The Middle-Earth and A Galaxy Far, Far Away Just Got Closer for Pensacola’s 2025 Pensacon
As the excitement builds for Pensacola’s 2025 Pensacon, fans of pop culture are gearing up for an unforgettable weekend filled with themed events, celebrity guests, and immersive experiences. This all-inclusive pop culture convention is not just about panels and merchandise; it’s a celebration that spills out into the local dining scene, where restaurants and bars are transforming their spaces to reflect beloved franchises. From "Stranger Things" to "Star Wars," here’s a guide to where you can indulge in themed food and drinks while enjoying the Pensacon festivities.
Azalea Cocktail Lounge – "Stranger Things"
Located at 810 N. Davis Highway, the Azalea Cocktail Lounge has turned into the Upside Down for Pensacon. From Friday to Sunday, patrons can sip on creatively crafted cocktails inspired by the hit series "Stranger Things," including The Mind Flayer and Hopper’s Old Fashioned. Cosplayers in costume will receive $2 off vodka drinks, and there’s a fun twist: a hidden item challenge that could earn you a $25 bar tab, limited to one per day. The lounge opens its doors at 9 a.m. daily, making it a perfect spot to kick off your Pensacon adventure.
The Cabaret – "Beetlejuice"
At 101 S. Jefferson St., The Cabaret invites you to the Beetle Ball this weekend. This venue will host Landon Cider, the season three winner of “The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula,” offering meet-and-greet opportunities from 9-10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The drag shows, featuring Cider and other performers, will take place at 10:30 p.m. and midnight. Don’t miss Saturday’s special “Beetlejuice production” that promises to be a highlight of the weekend. Cover charges are $20 for ages 18-20 and $15 for those 21 and older.
The Fish House – "Harry Potter"
The Fish House, located at 600 S. Barracks St., transforms into Hogwarts for the weekend. Guests can expect a magical experience filled with themed décor, potions, and Quidditch activities. The venue will feature take-home wands and a stroll through Diagon Alley, complete with unique photo opportunities. Drink specials, including the new Amortentia Love Potion, will be available starting at 11 a.m. from Friday to Sunday.
Odd Colony Brewing Company – "Lord of the Rings"
At 260 N. Palafox St., Odd Colony Brewing Company invites fans to join the Fellowship in their Middle-Earth-themed taproom. The brewery has an exciting lineup of events, including a "Lord of the Rings" trivia night on Wednesday, a special cask tapping on Friday, and Bilbo’s Birthday Party on Saturday. To wrap up the weekend, enjoy a Second Breakfast Brunch with Flour*ish Pizza Food Truck on Sunday.
The Burrow – "Zelda"
The Burrow, situated at 1010 N. 12 Ave., will be transformed into Zelda’s Hyrule Castle on Saturday from noon to 10 p.m. Executive Chef Amy Potmesil will whip up Zelda-inspired dishes available for one day only, alongside themed décor that immerses guests in the world of the beloved video game series.
O’Riley’s Irish Pub – "SpongeBob SquarePants"
At 321 Palafox Place, O’Riley’s Irish Pub is bringing Bikini Bottom to life with a SpongeBob SquarePants theme. From Friday to Sunday, enjoy Krabby Patty specials, themed cocktails, and vibrant décor. The pub will host a series of events, including SpongeBob and Cartoon trivia on Wednesday, Mr. Krabs’ Millionth Dollar Night on Thursday, and a Jellyfish Jam! party with a live DJ on Saturday night.
Papa’s Pizza – "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles"
Located at 18 E. Garden St., Papa’s Pizza is celebrating the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles with a “turtle-powered atmosphere.” The pizzeria has crafted a special Michelangelo pizza topped with pepperoni and marshmallow, along with a secret new pizza honoring Pensacon 2025 guest Deep Roy. Stop by for a slice during the entire week of Pensacon.
Perfect Plain Brewing Co. / Garden & Grain / The Well / Perennial Patio Bar at The Garden – "Star Wars"
A galactic bar crawl awaits at Perfect Plain Brewing Co. and its neighboring venues at 50 E. Garden St. and 501 S. Palafox St. Each bar will feature themed cocktails, including a special Dark Side beer release at Perfect Plain. Events include Galactic bingo on Wednesday, a Drink & Draw session with Pensacon guest artists on Thursday, and a series of live music and DJ events throughout the weekend, culminating in the G&G Cosplay Rave Afterparty on Saturday night.
Unofficial After Party at Seville Quarter
While not themed, Seville Quarter will serve as the “unofficial after party” for Pensacon, offering free admission with your Pensacon pass from Friday to Sunday. Located at 130 E. Government St., this venue promises to be a lively spot to unwind after a day of convention activities.
Conclusion
Pensacola’s 2025 Pensacon is set to be a spectacular celebration of pop culture, with local restaurants and bars stepping up to create immersive experiences for fans. Whether you’re a die-hard "Star Wars" enthusiast or a "Harry Potter" aficionado, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your friends, don your best cosplay, and prepare for a weekend filled with fun, food, and fandom!