Welcome to the Newto News for February of 2026. My name is Zack Cockfield, and my team and I created Newtomedia as a way for visitors or new residents to get information about a city. Each month we bring together resources that will update you on the history, amenities, culture, future opportunities and all other things inside a city that make it unique. We also hope to be a resource for connecting you with people and businesses that can help you live a better life. If you find our efforts useful, please click on the links to get more information!

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Bakersfield, California, has a rich and storied history dating back to the mid-19th century. The city was founded in 1869 as a stop along the Southern Pacific Railroad. Named after Colonel Thomas Baker, who owned the land where the city was established, Bakersfield quickly grew into a thriving hub for agriculture and oil production. In the early 20th century, Bakersfield became known as the “Oil Capital of California” due to the discovery of vast oil reserves in the surrounding area. The booming oil industry brought wealth and prosperity to the city, leading to a population boom and the development of bustling downtown districts. Throughout the years, Bakersfield has also been a center for country music, with legendary artists such as Buck Owens and Merle Haggard calling the city home. Today, Bakersfield continues to thrive as a major agricultural and oil production center, while also embracing its rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene.

1. The top 10 industries that are hiring locally:

  • Healthcare
  • Technology
  • Education
  • Hospitality
  • Financial Services
  • Manufacturing
  • Retail
  • Construction
  • Transportation
  • Real Estate

2. The top 10 recreational activities the area is known for:

  • Hiking
  • Skiing
  • Biking
  • Fishing
  • Golfing
  • Photography
  • Camping
  • Wine Tasting
  • Boating
  • Rock Climbing

3. Average low and high temperature for the month:

  • Low: 50°F
  • High: 75°F

4. Average precipitation for the month:

  • 3 inches

5. Elevation:

  • 5,000 feet

6. Average home price:

  • $350,000

7. Average household income:

  • $70,000

8. The top 10 tourist points of interest:

  • National Park
  • Historic Downtown Area
  • Waterfall Trail
  • Local Wineries
  • Museum of Art
  • Botanical Gardens
  • Farmers Market
  • Scenic Overlook
  • Amusement Park
  • Wildlife Sanctuary

The top 10 restaurants:

Wool Growers Restaurant

Location: Downtown Bakersfield

Known for its Basque cuisine, Wool Growers offers hearty communal meals featuring lamb stew, beans, and French bread. It’s renowned for its homey atmosphere and traditional dishes.

Luigi’s Restaurant and Delicatessen

Location: East Bakersfield

This iconic Italian spot has been serving Bakersfield since 1910, offering sandwiches, pasta dishes, and Italian delicacies that keep locals coming back.

Uricchio’s Trattoria

Location: Downtown Bakersfield

A mainstay for Italian cuisine in Bakersfield, Uricchio’s is beloved for its inviting atmosphere, excellent pasta dishes, and fine wines.

Flame & Fire Brazilian Steakhouse

Location: West Bakersfield

This Brazilian steakhouse provides a churrascaria dining experience, offering a wide selection of grilled meats served at your table, accompanied by a fresh salad bar.

24th Street Cafe

Location: Central Bakersfield

A local favorite for breakfast and lunch, 24th Street Cafe is renowned for its omelettes, pancakes, and a welcoming diner atmosphere.

Black Angus Steakhouse

Location: South Bakersfield

Offering classic American steakhouse fare, Black Angus is known for its tender steaks, hearty sides, and rustic ambiance.

Jin Sushi

Location: Southwest Bakersfield

Known for fresh and creative sushi rolls, Jin Sushi is a top spot for Japanese cuisine, including traditional sushi and sashimi plates.

Centro 18 Latin Steakhouse

Location: Northwest Bakersfield

This steakhouse blends Latin flavors with traditional steak offerings, creating unique dishes with vibrant flavors and spices.

Pyrenees Cafe

Location: East Bakersfield

A Basque dining landmark, Pyrenees Cafe delivers robust meals complemented by their famous locally baked bread, perfect for family-style dining.

KC Steakhouse

Location: Downtown Bakersfield

A classic American steakhouse, KC Steakhouse is known for its vintage look and feel, serving premium steaks and cocktails in an intimate setting.

Current Events:

Bakersfield Condors vs. Tucson Roadrunners
Mar 05
Thu • 7:00pm

Bakersfield Condors vs. Tucson Roadrunners

Dignity Health Arena

Bakersfield Condors vs. Tucson Roadrunners
Mar 06
Thu • 7:00pm

Bakersfield Condors vs. Tucson Roadrunners

Dignity Health Arena

Bakersfield Condors vs. Tucson Roadrunners
Apr 07
Thu • 6:30pm

Bakersfield Condors vs. Tucson Roadrunners

Dignity Health Arena

Bakersfield Condors vs. San Diego Gulls
Feb 12
Thu • 7:00pm

Bakersfield Condors vs. San Diego Gulls

Dignity Health Arena

Ramon Ayala
Feb 13
Thu • 8:30pm

Ramon Ayala

Dignity Health Arena

Bakersfield Condors vs. Coachella Valley Firebirds
Feb 17
Thu • 6:30pm

Bakersfield Condors vs. Coachella Valley Firebirds

Dignity Health Arena

Bakersfield Condors vs. Calgary Wranglers
Feb 19
Thu • 7:00pm

Bakersfield Condors vs. Calgary Wranglers

Dignity Health Arena

Harlem Globetrotters
Feb 20
Thu • 2:00pm

Harlem Globetrotters

Dignity Health Arena

Bakersfield Condors vs. Colorado Eagles
Mar 02
Thu • 10:30am

Bakersfield Condors vs. Colorado Eagles

Dignity Health Arena