3 Pensacola Events You Won’t Want To Miss
Looking for the best things to do in Pensacola? Late summer is packed with exciting events, from quirky bathtub races to rodeo thrills and the famous Bushwacker Festival. Whether you’re a local or visiting Pensacola Beach, these upcoming events promise great entertainment, live music, and plenty of reasons to soak up the Gulf Coast vibes.
Bushwacker Festival – August 22–24, 2025
Get ready to sip, dance, and celebrate Pensacola Beach’s most famous frozen cocktail — the Bushwacker! The Bushwacker Festival takes place August 22–24 at the home of the original Bushwacker, featuring live music all weekend long, souvenir cups, festival shirts, and plenty of that creamy, chocolatey drink.
This annual tradition is a highlight of Pensacola Beach events and draws crowds from across the region. If you’ve never tried an authentic Bushwacker while dancing to a beachfront band, this is your year.
📍 Location: The Original Bushwacker Bar, Pensacola Beach
📅 Dates: August 22–24, 2025
Bathtub Boat Races – August 25th
One of the quirkiest and most beloved Pensacola Beach traditions, the Bathtub Boat Races at Bamboo Willie's Beachside Bar are back this Labor Day weekend. Originating in the 1980s, this event challenges teams to race makeshift boats — often hilarious in design — across Santa Rosa Sound.
Not only is it wildly entertaining, but the races raise money for local causes like Pensacola Beach Elementary School. Spectators can enjoy drinks, food, and unbeatable views while cheering on the contestants.
📍 Location: Bamboo Willie's Beachside Bar, Pensacola Beach
📅 Date: August 25, 2025
💵 Registration Fee: $30 (sign up at Bamboo Willie's or bamboowillies.com)
Bulls on the Beach – September 4–6, 2025
If you’re looking for family-friendly events near Pensacola with a serious adrenaline rush, head to Flora-Bama’s Bulls on the Beach. This professional bull riding event features some of the best riders from across the country.
The action kicks off Thursday with Kid’s Night, including a coloring contest, bike giveaways, and junior bull riding. Friday and Saturday nights bring the full-scale competition with roaring crowds and top-tier rodeo talent.
A portion of proceeds benefits St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, making it an exciting event for a great cause.
📍 Location: Flora-Bama, Perdido Key
📅 Dates: September 4–6, 2025
Plan Your Pensacola Adventure
Whether you’re coming for the Bushwacker Festival, laughing through the Bathtub Boat Races, or feeling the rush at Bulls on the Beach, Pensacola’s late summer calendar is packed. Don’t miss a chance to pair these events with local tours and activities like dolphin cruises, jet ski rentals, and parasailing adventures to make your Gulf Coast trip unforgettable.
