Bakersfield
Today
Tuesday, March 17th, 2026
Good morning, Bakersfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 17th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Temple Beth El in Bakersfield is boosting security with support from Rock Harbor Church after a truck bombing struck a Michigan synagogue last week — the upgrades include additional cameras, a perimeter fence, and volunteer patrols to keep the congregation safe. 23ABC News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ James Ben Ali Haggin was a pioneering land baron who built a vast real estate empire that shaped Kern County during the Gilded Age. His work led to the Kern County Land Company, which later influenced the development of CSUB and local subdivisions (a legacy that continues today). KVPR
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Kern County farmers are preparing for fertilizer shortages and higher prices as a conflict in the Middle East delays shipments and increases costs. Reports show a 30% rise in urea prices and growing concerns among local suppliers that could affect upcoming planting schedules. Bakersfield Now
- ➤ Record heat is raising concern for Kern County citrus growers as sudden high temperatures disrupt blooms and speed up pests, said Bakersfield College professor Lindsay Ono. Farmers will boost irrigation + monitor pests to protect the upcoming June citrus drop. Bakersfield Now
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Fire officials advise residents to clear dry brush and trim trees from about 100 feet around homes to build defensible space before wildfire season hits. Andrew Freeborn (from Kern County Fire Department) said these steps, including readying evacuation plans, can slow fires and protect properties. 23ABC News
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ A state agency awarded $27 million to a local nonprofit to build a 100-bed substance-use disorder treatment center in Arvin last week. The project will provide expanded treatment options for residents and marks an ambitious step for the organization. The Bakersfield Californian
- ➤ Kern County is expected to reach the 90s this week and could break the March record of 94 degrees, prompting Dr. Kanksha Peddi from Bakersfield Memorial Hospital to urge residents to hydrate and monitor for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. 23ABC News
- ➤ Forty students at Arvin High School received free eye exams and glasses through OneSight today, easing the financial burden for local families. The program continues through the week to offer vision care to more community members. 23ABC News
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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.
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Jackyl Concert
7-10 p.m. — BarrelHouse Brewing Bakersfield — All Ages — Experience loud, gritty rock & roll with Jackyl's high-octane performance.
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CSUB CalFresh Carnival
11 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Student Union — Free entry — Discover the new Mobile SNAP Vehicle and learn about accessible benefits for rural communities.
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Viejones Mañosos Tour
9 PM – 1 AM — La Movida Night Club — Tickets selling fast — Experience a vibrant night of live regional music with renowned artists in an electrifying atmosphere.
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Date Night Comedy
6:00-8:00 p.m. — The Clover Entertainment Group — $130 per couple — Enjoy dinner, laughs, and a live auction supporting mental health awareness with comedian Mike Goodwin.
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Cults & Classics: Sunset Boulevard
7-9 p.m. — Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater — $5 tickets — Enjoy the classic film Sunset Boulevard at one of California's beautiful movie palaces.
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Silverada Live at BarrelHouse Brewing
7:30-11:30 p.m. — BarrelHouse Brewing Bakersfield — Tickets available — Experience high-energy country rock by Silverada in a vibrant taproom atmosphere.
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Bakersfield Condors vs. Tucson Roadrunners Hockey Match
6:30-9 p.m. — Dignity Health Arena — Affordable family-friendly fun — Experience the thrill of AHL hockey with speed, hits, and excitement.
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