Good morning, Waco.

Waco is turning the former Floyd Casey Stadium into the 30-acre Alice Martinez Rodriguez Park— a $25 million project that will include trails, athletic facilities, pavilions and a heritage trail to honor Hispanic culture.

Construction will begin in September 2025 and the park is expected to be complete in fall 2026.

Today, Westfest kicks off in West with the 49th annual celebration of Czech heritage—featuring carnival rides, parades, live polka music and authentic Czech food that supports local projects; the festival runs through August 31.

Hotels in Waco saw a spike in bookings after a concert at McLane Stadium increased Comfort Suites’ occupancy by 60 to 70% last week—owner Ajai Patel said the boost highlights a need for consistent, year-round business during slow summer months.

Waco PD said a grand jury determined a shooting from April was self-defense and did not charge the shooter—also correcting the victim's name from Christian Chae Walker to Christian Hicks.

Waco Police and Heart of Texas Behavioral Health Network reduced mental health call time from 11.5 hours to 3.5 hours by placing mental health professionals in the dispatch center and launching a Diversion Center—this change has cut overtime costs while ensuring faster care for residents in crisis.

Protesters gathered on Aug.

28 at the Waco federal courthouse at 800 Franklin Ave. to demand the release of two ICE detainees—Noe Guerrero-Mendieta and Erika Rodriguez—citing overcrowded conditions and legal concerns.

Today the Baylor Bears play the Auburn Tigers at 7 p.m. at McLane Stadium in Waco as extra travel from Labor Day, Westfest and I-35 construction creates heavy traffic—officials urge fans to plan alternate routes and use free shuttle service.

Levitt AMP Waco Music Series - Free Concert & Arts Fest

5-9 p.m. — Brotherwell Brewing — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant evening of music, art, and local flavors at Waco's beloved outdoor concert series.

Skittles Waco Wild West 100

5:15 p.m. — Heritage Square — Varies — Experience thrilling cycling races at this exciting North American event in Waco.

Stars Over Texas Jamboree - 15th Anniversary Edition

7-9:30 p.m. — Lee Lockwood Library and Museum — $20-$16 — Celebrate 15 years of great music with special performances honoring iconic artists.

Trent Cowie Live Concert

10 PM – 4 AM — The Backyard Bar Stage and Grill — Tickets available — Experience the heartfelt Texas country and rock fusion of singer-songwriter Trent Cowie.

Worst Impressions LIVE!

7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Performing Arts Community Center — $10 — Experience Waco's wildest podcast come to life with laughs, sketches, and games.

Oktoberfest — Waco Wise

12:00 AM – 11:59 PM — Southern Roots Brewing Co. — Enjoy three days of festivities with food, music, and plenty of beer to celebrate Oktoberfest.

Home for the Holidays - Waco

9 a.m.-5 p.m. — Waco Convention Center — First Call Shopping: $10 | General Admission: $6 — Enjoy three days of festive holiday shopping with over 130 vendors offering unique gifts.

5th Annual Oktoberfest Celebration

5-11:59 p.m. — Southern Roots Brewing Co. — Check for entry fees — Celebrate Oktoberfest with exciting activities, delicious food, and plenty of beer!

Herbal Incense Crafting Workshop

6-8:30 p.m. — Wild Thistle Herbs & Alchemy — $34 — Craft your own herbal incense while connecting with nature in a creative workshop led by a skilled herbalist.

Family Fun Day and Pickleball Tournament

Enjoy highly discounted day passes to enjoy all Camp Fimfo amenities and enter a Pickleball tournament to win cash and prizes, competitive and recreation divisions available.