From Derby Day parties and waterfront events to art walks, live music, and one of the best margarita weekends of the year, the calendar is packed from Thursday through Sunday.
Whether you’re starting your morning with a 5K, spending your afternoon downtown, or ending the night with live music or a fight night crowd, this is one of those weekends where there’s something happening in every direction.
Here are 10 events worth planning around.
PENSACOLA NAVY DAYS AT BLUE WAHOOS
Celebrate Navy Days at the ballpark with a night of baseball and community recognition.
- Date: Thursday, April 30
- Time: 6:05pm
- Location: Blue Wahoos Stadium
An interactive night at First City Arts Center with live glassblowing demos, music, food trucks, and a collectible handmade cup with drinks included.
- Date: Friday, May 1
- Time: 5:00pm–9:00pm
- Location: First City Arts Center
PENSACOLA MARINA BOAT SHOW BOATS ON THE BAYOU
A two-day boat show featuring a variety of vessels, vendors, and everything boating-related along the bayou.
- Date: May 1–2
- Time: 10:00am–5:00pm
- Location: 700 S Myrick St
CHRISTOPHER’S CONCERTS FEAT. JOHN HART
A free, family-friendly outdoor concert where guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, food, and drinks for a relaxed evening of live music.
- Date: Thursday, April 30
- Time: 6:00pm–8:00pm
- Location: St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church
FIRST FRIDAYS AT BLUE MORNING GALLERY
A monthly artist reception showcasing new work from local artists, complete with light refreshments and a lively downtown atmosphere.
- Date: Friday, May 1
- Time: 5:30pm–7:30pm
- Location: Blue Morning Gallery
MARGARITA FEST PENSACOLA BEACH
Sample margaritas from local restaurants, vote for your favorite, and enjoy a beachside afternoon with live music.
- Date: Sunday, May 3
- Time: 1:00pm–4:00pm
- Location: Casino Beach
A Derby Day celebration featuring mint juleps, themed cocktails, and race-day viewing in a lively setting.
- Date: Saturday, May 2
- Time: 10:30am–4:00pm
- Location: The Well at Perfect Plain
CINCO DE MAYO FESTIVAL DOWNTOWN PENSACOLA
Celebrate with live music, dancing, cultural performances, and a wide variety of food along Government Street.
- Date: Sunday, May 3
- Time: 2:00pm–9:00pm
- Location: Government Street (in front of Seville Quarter)
A high-energy race through downtown Pensacola, featuring certified courses and a festive finish at Seville Quarter.
- Date: Saturday, May 2
- Time: 7:00am–10:00am
- Location: Downtown Pensacola
An action-packed night at the Bay Center featuring live MMA bouts and a high-energy crowd.
- Date: Friday, May 1
- Time: 6:30pm
- Location: Pensacola Bay Center
Local Pulse Top 10 Sponsored by The Dog House
Weekend vibes on a Thursday?
We’ll take it.
Spring is in full swing, the sun’s out, and we’ve got a cocktail in one hand and a hotdog in the other. 🍹
The dust is finally starting to settle on Palafox Street, and let’s just say… the view from here is looking real good.
We’re already picturing it
front patio sips, easy strolls, and that downtown energy back where it belongs.
What are you most excited for when Palafox reopens?
