Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival Expands to Two Weekends of Music

The Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival is expanding to two full weekends of music in 2026, running October 1-11 across Historic Downtown Pensacola and Pensacola Beach.

The community and outreach programming runs October 5-7, followed by the beachside weekend October 8-11. Festival organizers say the expansion reflects growing demand and a chance to spotlight more songwriters and venues across the area.

"We are thrilled to bring even more music and songwriting talent to our community," said Reneda Cross Pasquale, president of Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival Inc.

Featured Artists include Anthony Smith, Keith Burns, Thompson Square, Jamie O'Neal, Andy Griggs, Craig Campbell, Jeffrey Steele, Gary Nichols, Brian White, Wynn Varble, Wil Nance, Thom Shepherd, and Mark Nesler.

The festival also hosts a National Songwriting Competition, offering a $1,000 grand prize and $150 category prizes. For more information, visit songwriterspensacolabeach.com or pensacolabeachsongfest.com.

Pensacola Interstate Fair Announces Star-Studded 2026 Entertainment Lineup

The Pensacola Interstate Fair returns October 22 through November 1, 2026, with 11 big days of rides, food, family fun and free live entertainment.

This year’s lineup at the Pepsi Open-Air Stage includes Lauren Alaina, The Band Perry, Hunter Hayes, Colt Ford, The Lacs, John Foster and several popular tribute acts. The Fair will also host the finals of Cat Country 98.7’s BIG Lip Sync Battle.

From country and country-rap to classic rock, Motown and disco, the 2026 Pensacola Interstate Fair entertainment schedule offers something for music fans of all ages.

All musical performances are included with Fair admission. Seating at the Pepsi Open-Air Stage is available on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reserved seating.

Pensacola Interstate Fair 2026 Entertainment Schedule

Thursday, October 22 at 7 p.m.

Cat Country 98.7 BIG Lip Sync Battle  – REGISTER HERE

Twelve local acts will take the stage for the finals of Cat Country 98.7’s BIG Lip Sync Battle.

The finalists will compete for the title of 2026 Lip Sync Champion with creative costumes, energetic dance moves and crowd-pleasing performances. Expect plenty of laughs and memorable moments as some of the area’s most entertaining performers battle for the championship.

Friday, October 23 at 7:30 p.m.

The Band Perry

Grammy, CMA and ACM Award-winning group The Band Perry will kick off the Fair’s concert lineup with its genre-blending country sound.

The group is known for country favorites including “If I Die Young,” “You Lie” and “Better Dig Two,” along with its high-energy live performances.

Saturday, October 24 at 7:30 p.m.

Hunter Hayes

Grammy-nominated, multi-instrumentalist and multi-Platinum-selling artist Hunter Hayes brings his electrifying live show to Pensacola.

The Louisiana native has accumulated more than 2 billion on-demand global streams and is known for hits including “Wanted,” “I Want Crazy” and “Invisible.”

Sunday, October 25 at 6:30 p.m.

Cow Costume and Prettiest Cow Contest

Sponsored by the Pensacola Tractor Supply Co., the Cow Costume and Prettiest Cow Contest will take place in the Livestock Arena. The public is invited to attend.

Sunday, October 25 at 7:30 p.m.

The Temptations Revue

The Temptations Revue will bring the legendary group’s signature harmonies, choreography and classic Motown sound to the Fair.

Fans can expect a nostalgic celebration featuring some of the most memorable R&B songs of all time.

Monday, October 26 at 5 p.m.

Youth and FFA Steer Show

The Youth and FFA Steer Show will be held in the Livestock Arena. The public is invited to attend.

Monday, October 26 at 7:30 p.m.

John Foster

Rising country artist John Foster brings his traditional country sound and smooth vocals to the Fair.

The runner-up on Season 23 of “American Idol” has quickly built a following with his old-school country influences and authentic approach to songwriting.

Tuesday, October 27 at 5 p.m.

Youth Steer Breeding Show and Prospect Steers

The Youth Steer Breeding Show and Prospect Steers competition will take place in the Livestock Arena. The public is invited to attend.

Tuesday, October 27 at 7:30 p.m.

White Tie Rock Ensemble: “Monsters of Rock”

White Tie Rock Ensemble returns to the Fair with “Monsters of Rock,” a high-energy celebration of classic rock.

The show will feature music made famous by KISS, AC/DC, Ozzy Osbourne, Billy Idol, Van Halen, Mötley Crüe and other legendary rock acts.

Wednesday, October 28 at 6 p.m.

Youth and FFA Livestock Auction

Support local FFA and 4-H students by bidding on a steer during the Youth and FFA Livestock Auction at the Livestock Arena.

Approximately 20 to 30 steers are expected to be auctioned. The public is invited to attend and encouraged to support these hardworking young exhibitors.

Wednesday, October 28 at 8:30 p.m.

Lauren Alaina

Multi-Platinum country star Lauren Alaina will take the Pepsi Open-Air Stage for a special 8:30 p.m. performance.

The singer, songwriter and entertainer is known for hits including “Road Less Traveled,” “Getting Good” and “What Ifs.” She comes to Pensacola following the August 28 release of her new album, “Stages.”

Thursday, October 29 at 3:30 and 7 p.m.

Bee Gees Now

Step back into the disco era with a high-energy tribute celebrating the timeless music of the Bee Gees.

Bee Gees Now brings favorites including “Stayin’ Alive,” “Night Fever” and “How Deep Is Your Love” to life during two performances.

Friday, October 30 at 7:30 p.m.

Colt Ford

Country-rap trailblazer Colt Ford brings his genre-bending sound to the Fair.

The Georgia-born singer, songwriter, rapper and musician has built his career by combining country, Southern rock and hip-hop. His fan favorites include “Dirt Road Anthem,” “Workin’ On” and “Answer to No One.”

Saturday, October 31 at 7:30 p.m.

The Lacs

Georgia country-rap duo The Lacs will close out the Fair’s headline concert schedule with their signature blend of Southern rock, country and hip-hop.

Known for their energetic live performances, The Lacs have built a loyal following with songs including “Kickin’ Up Mud,” “Dirt Road Dollars” and “Country Boys Paradise.”

Daily Entertainment at the Pensacola Interstate Fair

In addition to the scheduled concerts and livestock events, several family-friendly attractions will return throughout the 2026 Fair.

Sea Lion Splash

This lively show features sea lions demonstrating their intelligence, agility and playful personalities through entertaining tricks and interactive routines.

The show combines education and entertainment, giving audiences an opportunity to learn about marine mammals while enjoying their hilarious antics and impressive skills.

Off Axis High Dive Show

Professional divers will flip, twist and plunge from platforms reaching heights of up to 80 feet into a pool below.

The high-energy show combines daring acrobatics, thrilling stunts and comedy in a performance designed to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Robinson’s Racing Pigs

Fairgoers can cheer for their favorite speedy competitor as Robinson’s Racing Pigs dash around the track toward the finish line.

The classic fair attraction is filled with squeals, playful antics and audience participation for guests of all ages.

Reno’s Reptiles

Get a hands-on look at snakes, lizards, turtles and other reptiles inside Building 2.

Expert handlers will share interesting facts about these often-misunderstood animals, including their unique behaviors and important roles in the ecosystem.

Reno’s Reptiles will be open daily until 10 p.m. The exhibit will be closed Sunday, November 1.

When Is the 2026 Pensacola Interstate Fair?

The 2026 Pensacola Interstate Fair runs Thursday, October 22, through Sunday, November 1.

The Fair is held at the Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds, located at:

6655 West Mobile HighwayPensacola, Florida

Concerts and entertainment shows are included with the price of Fair admission. Seating is first-come, first-served, and no reserved seating is available.

Daily performance times may change because of weather or other circumstances. Visit PensacolaFair.com for the latest schedule, admission information and Fair updates, or call the Fair office at 850-944-4500.

2026 Pensacola Seafood Festival Brings Three Days of Food, Live Music and Family Fun Downtown

The Pensacola Seafood Festival returns to historic downtown Pensacola September 25–27, 2026, for three days of fresh Gulf Coast flavors, free live entertainment, arts and crafts, children’s activities and more.

Sponsored by the Pensacola Ice Flyers and hosted by Fiesta Pensacola, the Pensacola Seafood Festival is a free community event held throughout Seville Square, Fountain Park and Bartram Park.

2026 Pensacola Seafood Festival Dates and Hours

• Friday, September 25: 11 a.m.–11 p.m.

• Saturday, September 26: 10 a.m.–11 p.m.

• Sunday, September 27: 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

The festival is held rain or shine. Admission and live entertainment are free.

Live Entertainment at the Pensacola Seafood Festival

Live music is one of the biggest attractions at the Pensacola Seafood Festival, with performances throughout the weekend.

The 2026 lineup is still being completed, but several featured performers have already been announced—including country artists Tim Roberts and Karli Ryan on Sunday afternoon.

Friday, September 25

• 4 p.m. – Ragamuffin

• 6:30 p.m. – To be announced

• 9 p.m. – Moon Taxi

Saturday, September 26

• 1:30 p.m. – To be announced

• 3:45 p.m. – To be announced

• 5 p.m. – To be announced

• 7 p.m. – To be announced

• 9:30 p.m. – The Molly Ringwalds

Sunday, September 27

• 12:30 p.m. – Tim Roberts

• 3 p.m. – Karli Ryan

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or picnic blankets and settle in for the free performances. Coolers and pets are not permitted inside the festival grounds.

The festival will also celebrate Budweiser’s 150th anniversary with $3 Budweiser drafts Friday from 3–5 p.m.

Additional performers will be announced as the festival approaches. Check the official Pensacola Seafood Festival music page for the latest lineup.

Seafood, Festival Favorites and Sweet Treats

Come hungry—the festival will feature seafood dishes prepared fresh on-site by a variety of vendors.

Expected selections include shrimp, crawfish, scallops, crab, grouper, alligator, calamari, low-country boil, gumbo, lobster rolls, crab cakes, coconut shrimp, jambalaya, étouffée, paella, conch fritters, seafood baskets, kabobs, crawfish mac and cheese and more.

There will also be plenty of choices for guests who do not eat seafood, including burgers, hot dogs, chicken tenders, turkey legs, french fries, nachos and blooming onions. Dessert and snack choices will include funnel cakes, kettle corn, ice cream, gelato, apple dumplings, snow cones, fresh-squeezed lemonade and root beer floats.

Flavors of Fiesta

The Flavors of Fiesta area—formerly known as Gulf to Table—will feature local restaurants and caterers serving tapas-sized portions of their signature dishes.

Festivalgoers can sample a variety of local creations without committing to a full entrée, making it easier to taste several dishes during a visit.

Fiesta Seafood Grille

The Fiesta Seafood Grille, presented by Pensacola Energy, will give guests the opportunity to watch some of Pensacola’s best chefs in action in an outdoor demonstration kitchen.

The scheduled 2026 demonstration times are:

Friday, September 25

• 5 p.m.

• 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, September 26

• Noon

• 1:30 p.m.

• 3 p.m.

• 4:30 p.m.

Sunday, September 27

• Noon

• 1:30 p.m.

• 3 p.m.

Participating chefs will be announced later.

More Than 170 Arts and Crafts Exhibitors

More than 170 artists and craftspeople are expected to exhibit their work during the festival.

Guests can browse paintings, prints, drawings, photography, ceramics, pottery, clothing, accessories, jewelry, woodcrafts, outdoor décor, metalwork, glasswork, gourmet goods, soaps, candles, novelty items and more.

Festival artwork and merchandise for 2026 will feature “School’s Out,” the winning poster design created by artist Jen Confusione.

Children’s Area at Bartram Park

Families can visit the Children’s Area in Bartram Park for arts and crafts, games, activities and other kid-friendly fun.

Community partners scheduled to participate include the Girl Scouts, NAS STARBASE and the Pensacola and Perdido Bays Estuary Program.

Children’s Area Hours

• Saturday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

• Sunday: 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

The Children’s Area is cash only.

Festival Location and Directions

The Pensacola Seafood Festival takes place in Seville Square and the surrounding Fountain and Bartram parks.

Seville Square311 East Government StreetPensacola, Florida

From Interstate 110, travel south to Gregory Street, continue toward Alcaniz Street and turn left on Alcaniz. Follow the route toward Government Street and the Seville Square area.

Nearby landmarks include The Fish House and Hub Stacey’s.

Parking and Free Trolley Service

Parking is available throughout downtown Pensacola on a first-come, first-served basis. Many downtown parking areas are privately owned and may charge a fee. Those fees are not controlled by Fiesta Pensacola or the festival.

Accessible parking will be available for vehicles with the appropriate permit in the Port of Pensacola parking lot on Barracks Street. Spaces are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Winterfest will provide free trolley rides to the festival during these hours:

• Friday: Noon–7 p.m.

• Saturday: Noon–7 p.m.

• Sunday: Noon–4 p.m.

What to Know Before You Go

• Admission is free.

• The festival is held rain or shine.

• Pets are not permitted, but trained service animals are welcome.

• Coolers are not allowed.

• Lawn chairs and picnic blankets are encouraged for the live music area.

• Credit card acceptance varies by vendor.

• Beverage booths will have designated cash and credit-card lines.

• The Children’s Area and Coca-Cola trailer are cash only.

• ATMs will be available at several locations throughout the festival.

For updates, additional performer announcements and complete festival information, visit the official Pensacola Seafood Festival website.