Good morning, Midland.

With Christmas behind us, shoppers at Midland Mall are returning for post-holiday sales, exchanges, or gift returns.

Retailers have extended deadlines into January — check store policies to avoid surprises.

Bush Family Home State Historic Site in Midland will continue its literacy programs in 2026 with monthly Third Thursday Reading events and bimonthly Kids Reading to Dogs sessions; families touring the site (1412 West Ohio St.) can also choose a free book during their visit.

Residents easing post-Christmas blues can visit a new theater in Midland, return holiday gifts, explore the Ellen Noel Art Museum in Odessa, or enjoy walking the Watersong Wild Space loop and Big Spring State Park.

These local options offer a relaxed way to reset after a busy season.

The Fafa Collective — MIDLAND AF

5-9 p.m. — Silver's Framery & The FaFa Gallery — Free to play — Bring a project to work on at this community art event.

Al Haney Live Performance

7-9 p.m. — Pi Social — Enjoy evening dining with smooth sax tunes.

New Year's Eve Dining at Venezia

5-11:59 p.m. — Venezia Restaurant — Special pre-set menu available — Celebrate the new year with exceptional dining and festive cocktails.

SLB Permian Digital Tech Day

9:00 a.m. — Bush Convention Center — Registration required — Explore digital solutions transforming unconventional operations in the Permian Basin.

Midland Art Crawl Open Mic — Frost & Flame

6-11 p.m. — Cotton Flat Records — Free entry — Experience local art, live music, and a cozy open mic atmosphere perfect for winter nights.

Orangetheory Midland 2026 Kickoff Party

8 AM-1:30 PM — Orangetheory Fitness — Free entry — Celebrate 10 years of fitness fun with local vendors, food, and free classes.

Georgie's Place Opening Soon

5-10 p.m. — Georgie's Place — Reservations recommended — A new restaurant by Chef Chip Hight brings delicious dining options to downtown Midland.