10 Spring Must-See Pensacola Events

Spring is a fantastic time to take in some of the wonderful activities that Pensacola has to offer. Beautiful weather, an engaging city vibe and pristine beaches make for a great visit. We are excited about 10 spring must-see Pensacola events.

Gallery Night

Pleasant spring evenings are an awesome opportunity to enjoy the culture of Pensacola. Transport yourself to the ‘40s and ‘50s at Gallery Night Navy Days “Vintage Vibes and Valor” on April 18. Vintage tunes and retro charm are sure to provide an enjoyable evening.

“Art in Bloom” on May 16 promises a focus on the beauty of the garden. Over 70 art vendors showcasing their work along Palafox Street along with a variety of live performances and creative experiences will continue to highlight Pensacola’s thriving arts scene. Gallery Night runs from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. 

Birds and the Night Sky

Away from the city, Big Lagoon State Park is a fine place to enjoy a lovely spring day. Watching beautiful birds is a fine way to do it. The Beginning Guided Bird Hike from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on April 19 provides an opportunity for beginning birders to learn about and catch a glimpse of some of the many species that inhabit the park. Bring your binoculars, camera and water bottle to enjoy the park and its avian wildlife.

Big Lagoon State Park also plays host to stunning views of the night sky on April 19 with An Evening Under the Stars. Members of the Escambia Amateur Astronomer Association will offer telescopes, binoculars and a wealth of stargazing knowledge for visitors to view and learn about the moon, planets and other celestial objects in this favorite among Pensacola events. Stargazing will be held at the amphitheater and telescopes will be set up on the southeast side of the parking area. Please park on the north side of the lot to minimize light pollution. The event is included with the park entry fee, but visitors must enter the park before it closes at sunset.

Pensacola Crawfish Festival

An annual highlight of spring in Pensacola is the Pensacola Crawfish Festival. The 40th annual festival happens from April 25 through the 27. Thousands of pounds of crawfish will be brought fresh from Louisiana by the local Cordova Crawfish Company. Cajun fare such as boudin, jambalaya, etouffee, fresh and fried seafood and so much more will be available to round out this Gulf Coast culinary experience.

Cinemas in the Sand

Cinemas in the Sand continues the 2025 lineup with Moana 2 on Friday, May 9. Feel the sand between your toes on Pensacola Beach while enjoying the adventures of Moana and Maui in this 2024 Disney-animated musical. Movies start just after sunset at the Gulfside Pavilion stage on Casino Beach.

Pensacola Beach Art and Wine Festival

Spring is a great time for a stroll on the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk and the experience is made even better on May 10 with the Pensacola Beach Art and Wine Festival. Wine samples and works by some of the Gulf Coast’s most talented artists make for a memorable day. The festival starts at 10 a.m. and wine tastings begin at 1 p.m.

Memorial Day Ceremony

The Memorial Day weekend ceremony in Veterans Memorial Park is a great place to pay tribute to the men and women who never made it home. Exhibits and patriotic music will begin at 9 a.m. on May 26. Following, a ceremony honoring those we’ve lost will start at 1 p.m. The ceremony typically includes a presentation of colors, laying of wreaths and guest speakers.

Grand Fiesta Parade

A favorite in the Pensacola events lineup is the Grand Fiesta parade through downtown Pensacola on May 30. See the beautiful floats, enjoy the sounds of local high school marching bands, catch some beads and glimpse the masked DeLuna, his Queen and their court at this annual event. The parade begins at 7 p.m.

Bands on the Beach 

Spring ushers in even more entertainment on the beach with the return of Bands on the Beach. The event happens every Tuesday night throughout the summer. Bands on the Beach provides a fantastic opportunity to see and hear some great local artists perform at the Gulfside Pavilion at Casino Beach.

Everyday Pensacola Spring Events

Every day can be an event in Pensacola and does not necessarily involve a specific date and time. Fantastic weather makes spring a great time to enjoy all the outdoor activities that Pensacola has to offer. Kayaking in Santa Rosa Sound, exploring Fort Pickens and just lazing on the beach are a few that come immediately to mind.