Daily editionThursday, May 1st, 2025
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 1st of May.
Community
Pensacola Beach lifeguards recorded nearly 50 rescues over a busy weekend caused by dangerous rip currents and have added new staff and extended patrols to increase safety.
Officials urge visitors to swim near a lifeguard—stressing that closely monitored waters help prevent accidents—and to follow posted warning flags for a safe summer.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Culture
On April 25, downtown Pensacola’s Mess Hall staff demonstrated interactive art setups with tracer tables and polarized light methods to preview the 'Illuminate: Space' exhibit — set for Night on the Track on May 10 — where artworks using black light paint will recreate space in a new light.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Government
Pensacola and Escambia County are in a dispute over the county’s $2 million pledge for demolishing the old Baptist Hospital as county officials question the city’s bid process and need for extra funding—both sides plan to address the issue in upcoming public meetings.
The disagreement comes as the city moves ahead with plans to modernize the Pensacola Bay Center while discussions continue over project details.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Commissioner Ashlee Hofberger will present a $30M proposal for four new fire stations tomorrow morning to improve emergency response.
The plan includes new construction and building replacement at four sites (7209 Lillian Hwy, HWY 97 and Kingsfield Rd, Paradise Beach, and 9350 Gulf Beach Hwy) with the RFP issued on June 1, proposals evaluated on August 1 and construction beginning on March 1, 2026.
Rick's BlogRead more
Starting May 7, every adult traveler must show a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or a valid passport to board flights and enter federal facilities — those with a Florida license bearing a gold star are good to go while others must visit a local service center with proper documents.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Lifestyle
In April, nine new restaurants opened in the Pensacola area, serving Southern plates, ramen bowls, and specialty sandwiches — options include Hour Deli in downtown and Carolina Gold BBQ on Pine Forest Road among others.
Each venue aims to offer unique dining experiences and fresh menus to serve local customers — adding a new flavor to our community.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Pensacola Events
2025 Pensacola Tattoo Expo
Friday, May 2nd, 2025 · 11 AM - 11 PM — Pensacola Interstate Fair — Entrance pass required — Immerse yourself in the artistry with live tattooing from award-winning artists and exciting raffle giveaways.
Mimosa Derby Day Party
Saturday, May 3rd, 2025 · 3-8 p.m. — Emerald Republic Brewing — Pricing varies — Experience the festive elegance of the Kentucky Derby with mimosas, VIP options, and live music.
Mad Scientist Jenn: A Food Science Interactive Show! Star Wars Edition
Sunday, May 4th, 2025 · 2:00 – 3:30 PM — A Sweet Party — All ages welcome — Experience a glow-in-the-dark food science adventure with a Star Wars theme and exciting experiments.
U.S. Open Local Qualifying
Monday, May 5th, 2025 · 18 holes — Pensacola Country Club — Entry fee required — Compete for a chance to qualify for the prestigious U.S. Open.
Hot Glass Cold Brew: Summer Fest
Friday, May 9th, 2025 · 5-9 p.m. — First City Art Center — $30 members/$40 non-members — Kickoff summer with crafts, food trucks, and live glass art demonstrations.
Spring Bling Festival
Saturday, May 10th, 2025 · 12-7 p.m. — Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park — Free entry — Enjoy an exciting day of 2000s music and vibrant vibes with local DJs and delicious cookout favorites.
Rise Up Lights Concert
Thursday, May 15th, 2025 · 6-10 p.m. — Handlebar — Check the local alt scene with an energetic performance by the diverse talent of Rise Up Lights.
Monster Jam
Saturday, May 17th, 2025 · 1-5 p.m. — Pensacola Bay Center — Fun for all ages — Experience thrilling trucks and amazing stunts at this action-packed event.
Brit Floyd Concert
Wednesday, May 21st, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Tickets from $149 — Enjoy the iconic sounds of Brit Floyd in a lively Pensacola setting.
Pensacola Memorial Day Weekend Events 2025
Friday, May 23rd, 2025 · Various times — Veterans Memorial Park — Free entry — Celebrate Memorial Day Weekend with beach activities, ceremonies, and festivities in a beautiful setting.