Good morning, Pensacola.

Local partners at Bogey Suites on University Parkway prepared holiday boxes filled with warm meals, treats, hygiene kits, and Narcan save-a-life kits for 40 families.

The event showcased community spirit as local officials and neighbors worked together—reminding everyone how small acts of kindness brighten the season.

On Tuesday, around 60 children and teens in Pensacola received new shoes from local organizations Working Class Wednesday & Real Women as part of a holiday giving effort.

Pensacola Mardi Gras is set to launch PMG Second Line Tuesdays 2026, starting Tuesday, January 6, downtown.

It will feature a procession on Palafox Street with music from the New Orleans Ramblers and local Mardi Gras Krewes, with starting locations (announced Monday) updated weekly.

Tuesday’s Mega Millions drawing ended with a $100 million jackpot on Dec.

23, and the next drawing is set for Friday, Dec. 26 while ticket purchases continue at local Florida Lottery retailers (rules apply). The Powerball jackpot has reached $1.7 billion amid a historic surge in interest.

Okaloosa County plans to sink the SS United States in March 2026 to create the largest artificial reef, with federal inspections underway and funding secured (tourism bed tax and local partners).

Meanwhile, New York City Councilwoman Gale Brewer is pushing a resolution to designate the historic liner as a landmark.

The City of Pensacola announced that its long-anticipated Palafox Street reconstruction project starts Jan.

5 with outdoor furniture removed by Jan. 2 and vehicles cleared by Jan. 4; downtown remains open and a new website offers updates + project details.

A special toy delivery brought cheer to young cancer patients at Studer Family Children's Hospital today; Toys for Tots teamed with the Marine Corps League & a local nonprofit to brighten spirits in Pensacola.

A guide shows that most restaurants in the Florida Panhandle, including several in Pensacola, are open today on Christmas Eve with set holiday hours while some operate on reduced schedules.

Residents should verify local timing for chains like Applebee’s (open until 8 p.m. in some areas) if needed.

Many local grocery stores are open today with reduced hours to help with last-minute holiday shopping, while stores like CVS and Walgreens will operate on a limited schedule tomorrow.

Shoppers should call local locations to verify hours and plan ahead.

Huntsville Havoc vs Pensacola Ice Flyers

6:05-7:35 p.m. — Pensacola Bay Center — $12 for veterans and active military — Celebrate the bravery of our servicemen and women with discounted tickets for military personnel.

New Year Celebration at Saenger Theatre

6-7:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Ticket prices vary — Experience lively performances and festivities to welcome the New Year.

Mac & Cheese Festival

12-6 p.m. — Gary's Brewery & Biergarten — Entry fee applies — Indulge in a cheesy extravaganza featuring food trucks, vendors, and fun for the whole family.

Jake Klark Comedy Show

7-11:59 p.m. — Seville Quarter — Ticket prices vary — Experience the high-energy comedy of Jake Klark and friends in a phone-free environment.

Sincere Engineer with The Handsome Scoundrels

7-9 p.m. — The Handlebar — Live music concert — Enjoy a night of indie rock with Sincere Engineer and The Handsome Scoundrels.