Daily editionSaturday, October 18th, 2025
Good morning, Pensacola.
The Daily Pensacola Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 18th of October.
Community
Today the Pensacola Interstate Fair opens from 11 a.m. to midnight with free entry for kids 11 and under until 2 p.m.—Sawyer Brown will perform at 7:30 p.m. as the fair offers rides, exhibits, and fun activities for all visitors.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
On October 16th, the Pensacola Interstate Fair marked its 90th opening with new safety measures including a clear bag policy and a ban on firearms to boost security during the 11-day event — six live cameras, drones, and extra deputies were deployed to cover the premises.
Some fairgoers expressed surprise at the changes while officials said the proactive upgrades will help keep attendees safe.
WEAR-TVRead more
The Guardian ad Litem Foundation will hold its Give and Groove fundraiser at The Sanctuary on November 7 to help children removed from unsafe homes by providing essential items like suitcases with age-appropriate supplies.
The event will feature live music by The Mulligans — Culinary Productions will supply food — and sponsors are needed by October 20 to support the program.
Rick's BlogRead more
Stephen Page with 850 Barbecue has challenged professional BBQ teams from across the Gulf Coast to join him at Pensacola Eggfest 2025 for a charity cook-off.
The event will be held on November 16th at Noon at Hadji Temple—800 W 9 Mile Rd and aims to push donations past $1 million.
Local PulseRead more
A free family event on sustainable living will take place today at the From the Ground Up Community Garden on East La Rua Street from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.—families can explore learning stations, enjoy free ice cream, and visit a vegan food truck while learning about conservation.
WEAR-TVRead more
Business
Pensacola businesses along Palafox Street will face a six-month construction project starting in early January that will widen sidewalks and resurface roads as part of a $10 million facelift—city officials will keep sidewalks open and launch a marketing campaign while owners plan new strategies to keep customers coming.
WEAR-TVRead more
Culture
Local historian Wesley Odom shared haunting stories from downtown Pensacola bars and restaurants decorated for Halloween on Oct. 10, detailing ghost legends at Intermission and Seville Quarter.
He explained that these tales, including the history of a former restaurant called The Child, connect modern celebrations with local lore — revealing a deep link to the area's past.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Education
UWF Interim President Manny Diaz Jr. delivered the 2025 State of the University Address at the University of West Florida in Pensacola on October 16, where he detailed the institution's progress and future plans for faculty, staff and student leaders.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
On October 16, UWF’s College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities honored the late John Markowitz by naming a painting studio and establishing a scholarship endowment—an event that reflected his influential career.
He taught art at UWF for 24 years—his artwork and mentorship continue to be celebrated in local exhibitions running through Nov. 20.
University of West FloridaRead more
Government
Northwest Florida schools have long faced speeding and heavy traffic, so Escambia County schools and the sheriff's office now station FDOT-certified traffic guards and deputies at key zones like Kingsfield, Bellview and Longleaf Elementary — they warn that school zone fines can be double or triple the normal amount. The agencies are also considering speed cameras after nearby districts issued over 100 tickets on the first day of school.
WEAR-TVRead more
Sports
The Pensacola Ice Flyers begin their season tonight at 7:05 p.m. at the Bay Center with a new coaching staff led by legacy player Jeremy Gates and major upgrades on the ice including an NHL-standard surface.
The venue now features new dasher boards—improved glass, LED lighting and sound, and upgraded seating—that promise a smoother game experience for fans.
Pensacola News JournalRead more
Pensacola Events
The Longest Table Fundraiser
Sunday, October 19th, 2025 · 2:30-5:30 p.m. — Bayview Park — $50 per person — Enjoy a unique dining experience with Southern hospitality, delicious food, and live music all to benefit the Gulf Coast Kids House.
D. Scott Riggs Live Performance
Thursday, October 23rd, 2025 · 6-10 p.m. — Five Sisters Blues Cafe — Ticket info not provided — Enjoy the soulful sounds of Gulf Coast musician D. Scott Riggs blending Delta, Piedmont, and Country Blues.
Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics
Friday, October 24th, 2025 · 6:30-8:30 p.m. — First United Methodist Church — Not specified — Immerse yourself in a spine-chilling musical experience featuring Halloween classics performed by candlelight.
World Ballet Company - Cinderella
Saturday, October 25th, 2025 · 6-7:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting tale of Cinderella brought to life by the World Ballet Company.
Jessie Ritter Live Performance
Sunday, October 26th, 2025 · 12-4 p.m. — Flounder's Chowder House — Free show — Enjoy heartfelt country-pop tunes by Jessie Ritter in a family-friendly setting.
Ryan Bingham and The Texas Gentlemen
Monday, October 27th, 2025 · 7:00-8:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Check event page for pricing — Experience the powerful fusion of folk, blues, country, and rock n roll from Ryan Bingham and The Texas Gentlemen.
Matisyahu Concert
Tuesday, October 28th, 2025 · 6-7:30 p.m. — Vinyl Music Hall — $66-$132 — Catch Matisyahu live with last-minute tickets available for an electrifying concert experience.
Nekrogoblikon Concert
Wednesday, October 29th, 2025 · 2-5 p.m. — Vinyl Music Hall — Tickets starting at $52 — Experience a high-energy performance from the eccentric metal band Nekrogoblikon.
Cain Live in Concert
Thursday, October 30th, 2025 · 6-7:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Tickets from $30 — Enjoy an electrifying live performance by Cain at this historic venue.
Halloween Costume Contest
Friday, October 31st, 2025 · 6 p.m. — Flora-Bama — Contest entry fee varies — Show off your creativity and compete for prizes in a festive Halloween atmosphere.