Pensacola, FL Community OutlookPensacola is the westernmost city in the Florida Panhandle and the county seat of Escambia County, Florida, United States of America. As of 2010, the city had a total population of 54,000.

Pensacola is the principal city of the Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent Metropolitan Area, an area with about 455,000 residents as of 2009.

Pensacola is a sea port on Pensacola Bay, which connects to the Gulf of Mexico. A large United States Naval Air Station, the first in the United States, is located southwest of Pensacola (near the community of Warrington) and is home to the Blue Angels flight demonstration team and the National Naval Aviation Museum. The main campus of the University of West Florida is situated north of the city center.

Pensacola is nicknamed "The City of Five Flags" due to the five governments that have flown flags over it during its history: the flags of Spain (Castile), France, Great Britain, the Confederate States of America, and the United States. Other nicknames include

"World's Whitest Beaches" (due to the white sand prevalent along beaches in the Florida panhandle),

"Cradle of Naval Aviation" (Naval Air Station Pensacola is the home of both the legendary Blue Angels and the National Museum of Naval Aviation),

"Western Gate to the Sunshine State", "America's First Settlement", "Emerald Coast", "Redneck Riviera", "Red Snapper Capital of the World", "P-Cola"

Census DataAccording to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 39.7 square miles, consisting of 22.7 square miles (52.17%) of land and 17.0 square miles (42.82%) water.

The climate of Pensacola is humid subtropical with short, mild winters and hot, humid summers. Typical summer conditions have highs in the upper 90s °F and lows in the mid-70s. Afternoon or evening thunderstorms are common during the summer months. Due partly to the coastal location, temperatures above 100 °F are rare, and last occurred in June 2011, when two of the days of the month recorded highs of over 100 °F. The hottest temperature ever recorded in the city was 106 °F (41.1 °C) on July 14, 1980.

The average high in January is 61.2 °F (16.2 °C), and the low is 42.8 °F (6.0 °C), though freezing temperatures occur on an average fifteen nights per season. Temperatures below 20 °F (−6.7 °C) rarely occur, and last occurred in January 2003, when a low of 18 °F (−7.8 °C) was seen. The coldest temperature ever recorded in the city was 5 °F (−15 °C) on January 21, 1985.

The city receives 64.28 inches of precipitation per year, with a rainy season in the summer. The rainiest month is July, with 8.02 inches, with April being the driest month at 3.89 inches.

Competitive Market Ashton Inn & Suites (0.1 mile) Merritt Lodge (0.2 mile) Holiday Inn Express (12.7 miles) Super 8 (0.1 mile) Relax Inn (2.1 miles) Royal Arms Motel (2.1 miles) Western Inn (1.8 miles) Super Inn (2.6 miles)

AirportPensacola International Airport 2430 Airport Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32504

Pensacola International Airport covers 1,211 acres (490 ha) and has two runways:

Runway 17/35: 7,004 x 150 ft. (2,135 x 46 m), Surface: Asphalt Runway 8/26: 7,000 x 150 ft. (2,133 x 46 m), Surface: Asphalt

Pensacola International Airport is overseen by the Pensacola City Council. Airport Director is Melinda C Crawford. The airport runs on a 24 hour 7 days a week schedule. It is approximately 8 miles from the hotel. About 1.5 million passengers fly into the airport every year. The current airlines servicing the airport are:

Air Tran Airways American Eagle ASA Comair Continental Airlines Continental Express Delta Air Lines SkyWest Airlines United Express US Airways

Distance to Nearby Cities from the Hotel

Mobile, AL56 miles (1 hour)

Mobile is the third most populous city in the Southern US state of Alabama and is the county seat of Mobile County. It is located on the Mobile River and the central Gulf Coast of the United States. The population in 2010 was 195,000 within the city limits. It is the largest municipality on the Gulf Coast between New Orleans, Louisiana and St. Petersburg, Florida. Mobile is the principal municipality of the Mobile Metropolitan Area, a region of more than 413,000 residents which is composed solely of Mobile County and is the second largest Metropolitan Area in the state.

More than a quarter of a million people live in the metropolitan area that covers 128 square miles. And though Mobile offers the amenities and infrastructure of a major metropolitan area, it has retained its sense of community and friendliness. The rest of the world is taking notice: Mobile has been honored with an All-America City designation by the National Civic League. A recent survey ranked the city as one of the top five most "polite" cities in the nation, and Mobile consistently ranks high in Money Magazine's "300 Best Places to Live" issue.

Tourist Season – May to August

Panama City, FL 107 miles (2 hours, 30 minutes)

Panama City is a city and the county seat of Bay County, Florida, United States. Located along U.S. Route 98, it is the largest city between Tallahassee and Pensacola. It is the larger of two principal cities of the Panama City-Lynn Haven, Florida Metropolitan Area. As of 2010, the city population was 36,484. When Panama City was incorporated in 1909, its original city limits were 15th Street (Hwy 98) on the north, Balboa Avenue on the west and Bay Avenue on the east.

Panama City, Florida offers every kind of fun imaginable; you can surround yourself with emerald waters, white sand beaches, temperate weather, and have the time of your life! No matter whom you are or what you enjoy, you’ll find your kind of fun in Panama City Beach. Legendary worldwide for our breathtaking white sand beaches and Southern hospitality, Panama City, Florida is a natural draw for those seeking the warmth and sunshine of a tropical climate with the let-your-hair down kind of charm you can only find here.

Tourist Season – March to August

New Orleans, LA 200 miles (3 hours, 15 minutes)

New Orleans is a major United States port and the largest city and metropolitan area in the state of Louisiana. The New Orleans metropolitan area (New Orleans–Metairie–Kenner) has a population of 1,235,650 as of 2009, the 46th largest in the USA. The New Orleans – Metairie – Bogalusa combined metropolitan area has a population of 1,360,436 as of 2000. The city/parish alone has a population of 343,829 as of 2010.

New Orleans is one of the world's most fascinating cities. Steeped in a history of influences from Europe, the Caribbean, Africa, and beyond, it's a brilliant mosaic of culture, food and music. You'll find brimming bowls of gumbo, late nights in jazz clubs, strolls through historic neighborhoods and tantalizing festivals throughout the year.

Tourist Season – February to September

HospitalsUnited States Naval Hospital of Pensacola (1.4 miles away)6000 W. Hwy 98, Pensacola, FL 32512

VA Gulf Coast Health Care Center (1.4 miles away)5800 W. Hwy 98, Pensacola, FL 32512

Baptist Hospital (3.1 miles away)1000 W. Moreno Street, Pensacola, FL 32501

Sacred Heart Hospital (6.1 miles away)5151 N. 9th Avenue, Pensacola, FL 32504

Higher Education

University of West Florida11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, FL 32514Home of the Argonauts, Founded in 1968; 12,000 Students

Pensacola State College – Warrington Campus5555 W. Hwy 98, Pensacola FL 32507

Troy University – Pensacola Campus21 North New Warrington Road, Pensacola, FL 32506

Military

In 1559, Tristán de Luna y Arellano landed with over 1,400 people on 11 ships from Vera Cruz, Mexico. A notable early attempt to settle in Florida, the purpose of the expedition was to establish an outpost, called by de Luna Ochuse, from which to launch further efforts to colonize Santa Elena (present-day Parris Island, South Carolina.) However, the colony was decimated by a hurricane on September 19, 1559, which killed hundreds, sank five ships, grounded a caravel, and ruined supplies. The 1,000 survivors divided to relocate/resupply the settlement, but due to famine and attacks, the effort was abandoned in 1561. About 240 people sailed to Santa Elena, but another storm hit there, so they sailed to Cuba and scattered. The remaining 50 at Pensacola were taken back to Mexico, and the Viceroy's advisers concluded northwest Florida was too dangerous to settle, a view which stood for 135 years.

In the late 17th century, however, the French began exploring the lower Mississippi River with the intention of colonizing the region as part of Louisiana. Fearful that these overtures would threaten Spanish territory in both Florida and Mexico, the Spanish determined to found a new settlement to check the French. In 1698 they finally established a fortified town near what is now Fort Barrancas, laying the foundation for the modern city of Pensacola.

The Spanish ceded Florida to the British in 1763 as a result of the French and Indian War, and Pensacola was made capital of the new British colony of West Florida. From 1763, the British went back to the mainland area of fort San Carlos de Barrancas, building the Royal Navy Redoubt. After Spain joined the American Revolution late, in 1779, the Spanish captured the city in the 1781 Battle of Pensacola, gaining control of West Florida. After the war the British officially ceded both West Florida and East Florida to Spain. In 1819 Spain and the United States negotiated the Adams-Onis Treaty, in which Spain sold the Floridas to the United States for US$5 million. In 1821, with Andrew Jackson as provisional governor, Pensacola became part of the United States.

The city has been referred to as "The Cradle of Naval Aviation". Naval Air Station Pensacola (NASP) was the first Naval Air Station commissioned by the United States Navy in 1914. Tens of thousands Naval Aviators have received their training there including, the first American to orbit the earth in 1962, USMC John H. Glenn and the first man to set foot on the moon in 1969, Neil Armstrong. The Navy's Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, is also stationed there.

The National Museum of Naval Aviation is located on the Naval Air Station and is free to the public. The museum cares for and exhibits hundreds of vintage Naval Aviation aircraft, provides up close views of aircraft currently in service, and preserves the history of Naval Aviation through displays, symposiums, IMAX movies and tours.

The Corry Station Naval Technical Training Center serves as an annex for the main base and the Center for Information Dominance. The Gary R. Schuetz Memorial Health Clinic is at Corry Station, Naval Hospital Pensacola, is the main Navy Exchange and Defense Commissary Agency commissary complex for both Corry Station and NAS Pensacola. The Army National Guard B Troop 1-153 Cavalry is stationed in Pensacola.

Pensacola is also home to the historic Fort Pickens commissioned by the United States Navy in 1812 and now part of the Gulf Island National Reserve. As well as the historic Fort McRee located on Pensacola Pass to defend the city and its natural harbor. The fort is no longer in use, however because of its position the Naval Air Station Pensacola is able to be there today.

Major Employers

US Coast GuardAir and Naval Defense District 810,000+

Eighth Coast Guard DistrictHale Boggs Federal Building500 Poydras StreetNew Orleans, LA 70130

"Guardians of the Heartland"

The Eighth Coast Guard District, headquartered in New Orleans, covers all or part of 26 states throughout the Gulf Coast and heartland of America. It stretches from the Appalachian Mountains and Chattahoochee River in the east, to the Rocky Mountains in the west, and from the U.S./Mexico border and the Gulf of Mexico to the Canadian border in North Dakota.

Part of the Department of Homeland Security, the men and women of the Eighth District are vital in protecting the 1,200 miles of coastline and 10,300 miles of inland navigable waterways located in their area of responsibility.

There are approximately 4,045 active duty and reserve members, 6,000 auxiliary members, and 288 civilian personnel assigned to the Eighth District.

Seventeen of the top 40 busiest ports by tonnage are located in the Eighth District. There are more than 6,500 oil and gas producing wells, and 130 mobile offshore drilling units in the Gulf of Mexico that keep the district’s Marine Safety program gainfully employed. Five of the top seven fishing ports in the country are located in the district. They account for nearly 40 percent of the catch of U.S. commercial fishermen.

Protecting America’s borders is the key to ensuring the free flow of commerce and the safety of our citizens.

The Eighth District is also home to the Cutter Ship, CGC Bonito. It contains the specialized teams of the Aids to Navigation Teams (ANT) and the ever-present and always on-call Search & Rescue Station.

Reichhold Chemicals Inc.Chemical/ Bio-firm 1,000 - 5,000

425 South Pace BoulevardPensacola, FL 32502

HQ in Durham-Raleigh, NC

Reichhold is the world’s largest manufacturer of unsaturated polyester resins and a leading supplier of coating resins for the industrial, transportation, building and construction, marine, consumer and graphic arts markets. With 16 manufacturing operations throughout North America, Latin America, the Middle East and Europe, we leverage our processes, innovation, technology and research to meet the needs of our customers.

Baptist Health CareHospital & Health Care5,000 - 10,000

Baptist Health Care is a community-owned, not-for-profit health care organization committed to improving the quality of life for people and communities in Northwest Florida and South Alabama. Nationally recognized for performance excellence and quality achievement, Baptist has received the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award in 2003; and has consistently ranked in the 99th percentile for patient satisfaction as recognized by Press Ganey. Baptist Health Care includes four hospitals, two medical parks, Baptist Manor, Baptist Home Health Care and Durable Medical Equipment, Baptist Leadership Group, Andrews Institute for Orthopedics and Sports Medicine and Lakeview Center. With more than 5,000 employees, Baptist Health Care is the largest non-governmental employer in northwest Florida.

Gulf Power CompanyUtility 1,000 - 5000

Gulf Power Company is an investor-owned electric utility with all of its common stock owned by Atlanta-based Southern Company.

Customers First: Our top priority is taking care of our customers. Warmth, hospitality, comfort, convenience and economy, this is what Gulf Power wants for energy customers. High quality at a lower price is how we define value and Gulf Power is committed to keeping our prices low and our quality high ensuring that you receive the best value for your money.

Where We Serve: Gulf Power's service territory spans the area from the Alabama border on the west to the Apalachicola River on the east; from the Alabama border on the north to the Gulf of Mexico on the south. Gulf Power serves 427,663 customers in 72 towns and communities throughout Northwest Florida.

Our Economic Impact: Gulf Power and Southern Company subsidiaries in Northwest Florida employ 1,563 people. Gulf Power is the largest single taxpayer in Northwest Florida. Gulf Power supports each community in which we live and serve. In 2007, the company supported local agencies, chambers of commerce, economic development groups and United Way as well as other charitable organizations with close to $1.2 million. Gulf Power employees also contributed more than $80,000 to charitable organizations in Northwest Florida."

Gulf Power has invested more than $1 billion in facilities in Northwest Florida, plus more than an additional $200 million in neighboring states to meet customer energy needs.

University of West FloridaHigher Education5,000 - 10,000

The University of West Florida, also known as UWF and West Florida, is a mid-sized public university located in Pensacola, Florida. The University of West Florida was established in 1963 and began classes in fall 1967. The university is a member institution of the State University System of Florida.

UWF is a Doctoral / Research university, which specializes in engineering and the humanities. UWF offers graduate and undergraduate degree programs in the traditional classroom setting as well as convenient online options.

The Pensacola campus is an environmentally friendly, state-designated wildlife refuge, located 10 miles north of historic downtown Pensacola. The UWF Emerald Coast campus offers options close to home for citizens east of Santa Rosa County in Okaloosa, Walton and Bay counties..

The highest priorities of UWF are its students and the integrity of the academic programs that serve them. As a public university, UWF strives to meet the needs of the West Florida region, the state and the nation through research, creative activities and public service. Students choose UWF because of its emphasis on high academic standards with the advantage of small class sizes, friendly atmosphere, and beautiful surroundings.

Escambia CountyGovernment 1,000 - 5000

A County of 320,000 residents is governed by the board of county commissioners. Escambia County is divided into five districts. One county commissioner is elected from each district to serve a four-year term. Commissioners are

chosen in partisan elections by voters from the districts in which they live. The board appoints a county administrator to be chief administrative officer of the county, responsible to the commission for the orderly operations of matters within the board’s jurisdiction.

YouthBizProfessional Training and Coaching 5,000 - 10,000

YouthBiz provides education and mentorships that exposes students to entrepreneurship, business literacy, and their potential impact on the world.

Through the Entrepreneurial Experience, students will get hands-on experience in what it takes to start their own business. From concept and start-up all the way through production and distribution, graduates will be fully prepared to step out and know what it takes to own a business.

Total Employee LeasingHuman Resources 1,000 – 5,000

Total Employee Leasing specializes in the administrative and clerical tasks that burden small and medium size business owners

every day. Empowering them to focus on what they do best- the income producing side of business!

Whether it be processing Payroll, managing Human Resource issues, handling Workers Compensation Claims, or customizing Benefits packages to meet an organizations unique needs, Total Employee Leasing provides the best value and services on the Gulf Coast- Guaranteed!

PayDay Human Resources SolutionsHuman Resources 5,000 - 10,000

Over the last 30 years the PayDay team has gained valuable insights into building relationships with individuals, key business representatives and respected community leaders. This has enabled our team to become trusted advisors in the public and private

sector, and viewed as professionals with high moral character and results driven successes. Our best practice models are based on the attributes we can provide to entrepreneurial minded individuals that are seeking impacting results for their organizations. This experience positions our team to make The PayDay Difference.

The foundational principles, in which we believe, are deeply rooted and our basis of becoming an industry leader. Every Client is important to our team and we are truly grateful for the opportunity to earn their business every day. Each day we also strive to fulfill our commitment to our clients by researching, securing, and implementing simple processes that better serve our clients’ needs. These processes are designed to alleviate administrative burdens and the red tape that businesses must address on a daily basis. They also offer a barrier of protection to insulate businesses from variable cost factors that would ultimately affect the bottom line.

Pensacola State CollegeHigher Education 1,000 - 5,000

Pensacola State College is a public, comprehensive community college

founded in 1948. Today, the college serves Northwest Florida and Southern Alabama.

In 2008-2009, approximately 27,000 students were enrolled.

The college offers full-service campuses in Milton, Pensacola and Warrington, as well as the Downtown Center and Pensacola State College Center at Pensacola Naval Air Station. More than 37 percent of graduating seniors from local high schools begin college life at Pensacola State.

The A.A. degree guarantees admission to any Florida state university. Students transfer with ease to nationally recognized colleges such as Cornell, Duke, Vanderbilt and Tulane.

Ricoh Business SolutionsBusiness Supplies & Equipment10,000+

HQ in New York City

At Ricoh, we assist our customers in improving their key business processes through the integration of our award-winning hardware with the correct software enablers and people resources to provide a tailored, turnkey solution. Ricoh focus is on the following five key areas within your organization: Reduce Total Cost of Ownership Improve Business Processes Ensure Information Security Facilitate Regulatory Compliance Aid Environmental Sustainability

Lifeguard Transportation, Inc.Hospital & Healthcare500 - 1000

Lifeguard Transportation Service, Inc., founded in 1992, is a proven leader in the mobile health care industry, providing 911 emergency and inter-facility non-emergency ambulance transportation services. Lifeguard, with more than 750+ employees, currently has 7 operating locations in 4 States throughout the Southeastern United States. Customers include federal, municipal, county and state governments, large hospital networks, community healthcare providers, commercial and industrial sites, and airport facilities. Lifeguard has grown through both start-up and acquisition, and has consistently produced a steady 39% growth in sales/volume per calendar year of performance, completing over 80,000 requests for services in 2008.

VT Group Integrated SolutionsDefense and Aerospace500 - 1000

We provide our government and industry customers with professional and technical services in the fields of:

Information Technology (IT)

Command, Control, Communications, Computer, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Command (C4ISR)

Air Traffic Control (ATC)

Tourism HighlightsMore than 3.5 million tourists visit the Pensacola area each year. Adding a $1.2 billion impact to the local economy and helping to employ more than 18,000 residents. There are a number of annual festivals, events, historic tours, and landmarks. Due to its location near the beach and close to the Port of Pensacola, our hotel will see a lot of action from March to mid-November. To include everything that happens in the Metropolitan Area would lead to a protracted report. Here are the highlights of the tourism season:

MARCH

March10, McGuire’s 5K Prediction Run

600 East Gregory Street, Pensacola, FL 32502

With more than 5,000 participants, it's the nation's largest prediction run. Awards go to the fastest participant as well as the most accurate in predicting the time it will take to complete the course.

March 09 – 10, Light of the Moon Tours

Pensacola Lighthouse 2081 Radford Blvd, NAS Pensacola, FL 32508

Reservations needed -- Hear true stories of the blood stained room and ghostly encounters at one of America's most haunted lighthouses! Climb to the top of the lighthouse for the most breathtaking view of a moonlit Pensacola Bay. Enter NAS through the East Gate. All tours held at the Pensacola Lighthouse are family friendly and appropriate for all ages. The Moon Tours reoccur the first weekend of every month. The Pensacola Lighthouse is open seven days a week for daytime tours.

March 12 – 17, Go Irish on the Island

Pensacola Beach735 Pensacola Beach BlvdPensacola Beach, FL 32561

Events include a Green Bikini Contest, Pot O’ Gold Poker Tourney, a re-enactment of Tim Finnegan’s Wake, Catholic Mass, appearance by St. Patrick, lots of parties with live music and fine Irish fare. The highlight of the celebration will be the March 17 St. Paddy’s Day Pub Crawl which visits eighteen Beach locations begins at 10am at Sidelines with the last stop at the Sandshaker. New this year is the Leprechaun Transit, a trolley for Pub Crawlers to ride.

March 31 – October 30, 2012 Season Kick-off Bands on the Beach

Gulfside Pavilion735 Pensacola Beach Blvd.Pensacola Beach, FL 32561

Every week come to the Gulfside Pavilion to hear the best of the nation’s country, rock n roll, and western music.

APRIL

April 9, Daniel Tosh 2012 Tour

Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502

April 14 – 15, Seville Quarter Reggae Fest

Seville Quarter130 E. Government StreetPensacola, FL 32501

Reggae Festival in the End Othe Alley Courtyard. We Be Jammin at Seville Mon! The spirit of Jamaica returns to the End of the Alley Courtyard and on the Main Stage in the Party Plaza at Seville Quarter. The two day Festival will be Jammin with Reggae inspired music and food. Headlining the Reggae Festival are 5 Local & National known acts. Head to the End Othe Alley Courtyard this weekend and grab a Red Stripe Beer and prepare to Celebrate the Sprits of the

Islands all weekend long. We will feature a creative Reggae Menu full of the great tastes of Jamaica. It will be a laid back weekend at Seville Quarter.

April 14, Dragon Boat Races

Perdido Key Oyster Bar and MarinaPensacola, FL 32507

Enjoy watching teams participate in the ancient and international sport of dragon boat racing on the Intracoastal Waterway. The races will launch from Perdido Key Oyster Bar and Marina at noon, vendors, arts and crafts, and kids’ activities start at 11 a.m. register your own team of 22 participants!

April 17 – 18, Blue Angels Practice

National Naval Aviation Museum - viewing area1750 Radford BlvdPensacola, FL 32508

The team visits the museum to answer questions and sign autographs after Wednesday practices. Schedule is subject to change without notice and is weather permitting, for everyone's safety.

April 19 – 21, White Sands Bluegrass Festival

Farmers' Opry8897 Byrom Campbell RoadPace, FL 32571

The Farmers Opry presents three days of world class bluegrass with this year’s headliner Ms. Rhonda Vincent! Tickets go on sale January 2012. Call for more info! Line up: Blue Moon Rising Big River Deepsouth Bluegrass The Rowells Sweetwater Run David Parmley & Continental Divide Southern Gentlemen Trugrass High Cotton The Sawmill Band and Many More!!

April 21, Pensacola Community SoulFest

West Pensacola Ball Park"W" StreetPensacola, FL 32502

This year’s theme is Taste of Culture. SoulFest is presented by MotherWit Institute, Inc.

April 27 – 29, 28th Annual Interstate Mullet Toss & Gulf Coasts Greatest Beach Party

14620 Perdido Key DriveSuite 200Pensacola, FL 32507

Approximately 100,000 people from across the country migrate annually to Perdido Key to take part in this wildly popular spring event held on the Florida-Alabama state line at the world-famous Flora-Bama.

April 28 – 29, Goombay Gulf Coast

Historic Belmont-Devilliers NeighborhoodPensacola, FL 32502

Goombay Coast has already become the second largest gathering of steel drum bands in the United States, and it continues to grow. Over 25,000 people attended in 2010. Feel the rhythm of some of the best regional and international reggae, calypso, steel drum bands and Caribbean music around. Stilt-walkers, African dance and drum presentations, and a variety of activities will celebrate grassroots ties to the local African- American community.

MAY

May 4, Alan Jackson in Concert

Pensacola Civic Center201 East Gregory StreetPensacola, FL 32502

One of the most successful and respected singer-songwriters in music, country superstar Alan Jackson, brings his tour to the Pensacola Civic Center on Friday, May 4. Jackson’s new single, “So You Don’t Have to Love Me Anymore,” is at radio now and the video for the song is airing on CMT and GAC. He’s sold nearly 60-million albums worldwide, topped the country singles charts 35 times, and scored more than 50 Top-10 hits. He’s a 17-time ACM Award winner, a 16-time CMA Award recipient, and a two-time Grammy-honored artist whose songwriting has earned him the prestigious ASCAP Founders Award

May 12, Bonfire Jam - Spring 2012

735 Pensacola Beach BlvdPensacola Beach, FL 32561

BIG TIME COUNTRY MUSIC Coming to Pensacola Beach Mother’s Day Weekend with special guest Ronnie Dunn.

May 12, Panhandle Cruisers National Car Show

1401 East Gregory StPensacola, FL 32502

Downtown Pensacola on Palafox St. between Garden and Wright Streets. Enter at Garden Street.

May 12 – 13, 10th Annual Art in the Park

Seville SquareDowntownPensacola, FL 32502

The signature spring event features more than 120 local, regional and national artists. Art includes a wide variety of media ceramics, photography, jewelry, sculpture, painting and more. The 2012 festival will also include an exhibition of art cars from across the country, which was a popular addition to last year’s Art in the Park. The event also features a children’s area with hands-on activities and art demonstrations for aspiring artists of all ages.

JUNE

June 22 – 23, Freedom Rock Weekend

Seville Quarters130 East Government StreetPensacola, FL 32501

Why wait until July 4th to get patriotic? You can wear your red, white and blue and celebrate the roots of rock n roll at Seville Quarters annual Freedom Rock Weekend on Friday and Saturday.

This year’s celebration is dedicated to the areas unsung Heroes Firefighters, the Police and Sheriff’s Departments, Emergency Medical Technicians and Member of the Armed Forces.

June 23 – 24, Bud Light King Mackerel/Cobia Tournament

FloundersPensacola Beach, FL 32561

Come see the best fishermen in the area catch some of the largest king mackerel and cobia in the gulf. This is one of the largest two-day boat events in the Gulf of Mexico with more than 1,000 anglers. Take-off and weigh-in will be at Flounder's Chowder House on Pensacola Beach.

JULY

July 4 -14, Red, White, and Blues Week

Pensacola BeachPensacola Beach, FL 32561

This week long celebration on Pensacola Beach kicks off with a fireworks extravaganza and ends with the Blue Angels Air Show.

July 5 – 8, Annual Pensacola International Billfish Tournament

Palafox Pier Marina997 S PalafoxPensacola, FL 32502

The Pensacola Big Game Fishing Club hosts one of the country's largest billfish tournaments at Pensacola, which attracts around 600 anglers from all over the Southeast.

July 13 – 14, Blue Angels Air Show

735 Pensacola Beach BlvdPensacola Beach, FL 32561

Witness the exhilarating stunts and heart-stopping maneuvers at the Pensacola Beach Air Show. The Navy's flight demonstration team, the Blue Angels, along with civilian and other military aircraft will perform aerial acrobatics over the Gulf of Mexico during a weekend of high-flying fun. Air show fans will have four opportunities to see the world-famous Blues in action on Pensacola Beach.

July 20 – 22, Fiesta de San Fermin en Pensacola "Running of the Bulls"

Seville Quarters,130 E. Government St.Pensacola, FL 32501

The Fiesta de San Fermin en Pensacola is a blend of Pensacola’s Spanish History and Culture with the daring and whimsy of a traditional Encierro (Bull Run). The Festival will pay homage to the Fiesta de San Fermin, held yearly in Pamplona, Spain, and is most notable for the "Running of The Bulls" made famous by Ernest Hemingway in his novel "The Sun Also Rises. The Fiesta de San Fermin en Nueva Orleans in New Orleans, Louisiana has also heavily influenced the Pensacola event. The 2nd annual Fiesta de San Fermin en Pensacola, will take place on the 20th & 21th of July at Seville Quarter, in downtown Pensacola. The run is a FREE family event and is open to all ages. The two-evening event will be a blend of Ernest Hemingway, Spain, music, food & drink in a semi life-threatening experience.

A "Chupinazo," or opening celebration, is scheduled for the evening of Friday, July 21th during Gallery Night, with live entertainment, food, beverages, & a procession honoring San Fermin, the Patron Saint of Pamplona, Spain. Saturday evening includes an "Encierro" (Bull Run), honoring the Danger-Filled running of the bulls in Spain, through the streets of Pensacola. At precisely 5:30pm the first rocket is set off to alert the runners that the corral gate is open. A second rocket signals that all bulls have been released. The third and fourth rockets are signals that all of the herds have entered the bullring, marking the end of the event. Live music, food & drink will be available for participants & spectators following the "Bull Run". The organizers of this year’s event expect this to be a yearly tradition in the streets of Downtown Pensacola. The Fiesta de San Fermin en Pensacola will feature a customary Bullish Street Chase only the Bulls are members of the Pensacola Roller Gurlz and select participants from other roller-derby leagues across the country. In tradition of the New Orleans version, in place of angry bulls, the roller derby enthusiasts will be wielding whiffle bats to chase the runners through the streets of Historic Downtown Pensacola. Runners are required to wear (any kind) of white shirt, white pants or shorts and wear a red bandana or piece of red cloth around the waste and neck. There are only five rules for attending the Bull Run: 1. Run at Your Own Risk! 2. Do NOT Touch the Bulls. 3. If You Go Down, Stay Down4. Do NOT Stand Still. 5. Children under Ten (or those that don't want to be hit) Use the Sidewalk!

AUGUST

August 3 – 5, Bushwacker Festival and 5K

Gulf Breeze Recreation Center800 Shoreline DriveGulf Breeze, FL 32561

This festival is centered around Pensacola's favorite adult beverage: the milk chocolaty Bushwacker. Enjoy a fun run and celebration on the boardwalk. The 3.1 mile race to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters is sponsored by the Capt'n Fun Runners. The course begins at the Gulf Breeze Recreation Center, and finishes on Pensacola Beach at the Visitors Information Center. The race starts at 7:30 a.m., and free bus transportation from Pensacola Beach to the race starting line will be provided from 6 a.m. - 7 a.m. A post-race party will be held at Capt'n Fun Beach Club on the Portofino Boardwalk.

August 14 – 15, Blue Angels Practice

National Naval Aviation Museum - viewing area1750 Radford BlvdPensacola, FL 32508

The team visits the museum to answer questions and sign autographs after Wednesday practices. Schedule is subject to change without notice and is weather permitting, for everyone's safety.

SEPTEMBER

September 1 – 3, Jamaican Fest

735 Pensacola Beach BlvdPensacola Beach, FL 32561

Featuring live music, The Kids Zone, sidewalk sale and the "Anything that Floats" race and bathtub races in Santa Rosa Sound.

September 6 – 7, Emerald Coast Beer Fest

Seville Quarters130 East Government StreetPensacola, FL 32501

The Escambia Bay Home Brewers and Seville Quarter are once again hosting the Emerald Coast Beer Festival. The festival kicks off at Seville Quarter on Thursday, September 6 from 7:00 -9:00 pm with a five course beer-pairing dinner featuring hand-crafted ales. The cost is $55.00 and seating is limited to 80. The Festival continues on Friday at 6:00 to 8:30 pm, at Seville Quarter with Pensacola’s largest Beer Tasting featuring more than 30 breweries and brewers from throughout the United States including microbrews and homebrew styles. Some of the featured breweries include Pensacola Bay Brewery, Terrapin, Seven Bridges, Moccasin Bend, Rogue, Sweetwater, Highland Brewing, Abita, Dogfish Head, Bells, Stone and Shipyard. There will also be food vendors and live music. Festival tickets are $20 in advance from an Escambia Bay Homebrew club member; $25.00 in advance from the following outlets: Seville Quarter, Pensacola Bay Brewery, Richey’s East, Wisteria Tavern, Four Winds Foods, The Shady Lady, Wine World Outlet, Aloha Wine & Liquor and Spirits and Grapes in Gulf Breeze, and Island Wine and Liquor on Pensacola Beach. Tickets are $30.00 the day of the event. An additional $10.00 ticket may be purchased for designated drivers. VIP tickets are limited to 100 and can be purchased in advance for $50.00. VIP ticket holders receive early entry to the VIP room, hors d’oeuvres and special exclusive hand-selected beers chosen by the top breweries. All ticket holders receive a souvenir festival beer tasting glass and free admission to a post-concert event in Seville Quarters Seville Plaza.

September 15 – 16, 4th Annual Taste of the Beach

Casino BeachPensacola Beach, FL 32561

Bring an appetite and be prepared for an explosion of flavors as Santa Rosa Island chefs show off their culinary skills with signature dishes or perhaps new creations near the Gulfside Pavilion in the core of Pensacola Beach.

September 26 – October 2, 4th Annual Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival

735 Pensacola Beach BlvdPensacola Beach, FL 32561

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear the songs as they were written and performed by the songwriters themselves in their purest form. Get the stories behind the songs as you enjoy beautiful Pensacola Beach in the fall. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to get up close and personal to the music you know and love. Participating stages include Bamboo Willies, Blues Angel Music, Grand Marlin Deck Stage, Grand Marlin Listening Room, Hilton, Lagunas, Land Shark Landing, Lillo’s Tuscan Grill, Margaritaville Tiki Bar, Paradise Bar & Grill, Portofino, Portofino l - Island Cruise, Sabine Sandbar, Sandshaker, The Amphitheatre on the Boardwalk, The Wine Bar/The Fitting Room, and Tiki Island Fantasy Golf

OCTOBER

October 6, 3rd Annual Oktoberfest

Perdido Key Oyster Bar13700 Perdido Key DrivePensacola, FL 32507

A $15 wristband will entitle the guest to microbrew and specialty beer sampling and we will have beer for sale in the Beer Garden. There will be an Oktoberfest Costume Contest and Live Band.

October 6 – 7, Art and Wine Weekend

Pensacola Beach735 Pensacola Beach BlvdPensacola Beach, FL 32561

With a stroke of a brush and a pop of a cork, Pensacola Beach will transform into an artist's village for the annual Art and Wine Weekend. Boasting more than 40 painters, potters, and creative types of all sorts, the event will showcase artists throughout the weekend while patrons watch art demonstrations, shop and sample wines from across the globe.

October 12 – 13, Haunted House Walking and Trolley Tours

Pensacola Historical Museum115 E. Zaragosa StreetPensacola, FL 32501

The ghosts of downtown Pensacola are back! Tours run every 30 minutes between 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Tours last one hour. Ghost Meter rentals are only $5.00 per tour per participant. Prepaid reservations required. Ticket sales usually begin one month before. Proceeds from ticket sales benefit the Pensacola Historical Society, a local nonprofit organization whose mission since 1933 has been to preserve and promote Pensacola’s history, a division of West Florida Historic Preservation, Inc. No refunds are available as this is our largest fundraiser for the year.

October 13 – 14, Estevanico Arts & Gospel Festival

Devillier's Historical Museum500 West BelmontPensacola, FL 32501

The Annual Estevanico Arts & Music Festival is an example of how one man’s plight can be resurrected and become a living breathing entity through the arts. Via the arts, the festival celebrates the life and journey of this unsung hero and the spirituality of a Pensacola community. African, European, Hispanic and Native American; Estevanico adapted to all of these cultures, but most importantly, he adapted as a man of faith. We celebrate his spirituality and commitment to humanity.

October 18 – 28, Pensacola Interstate Fair

Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds6655 Mobile HighwayPensacola, FL 32526

Fair features big-name entertainment in addition to games, rides, agricultural and education-oriented exhibits and displays.

NOVEMBER

November 2 – 4, Great Gulf Coast Arts Festival

Seville SquareAlcaniz & Government StreetsPensacola, FL 32502

The three-day, juried art show draws more than 200 of the nation’s best painters, potters, sculptors, jewelers, graphic artists, craftsmen and other artists. The event features live musicians in Fountain Park with sounds ranging from Zydeco, bluegrass, jazz and blues to classical. Local dance schools and groups perform daily. The Children's Arts Festival is next door in Bartram Park, featuring numerous hands-on artistic opportunities provided free of charge.

November 8 – 18, 28th Annual Frank Brown Songwriters Festival

Various venues on Perdido KeyPerdido Key, FL 32507

During this exciting 11 day festival, seasoned and aspiring songwriters and musicians from all over the country will play at different venues along the Gulf Coast, including Perdido Key, Fla., Pensacola, Fla., Orange Beach, Ala., and Gulf Shores, Ala., to celebrate the art of songwriting. This festival is held annually and showcases Grammy Award-winning songwriters from around the nation. Many of the songwriters have worked with famous performers including: Kenny Chesney, Blake Shelton, George Strait, Rascal Flatts, Reba McEntire, Martina McBride, Dolly Parton and even Elvis Presley.

November 18, Seville Quarter Wine Festival

Seville Quarter130 East Government StreetPensacola, FL 32501

Seville Quarter will be hosting its 2nd Annual Wine Festival on November 18th in its historic dining and entertainment complex. Festival-goers will enjoy samples of 200 handpicked wines from around the world poured by 10 local distributors. A special feature will be a Champagne and Oyster Bar in the courtyard. All wines will be available to purchase at special festival pricing and your admission includes a $5 coupon towards your purchase. In addition to the wine sampling there will be a cooking demo and tasting of Harris Ranch Natural Beef, Italian Specialties by Enzo, Tribeca Bread and Artisan Cheeses. To round out the festival there will be hand-crafted microbrew beers, a cigar sampling by Grand Reserve and live entertainment. We have always believed Seville Quarter is the perfect venue for a top-notch wine festival, says

Seville Quarters Bill Carlson. With our seven different themed rooms and courtyards it will be a unique experience to sample and learn about wine.