Daily editionSaturday, May 16th, 2026
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 16th of May.
Community
Escambia County Animal Welfare accepted 32 dogs from an Escambia resident who surrendered his pets when his declining health led him to seek help.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Road closures will be in effect in downtown ahead of the Grand Fiesta Parade on Friday, May 29 at 7 p.m. to allow for float staging and safe traffic management (including parts of Main, Garden, and Jefferson Streets) beginning three hours early.
City of PensacolaRead more
Business
Pensacola couple Donna and Samuel Clay are opening Big Boned Barbecue downtown later this month, with a grand opening set for June 6 at 608 E. Wright St — where they will serve smoked meats including dino ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and homemade sides in a cozy, boho country chic setting.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Culture
Pensacon now offers three-day weekend passes for its downtown convention, scheduled for Feb. 19-21, with general passes at $89.99 plus taxes and VIP passes at $184.99 plus fees.
The event will feature popular guests from shows like Toy Story and Doctor Who.
WEAR-TVRead more
Government
Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill on Friday, May 15 that expands the school guardian program to colleges and universities, allowing campuses to arm trained employees while adding safety protocols (HB 757) such as threat-management teams and mental health training.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Lifestyle
Food critics recently spotlighted some of Florida's best burger restaurants, including Pensacola's McGuire's Irish Pub, known for its gourmet steak burgers, and favorites from Sarasota to Palm Beach delivering unique flavors and hearty meals (from classic smash burgers to inventive creations).
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Sports
Pace softball defeated Navarre 11-0 early today to earn its sixth straight Final Four berth as Britten Kettler set a team record with 45 home runs and the team prepares for state play at Boombah Soldiers Creek Park.
Gulf Breeze boys volleyball lost in the 2A state semifinals.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Pensacola Events
Warehouse of Speed Spring Open House Dyno Day
Saturday, May 23rd, 2026 · 5-10 p.m. — Warehouse of Speed — Limited ticketing — Experience thrilling dyno pulls, enjoy food, and tour the shop showcasing impressive car builds.
TK Soul Live Concert
Sunday, May 24th, 2026 · 7-11:30 p.m. — 8Fifty Event Center — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of Southern Soul music with TK Soul this Memorial Weekend.
ACHE Northwest Florida Symposium
Friday, June 5th, 2026 · 11 AM – 3 PM — Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola — Discounted entry with lunch served — Network and learn with healthcare executives at this informative symposium.
Pensacola Comedy's Stand-up
Saturday, June 6th, 2026 · 7:30-9:30 p.m. — Genie's Coffee Shop — Free entry — Bring friends for laughs with comedy based on your suggestions, accompanied by coffee drinks and delicious food.
Free Yoga at Bayview Park
Sunday, June 7th, 2026 · 9:30-10:30 a.m. — Bayview Park — Free — Enjoy a refreshing outdoor yoga session suitable for all levels amidst nature.
IHMC 2026 Summer Robotics Camp for Rising 8th Graders
Monday, June 8th, 2026 · 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. — Institute for Human and Machine Cognition — $245, financial aid available — Dive into coding and robotics with hands-on STEM challenges.
Pensacola International Billfish Tournament
Tuesday, June 9th, 2026 · June 9-14 — Palafox Pier Yacht Harbor Marina — Registration required — A family-friendly billfish tournament blending competitive fishing with lively community celebrations.
Candlelight Concert: A Tribute to Bad Bunny
Saturday, June 13th, 2026 · 7-9 p.m. — First United Methodist Church, Pensacola — Tickets required — Experience Bad Bunny's music under candlelight in a serene church setting.