Fall Festival & Farmers Market is Sept. 23

Panama City Beach, FL.– The Panama City Beach Parks & Recreation Department is celebrating Fall this weekend, with its inaugural Fall Festival & Farmers Market from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, September 23 at Aaron Bessant Park.

Bring the family out for this free, fun event that will include more than 50 vendors. Shop for fresh produce and handmade crafts, sample the fare from the food trucks, visit the kids zone, and enjoy live music from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Parks & Recreation Director Cheryl Joyner said the department has wanted to put on a farmer’s market for some time.

“We just love the idea of having local produce and other homemade items available for the community to purchase, and the timing is great in that fall is one of the best times of the year at the beach, especially for locals,” she said. 

“We are celebrating all things fall as we are anticipating a good turnout. The weather is supposed to be great, there’s plenty of parking, and you can come early and still get back home to watch your favorite team play. We even have a football component at the festival.”

A food drive is being held in conjunction with the event. Those who donate four or more non-perishable food items get their name in a drawing for prizes. Food will be donated to needy families during the upcoming holiday season. Recognizing it is college football season, donors can make their way over to the Game Day tent and make their donation in the name of their favorite team — Florida State, Florida, Auburn or Alabama. A fifth donation bin includes all other teams. Colorado anyone? 

“Since this is a famer’s market, we certainly think about those within the community who are struggling to make ends meet, including putting food on the table,” said Joyner. “This is a great opportunity to give back by donating items to be shared with those less fortunate.”

Volunteers are also needed for this event. Students and others who need volunteer hours can email Canon Havard for details. The first 300 visitors will receive a complimentary tote bag upon arrival.

“We hope this can become an annual tradition of fun, food, entertainment and more,” Joyner added.