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Sundress Social: Luau on the Lawn Returns This Thursday to Benefit Gulf Coast State College Foundation

Published on July 15, 2025

Free community event features fire dancers, DJ, signature cocktails, and local vendors

Panama City, FL – The Gulf Coast State College Foundation is excited to continue the Sundress Social Series this Thursday, July 17 from 6–9 PM at Harrison’s Kitchen & Bar with a festive Luau on the Lawn benefiting local students and educational opportunities.

This week’s event promises a lively evening filled with island vibes, community spirit, and meaningful giving. Guests are encouraged to come dressed in their best tropical or summer attire and enjoy:

  •  Event kickoff at 6 PM on the lawn  – no wristbands required!
  • Complimentary butler-passed hors d’oeuvres during the first hour (while supplies last)
  • Live Polynesian fire and dance show by Lanakila’s Hawaiian Fire Dancers at 7 PM
  • DJ set begins at 6 PM
  • Outdoor shareable bites available for purchase
  • Full dinner menu available inside the restaurant
  • Outdoor bar serving beer, wine, and well drinks
  • Indoor bar with full service, including premium cocktails
  • Featured drinks: Watermelon Mule & Watermelon Refresher – available only during the luau!

In partnership with Harrison’s, 10% of all food and alcohol sales throughout the entire evening—starting with early dinner service—will be donated to the GCSC Foundation to support student scholarships and success. Plus, guests can make $10 donations to request songs from the DJ, with all proceeds going directly to the Foundation.

The evening also features Dozer Custom Truckers, a woman-owned vendor offering stylish, personalized hats, and a beachside bonfire experience by Relax Beach Bonfires for the perfect coastal atmosphere.

The Sundress Social Series was developed by Harrison’s General Manager Ethan Register, who saw the opportunity to blend fun with philanthropy.

“The Sundress Socials are a fresh take on something a lot of people in our community remember fondly—the Little Black Dress events,” said Register. “We wanted to create something just as fun, but with a purpose. Partnering with the GCSC Foundation allows us to bring people together and give back to a cause that directly benefits our neighbors.”

The Foundation also extends its gratitude to Destination Panama City, the proud sponsor of this event, for helping make this community gathering possible.

This is the second installment in the summer series. Future dates include August 21 – Havana Nights and September 18 – Steel & Style, promising another fun twist on fashion and fundraising.

For more information, follow the Gulf Coast State College Foundation or Harrison’s Kitchen & Bar on social media or visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1238097061177152.

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For more information, please contact Lauren Campbell, Director of Advancement and External Affairs, [email protected] or (850) 960-4555

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