Daily editionFriday, May 2nd, 2025
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 2nd of May.
Community
Pitsacola Playground Animal Rescue will hold a hot dog cook-off on May 3 at Wisteria Tavern - 3808 N. 12th Ave - to raise funds for building a sanctuary for dogs.
The event will offer tastings, games, and adoptions and is organized by the Batty Sisters to help the rescue expand its foster care network.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
United Way of West Florida will hold the Glitz and Gallop Gala tomorrow—May 3rd—offering horse race bets, luxury prizes like hotel stays and jewelry, and live Kentucky Derby viewing to support essential community programs.
The organization also plans the 33rd annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive on May 10th, where residents can drop off non-perishable food items at their mailboxes to benefit local food pantries.
Rick's BlogRead more
Environment
Sea turtle nesting season started yesterday, May 1, with Escambia County Sea Turtle Conservation Program volunteers beginning early morning patrols on Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key to record turtle activity.
The season runs through September (with some nests potentially hatching in October) as volunteers monitor nests and help protect hatchlings.
Rick's BlogRead more
Government
County Commissioners are set to use about $34M in LOST funds to build and upgrade fire stations and a training center to help residents who face up to 350% higher insurance rates due to distant or outdated facilities—five priority sites have been identified for this plan.
The proposal calls for an RFP by June 1, proposal reviews by August 1, and ground breaking by March 1 next year if approved by the board.
Rick's BlogRead more
On Thursday morning, the U.S. Coast Guard and Escambia County first responders—working together in Pensacola Bay—conducted a mass rescue drill to test their coordination.
The exercise simulated a commercial charter boat colliding with a ferry—reflecting a scenario similar to a recent Clearwater incident that resulted in one fatality and 10 injuries.
WEAR-TVRead more
Lifestyle
Pensacola restaurants are planning over a dozen Mother's Day brunch events on May 11 that offer bottomless mimosas, buffets, and interactive experiences—some venues require reservations or tickets—providing local families with a range of dining choices.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Pensacola Events
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.
Bike Commuting Workshop with Jon Spears
Saturday, May 24th, 2025 · 9:30-11 a.m. — Cafe Single Fin — Free entry — Learn how to convert your bicycle into a practical commuter bike while enjoying coffee and connecting with fellow enthusiasts.