Good morning, Pensacola.

The Escambia Children’s Trust has awarded $29.3 million to 38 local providers to support afterschool, mental health and early childhood programs that fill critical service gaps — starting today, the Pensacola News Journal will feature a series spotlighting nine providers including YMCA’s Y Reads.

Visitors enjoyed the Kids Pajama Pawty at Coastal Cat Cafe on Sunday, Dec.

28, 2025, with kitty playtime, hot drinks, and snacks (organized for children and families).

El Jalisco expanded its local footprint by opening a second Santa Rosa County restaurant in Milton at 5820 Dogwood Drive.

Known for its fresh Mexican dishes such as pineapple fajitas and birria flautas, it operates today from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. weekdays + until 10 p.m. on weekends.

Escambia County’s DRC approved several commercial projects in 2025 that include a 172,580 sqft Costco near E.

Nine Mile Road—expected to open in 2026—and a new Chick-fil-A on Mobile Highway, along with Chipotle expansions in Bellview and northwest Pensacola.

The African-American community celebrated Kwanzaa from Dec.

26 to Jan. 1; Sunday’s event at 4 p.m. at Kukua Institute on Reus Street featured cultural performances, music, poems, and prayer.

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.

Grown-Up Book Fair at Odd Colony

11 a.m.-6 p.m. — Odd Colony Brewing Company — Free entry — Relive childhood nostalgia with books, local authors, and delicious treats while sipping a refreshing beverage.

The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show

12-3 a.m. — 8 S 9th Ave, Pensacola, FL — Ticket required — Experience an interactive comedy murder mystery dinner show where the culprit could be sitting right next to you.