Daily editionFriday, February 20th, 2026
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 20th of February.
Community
The City of Pensacola will hold a public input workshop on Feb. 24 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Saenger Theatre to gather community feedback on plans to improve the Downtown Waterfront Connector Trail (free parking is available at the Jefferson Street Parking Garage).
City of PensacolaRead more
Pensacola Inweekly has published its 19th annual Power List featuring 100 local influencers, with Sheriff Chip Simmons topping the list for his innovative efforts to transform law enforcement and strengthen community trust in Escambia County.
Rick's BlogRead more
Residents in Pensacola can watch the total lunar eclipse when the moon appears reddish as sunlight filters through Earth’s atmosphere.
The event starts at 3:44 a.m. ET on Tuesday, Mar. 3 and lasts about six hours (with totality lasting roughly one hour).
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Business
The new Aldi store—located at 7135 North 9th Ave in the former Winn-Dixie building—will open at 9 a.m. on March 5 and will offer beer and wine.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony is set 30 minutes before doors open.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Culture
Pensacon returns today at 12:30 p.m. as crews transform the Bay Center into a pop culture playground plus set up vendor booths, celebrity meet-and-greets, and spaces for thousands of fans.
Organizers expect vibrant activity throughout the event.
WEAR-TVRead more
Environment
Due to persistent drought and unusual temperature swings + late freezes, Florida faces a higher wildfire risk along its Panhandle with 875 wildfires reported since Jan. 1; Pensacola is at a medium risk level.
Officials caution that additional drying may raise danger in local communities.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Government
Escambia County commissioners discussed public access to Perdido Key at a Thursday meeting amid debates over customary use rules established by recent state law changes—officials remain divided on whether to open or limit beach access for locals.
WEAR-TVRead more
Lifestyle
Publix now offers limited-edition ice cream flavors inspired by favorite cookies, cakes and drinks, available in half-gallon and pint sizes at local stores.
The seasonal treats are on offer for a limited time (record high temperatures may heighten cravings).
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Real Estate
The Pensacola Architectural Review Board delayed demolition of the historic Fairnie Hall at 1182 E. Lakeview Ave for 60 days—allowing a preservation-minded buyer to purchase it.
Local contractor Nannette Chandler is urging East Hill residents to unite in protecting the area’s notable homes.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Sports
Pensacola Catholic girls soccer ended its season with a 5-0 loss to Montverde Academy in the state semifinals on Feb. 19, 2026 as Lola Rey scored a hat trick that helped Montverde advance; it marked the Crusaders' first Final Four appearance since 2013.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Pensacola Events
Galentine's Sing-Along Brunch
Saturday, February 21st, 2026 · 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Bounce Beach Pensacola — Bottomless mimosas included — Celebrate Galentine’s Day with bold singing, brunch bites, and bubbly drinks.
Pensacola Chocolate and Cheese Fest
Sunday, February 22nd, 2026 · 10 AM - 6 PM — Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park — $5 entry — Indulge in a day of chocolate and cheese delights with food trucks, live music, and family fun.
Brantley Gilbert's Tattoo Tour
Thursday, February 26th, 2026 · 6-9 p.m. — Pensacola Bay Center — Ticket prices vary — An unforgettable night featuring Brantley Gilbert alongside Travis Denning and Austin Snell with epic country music hits.
Moonshine Saloon Country Music Night
Friday, February 27th, 2026 · 8 PM – 12 AM — Moonshine Saloon — Cost Info TBD — Enjoy award-winning country music from a duo sharing stories through their songs.
Eddie 9V with Southern Magnolia
Saturday, February 28th, 2026 · 7-9 p.m. — The Handlebar — Cover charge may apply — Experience the soulful sounds of Eddie 9V as he showcases his blues roots in a vibrant club atmosphere.
Ballet Pensacola Presents: A Night of Four Seasons
Sunday, March 1st, 2026 · 6-9 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — VIP Experience available — Immerse yourself in the beauty of ballet with original choreography inspired by Vivaldi’s Four Seasons.
Sun Belt Basketball Tournament - All Sessions Pass
Monday, March 2nd, 2026 · 9:30 PM — Pensacola Bay Center — Ticket price varies — Catch the exciting action of the Sun Belt Conference's top basketball teams in a thrilling tournament atmosphere.
Wine on the Water
Saturday, March 7th, 2026 · 1-4 p.m. — Blue Wahoos Stadium — Enjoy an afternoon of exquisite wine tasting by the water.
Sunshine State 200 Race Event
Friday, March 13th, 2026 · 1 p.m. — Five Flags Speedway — Tickets required — Experience thrilling racing action at the ASA STARS National Tour's Sunshine State 200 in Pensacola, Florida.
6th Annual Shamrock Stroll 5K Fun Run
Saturday, March 14th, 2026 · 8 AM – 12 PM — Navarre Beach Marine Park — Registration fee applies — Get ready for fun at the pet parade and costume contest during this festive 5K event.