Good morning, Waco.

Meals on Wheels is fighting funding cuts by launching a $1 million Step Up for Seniors campaign that has reached 30% of its goal and aims to remove over 250 Central Texas neighbors from its waitlist.

The organization delivers about 400 meals daily—helping homebound seniors and some disabled residents.

Central Texas holiday events include free ice skating in Belton, a parade and park celebration in Lacy Lakeview today at 6:00 p.m., and Waco’s Winter Wonderland on Heritage Square from December 5—7.

Other events cover tree lightings, parades, and festivals in cities like Hewitt, Bellmead, Robinson, Salado, College Station, Meridian, Nolanville, Copperas Cove, and Jarrell.

Local shoppers are using buy now pay later options to budget for Christmas gifts, with reports showing that 50% use it for luxury items and 47% for groceries.

A financial expert warned that while the method can help manage spending, overspending and late payments could hurt customers.

The McLennan Community College Foundation is accepting online scholarship applications for the 2026-27 academic year—applications must be submitted by January 15, 2026.

Central Texans are feeling winter-like cold today and many are preparing by checking heating systems, insulating pipes—local garden centers report more customers buying plant covers while animal groups urge pet owners to keep pets indoors.

The shift in weather is expected to lead to higher electric bills for households as heating use increases.

USPS is preparing for holiday shipping — customers must mail Ground Advantage and First-Class Mail items by December 17 to ensure delivery by Christmas.

Waco Postmaster Bret Watkins will be in the lobby of the Waco Main Post Office on December 4 at 9 a.m. to offer mailing help.

Central Texas gyms saw a big drop in attendance after Thanksgiving as people traveled and spent more time with family.

Trainer Cobie Gray at Planet Fitness said quick workouts like a ten to fifteen minute treadmill walk can help keep routines steady & prevent muscle loss.

Waco doctor Tim Martindale warned that this flu season may be tougher as fewer people are getting their shots while cold weather and holiday gatherings boost the spread of flu, COVID-19, and RSV.

He added that rising cases could force school closures by mid to late January — urging everyone to get vaccinated and test early for proper treatment.

Vienna Light Orchestra Christmas Tour

7-10 p.m. — Waco Hall — Limited seating available — Experience a magical holiday concert filled with symphonic music and festive surprises.

Al Joslin - The Elvis Experience

7:30-9 p.m. — Waco Hippodrome Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a special Christmas tribute to Elvis with world-class performer Al Joslin.

Sendero Provisions Co. Annual Warehouse Extravaganza

Join us for the biggest deals this side of the Brazos at Sendero’s Annual Warehouse Extravaganza. Swing by this weekend for $10 hats and tees, $5 bandanas, and deep discounts on outerwear, shirts, dresses and a whole lot more.

Every Christmas Story Ever Told

2:30-5:30 p.m. — Waco Civic Theatre — $22-$25 — Experience a humorous whirlwind of holiday stories that blend laughter and heartwarming moments.

Medicare Made Easy Workshop

1:30-2:30 p.m. — South Waco Library — Free entry — Navigate the complexities of Medicare with confidence in this informative workshop.

Stars Over Texas Jamboree - Christmas Edition

7-9:30 p.m. — Lee Lockwood Library and Museum — $20-$16 — Experience a festive musical showcase in a cozy library setting.

Every Christmas Story Ever Told

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Waco Civic Theatre — $22-$25 — A comedic and heartwarming journey through all the beloved Christmas tales you know and love.

Urban Expressions Artisan Market

9 AM – 12 PM — World Cup Cafe and Fair Trade Market — Support local artisans while enjoying family-friendly activities.

Every Christmas Story Ever Told

2:30-5:30 p.m. — Waco Civic Theatre — $22-$25 — Enjoy a hilarious and heartwarming mash-up of every Christmas story you can imagine.

Waco Trolley Christmas Lights Tour (Late Tour)

2:30-4 a.m. — 6500 Woodway Dr, Woodway, TX — $25 per person — A charming trolley ride showcasing the most magical Christmas light displays in the Waco area.