Daily editionThursday, June 26th, 2025
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 26th of June.
Culture
The 2025 Pensacola Beach Air Show will take place from July 9 to July 12 over Pensacola emerald green waters, featuring military and civilian aerobatic displays.
The event will begin on July 9 at 7:30 a.m. with Breakfast with the Blues, followed by a practice flight on July 10, a full dress rehearsal on July 11 and the official air show on July 12 with the Blue Angels closing at 2 p.m.—Plan to arrive early to beat traffic and view pre-show demonstrations.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Education
University of West Florida archaeology students are excavating at Mission San Joseph de Escambe in Molino to uncover evidence of the area's past — the work may offer new insights into local history.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Public schools in Santa Rosa and Escambia counties will offer free driver's ed classes, required by a new state law for a learner’s permit starting July 1 — some schools already offer the course in person or online and plan to expand it to more high schools.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
University of West Florida archaeology students uncovered old artifacts, including Native American pottery and parts of Spanish structures, at the Mission San Joseph de Escambe site in Molino on June 20th—Professor John Worth led the dig.
These finds add important clues to the area’s early history.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Government
Starting July 7, 12th Avenue between Fairfield Drive and Barcia Drive in Pensacola will close for 40 days for a drainage improvement project—drivers will use a detour via 11th Avenue.
The City awarded a contract to Site and Utility, LLC to install larger stormwater pipes that will improve drainage and help reduce flooding.
WEAR-TVRead more
Escambia County leaders approved spending $25.1 million from tourist tax funds to install new artificial turf on 20 fields at John R. Jones Park and Sports Arena to improve youth sports and allow more teams to play—officials said safety rules are in place to guard against PFAS risks. Construction will start in 2026 and full field use is expected by spring 2027—tournament organizers and local teams are set to benefit from the upgrades.
WUWFRead more
Lifestyle
Summer break brings Pensacola eateries together to offer free or discounted kids' meals with an adult entree, and Outback Steakhouse is running its offer on Mondays through Sept. 1—other spots like Rotolo’s, Moe’s and Denny’s feature similar deals on different days to help families dine affordably.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Sports
More than 500 anglers competed in the 2025 Busch Light Pensacola Fishing Rodeo from June 20 to 23 and won cash prizes in 21 categories—organizers said the event celebrated Pensacola's strong community spirit.
Local PulseRead more
Pensacola Events
Ronald McDonald House Firecracker 5K
Saturday, June 28th, 2025 · 5:00 AM – 4:59 AM — Seville Quarter — Registration fees apply — Run for a good cause in historic downtown Pensacola to support local families.
Ninja Kidz Live
Tuesday, July 1st, 2025 · 6-7:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Last-minute tickets available — Experience the excitement of Ninja Kidz Live with family-friendly fun in Pensacola.
July 4th 5K and Fireworks Celebration
Friday, July 4th, 2025 · 7:30-11:00 a.m. — Pensacola Beach Boardwalk — $30-$40 — Enjoy a scenic 5K run followed by a lively post-race party at the Tiki Bar.
Southern Soul Ho’ Down Field Party
Saturday, July 5th, 2025 · 8 PM – 2 AM — 5 Flash Ranch — BYOB — Enjoy a night filled with Southern Soul music, line dancing, and fun in Pensacola's countryside.
Coffee and Bird Walk at Tarkiln Bayou Preserve
Sunday, July 6th, 2025 · 7:00-9:45 a.m. — Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park — Small entrance fee — Enjoy coffee and explore nature while birdwatching on a scenic trail.
Vegan Brewfest 2025
Saturday, July 12th, 2025 · 2-8 p.m. — Perfect Plain Brewing Co. — Cost info not provided — Celebrate plant-based living with epic vegan food, live music, and craft brews.
Karlous Miller Comedy Show
Friday, July 18th, 2025 · 7:00-8:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Check website for price — Experience the laughter and entertainment of Karlous Miller live on stage.
Ben Loftin Concert
Saturday, July 19th, 2025 · 12-6 p.m. — McRee Sector of Gulf Islands Ntl Seashore — Free entry — Enjoy soulful coastal tunes from singer-songwriter Ben Loftin in a beautiful setting.
Blue Wahoos Game with Green Beret Foundation
Sunday, July 20th, 2025 · 6-8 p.m. — Blue Wahoos Stadium — Ticket purchase supports the Green Beret mission — Experience a thrilling Double-A baseball game featuring the Blue Wahoos against the Chattanooga Lookouts.
12Eleven Live at Bands on the Beach
Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025 · 7 p.m. - 1 a.m. — Pensacola Beach — Free entry — Experience a night of great music as the local band 12Eleven takes the stage on the beach.