Good morning, Lubbock.

Lubbock Area United Way surpassed its fundraising goal by reaching nearly 103% of its target and raising over $5 million with help from local businesses + partners, and these funds + will benefit more than 104,000 South Plains residents next year.

Since 2016, the Community Foundation of West Texas has run Giving Tuesday to raise funds for 60 local non-profits in Lubbock—raising over $3 million with support from groups like the Volunteer Center and Inside Out Foundation that served chili to residents.

The event shows how local giving supports community needs.

Horizon Heights Children’s Home in Lubbock cares for five foster children, ages 5 to 17, with space for three more.

The home builds steady routines—such as hygiene support and homework guidance—while its staff works to keep more local kids near family amid a shortage of foster care placements affecting over 830 children.

Lubbock residents remember Mrs. Baird's Bakery Outlet for its tasty fried pies and affordable treats—now a rising need for grocery thrift stores prompts ideas to help families facing food insecurity and reduce waste.

The push reflects both a nod to fond memories and a practical response to today's challenges.

Authorities issued a Silver Alert for elderly Lubbock couple Charles Lightfoot, 82, and Linda Lightfoot, 81, who were last seen November 27 when their silver Toyota Camry was spotted in Santa Rosa, New Mexico—health risks are high as Charles relies on an oxygen tank and officials urge anyone with information to contact the Carson County Sheriff's Office.

Lubbock’s long-running 69th Annual Santa Land opens December 8 at Mackenzie Park and runs through December 21 from 6 pm to 10 pm, offering free entry with fun family activities like photos with Santa and live entertainment—entry is via Canyon Lake Drive as bridge construction continues.

Nurses and child life specialists at UMC Children’s Hospital are asking local residents to donate gifts to brighten young patients’ holidays with a Christmas party planned this weekend—donations can be dropped off at the Foundation Office near the Medical Office Plaza.

Local shops in Lubbock are serving frozen hot chocolate—a frosty blend of rich cocoa, a creamy base, and ice—that is quickly winning fans.

Popular spots like The Human Bean and Dairy Queen are offering unique versions of the treat—each with its own flavor and style.

Texas Tech Football is set to play in the Big 12 Championship Game this Saturday in Arlington — they face BYU, whom they beat earlier this season.

A win is expected to secure a top-4 College Football Playoff seed, while a loss could drop them outside the top five.

Michael Bublé Tribute with Scott Keo

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Cactus Theater — $30-$65 — Experience the magic of Bublé’s Christmas classics performed live by premier tribute artist Scott Keo.

Lubbock December Conquest Tournament

10 AM – 4 PM — Stormcrow Games — $15 — Join fellow gamers in an epic tournament open to all skill levels in Lubbock.

West Texas Jazz Orchestra Concert

3:00-5:30 p.m. — Cactus Theater — Adults: $25 / Students: $15 — Celebrate Pearl Harbor and the holiday season with live jazz music at a historic venue.

BIRTH-TAY Celebration with DJ Rockstar Aaron

9 PM - 1 AM — Jake's Sports Cafe — Tickets available — Dance to Taylor Swift's hits and deep cuts under the starlight.

Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl in Lubbock

4:30-9 p.m. — Tom's Daiquiri Place — 25% off early bird tickets — Celebrate the festive season in style with your best ugly sweater while hopping from bar to bar.

Aaron Watson Family Christmas

7 p.m. — Cactus Theater — $35-$70 — Celebrate the holiday season with Aaron Watson and family performing Christmas classics and popular hits.

Carol of Lights Run

12:45-2:30 a.m. — Texas Tech University Campus — Check registration for pricing — Experience a magical evening run surrounded by over 25,000 glowing holiday lights.

Northern Colorado Bears vs. Texas Tech Red Raiders Basketball

7-8:30 p.m. — United Supermarkets Arena — Check website for ticket prices — Watch the fierce basketball matchup between the Northern Colorado Bears and Texas Tech Red Raiders.

Caldwell Kids Christmas Show

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Cactus Theater — $25 Adults, $20 Children 10 & Under — Experience a professional holiday concert featuring talented kids backed by a live band.

Stormcrow Pokémon TCG League Challenge - December

11:30 AM – 5:00 PM — Stormcrow Games — Entry Fee Required — Compete in the December Pokémon TCG League Challenge and test your skills against local players.