The holidays will be here before you know it. It’s not too early to start thinking about fun holiday activities that are scheduled for this year. While not everything is guaranteed to be open over the holidays, if you live in Panama City or you are visiting Panama City, you’ll find plenty of things to do and activities to keep you entertained. 

Here’s a look at this year’s holiday activities in Panama City, Florida. 

Beach Ball Drop On New Year’s Eve

Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by jody.clabom

Whether you’re looking for an adult or family-friendly activity on New Year’s Eve, the Beach Ball Drop is the place to be. If you have young ones, attend the first ball drop at 8 p.m. Otherwise, stick around until the main ball drop at midnight. Why not do both? Some people enjoy catching two different ball drop events on New Year’s Eve! 

Family-friendly New Year’s Eve festivities start at 5:30 p.m. and include free live music and a big street festival. There will be plenty of activities and games for kids, plus shopping and plenty of food vendors. During the first ball drop, 10,000 inflated beach balls will be released down on revelers. 

After the first drop, there will be more music as people party and prepare for the midnight countdown. When midnight rolls around, you will want to be near Celebration Tower. Did you know that Panama City Beach’s Tower is ten feet taller than the one in Times Square? And, atop the tower is one of the world’s largest beach balls, which has a diameter of almost ten feet? During the final ten-second New Year’s Eve countdown, the giant beach ball starts descending. When the clock strikes midnight, watch an impressive display of fireworks light up the sky over Panama City Beach. 

Holly Fair 

The Junior League of Panama City is back this year with their Holly Fair, which is scheduled to take place November 11th through November 14th. The Junior League of Panama City is a female-led organization that is committed to promoting voluntarism and improving communities through effective actions and leadership of trained volunteers. 100% of the net proceeds they raise will support the mission and programs of The Junior League of Panama City. 

This year’s event will be held at Edgewater Beach Resort. The schedule of events is as follows: 

• November 11th: Preview party from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. with a live and silent auction; tickets are $60.
• November 12th: Champagne Brunch from 8 a.m. until 10 a.m. ($25) and general shopping from 10:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. ($10).
• November 13th: General shopping from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ($10).
• November 14th: Crafting with the Clauses from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. ($10) and general shopping from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. ($10). 

Crafting with the Clauses is one of the event’s highlights. The $10 fee includes a photo with Santa Claus, who will be available for photos from noon to 2 p.m.

Beach Home For The Holidays 

Start your Christmas holiday celebrations early this year with Panama City Beach’s Beach Home for the Holidays on November 26th and 27th. Bring your family to Aaron Bessant Park, where the stage is set. There will be s’mores, carol-themed concerts, and activities for kids. Even Santa will make an appearance. There will be fireworks as the encore both nights. 

Josh Turner will be the headliner on November 26th. Turner is known for his deep bass voice and is very popular on country radio. In fact, he’s sold more than six million records and reached over 3.2 billion global streams. 

Bethlehem Christmas Village

Every December, Capt. Anderson’s Marina hosts a family-friendly nativity scene for a few days. During the event, families can visit the interactive exhibit between 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Kids can try to find lodging, just like Joseph and Mary did. Experience the manger scene together with your kids. 

December Market And Festival In Fort Walton

On December 4th, take a road trip to Fort Walton for their December Market and Festival. There will be an outdoor market and festival in the west parking lot and the Christmas Open House going on inside. You’ll find plenty of available merchandise from a wide selection of vendors. There will be food, balloon animals, and there’s a chance your kids might even see Santa and his elf. If you come early in the day, you might also catch the children’s choir. 

DeFrance Holiday Market In Fort Walton 

On November 13th, Fort Walton Beach is holding its annual Holiday Market from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. If you want to get a jump on your holiday shopping, you’ll find a wide variety of Christmas gift ideas, Christmas decor, holiday wreaths, jewelry, and so much more. There will be free ice cream and grilled hot dogs and hamburgers. Proceeds from the grilled menu items will go toward helping the Cinco Baptist Children’s Ministry. 

Christmas Parade

Are you looking for a Christmas parade for you and your family to attend this holiday? Fortunately, the Panama City Beach Optimist Club holds its annual parade with dozens of entries. There are decorated floats, marching bands, fire trucks, custom automobiles, and more.       

Christmas Tree Lighting 

In early December, Panama City usually does its annual tree lighting ceremony. Last year, it was held at the new city hall for the first time. Prior to that, it took place in different parks throughout the city. This year’s event has not been formally announced yet, but it is expected that it will take place at City Hall again. 

Being involved in the community is important to us at Panama City Toyota. We look forward to attending and promoting various annual events, especially holiday ones such as the beach ball drop and the Christmas tree lighting. 

Do you have any recommendations for holiday events we should add to our list? If so, please contact us so we can add your recommendations to our list! 

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If you own an automobile, then routine oil changes are mandatory. How frequently you need to change your oil depends on your driving habits and your car’s model, year, and make. Most manufacturers recommend every 3,000 to 10,000 miles oil change. As per the Federal Highway Administration, you need between one and five oil changes annually if you drive an average of 13,500 miles.  

When it comes to oil changes, it’s tough to know whether you’re better off having a professional do it or whether you should have a go at it. Getting your oil changed by bringing your vehicle to the Panama City Toyota service center can help you avoid injury to yourself and damage to your ride. You’ll also not make any of these common do-it-yourself oil change mistakes:

• Not replacing the oil-fill cap.
• Not removing the original filter’s O-ring.
• Stripping the drain plug threads.
• Using the wrong kind of motor oil.
• Over-tightening the filter.

Getting your car’s oil changed is one of the essential services you need to have done on a routine basis. If you overlook it, your ride could have more costly problems. And while many drivers perform this service themselves, it’s best to leave it to the pros. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of bringing your car into the Panama City Toyota service center for a professional oil change.

Reasons A Dealership Oil Change Beats A Quick DIY Oil Change

Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by Nenad Stojkovic

You’ll Save Time

As things become more and more fast-paced, it seems like everybody is trying to balance their busy schedules. At the Panama City Toyota service center, we’re committed to efficiently getting you in and out of our dealership.

We’re a one-stop shop that provides the expertise, labor, and parts you need to get your oil change done professionally and quickly. If you consider the time you’ll spend researching and buying your supplies, changing the oil, and disposing of it, you’ll realize that getting your oil changed at a dealership will save you time over a DIY oil change. 

Expertise

Nowadays, vehicles are more intricate than ever. With state-of-the-art electronic systems and features, it’s not as simple as it used to be to rotate the tires or change the oil, and that’s why it’s prudent to go to a dealership you can trust. A dealership has the technical know-how to work on modern cars, access to specialized tools, and all maintenance and service information.

Warranty

Getting your oil changed at a certified Toyota dealership means you can easily keep the warranty of your new Toyota. Oil changes are needed to maintain your warranty, ensuring you don’t delay this service with us. Also, you’ll likely save a significant amount of money by having your service done by Certified and knowledgeable technicians at the dealership.

No Cleaning Up

Immediately you remove the oil drain plug, there’s no turning back. Oil will spill all over if you’re not cautious, so you need to wear gloves and avoid spillage on the ground or clothing. Anybody who does laundry understands how difficult it is to get rid of oil stains from clothes.

You Might Hurt Yourself or Damage Your Vehicle

For the trained eye, changing oil is a simple process that takes only a few minutes. You could leave your vehicle in the worst condition if you don’t have the same experience, tools, and knowledge. Maybe you use the wrong oil for your car or forget to replace the oil filter with a new one. Many things could go wrong if you don’t know what you’re doing. Moreover, knowledgeable technicians at the dealership have tools readily available to make these oil changes safe and straightforward.

Genuine Parts

At the Panama City Toyota service center, we use factory-recommended parts with every oil change, such as the oil filter and oil. The model and make of your vehicle will help determine what features your oil filter needs and the type of oil it needs. As a result, we make sure that every oil change is done with factory-recommended oil filters and oil.

Knowledgeable and Certified Mechanics 

While independent technicians are qualified to work on many vehicle brands, dealership technicians know your vehicle brand inside and out. They’ll know exactly what to look for, and they’re factory-trained professionals.

Additional Vehicle Fluids Might Need Attention

Oil changes are a part of the scheduled maintenance your car needs to ensure longevity, a smooth ride, and safe driving. However, it’s not the only fluid your automobile requires to run smoothly. Power steering fluid, engine coolant, and brake fluid all help lubricate or cool the main parts of your vehicle. When a professional is changing your oil, they can also check the levels of these essential fluids and top off any running low.

You’ll Get More Out of a Professional Oil Change

A DIY oil change might sound tempting and seem like an excellent way to save money, however, when you bring your vehicle into a reputable Panama dealership, you may be getting more for your money than just a professional oil change. An expert will have the right equipment and tools required to check and alert you if they discover additional problems so that you can have them addressed before irreversible damage occurs. 

Experience The Very Best In Panama Toyota Oil Changes

Being able to change your vehicle’s oil is an excellent skill to have, and it might come in handy in an emergency. However, 99% of the time, it’s more efficient, cleaner, cost-effective, and easier to get your oil changed by a mechanic.

The Panama City Toyota service center is completely staffed and equipped to cover all the maintenance and service needs specific to your vehicle. And because we’re a dealership, our relationship with you is important to us, and giving you quick and professional oil changes is about earning your trust and building our relationship with you.

Call us to schedule an oil change the next time your car is due for maintenance.

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Panama City, Florida, attracts visitors year-round, thanks to its 27 miles of stunning beaches. There’s more to our city, however, than sand and sea. We have access to high-quality food, exciting local music and entertainment, and world-class golf courses. If you’re a dog owner, the city also has plenty of options to ensure your pet enjoys a day on the town as much as you do. Our team here at Panama City Toyota has put together five of the best places for dog owners and their canine friends to relax and have fun.

Dog Beach

Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by Olin Gilbert

Dog Beach is located near the Pier Park outdoor entertainment area. It comprises about 400 feet of white sandy beach set aside for pets to enjoy. You can access the beach at no cost each day from sunrise to sunset. Entry to Dog Beach is through public beach access points 56 and 57. Note that all dogs must be on leashes while at Dog Beach. Each owner can take up to three dogs with them at one time.

You can let your dog paddle in the water or stroll along the shoreline. If you let your pet swim in the Gulf, wash them with fresh water afterward to prevent the saltwater from irritating their skin. If you’re looking for a place to wash your pet, check out some of the dog parks we’ve listed below.

Al Helms Dog Park

Located in a residential area of town, this large dog park has won rave reviews from visitors. They’re impressed above all by its cleanliness and large size, as well as the separate areas for small and large dogs.

The park is divided into three sections: one side for large dogs, one side for small dogs, and a fenced-off area in the middle that’s ideal for puppies. A water hose is on hand in case you need to wash your four-legged friend or help them cool down on a hot day. You can also fill up your dog bowl using the available water faucets.

Your dog can run freely once you’re inside the park. You’ll find benches where you can relax with your family or friends while your dog burns off energy. You’ll also find several bins around the park for disposing of poop bags. Ample space is on offer in the parking lot for vehicles. Across the road, you’ll discover several walking trails in case you want to take your pup for a leashed stroll or if anyone in your group wants to explore the area while your dogs play.

Pier Park

Pier Park is the premier shopping and dining destination in Panama City Beach, and the location couldn’t be better. You’ll find this 1.1-million-square-foot site in the heart of the city, providing innumerable opportunities for entertainment, relaxation, and fun.

Dogs can have a great time accompanying you as you explore Pier Park’s many outdoor attractions. Whether you’d like to take a stroll along the boardwalk or listen to local music performed outdoors, your dog is welcome. Keep in mind that many of the stores don’t allow dogs inside, so you’ll need to bring a friend to wait with your pet outside if you plan to shop.

Attractions at Pier Park have longer hours during the summer, with the mall open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week. The rest of the year, hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Frank Brown Park And Dog Park

Frank Brown is another dog-friendly park well worth checking out. It has separate sides for “lazy” and “fast” dogs and a pool where your pet can take a dip. The park has large open areas where your dogs can run. If you want to relax while your dog plays, take advantage of the pavilion seating. A nearby walking trail offers a great alternative if you feel like walking your dog on a leash.

The fenced-off dog park is at the back left of Frank Brown Park. Dogs are also welcome throughout Frank Brown Park, but you must keep them on a leash. Frank Brown Park is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and sometimes plays hosts to sports games.

Outdoor Dining

You’ll be happy to hear that Panama City restaurants and cafes have many outdoor dining options perfectly suited to guests with dogs. If you enjoy a morning or afternoon coffee, swing by Starbucks in Pier Park. It has 10 outdoor tables where you can sit with your pet. Starbucks also offers caffeine-free “Puppuccinos” for dogs.

The Angry Tuna Seafood Company is a locally owned restaurant inside Pier Park. As its name suggests, the restaurant specializes in seafood dishes associated with the diverse flavors of the Gulf of Mexico. Another thing that makes Angry Tuna stand out is its outdoor dining area. It’s fenced off from the rest of Pier Park and nicely shaded, making it an ideal location for you to enjoy a bite to eat with your dog.

So, there you have it! Panama City Toyota just gave you the rundown of five of the best hangout options for dog owners in Panama City Beach. Did we cover one of your favorite places to spend time with your pet? Did we miss any animal-friendly locations you’d like to tell us about? Let us know, and we’ll add your tip to our list.

Whether you’re visiting Panama City from out of town or you’re a local resident, we can offer you the full range of services you’d expect from a top-rated auto dealership here at Panama City Toyota. We have an extensive range of new and pre-owned vehicles, a service center staffed by certified technicians, and a team of finance experts to support you in getting an auto loan. To get to know us better, contact us today. Alternatively, drop by our Panama City dealership to chat with one of our professional team members.

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The TRD badge has a long association with Toyota, but do you know what it stands for and what makes TRD vehicles stand out? Here at Panama City Toyota, we stock various vehicles that are part of the TRD series. Check out our guide to TRD, its features, and whether it’s the right choice for you.

What Is The Toyota TRD Series?

Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by Jacob Frey 4a

TRD stands for Toyota Racing Development, and it’s been part of the Toyota brand since 1979. It was initially inspired by Toyota’s desire to produce high-performance cars and trucks by drawing on the brand’s experience in racing. Later on, TRD also became associated with Toyota’s growing off-road capabilities.

The TRD label has appeared on Toyota vehicles for over four decades. Its features range from improved power and handling in Toyota’s compact cars, like the Camry, to tuned-up suspension, tires, and brakes in trucks for tackling any trail.

Before deciding whether the TRD series is right for you, it’s worth considering your driving habits. If you like traveling at fast speeds, do a lot of highway driving, or take your vehicle off-road from time to time, you’ll want to put the TRD badge on your next vehicle. If you spend most of your time driving in the city at slower speeds, you probably won’t get the opportunity to take advantage of the great features that TRD Toyotas have to offer. Sticking with other Toyota trims might serve you better. 

What Makes The TRD Series So Cool?

The TRD series is sure to appeal to fans of fast driving and nimble handling. A Camry TRD or Avalon TRD excels on the highway or on long, winding roads where you can get up to a high speed and show off TRD’s sporty and controlled handling.

You don’t need to take our word for it when it comes to performance. Just consider TRD’s achievements over the years in the racing world, and you’ll be convinced that this is a badge with a great reputation. Whether in rally championships, on the NASCAR track, or in endurance racing, Toyota drivers backed by TRD engineering have achieved impressive results.

The TRD badge also draws attention due to the stylish mark it leaves on each of its vehicles. Interior designs vary, but you can generally expect seating with exclusive black trim and red accents throughout the cabin to emphasize the TRD brand.

Fans of vehicles equipped with the latest technology should also check out the Toyota TRD series. It includes vehicles with multiple driving modes for all terrains, dual automatic climate control, and large touch screens.

Off-roaders also have plenty to cheer about in the TRD series. The TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims offered on Toyota trucks, like the Tacoma and Tundra, give you the features and equipment you need to crawl rocks, navigate steep trails, or take a short drive off the beaten track. The extensive technology on offer, including smartphone compatibility and wireless internet connectivity, will help you stay in touch with friends or family wherever your adventure may take you.

What Are Your Toyota TRD Options?

Our Toyota experts here at Panama City Toyota have compiled some useful information about each Toyota vehicle available with the TRD badge.

Let’s start with the compact Camry sedan. This four-door car has space for four adults and is a great choice for the daily commute to work or school. Under the hood of the Camry TRD, you’ll find an impressively powerful V-6 engine capable of putting out 301 horsepower. The Camry TRD is also equipped with tuned-up shock absorbers for better handling and a TRD steel exhaust for some additional growl when you hit the accelerator.

The Toyota Avalon, which is slightly larger than the Camry, also features in the TRD series. It has matte black alloy wheels, a black front grille, and a unique spoiler. Tuned-up features to improve handling and reduce the Avalon’s ride height help add to this large sedan’s dynamic performance.

If you’re a customer in need of more passenger or storage space, you can still enjoy the benefits of the TRD series in a Toyota SUV. How about trying the 4Runner TRD Pro? This three-row SUV gives you the space you require to ride with the whole family, whether you’re heading out for the day or on a longer vacation. This SUV wears 17-inch wheels fitted with all-terrain tires to guarantee top performance on tarmac or off-road. Tuned-up shocks, LED fog lights, and suspensions help your 4Runner TRD cope with whatever adventure you want to throw at it.

Finally, we come to Toyota’s two trucks, the compact Tacoma and full-size Tundra. Both offer the option of the TRD badge. The smaller Tacoma includes handy features like a hill-start control and multi-terrain driving modes with its TRD trim. The Tacoma boasts a towing capacity of 6,800 pounds, making it the ideal choice if you plan on doing a lot of heavy lifting. It also features 17-inch alloy wheels to complete your stylish look.

The Tundra takes everything in the Tacoma to the next level. The towing capacity jumps to a whopping 10,200 pounds, and you’ll find a 5.7-liter V-8 engine under the hood. Add the TRD badge to this popular full-sized pickup, and you’ll get a tuned-up suspension and an aluminum skid plate to help you tackle any obstacle your journey puts in your path. The Tundra TRD rides on 18-inch alloy wheels and features a heritage grille up front.

Find Toyota TRD Vehicles At Panama City Toyota Today

Now that you know all about the TRD series and all the vehicles we offer with the badge, we hope you’re ready to make Panama City Toyota your next stop in your quest to find a high-performing vehicle. Our team of Toyota experts can talk you through any of our vehicles in the TRD series and the features they have. You can even arrange a test drive if you’d like to see how a Camry or 4Runner performs for real before you commit to a purchase.

If you have any further questions about the TRD series or anything Toyota, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We’re all incredibly enthusiastic about TRD’s achievements in off-roading and high-performance driving, and we can’t wait to make you our next customer.

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Panama City is beautiful any time of the year, but there’s just something magical about it during the holiday season. You’ll find activities for the whole family, date night events, and activities that get you moving this December. Start making your list of fun things to do now, so you can check it twice before December gets here. The team at Panama City Toyota says you don’t want to miss these eight holiday events in Panama City this December.

Bay Area Choral Society Presents Christmas! Classical To Jazz

Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by Thad Zajdowicz

The llse Newell Fund for the Performing Arts proudly presents an evening of music and fun. Special guests include Rachel Hillman and Bob Malone, along with the Bay Area Choral Society led by Dana Langford. You can catch Christmas! Classical to Jazz on Friday, Dec. 10 at 6 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Port St. Joe or on Sunday, Dec. 12 at 4 p.m. at the Trinity Episcopal Church in Apalachicola.

Tickets are just $10 and are available online. The advanced purchase tickets will be seated up to 10 minutes before each performance, after which time remaining seats will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis.

Optimist Christmas Parade

The Optimist Christmas Parade is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 11 with the assembly starting at 2 p.m. at Surfside Middle School. This parade is a free event held at Per Park Drive and can be viewed from Nautilus Road, Front Beach Road, Powell Adams Road, and ends in the Walmart parking lot located behind Target. Find your spots, grab your bags to collect candy, and settle in for the Optimist Christmas Parade, scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. Maybe the team at Panama City Toyota should get a float together for this one.

Paint and Pours at Barracuda Beach: Beach Christmas

Grab your special someone or a group of friends and head to the beach for a step-by-step opportunity to create a holiday masterpiece while sipping some wine. All materials for the Christmas painting are provided, and painters of all experience levels are invited. Barracuda Beach will offer food and drink specials for this special event on Tuesday, Dec. 14, at 7 p.m. Join us for a lot of fun, a little painting, and great food and drinks this holiday season. Who knows? You may discover you have a hidden artistic talent.

Defender’s Tacky Christmas Sweater Party

Get out that tacky Christmas sweater and get ready to attend the Defender’s Tacky Christmas Sweater Party on Thursday, Dec. 16 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Defender Title and Escrow Agency, LLC. Prizes will be awarded for first, second, and third place tacky sweaters, so bring your best look to get in on the action. This event is an annual event, known across Panama City Beach as a fun-filled afternoon full of some of the best holiday sweaters around. Don’t forget to bring an unwrapped gift to donate to the Toys for Kids program.

Mingle And Jingle Holiday Mixer

If tacky sweaters aren’t your thing, another holiday event taking place on Thursday, Dec. 16 is the Mingle and Jingle Holiday Mixer. Join the Florida Public Relations Associations Northwest Florida Coast Chapter for an evening of fun, including a silent auction. You will enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres, a champagne toast, entertainment, and a cash bar.

The NWFL Coast Chapter asks you to consider donating a new, unopened toy to benefit the Northwest Florida Guardian ad Litem Foundation that provides support for neglected, abandoned, and abused children throughout northwest Florida. Have fun with a night of celebration and networking, while raising funds at the Sunset Bay Cafe.

Christmas In Vegas

Don’t worry; you don’t have to leave Florida to enjoy Christmas in Vegas this year. Orthopaedic Associates, Surgical Specialists ASC, and the Surgery Center at Sacred Heart Medical Park present a Christmas in Vegas on Saturday, Dec. 18, from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Destin Miramar Beach. An RSVP to this event is required to procure your drink tickets, with no replacements provided if you lose these precious tickets.

Christmas in Vegas requires dress attire in elegant or formal attire, with absolutely no jeans allowed. RSVP for you and a guest and then dress up and have fun at Christmas in Vegas.

2021 Santa’s Big Day Run

You can choose from 1 mile, a 5K, 10K, half marathon, or a full 26.2-mile marathon at the third annual Santa’s Big Day Run event. In addition to getting to race with Santa, you get to feel good because 20% of all registrations fees will be donated to Operation Warm. Operation Warm provides hope, confidence, and warmth through much-needed brand-new winter coats for children. Every $20 donated equals one high-quality winter coat for a child.

Santa’s Big Day Run is a virtual event, so you can grab your friends and complete your run whenever it fits in your schedule. You can even participate from cities all over the world, not just Panama City. All ages can run in this race and you’ll receive a Believe in the Magic medal when you complete your virtual run. Your $25 registration fee includes a bib, medal, and shipping.

New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop At Pier Park

On Friday, December 31 the 12th Annual New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop will take place at Pier Park, beginning at 5:30 p.m. This family-friendly, free event includes fireworks, live entertainment, and 10,000 beach balls. You can enjoy food and gifts from the street vendors, have your face painted, watch balloon artists create masterpieces, and marvel at the stilt walkers as they wander the pier. An 800-pound illuminated beach ball drops to ring in the new year.

There you have it; eight holiday events you don’t want to miss this December, brought to you by Panama City Toyota. If you think we left out a must-attend event, drop us a line via online messaging or give us a call at 850-769-3377. We look forward to hearing about your favorite holiday events in Panama City.

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Empanadas are small, easy-to-hold pockets of pasty-like crust stuffed with a sweet or savory filling. They’re delightful on the palate, though finding ones with the right crunch and mix of flavors can be difficult. You want a dough that is slightly flavored and will complement any filling. But the good news is, Panama City residents and visitors can easily access this cuisine if they know the right joints. 

Read on for our list of the top five places to enjoy empanadas in Panama City. 

Los Antojitos Mexican Restaurant

Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by bibliojojo

At Los Antojitos Mexican Restaurant, you can find everything you’re craving, and more. The restaurant staff is attentive and greets you with a smile while they deliver your tasty order. Menu items here include traditional Tex-Mex fares like fajitas, shrimp tacos, enchiladas, and burritos. And when you have a craving for Mexican food, one convenient yet tasty menu option is the Mexican-style street corn. It is a generous serving of corn in a cup topped with cotija cheese, chipotle crema, and a squeeze of fresh lime. 

Interestingly, many people connect empanadas with dessert. But at Lost Antojitos, you can get your empanadas as an appetizer. This easy-to-eat finger food is ideal for activating the appetite and keeping the conversation moving. For $10.50, you get crispy golden empanadas stuffed with perfectly seasoned ground beef and melty cheese. These fried little pastries are perfect for dipping, pair well with a beer, and come served with sour cream. 

Los Antojitos Mexican Restaurant is at 1236 Beck Ave, Panama City. Check their updated hours through their website. To order online or for more information, call 850-640-2553.

Amavida Coffee Roasters

Few things go as well with coffee as a sweet empanada. A warm, mildly sweet, and crunchy empanada satisfy that craving as you sit down for your morning brew. At Amavida Coffee Roasters, they pair two of your morning favorites in one. This coffee house consistently drops new roasts to keep things fresh for customers and minimize the outlet’s carbon footprint. Amavida is certified carbon-neutral and plastic-neutral, two credentials validating their commitment to nature preservation. 

Further, they work with organizations like On the Ground Global to help producers create prosperous local communities and ensure overall quality. Based on their dedication to excellence, we suggest you try one of their blends to introduce your taste buds to premium coffee. The Florida Sunrise Blend, a local favorite, is chocolatey, dense, and clean. It has just enough caffeine to get you up in the morning and energize you for the rest of the day. Pair your morning brew with a flakey empanada from the cafe, and we reckon your morning will begin on a great note. 

Amavida has several locations throughout Florida. The Panama City location is at 2997 W. 10th St. They’re open from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., so you can swing by on your way to work or after dropping the kids off at school. For information, call 850-213-1965. 

Boricuba Cafe

Our verdict is, Boricuba Cafe does Mexican food right! This bakery-plus-restaurant is a hidden gem of Panama City and delivers quality in a modest shop. The service is consistent, staff kind, and food incredibly delicious. Set on simple white plates, each menu item is a generous serving and comes freshly prepared. 

Loyal customers love the carne (meat) empanada. That said, a café con leche is a must-try no matter what you order. Your meal plus coffee taste homely even while you run off and continue your day. Most menu items are fried, and there are baked treats, too. So, grab a dessert to enjoy after dinner. You won’t regret it. 

Boricuba Cafe sits humbly at 11206 Hutchison Blvd., in Panama City Beach, Florida. For order or operating hours inquiry, call 850-249-0087.

Muy Wayne O’s 

The beach-side atmosphere and colorful decor at Muy Wayne O’s is inviting and one of the many reasons to visit this fun outfit. They have a variety of creatively named dishes sure to keep your appetite in check. Try the Nacho’s Supreme to fill your tummy, then top your meal off with Pedro’s Treats. These sweet little deep-fried pastries are perfect to munch on outside or pair with your morning coffee. 

Muy Wayne O’s is at 303 S. Arnold Road, Panama City Beach, Florida. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. The restaurant is closed on Monday. Call 850-249-6830 if you have any questions for the staff.

Los Rancheros Mexican Grill And Bar

Los Rancheros Mexican Grill and Bar is an authentic Mexican restaurant that knows how to coat your food with yummy flavors to produce the aromas synonymous with Mexican cuisine. Known for their tasty tacos, the restaurant also serves some of the best enchiladas and chimichangas in Panama City. Don’t end your night without dessert. Grab some fried ice cream, sopapillas, or yummy empanadas, and end things right. 

Los Rancheros Mexican Grill and Bar has two locations in Panama City ready to serve you. Check the website for directions. To reach the Front Beach Road location, call 850-249-5195. For the other location on W 23rd Street, call 850-769-7999.

So there you have it. Panama City Toyota has just shared with you our recommendations for the top five places to enjoy empanadas in Panama City. Check out one of these spots when you’re craving little pockets of delight with a delicious filling. What do you think of our suggestions? Did we miss your favorite spot to cure your empanada craving? If we did, let us know! Leave a message and we’ll be happy to check out your suggestions.

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Your tires are the only part of your vehicle in direct contact with the road. That’s why it’s so vital for you to ensure your tires are always in good condition. Tires that are poorly maintained or too old can pose a safety risk, not only to you and your passengers but also to other motorists around you. Here’s a helpful guide put together by our auto service experts at Panama City Toyota on how often to replace your tires.

How Long Do My Tires Last?

Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by Everycar_Listed_Photos

There are two factors to keep in mind when you’re considering how long your tires can last. The first is their age, and the second is tread wear. Both of these factors can be influenced by your driving habits and the environment you live in, so it’s essential to regularly check your tires’ condition to ensure they’re still up to standard. Our certified auto technicians will be happy to help you with this at our service center.

On average, your tires will need replacing after about six years of driving. This rule should be followed even if their tread appears to be okay. After around six or seven years of driving, the rubber can become more brittle, increasing the risk of a blowout.

However, if your tires’ tread wears down to unsafe levels before the passage of a six-year period, you’ll need to change your tires sooner. Your tires may wear out sooner if you do more driving than average or you regularly apply your brakes sharply.

How Can I Tell When I Need New Tires?

There are two simple ways to determine the age of your tires and their tread wear. First, each tire has a code on its side that tells you when it was manufactured. The four-digit code provides you with the week and the year the tire was produced. For example, if the code is “3215,” it means that your tire was manufactured during the 32nd week of 2015. The four-digit code is usually preceded by the initials DOT, which stands for Department of Transportation. If the code shows that your tires are more than six years old, it’s time to start looking for a new set.

You can determine if a tire’s tread is safe by performing the coin test. To perform the test, all you need to do is place a quarter or a penny into the center of the tire’s tread with the head pointing down. If you’re using a quarter and the tread is in line with the top of Washington’s head, the tire will soon need replacing. If you use a penny and the tread is in line with the top of Lincoln’s head, you’ll need to replace your tires immediately as the tread depth is already too low.

Why Is It Important To Replace My Tires?

Driving with tires that are too old can result in reduced performance and cause accidents. Therefore, it’s illegal to drive with worn-out tires.

A tire with less than the legally required tread is unsafe because it is less able to grip the road. With this reduced level of control, you’re more likely to collide with another vehicle. You’re also likely to experience poor tire performance during spells of heavy rain or snow. If your car has worn out tires, you’ll also need a longer distance to come to a stop, which can make the difference between you averting an accident and causing one.

The older tires get, the more prone they become to punctures and blowouts. This risk is especially present for tires over the six-year age limit we discussed earlier. A flat tire can leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere, while a blowout at the wrong moment can have far more severe consequences.

To avoid these dangers, you should make tire care a key part of your vehicle’s routine maintenance regime. If you get your oil changed, fluid top-ups, and brake pad changes performed at our service center, our expert technicians can regularly inspect your tires to confirm they’re still safe to ride on. They can also perform regular tire rotations, which can help lengthen the life of your tires.

How Should I Choose A New Set Of Tires?

One way to decide the best type of tires to purchase for your vehicle is to check your owner’s manual. You’ll find it contains information on the tires used by the manufacturer when they built your car. If you can’t find your owner’s manual, you can check the size of your tires by locating a code consisting of numbers and letters on the side of your tire. The first three numbers in the code tell you what the width of your tire is in millimeters. The two digits following the slash provide you with your tire’s aspect ratio, which is the height of your tire as a percentage of its width. For instance, if the number is 60, it means that the height of your tire is 60% of its width. You need to know all of this information to buy a set of tires with the correct dimensions.

If you’d like assistance in picking the right tires for your truck or SUV, consult our auto experts here at Panama City Toyota. We know each vehicle in the Toyota lineup inside out, which allows us to advise you on the tires you choose to ensure the best performance.

Choose Panama City Toyota’s Service Department For Your Tire Needs

From checking that your current tires are safe to order a new set for you, we can take care of all your tire-related needs here at Panama City Toyota. You can rely on our service and parts department to provide you with a prompt and professional service when you trust us with your vehicle.

If you have any questions about your tires or any other auto servicing concerns, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team today. We’ve established a strong reputation with customers in Panama City and throughout Florida, and we’re looking forward to welcoming you into our dealership.

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When it comes to purchasing a new automobile, fuel efficiency is crucial for most car shoppers. To get around Panama City with as few trips to the gas station as possible, it makes sense to get behind the wheel of a fuel-efficient vehicle.

Nowadays, fuel-efficient vehicles are in high demand as they reduce emissions and save consumers money. As the automotive industry has advanced technology and engineering, gas mileage has increased across the board. However, specific models continue to lead the pack regarding fuel efficiency, and Toyota is well-known for continually manufacturing such fuel-efficient automobiles.

The collections of low fuel consumption Toyota vehicles in the automotive market are overwhelming. To make it easier, here are some of the best Toyota cars with the highest fuel-economy ratings:

What Is MPG?

Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by JeepersMedia

MPG measures the fuel economy, so understanding what it is and how it works can be a massive benefit if you need help deciding which new vehicle to purchase.

MPG stands for miles per gallon. It informs you the distance your vehicle can travel for every gallon (or 4.55 liters) of gas used. Additionally, it is the primary measurement of a vehicle’s fuel efficiency. That means the higher the MPG, the greater the fuel efficiency. For example, if your car has 50 mpg, and the fuel tank has a gallon of gas, you should be able to cover 50 miles before running out of fuel.

As you may not know, it’s the responsibility of the United States Environmental Protection Agency, or the EPA, to approve a car’s MPG values. Due to various factors, a vehicle’s MPG can be inconsistent. Consequently, the EPA will run tests over a standard set of courses, then average the results to calculate a car’s official MPG. The EPA also provides every vehicle with three different MPG ratings:

• City MPG: Average score in city conditions with starting and stopping at lower speeds
• Highway MPG: Average score on an open stretch of road without accelerating or decelerating, typically at a higher speed
• Combined MPG: Average of both city and highway Mpg

Now, let’s discuss a few Toyota models with the best gas mileage:

Toyota Prius

Recognized for its impressive gas mileage, the Toyota Prius is an excellent ride for anyone looking for a fuel-efficient car. There are many different models to choose from, all with remarkable gas mileage. For instance, the 2015 Prius base trim gets a city mpg of 51 and an mpg of 48 on the highway. These high ratings are partly because of its regenerative braking system. The system converts energy frequently lost through the braking process and stores it in the car’s battery. 

Toyota RAV4

The RAV4 is Toyota’s first compact crossover SUV, retaining all the advantages of a conventional SUV. Despite its demanding first-rate features, it’s one of the most efficient Toyota SUVs. The Rav4 boasts a four-cylinder 2.5Litre engine with an automatic transmission system paired with a 25 city mpg, 33 highway mpg and a combined 38 mpg. It also runs on 3.6 gallons per 100 miles.

Toyota Corolla

This car is an excellent option when you’re on the hunt for a quality, affordable vehicle with good gas mileage. Like the Yaris, the Toyota Corolla has 36 highway mpg. While driving around the city, the Corolla averages an mpg of 28. While this automobile is sure to give you a great bang for your buck, it will also provide you with an enjoyable, quiet drive every time.

Toyota Yaris

The Yaris is a hatchback with incredible gas mileage. With a 30 city mpg and an impressive 36 highway mpg, arriving at your destination without having to fill up your tank multiple times is never a worry. There’s also so much cargo room that gardening projects, roads trips, or furniture moving are always an option in your Toyota Yaris.

Fuel Economy Tips

Fuel-efficient driving can save you a considerable amount of money annually, prevent wear on your car, and improve road safety. If you adopt these fuel-efficient driving techniques, you will be able to reduce your car’s carbon dioxide emissions and fuel consumption:

• Accelerate gently. Your driving style might have a big effect on how much gas you use. It’s best to keep your driving smooth. Slow acceleration and using the highest safe gear should help use less gas.
• Brake slowly. Sharp braking causes your engine to burn fuel at a higher rate. Therefore, staying focused on the road and allowing yourself plenty of time to react can make a big difference in your fuel consumption.
• Avoid idling. When your vehicle is running but not moving, your gas mileage is zero. So, if your car will remain motionless for more than a minute, you should switch off the engine.
• Observe speed limits. Fuel economy peaks at around 50 mph on most automobiles then drops as speeds increase. Reducing highway speeds by 5 to 10 mph can significantly improve fuel economy.
• Use cruise control. Making the most of your car’s cruise control helps prevent speeding and improve fuel economy.
• Empty your trunk. Driving around with your trunk full adds weight and reduces your fuel mileage. Every 50 pounds of added weight results in a 1% reduction in fuel economy.
• Improve your car’s aerodynamic. You can do so by removing the roof racks on top of the vehicle or waxing your car.

Toyota is famous for being innovative, and with so many choices, they make it easy to choose a car with good fuel economy. So, if you want to stop at the gas station less, check out our selection of automobiles at Panama City Toyota. We carry a variety of the most fuel-efficient new Toyota models on the market. Whether you’d like to drive an SUV, sedan, or a Toyota Hybrid that has excellent gas mileage, contact us to learn more about auto financing and rental options at our Panama City Toyota dealership! We’ll even show you around our lot, so you can grab the keys to a fuel-efficient Toyota in Panama City that matches your requirements!

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Before you go car shopping, you need to prepare. The sheer volume of unfamiliar terminology makes car buying a daunting task for most people. If you’re a car shopper looking for the best deal for the best car at the dealership or auction, you need to learn the terminology. You don’t necessarily have to become an expert on the car terminology, but you only need to familiarize yourself with these terms and their definitions. Our experts at  Panama City Toyota want to share some of the car-buying terms you should know.

Financing

Image via Unsplash by timbatec

Financing a car means that you’re borrowing money from a bank, online lender, credit union, finance company, or dealership to buy a car. For many people in the U.S., a car is a big purchase that requires several months or even years of saving.

According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, more than 35% of car buyers in the U.S. opted for a finance agreement in 2019 because they couldn’t afford to buy a car with cash. While this might be a startling statistic, financing enables Americans to drive a car despite being on a tight budget and with very little to save. That explains why car financing is the go-to option for many car buyers.

How exactly does car financing work? A financial institution lends you the exact amount of money you need to purchase a specific car. In exchange, you must pay the lender interest and any required fees to borrow that money over a given number of months.

Dealer-arranged financing is often better than bank financing because the dealer does everything for you. All you need to do is choose the car you want and fill out a credit application, then the dealer will submit it to multiple lenders. That allows you to compare rates and terms to settle for the best option.

Trade-In

Trade-in refers to the act of selling to a car dealership. You can do this as part of the negotiation when purchasing another car, or you can do it for cash and walk out from the dealership with money. If you decide to trade your vehicle in and buy another, the dealership will deduct the trade-in amount from the negotiated price of the new car.

The amount the dealership agrees to pay for your used car is your car’s trade-in value, and it’s usually less than the car’s market value. Most of the time, a dealer will determine your car’s price using the Blue Book Value.

Blue Book Value

As a car owner, you need to have an idea of your car’s worth before moving forward with a trade-in or selling your car to another person. Kelley Blue Book is the automotive industry’s renowned resource for this very task because it has been publishing the prices of well-known used vehicles since 1926. Dealers and private sellers use this resource to determine the value of a particular vehicle based on its year, model, make, mileage, features, equipment, and condition.

As-Is

There are several conditions you can purchase a car in. Most people think of the terms “new” and “used.” However, a third condition that might show up on a car’s price tag is “as-is.” That is a legal term used to describe a used car’s state when it is up for sale. If you see this tag on a vehicle, it simply means that it is being sold exactly the way it is, with all the issues known and unknown.

This term excludes the seller from legal recourse if the car develops an unexpected problem after the sale. When a vehicle is sold as-is, it comes with no warranty, meaning that if it has a problem, it’s no longer the seller’s responsibility. Therefore, the buyer must cover all the necessary repair costs.

An “as-is” purchase is risky for the car buyer. While you might save money during the sale, buying an “as-is” car could end up costing you a lot more than you expect in repair and maintenance costs. You need to conduct thorough research before moving forward with the purchase. It’s best to look up the car on the internet to confirm its typical selling price, problems, and reliability. That will help you set the right expectation for the car.

Annual Percentage Rate (APR)

Annual percentage rate, commonly referred to by its initial or finance rate, is the interest rate on a car loan that the lender charges you annually. Often, when someone talks about APR, they are talking about the percentage of the total amount you borrowed from the lender, distributed over 12 months, and usually applies to purchasing a car or an unpaid lease.

There are two types of APR: variable and fixed. If you have a fixed APR, you must make fixed monthly payments throughout the entire term of your car loan. If you have a variable APR, that means your monthly rates can fluctuate. In the U.S., variable APRs usually depend on the Federal funds rate established by the Federal Reserve. Any time the Federal government decides to adjust the interest rates across the nation, variable APRs for car loans will change accordingly.

Destination Charges

A destination charge is an unavoidable cost that the manufacturer charges for transporting a new car from the factory to the dealership. The destination fee is not negotiable and is usually not factored in the advertised manufacturer’s suggested retail price (or MSRP). The destination fee of different cars varies from one automaker to the other.

The dealer may include this cost in their pricing. However, as a car buyer, you should never pay any additional destination fee unless you’ve agreed to such a charge for a car that must travel a long distance from a given dealership.

Buying From Panama City Toyota

If you are looking for a new or used Toyota in Panama City, Florida, visit Panama City Toyota. Our experts are ready to help you choose the best car depending on your needs and budget. Contact us today to learn more about the car-buying terms you should know and our auto deals.

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Whether you’re planning a trip to Florida, or you already live here, the Panama City area has a lot of places to see and a variety of fun attractions. The clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico offer the ideal playground for those who love to be out on the water or sitting on the beach, but Panama City has lots of other things to do too. Take a look at some of the Panama City locations to visit in the new year.

1. Shell Island

Shell Island is an unspoiled area off the coast of Panama City. You’ll have to take a boat ride to get to this barrier island, which features magnificent sand dunes, unspoiled habitats for wildlife, and lots of shelling and fishing opportunities. The island is stunning, and if you look out over the water, you are almost sure to see bottle-nosed dolphins. The island has a large population of these majestic mammals, and they are often intrigued by island visitors. 

Plan a day at Shell Island, and you can rent a kayak or paddleboard and get out on the water, or try snorkeling and see what’s under the water. 

The Shell Island Shuttle is the official transport service to the island and will get you there quickly and safely. The shuttle also provides snorkeling gear and sells tickets to the Shell Island Snorkel Tours.

2. St. Andrews State Park

St. Andrews State Park in Panama City was once a military reservation, and now this hidden gem is home to 1200 acres of land to explore. Spend the day at St. Andrews State Park, and you can see five different unique ecological landscapes in one area. It has the Gulf of Mexico on one side and St. Andrews Bay on the other, making it the perfect place for lots of adventure.

The park is a popular stop for many migratory birds and butterfly species, and with over a mile and a half of beaches, you can spend your day swimming, fishing, and more. 

Some of the activities you can enjoy in the park include:

• Bicycling. The two-mile paved road is the perfect spot for a bike ride. 
• Birding. The migratory birds are always a unique site.
• Boat Tours. Boat tours are offered from the park’s mainland to Shell Island in the spring and summer. 
• Boating. Boaters can ride around St. Andrews Bay, the inlet to the Gulf of Mexico, and Shell Island.
• Camping. The 60-site campground the park sits in the pinewoods near Gand Lagoon. All sites have water, electricity, picnic tables, and grills. The sites can accommodate anything from tents to RVs up to 45 feet long.
• Fishing. The fishing at St. Andrews ranges from deep-sea jetty fishing and surf fishing. The jetty rocks provide Spanish mackerel, redfish, flounder, sea trout, dolphin, bluefish, and more. 
• Hiking. The path has two half-mile trails to explore. The Heron Pond trail takes you through the fatwood pine forest and toward Sandy Point. The Gator Lake trail takes you to scenic views of the lake.
• Paddling. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and paddle around Grand Lagoon or head across the channel to Shell Island.

3. Russell-Fields City Pier

Image via Flickr by dconvertini

The Russel-Fields City Pier stretches out 1500 into the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can walk out to the end of the pier for a daily fee of $3.00, and if you want to fish, a fishing license is just $7. The pier stays open all year round and depending on the season, and you might catch Blue Liners, Hardtails, Redfish, or Spanish mackerel. Fishin rods are also available for rent if you don’t have your own, but you don’t need to fish to enjoy the pier. It’s a great place to enjoy the sea breeze and take beautiful pictures at sunset.

4. Pier Park

Pier Park is the premier shopping center in Panama City. The outdoor complex has over 124 different stores, with everything you might need for the home and lots of clothing and accessories for the entire family. Pier Park is also home to many restaurants and dining options, and it has a Grand IMAX movie theater, live music venues, and even a laser tag venue. 

The stores at Pier Park range from big department stores such as Target and JC Penny to trendy clothing stores such as American Eagle Outfitters and small locally-owned boutiques. When you get hungry, you can stop at LongHorn Steakhouse for a big meal or grab something lighter at one of the smoothie shops or Five Guys. 

If you want a fun dining experience, Pier Park also has a Margaritaville, a hibachi steakhouse, and an oyster bar. After a day of shopping and eating, if you still have the energy, stop by Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge to experience the world-famous honky-tonk and some of the best country music in the area.

5. Ponce De Leon Springs State Park

It takes just over an hour to drive from Panama City to Ponce De Leon State Park. However, this part is worth the drive with clear spring water pools. The water in the springs is formed by two underground water flows that produce millions of gallons of water each day. No matter when you go, the water stays constant at 68 degrees all year round.

In addition to the springs, visitors can take a walk along the self-guided nature trails and learn more about the Florida ecology and wildlife. If you want a ranger to guide you, they offer some guided hikes as well. The park has pavilions available for rent if you’re going to plan a family event at the park. You can pack a picnic or make an entire day of it.

Admission is $4 per vehicle, and the park stays open from 8 a.m. until sunset every day of the year.

These are some of our favorite Panama City locations and attractions. Stop by Panama City Toyota to find the next vehicle that will take you to see these and other beautiful Florida sites in the new year. 

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