What’s Happening in Pensacola, FL This Weekend?!
What’s Happening in Pensacola, FL This Weekend
Friday, February 20 – Sunday, February 22, 2026
Pensacola is full of activities this weekend, from one of the most popular pop-culture conventions on the Gulf Coast to family-friendly recreation and local markets. Here’s everything you need to know to plan a great weekend.
Pensacon 2026 – Pop Culture Convention
When:
Friday, February 20: 1:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, February 21: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 22: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Where: Downtown Pensacola, including the Pensacola Bay Center and surrounding venues
Details:
Pensacon is the Gulf Coast’s major multi-genre fan convention celebrating comics, sci-fi, fantasy, gaming, cosplay, anime, film, and more. The three-day event takes place across multiple venues in downtown Pensacola and draws thousands of fans. Attendees can enjoy: panels and Q&A sessions with celebrity guests, cosplay contests, vendor halls with collectibles and art, interactive workshops, gaming rooms, and screenings. Schedule details including panel times and guest appearances are available on the Pensacon website or mobile app. Crowd levels are highest midday — consider arriving early on Saturday and Sunday to avoid lines. Plan travel and parking ahead of time, especially around the Bay Center area.
Public Ice Skating at the Pensacola Bay Center
When: Ongoing through the weekend (exact session times vary and are released in advance)
Where: Pensacola Bay Center
Details:
Public skating is offered at the Bay Center during the Ice Flyers season, typically in one-hour sessions. These fun, relaxed sessions are open to skaters of all ages and experience levels. Sessions often occur on Saturdays and Sundays and sell out, so check the venue’s schedule and buy tickets early. Standard sessions usually last 60 minutes. Skate rentals are available if you don’t have your own.
Helpful Hint: Arrive about 30 minutes early to get fitted for skates and warm up before hitting the ice.
Palafox Market – Weekly Local Market
When: Saturday morning (exact times vary but usually early morning through mid-day)
Where: Downtown Pensacola’s Palafox Street (check local listings)
Details:
The Palafox Market — a popular outdoor market featuring local produce, artisans, and handcrafted goods — is a great way to start your Saturday. Browse fresh food, handmade crafts, and locally made products while enjoying downtown Pensacola’s historic atmosphere.
Helpful Hint: Early arrivals get first pick of produce and art, and many vendors offer samples or small freebies.
Downtown Live Music and Performances
When: Friday and Saturday evenings
Where: Various downtown venues including bars, cafés, and performance spaces
Details:
Live music and entertainment are frequent Friday and Saturday night features throughout downtown Pensacola. Many local restaurants and bars host live performers starting around 6:00–7:00 p.m. or later. Schedules change weekly, so check local venue sites or social media for headliners and set times.
Helpful Hint: Arrive early for dinner reservations before shows start, as restaurants near nightlife hotspots can fill up quickly.
Helpful Weekend Tips
Parking and Traffic: Downtown Pensacola streets and lots near the Bay Center will be busier than usual for Pensacon. Plan extra time for parking and consider nearby public lots to avoid delays.
Weather Prep: Pensacola weather in February can be cool and breezy, especially in the evening. Dress in layers and bring a light jacket if you plan to walk between venues.
Food & Dining: Downtown offers a wide range of dining options. Try making reservations early for dinner, especially Friday and Saturday nights.
Comfortable Shoes: Expect a good amount of walking and standing at Pensacon and the market — comfortable footwear will make the weekend more enjoyable.
From pop culture fandom to local community gatherings and family recreation, Pensacola has something happening for every interest this weekend. Check official event pages for the latest updates and ticket availability before you go.