5 Things to Do in Pensacola This Weekend, July 31 Through August 2
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Pensacola is heading into August with a full weekend of live music, beach traditions, family activities and nighttime adventures.
From Bushwacker celebrations on Pensacola Beach to a free waterfront concert and outdoor movie downtown, here are five things happening around Pensacola from Friday, July 31 through Sunday, August 2.
Celebrate Bushwacker Fest at the Sandshaker
The Sandshaker is celebrating Pensacola Beach’s signature frozen drink with three days of live music and Bushwacker fun.
Bushwacker Fest begins Friday afternoon and continues through Sunday evening. Limited edition Bushwacker cups will be available while supplies last.
The weekend music lineup includes Brandon Sandefur, Count the Years, Paul Killough, Beach DOGZ, BUZZCUTT and Vinyl Revival.
Date: Friday, July 31 through Sunday, August 2
Location: The Sandshaker, Pensacola Beach
See the complete Bushwacker Fest schedule
See Bay Kings Band at Bands on the Bayou
Bands on the Bayou returns to Bayview Park Friday evening with a free waterfront performance from Bay Kings Band.
The group performs a high energy mix of rock, pop, funk, Motown, Latin, dance music and Top 40 favorites. Food vendors open at 4:30 PM, followed by live music from 6:30 to 8:30 PM.
Guests should bring chairs or blankets and find a spot overlooking Bayou Texar. Admission is free.
Date: Friday, July 31
Food vendors: 4:30 PM
Live music: 6:30 to 8:30 PM
Location: Bayview Park, 2001 East Lloyd Street
See the complete Bands on the Bayou details
Run or Walk the Bushwacker 5K
The Bushwacker 5K returns Saturday morning for its 40th anniversary.
The point to point race begins on Gulf Breeze Parkway at 7:30 AM and finishes at the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk in front of Bamboo Willie’s. Runners and walkers are both welcome.
Free buses will leave the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk for the starting area from 6 to 7 AM. After crossing the finish line, participants can enjoy live music, cold towels, popsicles and a Bushwacker served in a souvenir cup at the Bamboo Willie’s party.
Date: Saturday, August 1
Race time: 7:30 AM
Finish: Bamboo Willie’s at the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk
Register for the Bushwacker 5K
Take a Ghosts and Graveyards Tour Through Pensacola
Spend Saturday evening exploring the darker side of Pensacola during a special Ghosts and Graveyards riding tour
Guests will travel through haunted neighborhoods, historic districts and eerie locations across Pensacola while hearing stories about paranormal encounters, local legends, graveyards and real haunted investigations.
The route includes Seville, Sanders Beach, North Hill, West Hill and the downtown business district. Special effects, immersive storytelling and an extended route create a mix of fear, suspense and dark humor throughout the evening.
This experience is intended for mature audiences. It is not recommended for children 13 and younger, and parental guidance is strongly advised for teenagers.
Date: Saturday, August 1
Time: 5:30 to 7:30 PM
Meeting location: 1800 North E Street, Pensacola
View the Ghosts and Graveyards Tour
Watch Up at Movies in the Park
Hancock Whitney Movies in the Park returns to Community Maritime Park Saturday evening with a free showing of Up.
Activities begin at 6 PM with music, yard games, crafts, food trucks, concessions, inflatable waterslides and face painting. The movie will begin at sunset.
Admission to the activities and movie is free. Food and concessions are sold separately.
Date: Saturday, August 1
Activities: 6 PM
Movie: Sunset
Location: Community Maritime Park behind Blue Wahoos Stadium
View the Movies in the Park event
Plan Your Pensacola Weekend
Friday evening offers two major live music options with Bands on the Bayou at Bayview Park and Bushwacker Fest at the Sandshaker.
Saturday starts early with the Bushwacker 5K before the celebration continues on Pensacola Beach. Families can finish the day with Movies in the Park, while anyone looking for a nighttime adventure can explore haunted downtown Pensacola.
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