite family and discussed questions about identity in the adoption triad.

Bay County firefighters celebrated Thanksgiving at their station by sharing a meal and staying on duty—responding to calls that included a cooking incident triggering a smoke detector.

On Thanksgiving morning, Gulf Coast State College hosted its 3rd Annual Turkey Trot with over 500 runners taking part in a 5K course over Hathaway Bridge and a 1-mile fun run option to support student-athletes— Athletic Director Michael Kandler said the event showed strong community support.

Beach Home For The Holidays

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Aaron Bessant Park — Free entry — Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with festivities as Santa Claus comes to town.

Jingle Bell Express

5:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m. — Destination Panama City — Check website for prices — Experience the magical ride connecting Downtown Panama City & St. Andrews in a festive holiday atmosphere.

2025 Panama City Christmas Parade

6 PM — Historic Downtown Panama City — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday season with a festive parade featuring community floats and holiday cheer.

The Nutcracker by Panama City Ballet

7-9 p.m. — Arnold High School — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical journey through dance with the enchanting tale of Clara and her beloved Nutcracker.

39th Annual Boat Parade of Lights

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Destination Panama City — Free entry — Enjoy a magical holiday boat parade illuminating St. Andrews Bay with festive lights and decorations.

Christmas Community Feast

2-4 p.m. — Sun Outdoors Panama City Beach — Bring a dish to share — Enjoy a festive community gathering with a delicious feast and good company.