Friday, January 2nd, 2026
Good morning, Bakersfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 2nd of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Alyssa and Lionel Araujo welcomed a baby at Bakersfield Memorial Hospital three seconds after midnight on Jan. 1, 2026 — a joyful start to the New Year for the community. Bakersfield Now
- ➤ Tahnee and William welcomed their baby girl Billie at 3:43 a.m. on Jan. 1 at Adventist Health Bakersfield and celebrated a joyful start to the New Year. Bakersfield Now
- ➤ Bakersfield residents are sharing hopeful New Year’s resolutions for 2026 by focusing on healthier lifestyles and education (with some planning Inaugural Wellness Week), while preparations continue for a New Year’s Eve celebration at the Padre Hotel. Bakersfield Now
- ➤ Bakersfield Search and Rescue recovered a vehicle from a canal in Northern Kern on Thursday — the team said quick action helps prevent fuel and oil leaks from harming water quality and wildlife. The volunteers continue to protect the local environment and resources. Bakersfield Now
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ California's minimum wage increased last Thursday from $16.50 to $16.90, easing financial strain for workers while raising cost concerns for small businesses in Bakersfield. 23ABC News
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ The expiration of enhanced ACA tax credits could lead to higher premiums for about 28,000 Kern County enrollees+Covered California enrollees will receive a less generous benefit despite $190 million in state funds, while a House vote on extending the credits is set later this month. 23ABC News
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Bakersfield Jazz Orchestra Live
Evening event — Every 1st & 3rd Monday — Crusader Brewing — Free entry — Enjoy live jazz with top musicians in a fun atmosphere.
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Fog Run
4-8 p.m. — Lake Ming, Bakersfield, CA — Registration required — Participate in the 36th Annual 5K-10K Fog Run to support at-risk individuals in Kern County.
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Comedy Night with David Koechner
6:30-10:00 p.m. — Temblor Brewing Company — $35 General Admission ($50 Preferred Seating) — Enjoy a night filled with laughs from actor and comedian David Koechner.
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A Time to Laugh
7-9 p.m. — Doré Theatre — Cost Info Unavailable — Experience the healing power of laughter with clean comedy from Marcus D. Wiley.
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ADAKC Annual Cinnamon Roll Drive
6-11 AM — KGET — $20 — Support a good cause while enjoying delicious Hodel's cinnamon rolls.
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Colorado Eagles vs. Bakersfield Condors
7-9 p.m. — Mechanics Bank Arena — Adult Jersey Giveaway — Catch an exciting AHL matchup featuring local hockey talent.
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Catbox, Do You Compute, Jump From The Bluffs Concert
7-10 p.m. — Temblor Brewing Company — Tickets from $13.83 — Enjoy a night of live music featuring three exciting acts.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
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Welcome to the Bakersfield Today, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Bakersfield, California community. If you like the Bakersfield Today, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Bakersfield.
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