Good morning, Waco.

Escapology will open an escape room in downtown Waco in early March to fill a long-vacant building next to Sagrado Cocina and Bar.

The owners chose the location to boost local energy — helping nearby businesses thrive.

A proposed $10B data center north of Waco was detailed at a Tuesday, Dec.

9 meeting at Ross' fire house, where about 200 neighbors expressed concerns + urged officials to provide more detail on the plan.

Central Texas customers of Salem-Elm Ridge and Chalk Bluff Water Supply corporations will face new rate hikes in January as rising expenses drive increases; Salem-Elm Ridge will raise its minimum from $50 to $80 (effective Jan.

31) and Chalk Bluff will raise from $39 to $49 (effective Jan. 1).

Waco will celebrate the opening of the new Bledsoe-Miller STEAM Center during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Jan.

16 — marking the completion of a $13.7 million renovation by Mazanec Construction that began over a year ago.

China Spring ISD announced that head football coach Tyler Beatty will not return for the 2026 varsity season—he remains employed by the district.

To tackle growing mental health challenges, Waco ISD partners with Waco Family Medicine to embed licensed behavioral health clinicians at Cesar Chavez, Tennyson and G.W.

Carver middle schools this school year. District leaders said the program may expand based on results to help families access needed care.

Workforce Solutions opened a new center on 114 Bridge Street in Marlin to offer resume help, career exploration, job fairs, and referrals.

Staff said the center connects local job seekers with opportunities in Marlin and even in nearby Waco.

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.

NYE Party Breakfast Buffet

6:00 pm - 8:30 pm — The Backyard Bar Stage and Grill — Cost Info not provided — Celebrate the New Year with a festive breakfast buffet in Waco.