Daily editionFriday, January 23rd, 2026
Good morning, Lubbock.
The Daily Lubbock Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 23rd of January.
Community
Open Door is preparing for an increase in visitors amid freezing temperatures and snow this weekend, offering meals and shelter at its Lubbock center (1916 13th St.).
Donations are welcome to support community needs.
FOX34Read more
Business
Francescas at Kingsgates South will close its Lubbock store as the chain liquidates all locations amid reports of unpaid vendors.
Some staff have already been laid off, leaving loyal customers without their favorite shop.
KFYORead more
Education
Lubbock ISD announced that classes and administrative offices remain closed today as district employees work from home; students can pick up meals (available from 10-11 a.m. at Coronado, Estacado, Lubbock and Monterey high schools).
KCBDRead more
Texas Tech has secured a $12 million grant to build a new cleanroom for nanotech research on campus today, announced by Governor Abbott's office.
The facility will advance semiconductor innovation and support high-tech work in our community.
KFYORead more
Environment
Atmos Energy shared winter storm safety tips (including thermostat adjustments and gas piping inspections) ahead of forecasted harsh weather and rising bills, and the company will update customers (via its 24/7 hotline) with emergency support.
The guidance helps residents use natural gas wisely.
KCBDRead more
Government
The City of Lubbock announced that all library branches will serve as warming centers today to help residents stay safe from a winter storm by offering water, free Wi-Fi and charging stations.
Citizens can visit Mahon, Godeke, Patterson and Groves Libraries (each open from noon to 6 p.m.) for assistance.
Lubbock Avalanche-JournalRead more
TxDOT crews have pre-treated highways, bridges and overpasses with over 1 million gallons of brine ahead of winter weather and will work on a 24-hour rotation.
Drivers are urged to stay home if possible or drive cautiously while keeping a 200-foot gap behind plow vehicles.
KCBDRead more
Health
Nearly two dozen local schools launched UMC’s Miracle Pennies campaign to collect pennies for the Children’s Hospital through student-led events focusing on NICU equipment + transport team support; the program, announced Thursday, aims to raise $70k.
KCBDRead more
Lifestyle
Living in Lubbock teaches residents to adapt to unpredictable weather and embrace a low-maintenance lifestyle as everyday challenges build patience and humor.
The piece shows how local experiences foster a unique resilience and community pride.
KKAMRead more
Sports
Due to dangerous winter weather, Texas Tech will cancel its traditional Raiderville tents for ESPN College GameDay on Saturday & adjust event plans for a safer setup as No. 12 Tech will host Houston with the game starting at 5:30 p.m.
KCBDRead more
Texas Tech has banned camping for students ahead of Saturday's basketball game due to expected cold weather (highs of 17°F and lows of 6°F).
The school will provide wristbands for early College Gameday access with doors opening at 9:00 a.m. at United Supermarkets Arena.
KFYORead more
Lubbock Events
Lubbock January Conquest Tournament
Saturday, January 24th, 2026 · 10 AM – 7 PM — Stormcrow Games — $15 — Engage in competitive battles at this exciting gaming tournament.
Lubbock Christian Chaparrals vs. Cameron Aggies
Saturday, January 31st, 2026 · 1-6 p.m. — Rip Griffin Center — Ticket prices vary — Catch an exciting matchup between the Chaparrals and the Aggies in this thrilling basketball showdown.
The Day the Music Died 2026
Tuesday, February 3rd, 2026 · 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Buddy Holly Center — Free entry — Commemorate the 67th anniversary of the tragic plane crash that took Buddy Holly and others with documentary screenings and family activities.
Journey Of A Lifetime - Tribute to Journey
Friday, February 6th, 2026 · 7:30-9:30 p.m. — Cactus Theater — $22.50-$50.00 — Experience an electrifying tribute that brings you the iconic hits of Journey live on stage.
Tango Llaneros: Noche de Tango
Friday, February 13th, 2026 · 7:30-9:30 p.m. — Cactus Theater — $25-$50 — Experience the passion of Argentine tango performed by a dedicated ensemble committed to education and outreach.
WWE: Road To Wrestlemania
Saturday, February 14th, 2026 · 7:30-8:30 p.m. — United Supermarkets Arena — VIP Packages Available — Experience a thrilling night with WWE Superstars and exclusive merchandise.
The Simon & Garfunkel Story
Sunday, February 15th, 2026 · 7-9 p.m. — Buddy Holly Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience a captivating tribute to the music legends Simon & Garfunkel.
Children's Ballet Program
Thursday, February 19th, 2026 · 2-3 p.m. — George & Helen Mahon Public Library — Free entry — Dive into a magical world of dance and creativity with classical ballet fundamentals.
Haydon Wiginton Live Concert
Friday, February 20th, 2026 · 6:30-9:30 p.m. — JOHNNY VELVET TEES — General Admission and VIP options available — Experience West Texas stories in an intimate concert setting with Haydon Wiginton.
Reception for Former Saddle Tramps
Saturday, February 21st, 2026 · On Feb. 21 at the United Supermarkets Arena after the K-State men's basketball game, the Texas Tech Saddle Tramps will be hosting a reception for former Saddle Tramps and their families. Attendance is free.