Good morning, Bakersfield.

The NAACP Bakersfield Chapter’s 11th annual Juneteenth celebration began yesterday at Bakersfield College with a youth panel and free food and will continue Friday with brunch and live music at Ay Mi Pa and the Jazz Spot before finishing Saturday at Jastro Park with vendors and games (free to attend).

Bakersfield College received the Educational Excellence Award at the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards on Wednesday, June 17 — a yearly event honoring top contributions from 2025.

Dr. Stacey Pfluger said the honor shows the community trusts the college’s mission to provide quality education and support services.

The Bakersfield City School District has narrowed the renaming options for Cesar Chavez Elementary to two finalists (Helen Chavez Elementary honoring his late wife and Sí Se Puede Elementary reflecting the rallying cry) after reviewing 866 survey responses in May.

The board will consider public comments on June 23 before making a final decision.

The Kern County Board of Supervisors approved a 7,000-acre solar project in east Kern Tuesday — the board voiced criticism over state tax exemptions for these projects.

During Men's Health Month, local experts urged Bakersfield men to schedule routine checkups and blood work, as early screenings may reveal silent issues like prostate cancer and mental health challenges.

Bowie, a six-month-old pup with a missing tail from a recent injury, is available for adoption today at Bakersfield Animal Care Center (201 South Mt Vernon Avenue).

He is friendly, adjusts well to car rides, and is learning to walk on a leash.

Bakersfield Beer Company is filling with soccer fans as the World Cup boosts local excitement.

Owner Tim Douhan said he expects a packed crowd for Friday's matches — Mexico-South Korea at 6 p.m. and Team USA versus Australia at noon.

Summer Nights Truck and Car Show

All day — Kern County Fair And Event Center — Check the event page for pricing — Celebrate automotive culture with trucks, classic cars, and vibrant entertainment.

NEF The Pharaoh

4:20-10 p.m. — Paradise Palace Hall — Free entry — Experience live music, local vendors, and delicious food at this vibrant community event.

USPA Tested and Open WE ARE THE STRONG 2 Meet

8 a.m. — National Academy of Strength and Power — Registration required — Compete against some of the best lifters in the area with both tested and non-tested divisions.

BELY Y BETO

3-6 p.m. — Mechanics Bank Arena — Tickets required — Experience joy and magic with these beloved children's entertainers.

Comedy Night with Jeff Dye

6:30-11 p.m. — Temblor Brewing Company — $30-$40 — Experience a night of laughter with Jeff Dye's sharp and hilarious comedy.

Bakersfield International Music Festival 2026

All day — CSUB Music — Registration required — A ten-day solo & chamber music program welcoming aspiring pianists and string players from 7th grade onward.

Midland Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Mechanics Bank Arena — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening with Midland as they bring their country hits to Bakersfield.