Good morning, Bakersfield.

British-born WWII veteran Ron Holdsworth piloted a vintage open-cockpit Stearman biplane Friday morning for Dreamflight—a free flight event taking eight aging veterans on a brief ride that recalled his youthful flying days.

Garces Memorial High School hosted its annual Play Day today for over 250 special needs students from across Kern County.

The event provided a day of fun and friendship on campus that strengthened the community spirit.

A federal judge extended an emergency restraining order on the $6.2B merger between Nexstar and Tegna — pausing the deal for one week.

The decision delays the planned media consolidation.

Bakersfield College Wylie and May Louise Art Gallery is hosting the 2026 Student Art Exhibit this week, featuring student works chosen from hundreds of submissions.

The exhibit is open until April 30 during regular gallery hours (Mon-Thu, 2:00-5:00 p.m.) with an opening reception held on Thursday, April 9.

Bakersfield College will use a $3.2 million state grant to hire students to work with local agencies and nonprofits on projects such as educating young people and distributing food.

The program helps students earn money while supporting community services.

Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux warned residents today about fake GoFundMe pages claiming to support fallen deputy Randy Hoppert’s family, noting that no fundraiser has been authorized and advising donors to use the official Tulare County Deputy Sheriffs’ Association page (verified).

R&B Sundaze

11 AM – 3 PM — BottleShock Wine and Brew — $20 presale, $25 at the door — Enjoy a vibrant afternoon with live R&B music by DJ Spoon and DJ Ace.

ABRA Cadabra: An ABBA Tribute

7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of glittering costumes and irresistible ABBA melodies with the acclaimed tribute band.

2026 Earth Day 661 Festival

10 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Beach Park — Free entry — Celebrate Mother Earth with live music, eco-friendly vendors, and family fun activities.

Baseball Game: CSU Bakersfield vs. Cal State LA

6:30-8 p.m. — Hardt Field — Check for ticket prices — Catch the action as CSU Bakersfield takes on Cal State LA in an exciting baseball matchup.

Chito Ranas Live in Concert

8-11 p.m. — Paradise Palace Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of authentic Latin rap with Chito Ranas and special guests.

UC Santa Barbara Gauchos vs. Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners Baseball

6:30–8:00 p.m. — Hardt Field — Tickets from $11.20 — Witness an exciting college baseball matchup under the lights.

UC Santa Barbara Gauchos vs. Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners Baseball Game

6:30 – 8:00 PM — Hardt Field — Tickets from $11.20 — Catch the action as the Gauchos clash with the Roadrunners in a thrilling baseball matchup.

Fresno State Bulldogs vs. Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners Baseball

6:30-8 p.m. — Hardt Field — Tickets from $11.20 — Catch the excitement as the Bulldogs take on the Roadrunners in a thrilling baseball matchup.

UC San Diego Tritons vs. Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners Baseball

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Hardt Field — Tickets from $11.20 — Watch a thrilling college baseball matchup at Hardt Field.

The Mac and Cheese Fest

2-6 p.m. — Kern County Fair And Event Center — Ticket required — Indulge in unlimited cheesy bites and tasty beverages while enjoying live music and games.