Bakersfield
Today
Thursday, February 26th, 2026
Good morning, Bakersfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 26th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The City of Bakersfield approved a $2.5 million fund for The Open Door Network's new four-building campus that will increase shelter beds to more than 350 and expand services. The facility is set to open in summer 2027 at 529 Dolores Street. Bakersfield Now
- ➤ Parents in Arvin are relieved as the city announced sidewalk and crosswalk improvements on South Comanche Drive near Bear Mountain Elementary to ensure safe walks for students. Work will begin in March and wrap up within two months — with additional repairs planned for South Derby in May. 23ABC News
- ➤ Animal advocates voiced their opposition to a proposed ban on feeding stray animals in public parks (including cats, raccoons, and foxes) during Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors meeting. The board set up a special committee to gather their concerns. 23ABC News
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Yesterday, BC hosted its first Campus Equity Conversation on diversity, equity and inclusion, where panelists discussed practical support measures such as zero-cost textbooks — a measure to remove financial barriers — and shared insights, concluding with a social hour and pizza. Bakersfield College
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ BCSD classified workers and teachers decried a 1% raise after board members approved a 281% increase to their stipends, saying the move neglects staff needs. Negotiations will continue on Friday, March 6 (with no agreement reached yet) as workers demand fair compensation. 23ABC News
- ➤ The Kern County Veterans Honor Guard faces a serious membership shortage that may reduce full military funeral honors for veterans; officials are recruiting high school and college band members to fill roles — including an open bugler position in the program. Bakersfield Now
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ SOS Dog Rescue in Bakersfield features Huck, a friendly seven month old pit bull available for adoption as part of Wag Wednesday. Huck is crate trained, leash trained and good with other dogs, which makes him a welcome companion for families. 23ABC News
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Ruben Castillo—a celebrated local boxer—died at 68 on Tuesday, Feb. 24 in Beaumont after a long battle with cancer. 23ABC News
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CIF State Wrestling Championships - Session II
9 AM – 12 PM — Mechanics Bank Arena — All Session Parking Pass available — Watch the best high school wrestlers compete for glory in the CIF State Championships.
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CIF State Wrestling Championships - Session IV
9 AM - 12 PM — Mechanics Bank Arena — Admission required — Witness the thrilling competition as top wrestlers vie for state titles.
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Tortilla Making Workshop for Beginners
8-10 p.m. — 3601 Eton St, Bakersfield, CA — Free entry — Learn to make homemade tortillas from scratch with no fear or doubts.
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12th Annual Honor Run
8-10 a.m. — Hart Memorial Park — $10-$50 — Participate in a charitable run supporting the families of fallen deputies with fun for all ages.
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32nd Annual Christian Youth Film Festival
2-10:30 p.m. — The Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater — Various costs available — Celebrate young filmmakers showcasing inspiring short films filled with faith, hope, and love.
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College Baseball Game: CSU Bakersfield vs. Westcliff
11 AM – 1 PM — Hardt Field — Watch live sports — Catch the action as CSU Bakersfield takes on Westcliff in this college baseball matchup.
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Concert by Dueto Voces del Rancho & Chaque Peña Junior
8 p.m. — La Movida Night Club — Tickets available — Experience a vibrant night of regional music with top artists in a legendary venue.
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Heartland Charter School Field Day
10 AM – 12 PM — Westdale Park — Free entry — Enjoy a fun-filled day of athletic games and family bonding at this exciting Field Day event.
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CSUB Jazz Coffeehouse
7:30 p.m. — CSUB Music Building, Room 127 — $10 General Admission, $5 for Students & Seniors — Experience jazz standards and original compositions by local talents and guest artists.
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Bakersfield Marathon
7 AM - 1 PM — Kern County Museum — Registration required — Experience a scenic race featuring full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 6K options through Bakersfield.
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.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Desire is a contract you make with yourself to be unhappy until you get what you want.
~ Naval Ravikant
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