Good morning, Midland.

Midland Soup Kitchen Ministry launched its annual toy drive to collect hundreds of toys for local children, accepting donations Monday through Friday (10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.) at 1401 Orchard Lane; the drive also seeks $25 gift cards for teens for popular local retailers.

Midland residents can secure a spot for the Merry Lighted Christmas Parade on Saturday, Dec.

13 at 6:30 p.m.— the route runs from A Street to Windlands Park and ends at Midland High School with live coverage from First Alert 7 and hosts Jay Hendricks and Matthew Alvarez.

Parks & Recreation launched a new online facility booking system today to help residents reserve community spaces easily.

The platform is live for those looking to schedule recreation activities (parks, courts, and other venues).

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.

Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl in Midland

4:30-9 p.m. — Leesco’s — Discount available — Unleash your festive spirit with a fun-filled night of drinks in your ugliest holiday sweater.

Pizza Thursdays at Venezia

5-9 p.m. — Venezia Restaurant — Menu prices vary — Enjoy a delightful evening of pizza and drinks in a cozy dining atmosphere with delivery options to nearby venues.

The Nutcracker

2-4 p.m. — Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center — Tickets available — Experience epic battles and sweet lands in a family-friendly ballet tradition.

Midland Festival Ballet's The Nutcracker

1-3:30 p.m. — Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience epic battles and enchanting fairies at this beloved holiday ballet tradition.

The Fafa Collective — Midland AF

5-9 p.m. — Silver's Framery & The FaFa Gallery — Free entry — Bring something to work on and enjoy an artful evening with the community.

Christmas Eve Dining

5-9 p.m. — Venezia Restaurant — Dinner reservation required — Celebrate the magic of Christmas Eve with an elegant dining experience and a festive ambiance.

Eccentric Comedy — MIDLAND AF

8-10 p.m. — Cotton Flat Records — Support local talent — Enjoy a night of laughs with local comedians and an open mic opportunity.