For a true taste of Americana this 4th of July head to Aaron Bessant Park for wing eating, hot dog eating and watermelon seed spitting contests. If seed spitting isn’t your thing then come out for the music. Nine bands will be spread throughout the park including country music superstar Mark Chestnutt. Mayor Oberst will be kicking things off around noon with a little help from an F-15 flyover. This event is put on by Panama City Beach and is free to the public. There will be plenty of activities, contests and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy and of course the night will end with a bang. The city will put on its annual fireworks show over the beach around 9:00 that night. The city has high hopes that construction will be complete on the city pier in time for visitors to enjoy during the fireworks display. Aaron Bessant Park is adjoined to Pier Park on the west end of Panama City Beach.

Click here to read more about July 4th festivities planned in Panama City Beach and surrounding areas.

Looks like the new "Russell-Fields Pier" will be open for July 4th. In fact, it's open right this very second...so, you better get out there! Right now! Go!

Or...you could read these first.

News Herald Article:
New PCB pier to open Friday morning

TripSmarter.Com article:
4th of July in Panama City Beach

Saw the pier open today. I don't think I've been anywhere in Panama City today where I WASN'T stuck in traffic. Hope you guys have a great 4th.