Daily editionWednesday, March 4th, 2026
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 4th of March.
Community
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.