Good morning, Bakersfield.

Kern County Animal Services offered free microchipping and pet ID tags between Tuesday and Wednesday at their facility to protect pets from Fourth of July fireworks; 84 people brought pets and the shelter produced 124 tags — a sign that many local owners are preparing for the holiday.

Handel's Homemade Ice Cream opens a second location today near Old River Rd & Panama Ln with indoor & outdoor seating.

The shop offers non-dairy flavors such as coffee truffle & peanut butter, plus mint chocolate chip, taro, cotton candy & the popular blue monster that turns customers' mouths blue.

Yesterday, Central Valley Daily featured an encore segment where San Francisco Chronicle reporters Susie Neilson and Megan Fan Munce explained that the 360 Value tool uses a flawed algorithm to help insurance companies set homeowner policies.

The investigation shows how rates and coverage may be affected.

The Tehachapi Loop was built in 1876 and still helps trains climb steep mountains, making it one of Kern County's great railroad feats.

Rail fans visit the nearby depot museum to celebrate its lasting legacy.

Bakersfield consumers may see lower gas prices soon as oil prices drop, with economic expert Steve Moore saying lower wholesale costs will ease pump prices & boost buying power during busy travel season.

Price relief is expected to come in the next four to six weeks amid ongoing U.S.-Iran negotiations.

Bakersfield fire inspectors inspect each permitted fireworks booth before Fourth of July sales to ensure safety and compliance.

Fire Marshal Shane Gardner said booths must have 25-foot clearances for generators and extinguishers - a measure that also supports school and nonprofit fundraisers.

Kern County Public Health warned local business owners about scammers posing as health inspectors and targeting food truck, trailer, and food cart permit applicants.

Vendors are urged to verify inspector credentials before proceeding with permit applications.

Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway will host the American 250 event on Saturday, July 4 with racing, a car smash contest, and the largest fireworks show in Kern County.

Gates open at 4 p.m. with racing starting at 7 p.m. and free tickets for 500 veterans provided by sponsors.

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.

Hat Trick Watch Experience at Dave & Buster's

12 p.m. — Dave & Buster's Bakersfield — Starting at $24.99 — Enjoy unlimited wings, fries, and video games while cheering for your favorite team on massive screens.

Comedy Night with Joe Torry

8-10 p.m. — Legends Lounge & Event Center — Ticketed event — Enjoy an evening filled with side-splitting laughter from comedy legend Joe Torry.

Lefty Gunplay Concert

8-11:30 p.m. — La Movida Night Club — Tickets from $94 — Lefty Gunplay brings an unforgettable live music experience to Bakersfield.