Good morning, Bakersfield.

The Mission at Kern County has served Bakersfield neighbors for almost 75 years by providing meals, crisis support & a cooling center to help those facing hardship in extreme heat.

The group continues to welcome community members in need during this ongoing summer challenge.

Local community gathers every Friday at Golden Valley High School for the Cali Night Market, where vendors offer handcrafted goods and homemade treats and families meet to support local entrepreneurs plus create lasting ties.

Organizers say the event gives small businesses a pop-up chance to grow.

The Bakersfield Police Department invites residents to join them on Wednesday, Jul.

15 for the free Summer Nights with BPD event at Beale Memorial Park on Oleander Avenue. Families will enjoy music, games & food vendors while officers host live demonstrations.

Independent filmmaker Julian Wilson, who began his film career at Cal State Bakersfield, will host his fourth annual Veterans Film Fest in August to showcase films honoring local veterans + the event is expected to spark community conversation.

Dignity Health will permanently lay off 57 workers at Bakersfield Memorial Hospital effective Aug.

3, citing rising costs + complex government demands to secure long-term stability.

The federal government reopened the public comment period to consider new protections for two amphibian species in Kern River Canyon — officials will review feedback to help safeguard the local ecosystem.

State lawmakers are considering a bill that would let insurers track driving behavior using GPS and AI to set auto insurance rates.

Some Bakersfield residents worry about privacy and data sharing.

Two major hospital systems in Kern County announced 79 layoff notices amid shifts in healthcare.

The employment changes come as the industry faces challenges at state and federal levels.

Max Bacerra and Jessey Bowman are developing a shopping center and housing on a 400-acre lot at White Lane and Cottonwood Road in southeast Bakersfield.

City leaders (including Council Member Eric Arias) plan to boost cleanup and security as illegal dumping and encampments slow progress.

Joseph Starick, Bakersfield Train Robbers outfielder, overcame a devastating crash in 2015 that nearly ended his career and is now back on the field inspiring teammates.

He is playing his second professional season after multiple surgeries (showing his strong faith and determination).

Arvin Little League finished the season with a record of 15 to 1 and advanced through sectionals by defeating Chowchilla—earning a spot at the state tournament in Yuba City over 8 days.

Community members are raising $10,000 through taco sales and donations to help cover the trip's costs.

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.

Fireflies

7:30 p.m. & 2 p.m. — Bakersfield Community Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a heartwarming tale of late-in-life romance with Eleanor Bannister.