28 performers, 4 days, fans from all 50 states, 10 countries: Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam returns

Ebonee Burrell, The News Herald
·4 min read

PANAMA CITY BEACH — One of the nation’s top country music festivals is returning to the Gulf Coast for its biggest event yet.

The Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam dives back to Panama City Beach in June to celebrate its 10th anniversary, bringing tens of thousands of fans to the World’s Most Beautiful Beaches. The four-day festival, held at Frank Brown Park, creates a music-filled atmosphere with some of the biggest artists in country music. The event kicks off on June 2 and runs through June 5 for an extended weekend of entertainment, music and fun.

The Gulf Coast Jam finished its 2021 run at Frank Brown Park with six acts performing on June 6.
The Gulf Coast Jam finished its 2021 run at Frank Brown Park with six acts performing on June 6.

2021 Gulf Coast Jam: Panama City Beach jams! 22K at Gulf Coast Jam, largest music festival in U.S. since COVID

Fall festival: Gulf Coast Jam adds Ferris wheel to Panama City Beach event

“When we first held this event, we didn’t know if it would last or how it would go, but the Panama City Beach community welcomed us 10 years ago and it's now one of the biggest events in the Southeast,” said Rendy Lovelady, executive director of the event. “Without question, Panama City Beach is more than an investment, it’s now my home.”

In recognition of its 10th year, organizers have scheduled an additional day of the festivities with a Thursday night kickoff party and a beefed-up event lineup.

“Adding this fourth night of music gives us a great opportunity to bring even more entertainment to an already incredible lineup,” said Mark Sheldon, Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam COO and Panama City Beach mayor. “This is a great option for locals who may not be able to attend all three nights to have the chance to buy a one-day ticket. This also gives us the opportunity to have an extra day to show off our beautiful beaches, great restaurants and other attractions.”

Thursday-only tickets are available starting at $29 for general admission. This is the first time the mega-festival has offered a one-day pass. Anyone who purchases a three-day ticket automatically will get the fourth night free as a 10th-anniversary bonus.

Lineup packed with 28 top acts

This year’s lineup features 28 country music stars from around the country.

Artists performing during Thursday's kickoff party are Jameson Rodgers, Niko Moon, Casi Joy and headliner Brett Young.

Hitting the stage on Friday will be Gary Allan, Jordan Davis, Randy Rogers Band, Tyler Rich, Ryan Griffin, Tigirlily, Presley & Taylor and headliner Old Dominion.

The shows continue on Saturday with Chris Janson, Maddie & Tae, Frankie Ballard, Darryl Worley, Steve Moakler, Nate Barnes, Chandler Flint and headliner Florida Georgia Line.

Florida Georgia Line performs at the Country Thunder music festival on April 10 in Florence, Arizona. The superstars will headline the June 4 lineup at the Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam in Panama City Beach.
Florida Georgia Line performs at the Country Thunder music festival on April 10 in Florence, Arizona. The superstars will headline the June 4 lineup at the Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam in Panama City Beach.

Wrapping up the event on Sunday will be performances by Scotty McCreery, Mitchell Tenpenny, Tracy Lawrence, Corey Smith, Elvie Shane, Confederate Railroad, the Pepsi Southern Original winner and headliner Brooks & Dunn.

Music lovers in 50 states, 10 countries snap up tickets

Lovelady said ticket sales have boomed for the event and he expect more than 20,000 music lovers at the festival — welcoming visitors from every state and at least 10 countries.

Country star Brett Young will headline the June 2 kickoff party of the 2022 Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam in Panama City Beach.
Country star Brett Young will headline the June 2 kickoff party of the 2022 Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam in Panama City Beach.

“We’re one of the top 10 country shows in the nation,” Lovelady said, adding that the event is almost sold out. “Billboard Magazine has recognized the Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam as a top destination spot in the country festival business and this is something that we plan to continue in those headlines.”

In past years, the Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam fell on Labor Day weekend. Now the festival is a June fixture because of nicer weather, Lovelady said, and will remain cashless with wristbands being the ticket to entry into the festival.

“Since starting this event 10 years ago, I think we’ve become a staple for Panama City Beach,” Lovelady concluded. “Every year, when people come to the area for this event, we introduce them to a place that keeps them coming back, not just for the event, but for the destination as well.”

As of May 20, the VIP pit, Super VIP and Side stage passes are sold out. Four-day passes are currently on sale, general admission passes are $199, college passes are $159, and military, first responder/medical personnel passes are $149. All passes are available at www.GulfCoastJam.com.

This article originally appeared on The News Herald: Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam returns to Panama City Beach Florida in June