Bakersfield
Today
Thursday, May 21st, 2026
Good morning, Bakersfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 21st of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ A local family on Ming Avenue received a new air conditioner Monday morning from Emcor Services Hillcrest + CAPK, the Kern County food bank. The donation marked the fourth annual giveaway aimed at easing rising temperatures and bringing comfort to a family in need. Bakersfield Now
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Facing rising food costs, Kelly Tandoori Grill in Bakersfield has adjusted its menu by raising prices and substituting ingredients while keeping its signature taste. Owner Bucky Hussain says the changes help the family-owned restaurant stay open and diversify its offerings (including Mexican flavors). 23ABC News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Thousands are expected to gather near Buena Vista Lake this Memorial Day weekend for the five-day Lightning in a Bottle festival featuring music, art, camping and community events. Attendees will prepare for warm conditions while organizers increase dust control measures (with extra wood chips and water trucks) to protect health. Bakersfield Now
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ The Bakersfield Commons Logistics Center opened yesterday at Coffee Road and Rosedale Highway after nearly two years of construction. Developers say the 300,000 sqft facility created construction jobs and will soon boost opportunities in Northwest Bakersfield. 23ABC News
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Centennial High School student Ila Rose received the 2026 Mayor’s Trophy on Tuesday night when Mayor Karen Goh recognized her for outstanding academics, athletics and public service. The Bakersfield Californian
- ➤ Arvin Union School District banned e-scooters on all campuses after a student accident on May 14 and another incident, citing a California law that prevents students under 16 from riding motorized scooters — officials say the ban will keep students safe. 23ABC News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Kern County officials reported a 3% increase in homelessness in the 2026 Point-in-Time Count, but noted numbers have stayed stable over three years as new housing options and services were added — some programs may soon face funding challenges with the end of federal pandemic aid. 23ABC News
- ➤ A new bill in the California legislature proposes a study on reintroducing grizzly bears to the Central Valley—over a century after they disappeared. The measure seeks to assess environmental impacts and consider concerns from local ranchers. KVPR
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Axel is the Wag Wednesday adoptable pet at Bakersfield Animal Care Center (201 S. Mt Vernon Ave) and is ready for same-day adoption on National Rescue Dog Day; he is neutered, house trained, and friendly with kids and other dogs. 23ABC News
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Bakersfield resident Manav Shah became the first local golfer to qualify for the U.S. Open after playing 36 holes in Dallas. The Centennial High School graduate (a two-time all-area player) will tee off at Shinnecock Hills on June 18. 23ABC News
-
Goat Yoga Class at Cherry Acres
8:30-9:30 a.m. — Cherry Acres — Bring your yoga mat and enjoy a playful blend of yoga and adorable goats in a serene farm setting.
-
Robert Jon and the Wreck Live
7-11 p.m. — World Records — Ticketed event — Enjoy an electrifying mix of Southern rock and West Coast soul with Robert Jon & The Wreck.
-
Bakersfield Puerto Rican Salsa Festival
1-8 p.m. — Kern County Shrine Club — Donations accepted — Dance to salsa beats and enjoy Puerto Rican culture while raising funds for student scholarships.
-
The Lovers Rock - Sade Tribute
8-11 p.m. — BottleShock Wine and Brew — Fundraising event — Enjoy a night of Sade's legendary sounds while supporting Kern County students in music and STEM education.
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
There are no shortcuts to any place worth going.
Know who said this? Send us an email!
Reveal the authorAbout Bakersfield Today
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.
Advertising Opportunities
Advertising with us will make sure you stay at the top of everyone's mind—in Bakersfield and across California. You can learn more here. We'll work together to build a custom plan to hit your goals this year.
Alternatively, you can submit events, announcements, real estate listings, and job postings. We'll include them in our newsletter on whichever dates you like.
Community, delivered
Our hyper-local media company activates communities through daily email newsletters that curate the most positive, impactful local news + events – all for free.
Subscribe to Bakersfield Today
A free Bakersfield community newsletter.
- Daily local news
- We curate the most positive, impactful local news + events.
- 6AM City
- A publication of 6AM City, the nation's leading local newsletter-first media network. Nominate your city.
© 6AM City Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy. Terms of Service. Questions? Contact us here
Sitemap: https://bakersfieldtodaynews.com/sitemap