LIVING THE DREAM is Pensacola’s signature event for celebrating Dr. King’s legacy and a commitment to diversity and progressive leadership that promotes a more cohesive community. The 2026 Living the Dream Pensacola gala, held at the Brownsville Community Center, celebrated local leaders embodying Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy of service, unity, and community impact.
LEROY WILLIAMS
Founder and president of the Pensacola Community Arts & Recreation Association (PCARA) since 1987. He has led youth mentorship, arts programs, tutoring, and violence-prevention initiatives, earning praise for decades of empowering young people and fostering community cohesion.
JEREMY REAVES
Pensacola native and NFL safety for the Washington Commanders. A former Southern Youth Sports Association player, he rose undrafted to earn Pro Bowl and First-Team All-Pro honors on special teams. Honored for returning home to mentor youth and inspire resilience in his community.
CAMERON PETERS
STEVE & ERIN WILMER
Pensacola community leaders and philanthropists are honored for embodying Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy through service, generosity, and leadership. By promoting financial literacy, entrepreneurship, mentorship, and encouragement, they uplift others, spread genuine joy, and inspire positive change across Pensacola and beyond.
ASHLEY ARMSTRONG
Pensacola attorney and justice advocate. Dedicated to equity, community leadership, and empowering the next generation through purpose-driven service and truth-speaking, in the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream.
VIRGINIA BUCHANAN
Shareholder and senior litigator at Levin Papantonio in Pensacola. A top-rated personal injury attorney with over $500 million in verdicts/settlements, she was awarded the Community Service Award for her pro bono work, legal clinics, volunteering (e.g., Habitat for Humanity), and commitment to justice and civic engagement.
Community advocate recognized for dedicated service and positive local impact. Celebrated alongside fellow honorees for advancing unity and uplifting Pensacola through her contributions.
STUDER
FAMILY OF COMPANIES
ELIZABETH EUBANKS
Lead Gardener and steward of From the Ground Up Community Garden in Pensacola. She has transformed the urban space under Interstate-110 into a vibrant hub for community building, sustainability, education, local art installations, live music, grief support programs, and healing initiatives.
Legendary Pensacola attorney, philanthropist, and civic leader whose legacy of generosity, community support, and service continues through the Fred Levin Way Festival and Foundation.
Longtime owner of WRNE radio station and influential media figure in Pensacola. Received the Special Legacy Award for his enduring voice in local issues, community engagement, and leadership that has shaped the
Accepting the award on his behalf: Brenton Goodman, Martin Levin and Marci & Ross Goodman.
5Eleven • Blue Wahoos • Bodacious Shops • Bodacious Bookstore
As the days stretch a little longer and the warm air begins to roll in, it’s finally starting to feel like spring. As much as I enjoyed the surprise of another snow day this year, I’m more than ready to swap sweaters for shorts and get back outside to all my favorite springtime activities. From beach days and festivals to fundraisers and open mic nights, there are plenty of ways to kick off spring here in Pensacola.
Our cover story takes you inside Pensacola’s open mic scene, where poets, comics, musicians and first-timers are stepping up to the mic in venues across the city. From laid-back coffee shops to buzzing late-night spots, these stages have become creative playgrounds. Whether you’re performing or simply cheering from the crowd, there’s something powerful about a room full of people brave enough to share their voice.
This month, we’ve also brought you details on one of our favorite returning events—the Gulf Coast Whale Festival. This annual celebration of Gulf Coast marine life blends conservation, education and fun in an effort to raise awareness of one of the most endangered whale species in the world—the Rice’s whale. This year’s festival is set to take place on Pensacola Beach, so be sure to mark your calendars so you can come out and join in the fun.
The arts also take center stage with Pensacola Little Theatre’s upcoming Cabaret: Storybook Soirée, an evening of performance and imagination in support of local theater. If you’re an animal lover—or just looking for a reason to dress up for a good cause— the Pensacola Humane Society’s Fur Ball gala returns March 21, benefiting local pet adoptions and the important work of our area’s nonprofit no-kill shelter.
As we head into spring, I hope this issue inspires you to get out, show up and be part of what makes our city feel like home. As always, we hope you enjoy the read.
Until next time,
Cheers
5 Questions with Creatives
Photographer Katie Brabham
Katie Brabham is a Pensacola photographer specializing in analog 35 mm film that produces distinct, grain-rich images. She catches the intimate and fleeting moments that surround her, bringing her camera with her wherever she goes. Brabham aims to capture the raw complexities of the human experience and document her personal journey through life with every shot. She is a member of The Undergrowth, a Pensacola-based multidisciplinary collective of queer and allied artists, where she documents the group’s growth and evolution through photography, helping build an archive that preserves its art and history.
Brabham recently earned first place at the 309 Punk Project’s 3rd Annual SEEN Photography Exhibition and will debut her first solo exhibit, Sparks, at 309 N. 6th Ave. in Pensacola, with an opening reception on March 9 from 6 to 9 pm. She is also participating in The Undergrowth’s Our House in Progress, a show that will highlight works in progress with artists working live and in person on July 24.
Tell us a little about your introduction to photography.
I grew up in Pensacola, and when I was a kid I always liked taking photos. When I was 19 and I was working my first restaurant job in Jacksonville, one of my coworkers briefly mentioned film photos he took a while back. As I took a look at his photos, I became enamored with the look and feel of them. That night I went on Facebook Marketplace, and I found my first film camera. After that, my journey began. I had no idea what I was doing. I realized I had no idea what ISO, aperture or shutter speed was, and I definitely didn’t know how they all worked together. I learned mainly from watching videos and reading any piece of information I could find. The more I shot, the more I learned and the more passionate I became. Once I moved back to Pensacola, I discovered Calagaz (which is now Gulf Coast Camera). They’ve been a huge part in my photography journey, and I’ve never been so thankful for a group of people. They are always the ones I go to for any questions that are film or camera-related.
Why choose 35 mm photography?
The reason I love 35 mm film so much is that each shot feels precious. There are only 36 shots in a roll, so each shot means something to me. Rather than letting the shutter fly, I can take my time, capturing the moments that really speak
to me. I love the feeling film brings me: the look, the grain, the colors. Each time I finally get to view my photos I get a giddy feeling. Nothing tops the feeling of looking through a roll for the first time and finally seeing the photos I’ve taken over the course of a night, a week, a month or even a year. Moments I captured, moments I completely forgot about, moments I didn’t even realize I was yearning to relive. To me, film is like magic, and it makes me feel like a kid again.
Do you have a favorite photograph you've taken, and what's the story behind it?
Right now, I have one favorite photo: I Saw Sparks. When I took this photo, I was in Alabama riding on the back of a golf cart with my best friends. We rode around the lake, watching the sunset and drinking beers, enjoying the fresh air and each other’s presence. All of a sudden, these two dogs started following us. They were weaving in and out of each other chasing after us, with these big dog smiles on their faces. We couldn’t stop smiling and laughing; it was a moment of complete and utter happiness. I love this photo because there’s so much movement. Each time I look at it I feel a sense of nostalgia and sweetness, and it brings me right back to that moment where I felt nothing but love. To me, this photo represents love and light, nostalgia and bittersweet memories.
What does your creative process look like?
My creative process is simple. I bring my camera with me anytime I leave the house. I’ve never been a fan of posed shots, most of my photos are taken spontaneously–whenever I see something
By Dawn Gresko
that catches my eye. I’ve always been fond of candid photos, because I love taking photos of what I experience around me. Currently, Gulf Coast Camera does all my developing; however, developing at home is something I hope to begin very soon.
How would you describe your photographic style?
I would describe my photographic style as ephemeral; I love capturing those fleeting moments we long to remember. A lot of my work is rooted in slice-of-life imagery and street photography. To me, my definition of a great photograph is a photo that makes you feel something, one that allows you to create meaning.
I Saw Sparks
Only Your Touch Can Save Me Now
You Were Here
Gulf Coast Whale Fest Returns Where Community Meets Conservation
By Bella Shields
Five years ago, a whale was beached on Florida’s Gulf Coast, where it took its last breaths. Originally thought to be a whale species documented since the 1960s, researchers were shocked to find it was a member of an entirely unknown species.
Dubbed the Rice’s whale, its death became even more tragic upon the discovery that its species is incredibly endangered, with less than a hundred of its kind currently surviving in the waters of the Gulf. But this whale’s death—and the research it spurred—would go on to ignite a push to spread awareness and visibility for its species and other at-risk marine mammals of the Gulf in a wave of dedication still felt to this day.
This year marks the third annual Gulf Coast Whale Festival, an event carried by the mission to spread awareness and appreciation of this remarkable whale and other endangered marine mammals. What started as a deep concern for these vulnerable creatures has blossomed into a celebration of the marine life we share a coast with and a time to recognize both their beauty and our responsibility to protect them.
Attendees of this event can expect a vibrant lineup of activities, including the Birds of a Feather puppet parade, live performances by Pensacola artists—most notably Bob Teague’s Ode to the Rice Whale, which debuted at last year’s Whale Fest—and interactive educational exhibits, including a full scale model of the Rice’s whale.
The educational elements of Whale Fest highlight the true cornerstone and mission of the event: to educate the public on the plight of the Rice’s whale and call on Gulf Coast residents to be part of making a difference. In addition to being considered incredibly endangered due simply to low population, Rice’s whales are also at constant risk from human activity in the Gulf, facing such dangers as getting entangled in fishing gear, ingesting marine debris and suffering from the impact of industrial activities like oil drilling and ship traffic.
“Before [the Rice's whale beaching], almost nobody around here had even heard of whales in the Gulf,” Whale Fest organizer and one of the region’s most dedicated Rice’s whale researchers, Christian Wagley said. “They tend to live farther offshore, and we don’t see them very often.”
Over the decades, acts like the Endangered Species Act have have helped save other Gulf animals such as brown pelicans and bald eagles from endangered status, but with Rice’s whales only being discovered as an endangered species five short years ago, there’s a lot of work to catch up on in fighting for their protection.
“We have dolphin culture here, a manatee culture and a sea turtle culture, because those are animals we can see,” Wagley said. “But we don’t have that yet with the whale. So, the Whale Festival is a way to help us build that whale culture.”
Photos courtesy of Gulf Coast Whale Fest
This event also provides vital opportunities for students at the Navarre Beach Marine Science Station to present new research and educate the public on the impact they may not realize they’re having on the survival of this whale species. Past festivals have even gone beyond simple education to include hands-on, immediately impactful activities such as beach clean-ups and the opportunity for children to take a pledge to protect the ocean.
This year, guests will even see the inclusion of a presentation given the night before the festival by recently retired whale biologist, Laura Engleby. Engleby served as Marine Mammal Branch Chief of the Southeast Region at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and she is currently Chair of the Rice's Whale Collaborative Network. Engleby will be making the trip all the way from Tampa to share her knowledge from nearly 40 years in the field of marine mammal science.
“I’m definitely experiencing more awareness of whales around the community now,” Wagley said. “I run into people all the time that have heard about the Rice’s whale now because of the festival.”
In addition to the Rice’s whale, there’s a whole ecosystem of life in the Gulf to appreciate and be aware of. Conservation legislation can only do so much for marine life, especially when actively opposed by an administration that prioritizes things like oil and gas drilling in the Gulf of Mexico, which Wagley attests is the main negative impact on the whales. With even more drilling being proposed in the eastern Gulf, the issue is moving closer than ever to Florida, and posing a bigger threat than ever to the already dwindling Rice’s whale population. While it can feel hopeless to try to protect them in the face of widespread damage on an industrial scale, there are steps the average citizen can take to do their part in making a difference.
“It’s important for people to engage on that issue and tell their elected officials that they don’t want that,” Wagley said. “The bigger, longer term [solution] is clean, renewable energy: solar and wind. For our area, it’s mostly solar.”
Every year, Whale Fest expands and evolves, adding new events to further engage the public and make a bigger impact. In addition to the special presentation by Engleby, this year’s Whale Fest features a longboard competition dedicated to the Rice’s whale. The event is organized by local surfers who wanted to spread the message of Whale Fest after experiencing it for themselves in previous years.
What was initially the passion of only a few people to protect this beautiful creature is spreading throughout the area, providing a tremendous amount of hope to those who feared the Rice’s whale in its obscurity would fade into a silent extinction. The more people get involved in this cause, the more likely it is to succeed.
“I can’t do this by myself,” Wagley said. “I want as many people as possible to take it and run with it and be creative and do as much as they can.”
At the end of the day, this event is a chance to celebrate an amazing creature, but the celebrations would be shallow without a genuine effort to protect the Rice’s Whale and its fellow marine mammals. Whether animal activism, marine wildlife or simply expanding your knowledge on the natural world interest you, the Gulf Coast Whale Fest has something for everyone.
Gulf Coast Whale Fest will be held March 7 from 9 am to 3 pm at the Gulfside Pavilion at 20 Casino Beach Boardwalk on Pensacola Beach. This is a familyfriendly event and there’s no cost to attend. Engleby’s presentation will take place the night before, March 6 at 6 pm at Waterboyz surf shop on 9th Avenue. Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase at both events.
For more information on Gulf Coast Whale Fest or the Rice’s whale, visit healthygulf.org.
By Nic Fenger
A Tale Worth Telling PLT's Cabaret: Storybook Soiree
As Pensacola Little Theatre (PLT) closes the chapter on its 2025-2026 season, its signature fundraising event steps back into the spotlight for its 25th anniversary. Cabaret: Storybook Soirée turns a fresh page on PLT’s annual celebration of the arts, transforming The Clark Family Cultural Center (The Center) into an immersive literary escape.
Cabaret: Storybook Soirée will take place on March 28 at The Center located at 400 S. Jefferson St. in downtown Pensacola.
Each year, PLT transforms The Center with a new Cabaret theme, inviting guests to wander from room to room as each space unfolds like a chapter—bringing the worlds of beloved classic stories to life.
This year, PLT’s staff and volunteers are shaping the rooms of the building into a living storybook, with each featured artist taking inspiration from classic fairy tales and literary legends to craft unique experiences in every room. This literature-centric theme is the brainchild of PLT Marketing Director Ashley Simmons.
"With the storybook soiree, every room is going to be a different literary adventure," Simmons said.
Attendees who enter the venue will be met with a massive library, and traveling outside takes you on a dungeon tour of villains, showing well-known nogooders like Lady Macbeth and Pennywise. There will also be a Midsummer Masquerade with a Pride and Prejudice meets Bridgerton vibe. The rooftop area will showcase Camelot-inspired themes and decor.
Kayla Stephenson, PLT’s technical director, is spearheading the construction of the rooms and set pieces, converting a stage into a giant storybook and creating a bar within a large teacup.
These performances, exhibitions and music will entertain guests beginning at 7:30 pm. Although the dress code for Cabaret is formal, this year, the team behind Cabaret encourages guests to dress in attire inspired by their favorite literary characters.
“The dress code is also one of my favorite parts because it is black tie formal, but we would love a little whimsy,” Simmons said. “So, if you want to dress up as your favorite literary character but make it formal, that's what we're looking for—like a fancy Alice in Wonderland.”
This year’s Cabaret will feature a diverse range of performative art, including live bands, ballerinas, fire-breathers, aerial performers, drag performers and much, much more.
Photos courtesy of Pensacola Little Theatre
“I love that we've integrated and spotlighted the talent that we have here for the party,” Simmons said. “We're not just speaking about outside talent. We're really going within and using our own volunteers. I love the yearly drag performance for the event. That always gets super fun and really artistic.”
Guests will also enjoy a variety of culinary creations, including specialty party fare served later in the evening and handcrafted macarons prepared by PLT Board Member and Chef Michael Gordy.
However, the festivities will not rest until the clock strikes midnight. For the first time in Cabaret history, starting at 10:30 pm, the Moonlight Madness afterparty will follow the soirée, taking the celebration to The Rooftop, The Center’s recently unveiled exclusive bar and event space. Here, guests can serve their moves on the dance floor to a live DJ, and they can be served craft cocktails to enjoy under a starry sky.
“People need art in their life. It's a great part of the community that different walks of life can come and enjoy it and be a part of who we are."
Drag performers will also take to The Rooftop, following up their performances downstairs with show-stopping encores. The sensational drag performances, lively energy and luxurious libations make the Moonlight Madness afterparty an unforgettable conclusion to a night of stories and celebration.
Cabaret continues to be a magnet of community, revelry and artistry through its enthralling storybook soirée theme. However, Cabaret is not only a celebration of local art and creative expression but also a crucial component to PLT’s $150,000 funding goal for its annual slate of theatrical productions, acting classes and community outreach programs. The event serves as the perfect opportunity to support Pensacola’s artistic community, funding future stories that PLT’s volunteers and staff seek to create.
“People need art in their life,” PLT Technical Director Kayla Stephenson said. “It's a great part of the community that different walks of life can come and enjoy it and be a part of who we are. That's what Cabaret is about: experience something different and come enjoy what we are—come be a part of the family.”
Sponsorship opportunities have also returned to Cabaret. Currently, 140 sponsor tickets are available, which provide a premium Cabaret experience, including expedited entry to the event and access to the pre-party for Cabaret at The Rooftop, exclusive performances and the premium bar. For more information on sponsorship opportunities, contact Tucker O’Connor at booking@pensacolalittletheatre.com.
Tickets for Cabaret are currently available for $150 each, which provide full access to the event, including six open-bar venues, culinary art catering, live entertainment and various performances. Tickets for the Moonlight Madness afterparty are $100 each.
For tickets and information, call the PLT Box Office at (850) 432-2042 or visit pensacolalittletheatre.com.
Observe fr om a distance and pr otect their peace.
Photo
Mic Check, Pensacola Pensacola's Open Mic Scene
By Morgan Cole
Ready for your five minutes of fame? From heartfelt verses to stand-up sets, the city’s stage is wide open. Across Pensacola, open mic nights are creating a space where spoken word, music and comedy share the stage, welcoming singers, comedians, poets and creatives to share their craft. Hosted at breweries, cafés, kava bars and community art spaces, these laid-back weekly and monthly gatherings offer a low-pressure way to test new material, debut original work or simply support local talent. Even better? Most are completely free and open to all skill levels. So, text the group chat, warm up those vocal cords (or that five-minute set) and step into the spotlight. Here’s a look at some of the free open mic events happening around Pensacola.
Goat Lips Chew & Brewhouse
If your week needs a soundtrack, Goat Lips Chew & Brewhouse has you covered. The popular spot hosts live open mics every Monday and Thursday night, spotlighting some of Pensacola’s most talented local musicians. Monday nights kick off the fun with open sign-ups beginning at 6 pm, while Thursdays at 7 pm are hosted by local musician Clint Davis, who showcases a mix of fresh faces and familiar favorites. After the stage portion wraps up, the crowd is invited to gather outside around the bonfire for more live music, cold brews and more. Expect a blend of folk, country and rock, along with plenty of original songs from area artists. Goat Lips is located at 2811 Copter Rd. in Pensacola. For complete details, visit goatlips.com and follow @GoatLipsChewandBrewhouse on Facebook.
Behind the Bar (B2B) Comedy Open Mic
Odd Colony Brewing Co.’s weekly Behind the Bar (BTB) Comedy Open Mic brings together first-timers and seasoned comics alike for a night of sharp jokes, nonstop laughs and house-brewed beers. Every Monday at 7 pm, the spotlight turns to Pensacola’s stand-up scene inside Odd Colony at 270 N.
Palafox St. in downtown Pensacola. Entry is free, the mic is open to anyone brave enough to grab it and sign-ups start at 6:30 pm. This crowd-favorite fills up quickly, so get there early, grab a brew and settle in for the laughs. For details, visit follow @BTBComedy on Facebook and Instagram.
Pensacola Poetry
Looking for a midweek creative reset? Craft Gourmet Bakery & Café in East Pensacola Heights hosts a weekly Open Mic Poetry Night every Tuesday at 6 pm, offering a welcoming space for poets, musicians and performance artists to share their work. Organized by Pensacola Poetry, the event invites all types of creatives—from first-timers testing new material to seasoned performers refining their craft. It’s laidback and come-as-you-are with poets, storytellers and acoustic musicians turning the cafe into a low-key cultural hub where creativity and caffeine collide. Open Mic Poetry Nights are held at Craft Bakery’s new location at 615 Scenic Hwy. in Pensacola. For updates, upcoming themes and more, follow @PensacolaPoetry Facebook and Instagram.
Pensacola Comedy Club
Pensacola Comedy is bringing the energy with Open Mic Nights every second Friday of the month at Pacific Kava Bar’s downtown location, hosted by comedian, actor and improviser Ryan Pfeiffer. From 7 to 10 pm, the space transforms into a chill, anything-goes hangout where local comedians take the stage for an evening of raw, unpredictable stand-up. You’ll see seasoned comics testing new bits, as well as someone bravely doing their very first set. Enjoy kava and coffee drinks while watching comics work with the crowd in a highly interactive room, where the audience is part of the show. No cover, no pressure—just show up, grab a drink and enjoy the laughs. Pacific Kava Bar #2 is located at 415 W. Belmont St. in downtown Pensacola. For updates, visit pacifickavabar.com and follow @PacificKavaBar on Facebook and Instagram.
Kuzi Comedy Open Mic
Kuzi Comedy hosts a popular, high-energy open mic event every Tuesday at Pacific Kava Bar in downtown Pensacola. Offering a laid-back and welcoming vibe for both newcomers and seasoned comedians alike, Kuzi’s Open Mic Comedy kicks off at 7 pm, and the list drops at 6:30 pm. Walk-ins are welcome. You can also sign up online by sending a DM to @KuziComedy on Instagram, where they also post updates on upcoming open mic events. Pacific Kava Bar is located at 415 W. Belmont St. in downtown Pensacola. For updates and details, follow @KuziComedy on Instagram.
Talk to the Moon Comedy Club
Serving up the best midweek laughs in Pensacola, Talk to the Moon Comedy Club keeps the punchlines coming with regular Open Mic Comedy Nights at venues throughout the city. Catch them Wednesdays at 7 pm at Mathieson Brewing Co. at 500 E. Heinberg St. in Pensacola (formerly Doc’s Hop Shop), or hit Bagelheads in Argo Village on Wednesdays at 7 pm, and the downtown Bagelheads on Thursdays at 7 pm. Mathieson sign ups happen via comment on Instagram or Facebook, so be sure to follow them on social media for details. Both Bagelheads shows are free, with sign-ups at 6:30 pm. It’s BYOB, coolers welcome—so roll up with your crew and your best five minutes of jokes. For updates and sign-up details, visit talktothemooncomedyclub.com and follow @TalktotheMoonComedyClub on Instagram and Facebook.
Country Club Open Mic at ALGA
ALGA Beer Co.’s Country Club Open Mic is the perfect way to kick off your week. Showcasing local talent, good vibes and tasty craft beer, ALGA’s open mic invites musicians to take the stage every Monday at 6:30 pm, with sign-ups at 6 pm. No instrument? No problem—ALGA provides a guitar, bass, drums and aux cables. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming
and open to all skill levels. Sign-ups are first come, first serve. Enjoy beer specials throughout the night and grab a bite from the Brown Bagger food truck, out back until 8 pm. ALGA Beer Co. is located at 2435 N. 12th Ave. in East Hill. For updates and schedule changes, follow @AlgaBeerCo on Facebook and Instagram.
PenArts Open Mic at The Gordon
Ready to grab the mic? PenArts’ free Open Mic series at The Gordon Community Art Center (The Gordon) is where local creatives show up and show out. Held on various dates throughout the year, these communityfocused events welcome all performers and skill levels— from singers and poets to comedians and more. In 2026, you can catch the action from 7 to 9 pm on March 12, June 11, September 10 and December 10. Sign-ups happen on-site the night of the event, so come ready to bring your best set and boldest energy. The Gordon is located at 306 N. DeVilliers St. in downtown Pensacola. For updates and details, visit penarts. org and follow @PenArtsInc on Facebook and Instagram. The stage is waiting.
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Fur A Good Cause
Pensacola Humane Society's Annual Fur Ball
By Bella Shields
You won't want to miss this year's Fur Ball: a glamorous soirée offering a chance to give back to our furry friends at the Pensacola Yacht Club on March 21 from 5:30 to 10 pm. Featuring cocktails, a sitdown gourmet dinner, and entertainment, the night will be one to remember. But it’s more than just a glitzy ball. This event stands out from the others in the best possible way: attendance will directly support local animals in need.
The Fur Ball is an annual event hosted by the Pensacola Humane Society as an opportunity for the public to have an exciting night out while contributing to a very worthy cause–benefiting the shelter pets under the Humane Society's care..
The Pensacola Humane Society is a nonprofit organization that has been operating for over 80 years now. It doesn’t receive any funding on a city, state or federal level, only directly making money off of adoption fees, which is not nearly enough to cover the animals they care for and the wide work they do for the community.
“Last year, the Fur Ball netted approximately $175,000, so it’s our major fundraiser of the year,” Humane Society’s Vice President of Development Mary Donovan McClellan said.
From 2024 to 2025, the Humane Society had 943 intakes, performed 1,535 spay/neuter operations and provided 13,023 pounds of food for pets in need. They showed results too, with 921 adoptions and a whopping 98.7 percent save rate for animals in their care.
Photos courtesy of Pensacola Humane Society
“The money that we raise goes towards giving each animal a chance from the time they come in the door till the time they leave,” McClellan said.
The animals of Pensacola need the Humane Society, but the Humane Society needs community support to continue helping animals in our area. The Fur Ball is one opportunity for Pensacola to fill that need.
explained. “One thing we’re doing this year is offering incentives for the people who donate to the Bow Wow Meow Table. We decided it would be nice to recognize them in a special way.”
One of the incentives for contributors to the table is earning a place on the back of the Humane Society adoption van for their logo, getting advertisement for six to 12 months.
Tickets to this event are $175, and all proceeds will go directly to funding Humane Society operations. Additionally, on the Humane Society website are sponsorship levels for the event, ranging from $500 to $20,000 for those who choose to donate beforehand. At the Ball, attendees will have the option of participating in both live and silent auctions. This includes a highlight of the night, the Bow Wow Meow Table Auction.
The Bow Wow Meow Auction table is a 10-seat table piled high with wrapped mystery gifts provided by donors, with each tower of gifts totaling up to hundreds of dollars. The highest bidder, upon successfully winning the table, gets to sit at the table in the front of the room for the rest of the night, and of course gets to take home all the presents.
“The items range from jewelry to books to gift certificates and novelty items,” McClellan
Not only will this event raise money to support the animals under the Society’s care, there will actually be animals present at the event itself. The Ball features a puppy parade during cocktail hour (which the event dubs “Yappy Hour”) when attendees are able to interact with puppies currently up for adoption.
“We have our staff walking around as people are mingling with our puppies,” McClellan said. “They’re between the ages of eight weeks and three months and are so cute.”
Though adoptions are not available immediately on-site to avoid any impulse adoptions, if attendees are interested in any of the puppies, they are encouraged to reach out to the shelter when the work week begins again to make arrangements.
Whether you plan on finding a new furry soulmate or just making some adorable memories, there’s something for everyone. If you enjoy a good party and want to support the Humane Society and its mission to aid animals in need, Fur Ball is the place to be. FInd out more details and get your tickets online at pensacolahumane.org.
CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS !
We are in search of the next Pensacola bride, groom or couple to grace the cover of
Pensacola Magazine Weddings 2026
SUBMISSIONS DUE BY March 15 , 2026
If you have recently been married in or around the Pensacola area and have an interest in appearing on the cover of the annual Weddings issue of Pensacola Magazine, visit ballingerpublishing.com/weddings2026 and submit up to three high-resolution images of your wedding for a chance to be featured on the next cover!
Editorial-style shots by a professional photographer are preferred. Please include the full name(s) of the bride, groom and photographer. Visit ballingerpublishing.com/weddings2026 for submission guidelines and complete details.
MARCH COMMUNITY EVENTS
Pensacola Ice Flyers Home Games & Theme Nights
March home games and theme nights at the Pensacola Bay Center. Games begin at 7:05 pm. For tickets and information, visit iceflyers.com.
March 13 - Macon Mayhem vs Ice Flyers; St. Patrick’s Celebration
March 14 - Macon Mayhem vs Ice Flyers; Small Dog Race Night
March 27 - Quad City Storm vs Ice Flyers; Rebrand Night
March 28 - Quad City Storm vs Ice Flyers; Military Appreciation Nightof Pensacola Hockey
Pensacola Little Theatre presents Six: Teen Edition
.March 6 to 15
Pensacola Little Theatre is excited to present Six: Teen Edition as part of its Treehouse – Teens and Families series. Performances run March 6 to 15 at Pensacola Little Theatre, located at 400 South Jefferson Street in downtown Pensacola. Directed by Anthony Broughton and Lexi Mayo with music direction by Destiny Howard, Six: Teen Edition transforms history into a modern pop concert. The six wives of Henry VIII step out of the history books and onto the stage as contemporary pop icons, each telling her story through powerhouse vocals, dynamic choreography and infectious pop music. Blending pop, hip-hop and contemporary musical styles, the show explores themes of identity, resilience and sisterhood as the queens reclaim their narratives and redefine how their stories are told. For tickets and complete show details, visit pensacolalittletheatre.com.
Wine on the Water
March 7
Sip, savor and support Sacred Heart at their annual Wine on the Water fundraiser on March 7 from 1 to 4 pm at Blue Wahoos Stadium in downtown Pensacola. Presented by Sandy Sansing Dealerships and Florida Insurance Agency, the event celebrates community, connection and compassionate care for mothers and babies across our region—a gathering rooted in discovery and coming together for good. The Grand Tasting is the heart of the experience, inviting guests to stroll the waterfront while savoring a thoughtfully curated selection of fine wines, champagne tastings, craft beer, handcrafted mocktails and gourmet culinary offerings. Proceeds from this year’s event directly support Ascension Sacred Heart’s Perinatal Specialty Unit, helping complete the campaign for the PSU family room and outdoor space. For tickets and sponsorship details, visit wowpensacola.com.
Annual Community Camellia Show & Plant Sale
March 7
On March 7 homeowners of Pensacola are invited to bring their blooms to the annual Community Camellia Show and Plant Sale at the West Florida Library at 239 Spring St. in downtown Pensacola. The fun starts at 9 am, where members of the community are invited to bring their colorful camellias to compete for a variety of prizes. Club members will assist with entry of camellias from 9 to 11:30 am and judging from 11:30 am to 12 pm, when you will learn what judges look for in a winning bloom. Viewing of the beautiful winning blooms will happen from 1 to 3 pm. Admission is free for all ages. Camellia plants will also be for sale. Learn more at pensacolacamelliashow.com.
McGuire’s St. Patrick’s Day Prediction Run
March 7
The 49th Annual McGuire’s St. Patrick’s Day 5K—the largest prediction run in America— returns March 7 at 9 am. Participants can run or walk the certified 5K, support local charities, sport the official run shirt and celebrate at Pensacola’s legendary post-race St. Patrick’s Day party. With more than 100 awards and serious fun, no perfect pace is required—just your best guess. The event welcomes all ages and runs rain or shine. Registration includes a McGuire’s Run shirt and access to the postrace party featuring live entertainment, Irish fare, Irish Wakes, Bud Light, McGuire’s Red Ale and soft drinks. Register at mcguiresirishpub.com.
2026 Women in Leadership Conference
March 12
The University of West Florida’s (UWF) Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz Center for Leadership will host the 12th Annual Women in Leadership Conference on March 12, offered both virtually and in person at the UWF Conference Center on the Pensacola campus. Designed to support women pursuing higher-level leadership roles, the conference connects attendees with recognized local leaders to share strategies for career advancement, communication skills and navigating challenges in underrepresented fields. The program also fosters networking with UWF alumni and community leaders. Tickets are $180 in person and $80 virtual, with discounts available. Learn more at uwf.edu.
Pensacola Opera Presents Oklahoma!
March 13 & 15
Dance back in time to the American wild west with Oklahoma! –a classic, feel-good musical that follows the blossoming love story between farm girl Laurey and charming cowboy Curly as they navigate rival suitors and the challenges of frontier life. With
unforgettable songs like Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’, People Will Say We’re in Love , the lively Kansas City and, of course, Oklahoma!. This Rodgers & Hammerstein classic captures the heartwarming spirit of a community on the brink of change. Get tickets or learn more at pensacolasaenger.com.
39th Annual St. Paddy’s Day Pub Crawl
March 17
The Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce invites everyone to Go Irish on the Island for the annual St. Paddy’s Day Pub Crawl on Monday, March 17. The annual pub crawl along Pensacola Beach features participating beach bars, restaurants and hotels serving up Irish drink specials, music, mayhem and mischief. Everyone is invited to dress in green and join in on the revelry and fun by crawling along Pensacola Beach and supporting beach businesses. Find out more at pensacolabeachchamber.com.
First City Chili Bowl
March 20
The First City Chili Bowl heats up downtown Pensacola on March 20 from 5:30 to 8:30 pm at Museum Plaza in downtown Pensacola with a night of chili, charity and community. Tickets include unlimited chili samples, live music and access to a cash bar. Guests can vote in two categories—Classic Red and Freestyle Fire. Proceeds benefit local efforts of the Wounded Warrior Project and the Pensacola-Cordova Rotary Foundation, both 501(c)(3) organizations supporting veterans and community initiatives. Team entry is $200 (50 percent off for active Military, veterans and first responders). Awards include Fan Favorite, Top Fundraiser and Judges’ Choice. Tickets are $20, and kids ages 5 and under are free. Visit firstcitychili.org.
Rally On The Runway
March 26
Save the date for the 2026 Rally On The Runway event on Thursday, March 26 at Brownsville Community Center. This exciting New York-style fashion event, benefiting Rally Gulf Coast, seeks to raise vital funds for childhood cancer research. The highlight of the evening will be the brave Rally Kids, children who are either currently battling or have battled cancer, as they take center stage as our models, sharing the runway with celebrities. Funds raised by this event directly support essential research for better treatments with fewer long-term side effects and, ultimately, cures for childhood cancer. Rally On The Runway is more than just a fundraising event; it is a celebration of the resilience, strength and courage of our Rally Kids. For more information, check out rallyfoundation.org.
2026 Spring Plantapalooza
March 28
Join Gary’s Brewery & Biergarten for the ninth bi-annual Pensacola Plantapalooza, the biggest plant-centric event along the Gulf Coast. Spring is here and everything is turning green, so visit Gary’s Brewery & Biergarten to find all of your plant needs for the new year. There will be a wide range of all things plant from common to uncommon and everything in between. They also have four food trucks on site and Gary’s will be brewing up Plantapalooza Pale Ale just for us. Follow Gary’s Biergarten & Brewery on Facebook for updates.
Books By The Bay
March 28
Immerse yourself in a literary extravaganza and let your imagination set sail at Books by the Bay, returning to Bayview Park on March 28 from 10 am to 4 pm. The festival is a haven for book enthusiasts of all ages, and features activities that celebrate the magic of storytelling and the written word. Meet acclaimed authors and discover new literary treasures at author signings and book vendor booths. Delve into the world of literature with free presentations by bestselling, regional and international authors, offering insights and inspiration. The festival will have a Kids Area for young imaginations, featuring activities such as writing your own poetry, crafting personalized bookmarks, and gathering around to hear captivating children's stories and readings from youth authors. Unleash your creativity with the Photo Prompt Poetry contest and Haiku slam, or mingle with costumed characters for a touch of whimsy. With so much to explore and enjoy, Books By the Bay Festival promises a day filled with enchantment and literary delights. Admission is free. Learn more about the 2026 presenters and exhibitors by visiting booksbythebay.info.
Inaugural Pensacola Pickles and Wings Family Festival
May 16
Pensacola History and Haunting Tours and Events is proud to announce the inaugural Pensacola Pickles and Wings Family Festival taking place on Saturday, May 16 from 10 am to 8 pm at historic Seville Square in downtown Pensacola. The festival promises a full day of family-friendly fun featuring wings, pickles, food trucks, craft vendors, costume contests with cash prizes plus a pickle-eating contest and kids zone with carnival games. All this in addition to live entertainment with singers, dancers, poets, spoken word artists and acoustic performers all day long. You also won’t want to miss photo opportunities with Instagram-worthy setups and pickle-themed photo stations. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Northwest Florida, supporting families with children receiving medical treatment. For more information, visit pensacolafest.com.
MILITARY MATTERS
AN ARMED FORCES NEWS SECTION
NATIONAL NAVAL AVIATION MUSEUM HOSTS TOUR OF HONOR
The National Naval Aviation Museum (NNAM) onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola hosted Peoples Health Services Hospice and Palliative Care's Tour of Honor February 11, where retired military veterans had the opportunity to talk with newly enlisted Sailors assigned to Naval Air Technical Training Center (NATTC).
During the event, more than 30 veterans that reside at Sodalis of Pensacola, the Bee Hive and Navarre Gardens assisted living facilities were recognized with certificates of honor, had lunch with new Sailors and Marines who are in training at NATTC and took guided tours of the museum that were tailored to the specific conflicts during the times which they served.
“This is our third annual Tour of Honor,” Peoples Hospice Veteran Liaison Steve Hartley said. “It’s a great day all the way around for these young Sailors and for the veterans that came long before we did.”
The National Naval Aviation Museum is the world’s largest naval aviation museum and one of the mostvisited museums in the state of Florida, boasting restored aircraft representing Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard aviation.
“I think that it is important for the veterans to hear from the current generation of Sailors and Marines that are continuing to carry on their legacy,” Naval Air Technical Training Center (NATTC) Aviation Electrician’s Mate 1st Class (AW/SW) Jesse Sabol said. “It’s also important
for the new Sailors and Marines to hear about the past and about what they are sacrificing and serving for.”
NAS Pensacola, referred to as the "Cradle of Naval Aviation," is designed to support operational and training missions of tenant commands, including the Naval Aviation Technical Training Center (NATTC); Naval Aviation Schools Command (NASC); Marine Aviation Training Support Groups (MATSG) 21 and 23 and serves as the headquarters for Naval Education and Training Command (NETC).
NAS Pensacola also serves as the Navy’s only installation in the Gulf with both a deep-water port and active airfield and also serves as a safe harbor for numerous U.S. Coast Guard and USNS ships during extreme weather situations.
A military veteran receives a Certificate of Honor at the National Naval Aviation Museum onboard NAS Pensacola U.S. Navy photo by Garrett Dipuma.
NATTC sailors and Marines serve lunch to military veterans at the National Naval Aviation Museum onboard NAS Pensacola. U.S. Navy photo by Garrett Dipuma.
