Good morning, Bakersfield.

A wildfire burned 1,025 acres near Highway 46 and Highway 33 in Blackwells Corner on Saturday, July 11, with crews using engines, helicopters, bulldozers and air tankers to contain the blaze — evacuation warnings were issued and no structures were damaged or people hurt, while the cause remains under investigation.

The Kern County Fire Department stopped a vegetation fire near Blackwells Corner that burned over 1,000 acres Saturday, with crews containing the blaze quickly.

Due to Congress's delay in updating the U.S. Farm Bill, California citrus researchers face funding shortages — a gap that may slow vital agricultural studies.

Local experts say the shortfall could affect research progress and the industry's competitive edge.

A 4.3-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Kern County Monday at 9:40 a.m. with an epicenter 11 miles southwest of Johannesburg (no damage or injuries were reported) amid ongoing seismic swarms.

Joe Ducey from BBB explains that Bakersfield drivers should weigh the cost of filing insurance claims on minor windshield damage because potential rate hikes may outweigh paying out of pocket; older windshields might cost (a few hundred dollars) while newer models could run (over $1,000).

Dairy farmers oppose a new state draft plan to reduce nitrate pollution in valley groundwater, saying the costs are too high+local operations may face rising expenses if the proposal moves forward.

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.