Good morning, Midland.

Midland parent Reagan Hignojos turned a small raffle for two $50 gift cards into a district effort that raised nearly $26K and provided cards to about 520 teachers after the district said there will be no retention bonuses due to an $8M budget gap—he credited over 90 donors including Premier Resources' senior leadership—with sparking the support.

Midland Fire Department reported that calls in October increased with EMS calls rising from 1,367 to 1,417 and other calls increasing from 420 to 469 while fire calls changed slightly from 53 to 55 — 73% of all calls were for EMS services.

City officials said Midland offices will close at noon Wednesday ahead of Thanksgiving and the trash pickup schedule will be revised—residents should check for further details.

Fun Friday Art Camp

10 AM – 2 PM — The Studio by Kidd's & Canvas — Check website for prices — Experience an array of creative activities including painting, crafting, and messy fun every Friday.

Gobble Up a Good Time Bingo

7:45-10:30 p.m. — Love Affair Bookstore — Free entry — Enjoy a night of bingo, laughter, and prizes with a cozy fall vibe.

Midland's Merry Lights Tree Lighting Ceremony

5:30-11:30 p.m. — Centennial Park — Free entry — Celebrate the start of the holiday season with dazzling lights, live entertainment, and festive food vendors.

Merry & Bright Christmas Celebration

5:30-8 p.m. — Odessa New Home Center | Betenbough Homes — Free entry — Celebrate Christmas with festive fun and free photos with Santa.

Starbright Village Light Display

All Day — McKinney Park — Free entry — Explore the stunning largest light display in West Texas this holiday season.

Free Yoga for Beginners

12-1 p.m. — Earth, Body, & Soul — Free entry — Experience a rejuvenating beginner-friendly yoga class in a warm and inclusive environment.

Wrap For a Reason — MIDLAND AF

9 AM - 4 PM — Frost Bank — Donations encouraged — Get your holiday gifts wrapped by the Reflection elves while supporting survivors of human trafficking.

Mariachi Christmas Concert

7-10 p.m. — Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center — Check for ticket details — Experience the vibrant Mariachi traditions with festive music, dance, and storytelling.

Pizza Thursdays at Venezia

5-9 p.m. — Venezia Restaurant — Menu prices vary — Celebrate the start of the weekend with delicious pizzas, drinks, and outdoor dining options.

Afternoon Tinsel & Tea

2-4 p.m. — Museum of the Southwest — Tickets required — Enjoy a festive tea time in the beautifully decorated Historic Turner Mansion.