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Daily editionWednesday, March 4th, 2026

Good morning, Pensacola.

The Daily Pensacola Team

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Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 4th of March.

Community

  1. Pensacola EggFest’s Pitmaster Smoke School 2026 is in session as BBQ World Champion Moe Cason teaches backyard cooks live techniques.

    The class—now 80% sold out—offers demonstrations, tasting, and a chance to support local charities with every ticket sold.

    Local PulseRead more

  2. United Way of West Florida is accepting Mini Grant applications that offer up to $5,000 for local nonprofits aiming to boost operations in education, health, financial security, or community resiliency.

    Eligible organizations must have maintained 501(c)(3) status for at least 12 months.

    Rick's BlogRead more

Business

  1. Aldi is expanding in Florida this March with five new stores, including a Pensacola location at 7135 North Ninth Ave opening today; the first 200 customers at each grand opening receive gift bags and a Golden Ticket (worth up to a $100 gift card).

    Pensacola News JournalRead more

Culture

  1. Mike Papantonio’s new thriller A Death in Arcadia debuts today, tackling the troubled teen industry and its historical abuse at the Arthur G. Dozier School for Boys in Marianna (an issue that remains active).

    The book is part of his Deke Deketomis series, following a podcast discussion with the author.

    Rick's BlogRead more

Economy

  1. Pensacola gas prices increased 12.2 cents overnight to $2.859 per gallon on Tuesday morning, following a national rise driven by increased oil costs & supply concerns from global market disruptions.

    Pensacola News JournalRead more

  2. Following U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran that caused oil futures to spike, experts say Florida gas prices will top $3 a gallon in the coming days.

    Most gasoline is shipped from Gulf Coast refineries, so local stations may soon see higher costs.

    Pensacola News JournalRead more

Education

  1. Toast on the Coast, a community fundraiser for Pensacola Beach Elementary School, will be held Sunday, Apr. 26 from 4–8 p.m. at Portofino Island Resort.

    It aims to raise $60,000 with live and silent auctions (after last year's $30,000 success) as local families and businesses come together.

    Local PulseRead more

Health

  1. Tokyo Japanese Steakhouse in Pensacola was temporarily closed on Feb. 26 after inspectors found health violations including live roaches & improper food storage; five local restaurants also received high-priority violations during weekly inspections.

    Pensacola News JournalRead more

Lifestyle

  1. Several churches are hosting fish fries during Lent; St. Sylvester (4:30–6 p.m. every Friday), St. Joseph (11 a.m.–2 p.m.), St. Jude Thaddeus (March 20), and the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart (until 6:30 p.m.) are serving meals with fried fish and sides.

    Pensacola News JournalRead more

  2. Nine new restaurants have opened in Pensacola offering diverse dishes such as chicken and beer and Pad Thai; locals have enjoyed these options since February.

    Pensacola News JournalRead more

Sports

  1. The Blue Angels released their 2026 practice schedule today at NAS Pensacola and will be seen practicing over the Naval Aviation Museum.

    The schedule lists upcoming practice dates for local air displays.

    Pensacola News JournalRead more

Pensacola Events

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  1. 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.

    View event

  2. 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.

    View event

  3. 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.

    View event

  4. Yk Niece Concert

    Friday, March 20th, 2026 · 9 PM - 3 AM — 8Fifty Event Center — In-person event for ages 18+ — Experience the hit-filled performance of Yk Niece in Pensacola's premier venue.

    View event

  5. High School Baseball Match: Freeport vs. Choctaw

    Friday, March 27th, 2026 · 5-9 p.m. — Blue Wahoos Stadium — Free entry — Catch thrilling high school baseball action as Freeport takes on Choctaw.

    View event

  6. Bayou Hills Run: City of Pensacola 5K / 10K Championships

    Saturday, March 28th, 2026 · 7 AM – 12 PM — Bayview Park — Entry fees apply — Pensacola’s historic running event serves up competitive racing and community spirit.

    View event

  7. Zarzaur Law Maritime DeLuna Duathlon

    Sunday, March 29th, 2026 · 8-11 a.m. — Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park — Entry Fee Required — Watch young athletes race in youth duathlon while promoting fitness and fun.

    View event

  8. ServSafe Certification Live Class in Spanish

    Monday, March 30th, 2026 · 4-hour class — Hampton Inn Pensacola-Airport — From $159 — Fast-track your ServSafe certification with expert instruction and same-day exam results.

    View event

  9. Cliff Cash - Comedy + Punk Night

    Tuesday, March 31st, 2026 · 6-8:30 p.m. — Perfect Plain Brewing Co. — Tickets available — Enjoy a unique blend of comedy and local punk music in an intimate setting.

    View event