Tourism Appreciation Day 2026

In Bay County and especially Panama City Beach, tourism continues to be the heartbeat of the local economy. Visitors come for the 27 miles of sugar white sand and emerald waters, but they stay for warm welcomes, unforgettable sunsets, and unique experiences that only this Gulf Coast destination can offer. Tourism not only drives local culture and community energy, it also generates billions in economic impact and supports thousands of jobs that benefit families and businesses across Bay County.

Each May, Bay County dedicates an entire month to Tourism Appreciation Month, a celebration of the people and partners who make this destination thrive. Tourism Appreciation Month honors the hospitality workers, service teams, business owners, guides, planners, event hosts, and every individual whose dedication helps shape Panama City Beach into a welcoming place for visitors from around the world. Throughout May 2026, the community will come together to say thank you in meaningful, fun, and memorable ways.

First Friday with the Beach on May 1 provides a kickoff to the month with networking, inspiration, and community connection as local leaders and tourism partners gather to share updates and celebrate where the destination is headed.

Tourism Appreciation Day on May 6 will be held at Publix Sports Park from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. This evening is dedicated to honoring the people who bring Panama City Beach to life and will celebrate hospitality workers, service teams, and all who help make this community shine.

Hospitality Appreciation Days from May 1 through May 12 will offer special experiences and recognition for hospitality teams, including complimentary access to exhibits and activities designed to say thank you to those who work to make every visitor’s experience amazing.

Throughout the month there will be additional events and moments dedicated to celebrating tourism’s impact in Bay County, all designed to highlight the heart and soul behind this vibrant industry.

Tourism Appreciation Month is more than a series of events. It is a reminder of the value tourism brings to our community, uplifting local businesses, enriching lives, and welcoming the world to our beaches, trails, parks, restaurants, and attractions year after year. Whether you work in hospitality, support tourism behind the scenes, or simply enjoy what this place has to offer, May is a time to celebrate the collective effort that makes Panama City Beach an extraordinary destination.

Thank you to everyone who helps make Panama City Beach such a remarkable place to visit, work, and call home. Your passion, dedication, and community spirit are at the heart of this Real. Fun. Beach. destination.