Annual Gala
Celebrating Leadership. Honoring Excellence. Building a Better Bay.
Each year, the Bay County Chamber of Commerce brings together business leaders, community partners, elected officials, and distinguished guests for one of the organization's signature celebrations — the Annual Gala.
More than an evening of recognition, the Gala is an opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments that have strengthened Bay County, honor individuals whose leadership and service have made a lasting difference, and look ahead to the opportunities that will shape our community's future.
Through meaningful recognition, shared accomplishments, and the celebration of new leadership, the Annual Gala reflects the spirit of collaboration that continues to move Bay County forward.
A Tradition of Leadership & Community Impact
Celebrating the Past. Inspiring the Future.
For more than a century, the Bay County Chamber of Commerce has brought businesses and community leaders together to advance economic opportunity and strengthen the place we call home.
The Annual Gala carries that tradition forward.
Each year, the Chamber reflects on its accomplishments, recognizes the dedication of its volunteer leadership, and celebrates the individuals and organizations whose contributions help shape Bay County.
A meaningful part of the evening is the transition of leadership, including recognition of the outgoing Chair of the Board of Directors and the ceremonial passing of the gavel to incoming leadership.
This tradition honors the service of those who have guided the Chamber while reaffirming the organization's commitment to the year ahead.
Recognizing Excellence in Bay County
Honoring Those Who Make a Difference
The Annual Gala provides an opportunity to recognize individuals whose leadership, commitment, and contributions have strengthened the Chamber and the greater Bay County community.
Lauren Merriam Memorial Award
The Chamber's Highest Honor
The Lauren Merriam Memorial Award is the Bay County Chamber of Commerce's highest honor.
Named in memory of Lauren Merriam, a former Chamber President and the original Chairman of the Chamber's First Friday Club, the award recognizes a member of the Bay County business community who demonstrates an exceptional commitment to the community's well-being.
Recipients embody a spirit of civic involvement, charitable service, and dedication to improving the lives of others. The award also honors Merriam's belief that meaningful community service and good humor can go hand in hand.
Member of the Year Award
Recognizing Outstanding Chamber Involvement
The Member of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding Chamber member whose involvement, leadership, and dedication have contributed to the organization's mission and success.
This recognition celebrates individuals who demonstrate a commitment to the Chamber, support its initiatives, and help strengthen relationships throughout the business community.
Chairman's Award
Recognizing Extraordinary Contributions
Presented at the discretion of the Chair of the Board of Directors, the Chairman's Award recognizes an individual or group whose exceptional contributions have made a meaningful impact beyond the ordinary expectations of community service or organizational involvement.
This special recognition honors extraordinary leadership, vision, or service that has helped advance Bay County.
The Chairman's Award is presented when deemed appropriate by Chamber leadership and is not necessarily awarded annually.
An Evening of Celebration & Connection
Bringing Bay County Together
The Annual Gala is an opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, celebrate shared accomplishments, and recognize the people who make Bay County a thriving place to live, work, and do business.
The evening traditionally brings together Chamber members, business executives, community leaders, elected officials, and partners from across the region.
Through fellowship, recognition, and the celebration of leadership, the Gala strengthens the relationships that are central to the Chamber's mission.
Investing in the Next Generation of Leaders
Annual Silent Auction Benefiting Junior Leadership Bay
The Bay County Chamber of Commerce's Annual Gala is more than a celebration of today's community leaders — it's also an investment in tomorrow's.
Each year, the Gala features a silent auction benefiting Junior Leadership Bay (JLB), one of the Chamber's leadership development programs.
Junior Leadership Bay provides local students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, explore the community, engage with business and civic leaders, and gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges shaping Bay County.
Through hands-on experiences, educational activities, and meaningful connections, the program helps prepare the next generation of leaders to make a positive difference in our community.
Proceeds from the Annual Gala Silent Auction support Junior Leadership Bay, helping sustain opportunities for young people to learn, lead, and grow.
Bid With Purpose. Invest in the Future.
Gala attendees are invited to participate in the silent auction and support the continued development of Bay County's future leaders.
Every bid represents an investment in the next generation and the future of the community we share.
Attend the Annual Gala
Be Part of the Celebration
Join the Bay County Chamber of Commerce as we recognize outstanding leadership, celebrate the achievements of our business community, and look toward another year of progress.
Event Date: January 22, 2027
Location: Panama City Beach Event Center at Edgewater Beach and Golf Resort
Event Details: https://business.panamacity.org/events-calendar/Details/2027-annual-dinner-1901269
Event details, registration opportunities, and additional information will be announced as they become available.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Celebrate Leadership. Showcase Your Business.
The Annual Gala offers businesses an opportunity to support one of the Chamber's signature events while connecting their brand with the leaders, organizations, and individuals helping shape Bay County's future.
Sponsorship opportunities may include event recognition, promotional visibility, and additional benefits depending on the sponsorship level.
Businesses interested in supporting the Annual Gala are encouraged to contact the Chamber for current sponsorship information.
Building a Better Bay — Together
The Annual Gala reminds us that progress is built through people — leaders who step forward, businesses that invest in our community, and individuals who give their time and talents to make Bay County stronger.
As we celebrate the accomplishments of the past and embrace the opportunities ahead, we remain united by a shared commitment:
Building a Better Bay.