Festivals, holiday celebrations and food events: 40+ things to do in Pensacola this fall (2023)

Fall in Pensacola is truly a special time. It's cool enough to finally enjoy the outdoors while avoiding the dangers of heatstroke, but still warm enough to hit the beach.

The city truly comes to life with a plethora of festivals, a melding of Halloween and Christmas-related events and lots of arts and crafts activities. Every weekend is just packed with things to do.

With all of that said, we've put together a list of over 40 events to get you out of the house this fall.

Festivals and events

Pensacola Interstate Fair

  • When: Oct. 20-30
  • Where:6655 Mobile Highway

The Pensacola Interstate Fair returns for its 88th season on Oct. 20 and runs until Oct. 30.The fair is the biggest in the area, providing a huge music line-up, tons of fun rides and plenty of other family-friendly attractions and starts off with Dollar Day —everyone gets admission into the fair for just a dollar and rides are $1, too.

Pensacola Interstate Fair 2022:\Everything you need to know for its 88th season

Gallery Night

  • When: 5 to 9 p.m., Oct. 21
  • Where: Downtown Pensacola

Gallery Night Pensacola's theme of "Fright Night!" will highlight the art of the spooky season and that slight chill in the autumn air.

Gallery Night Pensacola's unique monthly themes set the tone for each event's art, performers, musical performance stages and activities that are sure to please. Gallery Night is an all-ages community arts and culture event on the third Friday of each month from 5–9 p.m.

Harvest Festival at First City Art Center

When: 10 a.m., Oct. 22

Where: First City Art Center,1060 N Guillemard St.

If you missed the First City Art Center's pumpkin patch, the Harvest Festival is a chance at redemption. The event incorporates the organization's entire campus and showcases the range of mediums and talents the studios hold. The festivities will include a second-chance pumpkin sale, an artist market featuring nearly two dozen local makers, food trucks, a giant pumpkin raffle, a photo scavenger hunt, glass and ceramics demonstrations, kids activities and more. Entry to Harvest Fest is free — however, they are collecting nonperishable food items for Manna Food Bank as a suggested donation for entry into the event.

Barktoberfest

  • When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Oct. 30
  • Where: Community Maritime Park, 301 W. Main St.

Pensacola Humane Society ishosting the area’s favorite annual pet friendly festival and mega adoption event, Barktoberfest, at Community Maritime Park.There will be food, beverages, a variety ofcontests includingcostume contests and a whipped pie eating contest.

Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival

  • When: Various times.
  • Where: Various locations throughout the festival.

The 38th annual Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival will feature more than 200 nationally acclaimed songwriters in venues along the Florida-Alabama Gulf Coast on Nov.3-13.

The festival is an opportunity for seasoned and aspiring songwriters and musicians from all over the world to have their songs heard, and for the public to learn the stories behind the lyrics that only the song’s author can express. For more information:https://www.frankbrownsongwriters.com/

Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival

  • When: Nov. 4-6
  • Where: Seville Square

The Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival is one of Pensacola’s biggest events of the year and is celebrating its 50th birthday in 2022. It’s located in Downtown Pensacola’s Historic Seville Square.

Art is the festival’s biggest draw, showcasing more than 200 painters, potters, sculptors, jewelers, graphic artists and more from around the nation. Live woodcarving, engraving, spinning and other demonstrations can be found in the Heritage Arts Area.

The festival teams up with the Artel Gallery to provide a grant opportunity for two emerging artists. And there is a Student Art Show that showcases over 2,000 pieces of art from local elementary, middle and high school students.

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Live music can be heard from the main stage and include everything from bluegrass, Cajun and blues to jazz and classical.

And, of course, there is plenty of food to be had from multiple vendors and surrounding local restaurants.

Pensacola Bubble Alley

  • When: Nov. 3 to Dec. 4
  • Where: 101 E. Intendencia St.

As part of Foo Foo Fest, Friends of Downtown is bringing a new public art display similar to the Umbrella Sky Project brought in 2017. Pensacola Bubble Alley will suspend several thousand reusable vinyl “bubbles” high above historic Intendencia Street between Jefferson and Tarragona streets in the heart of downtown Pensacola throughout Foo Foo Festival, beginning Nov. 3.

Located conveniently amidst and between other Foo Foo events, and walkable from downtown shops, galleries, bars and restaurants, the open-air festival is accessible to enjoy both day and night, a fun, free destination for all ages.

Be sure to tag your photos #pensacolaballoonalley and #downtownpensacola.

First City Mural Fest

  • When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Nov. 5
  • Where: Emerald Republic Brewing Co., 101 S. Ninth Ave.

For its inaugural year, First City Mural Fest will be hosting live muralists at Emerald Republic. This year's theme is Pensacola's Hidden Treasures, and selected muralists will be doing a live painting of related murals. There will be artist talks and a silent auction of the murals. Live music starts at 6 p.m., and food will be available all day. The event is free and open to the public.

Stamped: LGBTQIA+ Film Festival

  • When: Nov. 10-13
  • Where: Pensacola Little Theatre

The Stamped LGBTQIA+ Film Festival is celebrating its 10th anniversary and itsbiggest event yet. The multi-day festival represents diverse groups within the LGBTQIA+ family by highlighting artistic contributions on a national and international level.

On Sunday, the festival will hold a "family day" that shows films appropriate for all ages and includes children's activities like face painting, balloon art, kids snacks and more.

Visithttps://www.foofoofest.com/2022-events/to see the full list of events and all the details.

Blue Angels Homecoming Show

  • When: 8 a.m., Nov. 11
  • Where: National Naval Aviation Museum, 1878 S. Blue Angel Parkway (West Gate entrance)

It's pure aviation excitement as the Blue Angels return home for the NAS Pensacola Homecoming Air Show. Gates will open at 8a.m. with the show beginning at 9:30 a.m. The Blue Angels will fly on Friday and Saturday with day showsaround 2p.m. Admission, parking and blanket seating are free. “Blanket Seating” means an open paved area where attendees can stand or sit on their own blankets or lawn chairs. Preferred seating areas are available with paid admission.

Pensacola Maker Faire

  • When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Nov. 12
  • Where: Multiple locations

Dubbed by the festival as the “greatest show and tell on Earth," the Maker Faire gives engineers, artists, scientists and crafters space to show off their creations. There are over 100 makers from the Pensacola and surrounding area that will present their projects at multiple locations.

Pensacola EggFest

  • When: Noon, Nov. 13
  • Where: Blue Wahoos Stadium

Pensacola Big Green Egg Fest is a BBQ event that supports local charities and hosts teams and backyard cooks from all over the U.S. to cook up delicious barbecue. Hosted at the Blue Wahoos Stadium, attendees can sample bites from all competing teams. Craft beer, cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks are available, too. General admission tickets are $25 until Sept. 30, $35 in October and $45 from Nov. 2 to the day-of event.

2022 Pensacola Beach Art & Wine Festival

  • When: Nov. 13
  • Where: 400 Quietwater Beach Road

On Nov. 13, the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk will turn into an artist and wine lover’s paradise for the Pensacola Beach Art & Wine Festival. Put on by the Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce, patrons can spend Sunday afternoon sampling wines while checking out art from Gulf Coast artists. All in all, there will be about 20 local artists and 30 selections of wines to sample.

Gallery Night November

  • When: 5 to 9 p.m., Nov. 18
  • Where: Downtown Pensacola

Everyone loves a good dress-up theme.Select your best throwback look — is it the 1920s? 1980s? Y2K? Visit the bar that best fits your theme and even gather your friends into a Decade Crew for a bar crawl.

On the third Friday of each month, Gallery Night Pensacola will once again close Palafox Street (from Garden Street to Main Street) in Downtown Pensacola and provide open streets for patrons to explore and enjoy music, art, food and more.

Pensacola Fall Festival 2022

  • When: Noon to 6 p.m., Nov. 19
  • Where: 445 Creighton Road

The Real Grill Master BBQ is hosting a Pensacola Fall Festival. There will be over 30 vendors with live music, a talent show, games, raffles, a kids' zoneand barbecue from The Real Grill Master.

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Food & Drink

Whole Hog “Macelleria” with Spotted Trotter Charcuterie: A demo and dinner event with Angelena’s

  • When: 6 p.m., Oct. 20
  • Where: Angelena’s, 101 E. Intendencia St.
  • Tickets: $180 per person

Angelena’s is offering a series of supper clubs, each themed around Italian traditions. The Whole Hog Supper Club with Spotted Trotter Charcuterie is a four-course food demo event.

Chefs James Briscione and Kevin Ouzts of Atlanta’s Spotted Trotter Charcuterie will bring the Italian macellaria (butcher shop) to you in this fall food and wine event. The demonstration and dinner will feature cured meats as well as fresh cuts of pork. Participants will watch and learn in real time as both Chefs Briscione and Outz share the secrets behind how they transform their favorite cuts of pork into the delectable dishes that will be offered for tasting. Joining the all-star chef team will be Maurilio Purpura, CEO of Italian wine distributor, VinoVeritas. Purpura will do a deep dive into Southern Italian red wines and pair them with the chefs’ favorite cuts of pork.

Tickets can be purchased here:https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/angelenas-events-947219

Urban South Tap Takeover

  • When: 4 p.m., Oct. 20
  • Where: Perfect Plain, 50 E. Garden St.

Urban South is hosting its first Perfect Plain tap takeover on Oct. 20. There will be a multitude of flagship and small batch beers on tap.

Festa Italiana 2022

  • When: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Oct. 21
  • Where: St. Joseph Catholic Church, 140 W. Government St.

The 12th annual Festa Italiana is a major fundraising event and celebration of all things Italian. Food offerings like shrimp scampi, spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna, sausage and pepper sandwiches will all be available. There will also be Italian music, live drawings and a silent auction.

Archaeology on Tap: Staking the Claim — How forensic anthropology decomposed the vampire myth

  • When: 6 to 7 p.m., Oct. 26
  • Where: Odd Colony Brewing Co., 260 N. Palafox St.

Join Odd Colony and the Florida Public Archaeology Network for a spooky edition of “Archaeology on Tap” as UWF Anthropology Associate Professor Dr. Allysha Winburn presents "Staking the Claim: How Forensic Anthropology Decomposed the Vampire Myth.”

"Archaeology on Tap" is free and open to the community, but is recommended for adults. Seating is unreserved. The talk starts at 6 p.m.and guests are recommended to arrive by 5:30 p.m. to place drink orders and claim a seat before the talk begins.

Beulah Fall Food Truck Festival

  • When: Oct. 29
  • Where: Escambia County Equestrian Center, 7750 Mobile Highway
  • Admission: $5

The Beulah Fall Food Truck Festival is backand will feature food trucks, vendors, live entertainment, raffles and a bounce house. Adult and child Halloween costume contests will take place from noon to 1 p.m. There will also be trick-or-treating at the food trucks and vendor booths. Admission is $5; kids 12 and under are free.

The Gulf Coast Table: A Taste of States

  • When: 5:30 p.m., Nov. 10
  • Where: Jackson's Steakhouse, 400 S. Palafox St.
  • Tickets: $90

Jackson's is hosting a special food and win event that features a five-course food and wine pairing.

According to Executive Chef Irv Miller, the coastal Gulf states that have a shoreline on the Gulf of Mexico are Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida. Here is where American food began and where today one can find the most interesting culinary diversity in the U.S.A. Just as Southern Cuisine is not a single cuisine, neither is the cooking from our Gulf states.

With a storied food history among native inhabitants and early settlers, the Gulf Coast Table is now conveyed in modern and eclectic food ways. This dinner menu will capture the spirit of six states. Whether its setting a table with crab, oysters, red snapper or clams for a seafood feast or harvesting inland-farmed wild mushrooms and garden fresh herbs. The menu is regionally-inspired with five-course tastings using Gulf states specific ingredients and offering a glimpse into the new Gulf Coast Table.

For more information and menu:https://greatsouthernrestaurants.com/2022/09/the-florida-table-a-state-of-taste/

Fall Supper Series: Chef Brian Kaderavek

  • When: 6:30 to 9 p.m., Nov. 10
  • Where: Kingfisher, 1500 Barrancas Ave.

Join Chef Brian Kaderavek, of Pensacola's Kingfisher, Emerald Coast Oyster Co. and the Peat &Pearls supper club for an evening of food, fellowship and culinary storytelling. Full details — including tickets, menu and featured producers will be announced soon.

Art

Peace, Paws and Fall - DIY Tie Dye

  • When: 6 to 8 p.m., Oct. 21
  • Where: Wisteria Tavern, 3808 N. 12th Ave.

WolfGang, LLC and Wisteria Tavern are hosting a DIY tie dye event for your furry friends. All necessary materials needed to decorate your pet’s favorite bandana will be provided with the $25 ticket. All you have to do is sign up with your waiver signed.

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Here’s everything you’ll get: Bandanas, gloves, dye, robber bands, a free custom dog treat, fall photo booth, 15% off your bar tab, any needed assistance and live music following the event. Each ticket is good for two people and one dog. An extra dog ticket can be purchased for $10.

Tickets: www.wolfgangparkandbrews.com/event-details/peace-paws-fall

Stella Artois Chalice Painting

  • When: 11 a.m., Nov. 5
  • Where: O'Riley's Irish Pub Downtown, 321 S. Palafox St.

Hosted on the front patio of O'Riley's Irish Pub Downtown, each participant will receive two Stella Artois chalices and have access to supplies to paint them to their liking. One can be taken home while the other will be left behind to be judged by a local celebrity or politician. All contestants receive a free t-shirt and free Stella Artois (if they're of drinking age).

Perdido Holiday Craft and Vendor Fair

  • When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Nov. 12
  • Where: Innerarity Point Park, 5828 Cruzat Road

The Perdido Area Chamber ishosting the second annual Perdido Area Community Holiday Craft andVendor Fair at Innerarity Point Park. Kick-off the holiday shopping season by browsing the wares at the Perdido Area Community Holiday Craft & Vendor Fair. Starting at 11 a.m. and goinguntil 4 p.m., guests are invited to wander through and explore locally sourced crafts and gifts to spark your holiday shopping spirit.

Holidays

Vampire Wine Dinner

Join chef Brandon Morrow of WaterOak Catering, located in South Alabama, as he prepares a special vampire wine dinner. The dinner will celebrate All Hallows Eve with a multi-course wine-paired dinner.

Here’s the menu:

  • Reception featuring Bodacious Private Label Sparkling
  • First Course -Oysters with mignonette paired with Lomas Sauvignon Blanc
  • Second Course -Pan-seared ahi tuna lavender-scented soy butter sauce with thyme lentilPomegranate,andaugula salad paired with Fox Cave Pinot Noir
  • Third Course -Butternut squash soup and blue cheese paired with Fox Cave Malbec
  • Fourth Course -New York strip steak paired with Fox Cave Luscious Blend (perfect steak match with Chilean wine)
  • Fifth Course and Dessert -Flourless chocolate tort with raspberry topping Fox Cave Cabernet

Tickets can be purchased here:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vampire-wine-dinner-tickets-423733286667

Beach-o-Ween

  • When: 4 to 8 p.m., Oct. 21
  • Where: Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, 1 Via de Luna Dr.

The fourth Beach-o-Ween Halloween showcase is a family-friendly event that highlights businesses on the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk while celebrating the holiday. There will be decorated booths and games fit for people of all ages, a bounce house for kids, face painting and a photo booth.

Happy Halloween Beer Garden Bash

  • When: 6 p.m., Oct. 22
  • Where: Coastal County Brewing Company, 3041 E. Olive Road

Coastal County is celebrating Halloween in the beer garden this year. From 6-10 p.m., you can check out new beer recipes, Halloween games, a doughnut-on-a-string eating contest, ultimate pickle toss and costume contests for all ages. The costume contest begins at 8 p.m. and will have four categories: best adult couple, best adult individual, best child and best pet.

Howl-O-Ween

  • When: 4:30 to 8:15 p.m., Oct. 22
  • Where: 300 E. Zaragoza St.
  • Tickets: $35

This is a dog-friendly haunted walking tour that encourages you and your pups to dress up in costume. The walk begins at Fountain Park and ends at Pensacola Bay Brewery. A professional photographer will be on hand with a Halloween-themed backdrop set up. Tickets are $35 and are good for two people and one pup. An additional dog ticket can be purchased for $15. Tickets can be purchased here:https://www.wolfgangparkandbrews.com/event-details/howl-oween-haunted-walking-tour-costume-photoshoot

Halloweek at Seville Quarter

  • When: Oct. 26-31
  • Where: Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St.

Seville Quarter will be celebrating Halloween all week with several events happening every night. There will be "scary-aoke," Latin Calaca night, Halloween Monster of a weekend, the Rocky Horror Murder Mystery Dinner, Boo's and Booze Bar Bingo, the Halloween party costume contest and the B.A.R.E.ly Alive Party.

Scary-aoke will replace Seville’s typical karaoke schedule, starting at 9 p.m. on Oct. 26. Boo’s & Booze Bar Bingo is happening at 4 p.m., Oct. 30, with host Johnny Lee. Head over to Apple Annie’s and enjoy drink specials and prizes. The B.A.R.E.ly Alive bar and restaurant employee party is for B.A.R.E. employees to celebrate Halloween on a typically slower-than-usual night for the industry on Oct. 30. And saving the best for last, Seville’s Halloween Costume Contest is on Oct. 31 and will feature $5,000 in prizes.

The Horror Ball Hosted by Terrah Card at Alga Beer Co.

  • When: 7:30 p.m., Oct. 28
  • Where: Alga Beer Co., 2435 N. 12th Ave.

The Horror Ball is an alternative drag show hosted by Terrah Card at Alga Beer Co. This is an all-ages drag show with a $10 cover for ages 13+. There will be a drag show starting at 8:30 p.m. featuring performances by special guests Dotte Com and Drunk Text featuring Terrah Card, Alastina, Aniyah Jade Samore, Judah and Sunny Daze. There will be food provided by Brown Bagger and Two Birds with various drink specials.

Ritual 6: Goth/industrial Halloween prelude

  • When: 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., Oct. 28
  • Where: The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St.
  • Tickets: $10 admission

The Handlebar is inviting you to dance the night away to the best goth, industrial, darkwave and EBM music. There will be drink specials, a costume contest with prizes and a few surprises.

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Palafox Market Halloween Market

  • When: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 29
  • Where: Palafox Market, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Plaza, between Chase and Gregory streets.

Palafox Market is encouraging kids to come out and dress up in their most outrageous costumes for a special Halloween market edition. Vendor booths will be decorated for the holiday and offer candy to trick-or-treaters. Kids can have their faces painted and there will be candy prizes for the winners of a costume contest and Halloween-themed scavenger hunt. Two of Winterfest’s most iconic characters, Pumpkinhead and the Grinch, will also be in attendance.

Halloween Party at 200 South Complex

  • When: 9 p.m., Oct. 29
  • Where: 200 South Bar and Kitchen, 200 S. Palafox St.

The 200 South Complex is hosting a Halloween party throughout the complex. DJs will be spinning tunes in the parking lot at 9 p.m., sharp. There will be prizes for best costume, most original costume, weirdest costume, scariest costume, funniest costume and more.

Odd Hallow’s Eve at Odd Colony Brewing Co.

  • When: 7 p.m., Oct. 29
  • Where: Odd Colony Brewing Co., 260 N. Palafox St.

Odd Hallow’s Eve at Odd Colony Brewing Co. is an all-out, spooky Halloween evening that features dark beer releases, a costume contest, baked goods, the MI SU food truck and classic Halloween movies.

8th annual Pub Crawl-O-Ween Downtown Pensacola

  • When: 2 p.m., Oct. 29
  • Where: Odd Colony Brewery, 260 N. Palafox St.
  • Tickets: $20 -shorturl.at/efoMW

The Kaboom Sports & Social Club is hosting its 8th annual Pub Crawl-O-Ween on Oct. 29. Starting at 2 p.m., crawlers will meet up at Odd Colony Brewery before heading off to Perfect Plain, Garden & Grain and Play. Tickets are $20 and include drink specials at participating bars, raffle tickets for prizes, giveaways to the first 24 crawlers, a professional photographer, costume contest and bar games.

2nd Annual The Witching Hour

  • When: 5 p.m., Oct. 29
  • Where: Garden and Grain, 50 E. Garden St.

Garden and Grain celebrates all things spooky with their second annual "The Witching Hour!" They will be partying all night long with spooky décor, cocktails, costumes, tarot card readings and more

The Haunting of the Republic

  • When: 6 p.m., Oct. 29
  • Where: Emerald Republic Brewing, 1414 W. Government St.

Join Emerald Republic as they descend into the depths of all things dark, creepy and spooky. The brewery and beer garden are transformed into a haunted experience in collaboration with Creepy Hallow Woods Haunted House Productions. There will be beer releases all day long with limited quantities.

Come dressed for battle – prizes will be given for the top threecostumes of the night. $100 gift card for first place, $50 for second place and $25 for third place. The contest begins at 9:30 p.m.

Also happening: Tarot readings start at 8 p.m. by Psychedelic Universe. Special Halloween candy-themed handcrafted cocktails, select candy and beer pairings created by our brewing team, classic June bringing the spooky sounds from 7-10 p.m. and A Rustyc Spoon out front with all the food and candy.

O’Riley’s Irish Pub costume contest

  • When: 11 p.m., Oct. 29
  • Where: O’Riley’s Irish Pub Downtown, 321 S. Palafox St.

O’Riley’s Irish Pub Downtown is hosting a Halloween costume contest. The winner gets $1,000 in cash and prizes.

The 5th Annual Halloween Bar Crawl

  • When: 4 p.m., Oct. 29
  • Where: O'Riley's Irish Pub Downtown, 321 S. Palafox St.
  • Tickets:Single: $15 plus fees and tax Group: $10 plus tax and fees

Crawl With Us is hosting a Halloween Pub Crawl. Check-in starts between 4 and 6 p.m. and the crawl lasts until 10 p.m. Venues are subject to change but currently include Big Top Brewing, Garden and Grain, O'Riley's Irish Pub Downtown, Perennial Patio Bar and Perfect Plain.

Included in the tickets aretwo-plus drinks or shots, a Crawl With Us stadium cup, exclusive drink specials, food specials, waived covers, professional photography packages, a custom Halloween badge with vouchers and an afterparty. Tickets can be purchased here:shorturl.at/dlQYZ

5th annual Howl O’Ween pet costume contest

  • When: 1 p.m., Oct. 30
  • Where: Perfect Plain Brewing Co., 50 E. Garden St.

Perfect Plain is hosting a pet Halloween costume contest. The event is free to enter and will offer gift cards for first, second and third places. Registration is at 1 p.m. and the contest starts at 2 p.m.

Winterfest

  • When: Nov. 20
  • Where: 223 S. Palafox St.

Winterfest is an interactive Christmas celebration that kicks off Nov. 20 and runs until just before Christmas Day. The celebration consists of a series of trolley tours that run through Pensacola and are themed after popular Christmas stories like The Grinch, Polar Express and Scrooge. Kids can also have their photo taken with Grinch and Santa while they enjoy fake snow and dance with their favorite characters in preshow events that are free and open to the public at Winterfest plaza. Ticket prices vary. Visithttps://pensacolawinterfest.org/for more information.

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Elf Parade

  • When: 2 p.m., Nov. 25
  • Where: Winterfest, 223 Palafox Place

The annual Elf Parade has been on holddue to COVID-19, but it's finally back.Any adults who wishto walk in the parade just need to wear their ugliest Christmas sweater.Follow the parade to the end at the museum plaza to experience thenew Christmas market. The parade and lineup starts at 12:30 p.m. The party and market activities are from 2 to 4 p.m.

FAQs

What is Pensacola best known for? ›

The city has a proud military heritage, thanks to the Naval Air Station. In addition to being the "Cradle of Naval Aviation," the Pensacola Bay Area is proud to call itself home to the renowned Blue Angels, officially known as the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron.

What is there to do in Pensacola Florida on Christmas? ›

Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy the magic of Christmas in and around Pensacola this holiday season.
  • Winterfest. ...
  • Christmas at OWA. ...
  • Christmas Zoobliee. ...
  • Sowell's North Pole. ...
  • Bellingrath Gardens & Home. ...
  • Ice Skating at the Bay Center. ...
  • Pensacola Christmas Parade. ...
  • Lulu's Lighted Boat Parade.
Dec 8, 2022

What time are fireworks tonight in Pensacola? ›

FIREWORKS information for tonight: 9PM - Downtown Pensacola - at Seville Square.

Is Pensacola a good place to live? ›

Pensacola's overall rating from U.S. News & World Report is 6.4 out of 10. It got 6.4 points for desirability, 6.5 points for value, 5.7 points for job market, 6.6 for quality of life and 6.6 for net migration. Also in the Top 25 were Florida cities including Melbourne (No.

What drink is Pensacola Beach known for? ›

The Bushwacker. The bar? The Shaker. In the decades since the Bushwacker immigrated to Pensacola Beach, the booze-laced adult milkshake has blended itself up and down the coast to become Pensacola's signature drink.

What is the best month to visit Pensacola Florida? ›

The best time to visit Pensacola is between mid-September and October when both spring breakers and family vacationers have departed the city, leaving the beaches, attractions and restaurants devoid of peak season crowds. The weather is still moderate this time of year, and the risk of hurricanes wanes, too.

What can adults do for Christmas? ›

Holiday Activities for Adults Looking for a Day or Night Out
  • Ice Skating. ...
  • Take a Christmas Lights Tour. ...
  • Go Sledding. ...
  • Build a Snowman. ...
  • Head to a Christmas Tree Farm. ...
  • See the Nutcracker at a Local Theater. ...
  • Sit by a Bonfire and Roast some Marshmallows. ...
  • Visit Santa (Because You're Never Too Old)
Oct 26, 2021

Where is the seafood festival in Pensacola? ›

The festival takes place in Downtown Pensacola in Historic Seville Square, as well as adjacent Fountain Park and Bartram Park. Landmarks around Festival Area: Lee House – 400 Bayfront Parkway.

What are some fun Christmas activities? ›

Just choose your favorite from those below or use them to inspire an idea all your own.
  • Take a Holiday Card Photo.
  • Visit A Christmas Tree Farm.
  • Decorate a Gingerbread House.
  • Bake Unique Christmas Cookies.
  • Plan a Family Photoshoot.
  • Host A Holiday Game Night.
  • Host a Christmas Craft Party.
  • Write Letters to Santa.
Dec 23, 2021

Do you have to wear a mask in Pensacola Florida? ›

The City of Pensacola encourages residents and visitors to continue to follow guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help slow the spread of COVID-19, including: Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth to help protect yourself and others.

What time is bands on the beach in Pensacola tonight? ›

Bands on the Beach is at 7 p.m. and begins the first Tuesday in April and ends the last Tuesday in October. Concerts are provided and organized by the Santa Rosa Island Authority. For more information call the SRIA at (850) 932-2257.

What time does the Pensacola Seafood festival Open? ›

Directions: Take I-110 south to Gregory Street exit to Alcaniz Street. Turn left onto Alcaniz Street and follow to Government Street to the Seville Square area or 311 East Government Street, Pensacola, FL. What is this? Hours: Friday, 11 am to 11 pm; Saturday, 10 am to 11 pm; Sunday, 11 am to 5 pm.

Does Pensacola have a homeless problem? ›

"It's increasing every year." Homeless advocates say in the last year, and for the first time ever, millions of federal dollars were as given to the City of Pensacola to help the homeless problem. That problem was on full display under the I-110 bridge, and became known as Tent City.

Is Pensacola cheap to live? ›

The cost of living in Pensacola, FL is 5% lower than the state average and 4% lower than the national average. Pensacola, FL housing is 11% cheaper than the U.S average, while utilities are about 19% pricier.

Why is Pensacola cheap? ›

The Cost of Living in Pensacola is Affordable

Truth be told, though, the significant reason for Pensacola's affordability is its surprisingly low housing costs. (More on those in just a moment.) If you look at miscellaneous and utility expenses, they're higher than the national average.

Can you walk around with alcohol in Pensacola Beach? ›

There is absolutely NO GLASS allowed on any of the beaches. Alcohol may be consumed on sandy portions of the beaches only. This applies both Soundside and Gulfside. It must not be in a glass container.

What is the best alcohol to drink on the beach? ›

Therefore, we have put together this top 10 list of the best beach cocktails for you to enjoy on your All Inclusive resort vacation by the beach.
  • Margarita. ...
  • Caipirinha. ...
  • Daquiri. ...
  • Mai Tai. ...
  • Long Island Iced Tea. ...
  • Blue Hawaii. ...
  • Tequila Sunrise. ...
  • Bahama Mama.

Can you drink on the street in Pensacola? ›

Additionally, public consumption of alcohol is not acceptable. You can be cited for consuming alcohol or possessing alcohol on streets, sidewalks, in parking lots or on beaches throughout the state.

What is the coldest month in Pensacola Florida? ›

Pensacola's coldest month is January when the average temperature overnight is 42.7°F. In July, the warmest month, the average day time temperature rises to 90.7°F.

What is hurricane season in Pensacola Florida? ›

There are no tropical cyclones in the Atlantic at this time. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th.

Is Pensacola cold in October? ›

October Weather in Pensacola Florida, United States. Daily high temperatures decrease by 8°F, from 83°F to 75°F, rarely falling below 67°F or exceeding 88°F. Daily low temperatures decrease by 10°F, from 67°F to 57°F, rarely falling below 45°F or exceeding 75°F.

What are 3 food items that are popular for Christmas dinner? ›

Traditional American Christmas dinner food
  • Turkey. A turkey is an inexpensive main meal that will feed a lot of people. ...
  • Stuffing. Stuffing (sometimes called dressing) is another common Christmas dinner food. ...
  • Mashed potatoes. ...
  • Gravy. ...
  • Cranberry sauce.
Dec 10, 2021

How can I make my Christmas extra special? ›

Adopt some of these clever ideas this year to help your kids (and yourself) enjoy the day even more.
  1. Wear Christmas Pajamas. ...
  2. Look for Signs of Santa. ...
  3. Create a Gift Scavenger Hunt. ...
  4. Give (or Make) a New Ornament. ...
  5. Make a Festive Breakfast. ...
  6. Make a Hot Chocolate Charcuterie Board. ...
  7. Have a Christmas Movie Marathon. ...
  8. Play Family Games.
Oct 31, 2022

Is the Pensacola Seafood Festival free? ›

The Pensacola Seafood Festival is a free community event hosted by Fiesta Pensacola.

What time does the Pensacola Crawfish festival start? ›

April 29, 2022 @ 8:00 am - May 1, 2022 @ 5:00 pm. Experience a taste of Louisiana with one of the largest crawfish boils in the southeast.

Does Pensacola have nightlife? ›

Whether you're looking to explore Pensacola nightlife or an evening of family fun, there is a prodigious selection of fun spots and events on the calendar. Take your pick from dive bars, late-night Irish pubs, dueling pianos, nightclubs, live music, cabarets, and more!

What do Christians do on Christmas? ›

In church during this time, many Christians are reminded of Old Testament prophecies about the coming of Jesus. The 12 days of Christmas involve special church services, such as Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve and a Christmas Day morning service.

Is it mandatory to wear a mask in Florida? ›

Masks may be required in specified settings, including healthcare facilities and certain congregate facilities. Individuals are recommended to wear a face covering while in indoor public spaces when social distancing from people of other households is not possible. Individuals should follow CDC masking guidance.

Can a store refuse service for not wearing a mask in Florida? ›

Right to Refuse Service for Not Wearing a Mask

A private business can legally require a customer to wear a mask because people who wish not to wear face masks are not a protected class. Business owners can think that these people pose a health or safety threat to their business.

Is the sand at Pensacola white? ›

Considered the epicenter of the Florida Gulf Coast, Pensacola Beach is famous for its emerald-green waters and sugar-white sands.

What rank is Pensacola Beach in Florida? ›

Pensacola's blue waters and historic past have once again captured the attention of Southern Living, earning a coveted spot in the top 10 best beach towns in the South for 2022. Pensacola landed at No. 8 on the list. Two other Northwest Florida destinations also cracked the list, with Panama City ranking No.

What time is the air show on Pensacola Beach? ›

Some of the nearby hotels with balconies provide an unbelievable view. Boaters in Little Sabine can lounge on the sandbars while jets streak overhead. The Blue Angels take to the skies at 2 p.m. (weather depending). Their show lasts approximately 45 minutes.

Are you allowed on Pensacola Beach at night? ›

There's no opening nor closing times for the beach except for the state park beaches (ex. Ft. Pickens) that open at sunrise & close at sunset.

How often does the Pensacola Beach trolley run? ›

During season, it runs 7 days a week from 4pm to midnight, with their last pickup at 11:30pm. There are three trolleys total that run concurrently, so you're not waiting very long for the trolley to return to your stop.

What day is Gallery Night in Pensacola? ›

When is Gallery Night Pensacola? Gallery Night is almost always held on the third Friday of each month from 5–10 p.m.

Does Pensacola have bugs? ›

There are many pests in Pensacola, Florida that homeowners dread dealing with, but bed bugs might be one of the worst. These small pests are notorious for biting people while they sleep and leaving behind annoying itchy bites.

Why are there so many homeless in Pensacola FL? ›

Pensacola has been dealing with a critical homelessness problem experts say was exacerbated by the pandemic, and it culminated in an unregulated encampment in the city limits under the Interstate 110 bridge. Friends and mentors:Pensacola's homeless population needs friends and mentors.

How much does housing cost in Pensacola? ›

Pensacola, FL Housing Market

In December 2022, the median listing home price in Pensacola, FL was $310K, trending up 6.9% year-over-year. The median listing home price per square foot was $181. The median home sold price was $259K.

Has Pensacola ever snowed? ›

Areas around Pensacola are the first to receive the snow, then the rest of the Panhandle. Pensacola accumulates 1 inch (25 mm) of snow. Following record accumulations for the Nature Coast, areas from Orlando to Tampa receive light snow accumulations, between 0.2 inches (5.1 mm) to 0.5 inches (13 mm).

Why is Pensacola popular? ›

Nestled in the northwest corner of Florida, Pensacola is known for its pristine, relaxing, award-winning beaches, its historic charm and for being the home of the world-renowned Blue Angels, the U.S. Navy's elite flight demonstration squadron.

Does Pensacola have a lot of mosquitoes? ›

Mosquitoes in Pensacola can be a huge nuisance, especially during the summer months. These pesky insects can ruin outdoor activities and cause a lot of discomfort.

Is Pensacola nice to live in? ›

Pensacola is in Escambia County and is one of the best places to live in Florida. Living in Pensacola offers residents a dense suburban feel and most residents own their homes. In Pensacola there are a lot of restaurants and parks.

Is Pensacola worth visiting? ›

Situated in the Florida Panhandle, the Pensacola Bay Area is known for its historic charm, gorgeous beaches, award-winning tours and abundant wildlife.

What is the main industry in Pensacola Florida? ›

Pensacola's economy is powered by the military, defense industry, tourism, healthcare, education and construction. The military bases include Pensacola Naval Air Station, Naval Training Center, Eglin Air Force Base, Corry Station Naval, Naval Technical Training Center and the Air Station Whiting Field.

What is Pensacola's nickname? ›

Pensacola was given the nickname of “The City of Five Flags” due to the multiple nations that have at one time governed the area. These countries include Spain, France, Great Britain, the United States of America, as well as the Confederate States of America during the Civil War.

What is Pensacola Beach nicknames? ›

Other nicknames include "World's Whitest Beaches" (due to the white sand of Florida panhandle beaches), "Cradle of Naval Aviation", "Western Gate to the Sunshine State", "America's First Settlement", "Emerald Coast", "Red Snapper Capital of the World", and "P-Cola".

How much does it cost to live in Pensacola Florida? ›

List of prices in Pensacola, Florida Current as of Jan 2023.
FoodUpdate prices
Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in normal area$1,097
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas ...) for 2 people in 85m2 flat$250
Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sqft) furnished studio in expensive area$1,260
57 more rows

Who is the largest Employer in Pensacola? ›

Our Leading Employers
2021 RankCompanyHeadquarters
1.Navy Federal Credit UnionVienna, VA
2.Baptist Health CarePensacola, FL
3.Sacred Heart Health SystemsSt. Louis,MO
4.Pensacola Christian CollegePensacola, FL
44 more rows

Is Pensacola the oldest city in America? ›

Reeves's claim that Pensacola is America's oldest city is based on a discovery by researchers at the University of West Florida in Pensacola who say they proved Spanish Explorer Tristan de Luna established his Spanish colony of Pensacola in 1559, six years before St. Augustine was founded.

What is the oldest house in Pensacola FL? ›

Dating all the way back to 1810, the Quina House Museum is Pensacola Florida's oldest building still in its original location and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places! Throughout the home you will find pieces of furniture dating from 1790 through the 1880's.

What ocean is Pensacola Beach on? ›

Pensacola Beach is an unincorporated community in West Florida on Santa Rosa Island, a 40-mile barrier island. Anchored at the western tip of Florida, it stretches along the Gulf of Mexico. You can choose from busy lifeguarded beaches, or the quiet, secluded beaches of Gulf Islands National Seashore.

Can you swim in the ocean in Pensacola? ›

Enjoy A Fun and Safe Beach Trip. Famed for its soft white sand, emerald-hued waters, and a carefree, easy-going atmosphere, Pensacola Beach has long been a favorite, family-friendly beach destination that locals cherish and newcomers embrace.

What does Pensacola mean in English? ›

city on the Gulf coast of the Florida panhandle, named for a Muskogean tribe, from Choctaw, literally "hair-people," from pashi "hair of the head" + oklah "people."

What does purple flag mean at Pensacola Beach? ›

Purple Flag - Dangerous Marine Life

Purple flags are flown when jellyfish, Portuguese man o' war, etc. are present. Exercise caution when in the water and/or along the shoreline.

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