Daily
Melbourne
Saturday, February 28th, 2026
Good morning, Melbourne. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 28th of February.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Papa Johns announced plans to close about 300 underperforming locations by the end of 2027 — around 200 closures are scheduled for this year — but the company has yet to reveal which of its 317 Florida restaurants may be impacted as North American sales declined. Florida Today
- ➤ SpaceX plans a Falcon 9 launch tomorrow evening from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station to send 41 Starlink satellites into orbit, with another mission scheduled for early Wednesday from the same complex. Favorable weather is expected + the flights are designed to avoid sonic booms. Florida Today
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ After inclement weather led to rescheduled events, the Space Coast Key Lime Pie Festival is hosting the Miss division pageants and Pie Eating Contest today at 2 p.m. in Viera, while Teen Miss and Ms. contests will run Sunday, Mar. 1. Space Coast Daily
- ➤ Veteran visual journalist Craig Bailey captured a striking photo of Artemis II’s rollback rockets returning to the Vehicle Assembly Building on Feb. 25 following a launch delay — he waited nearly 10 hours to secure the shot honored as Photo of the Week. Florida Today
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ On Feb. 19, 2026, an arbitrator ruled that Brevard Public Schools need not rehire veteran teacher Melissa Calhoun — she used a student's preferred name without parental consent. He rescinded her formal reprimand and ordered the principal to recommend reappointment, though the superintendent retains final hiring authority. FOX 35 Orlando
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Space Force paused launches on ULA’s Vulcan rocket after sparks were seen during a Feb. 12 mission from Cape Canaveral, and ULA said it will investigate the anomaly before resuming flights. The delay may postpone upcoming missions this year. Florida Today
- ➤ Brevard Fire Rescue and FDOT remind drivers to move over and slow down for emergency vehicles every day—changing lanes when safe or reducing speed helps protect first responders and roadside workers. Space Coast Daily
- ➤ Melbourne Police Department held its 18th Annual Awards Ceremony today at One Oak at Hemingway Tavern (recognizing both sworn and non-sworn personnel for their 2025 service) as officers and staff were honored for exceptional achievements and leadership. Space Coast Daily
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Margarita Island Mexican Kitchen & Bar now has two locations in Brevard County with five-star reviews praising its dishes and drinks. The family restaurant is known for its authentic flavor and modern touch that bring a taste of Mexico to local diners. Space Coast Daily
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Bricks & Brews
11 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Wonder Waffel Melbourne — Food and drink available — A relaxed evening building with LEGO in a social setting for adults.
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Ladies’ Sip and Dip Party
3:30-5 p.m. — Wickham Park — Bring your own food and drink — A casual gathering for women to connect and enjoy friendly conversation over shared dips.
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South Beaches Concert Series
6-9 p.m. — Nancy Higgs Park — Free entry — Enjoy live music by Hot Pink and local food trucks at this community concert.
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St. Patrick's Day Party
6-9 p.m. — Melbourne Ballroom — $10 entry — Celebrate with a high-energy dance party featuring DJ Drift and a chance to win prizes for the best themed outfit.
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St. Patrick's Day Celebration with John McDonald and the Irish Luck Quartet
6-10 p.m. — Meg O'Malley's Restaurant & Irish Pub — Free entry — Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with live music and festive fun at a local favorite.
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Third Thursdays
5-8 p.m. — The Avenue Viera — Free entry — Enjoy live music and complimentary treats in a family-friendly atmosphere at Central Park.
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Space Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival
5 PM – 11 PM — Space Coast Daily Park — Tickets $50-70 — Experience breathtaking balloon rides along with a dazzling laser show and live music.
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Downtown Melbourne Farmers Market
10 AM – 2 PM — Riverview Park — Free entry — Explore local fresh foods and baked goods from certified local growers.
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Oblivion Listening Session
7-11 p.m. — Pineapples — Free entry — Immerse yourself in the lofi vibes of Twin Rova's latest track 'Oblivion'.
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Getting2Zero 5K Run
8 AM – 12 PM — Eau Gallie Square Park — $30 entry ($35 on race day) — Participate in a community 5K race with awards for top finishers in multiple categories.
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