Good morning, Wichita.

On Thursday, the Salvation Army hosted its annual Angel Tree event at the former Wichita Central Library, distributing Christmas gifts to 8,000+ kids from 3,000 families in Sedgwick County; those who missed the event could pick up gifts on Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Celia and Glen Goering have turned a former wheat field in Derby into Pine Lake Tree Farm + a local spot for picking fresh Christmas trees.

The couple, who moved from Mexico over 40 years ago, now expects a busy season with peak weekends after Thanksgiving.

Local businesses are preparing for the holiday rush as owner Sam Stuart of Pro Image Sports urges shoppers not to delay their purchases ahead of shipping cutoffs.

Sales will build from this weekend forward + the Saturday before Christmas is expected to be the busiest day.

Wichita’s The First Place remains a cherished jewelry store offering quality collections and trusted service, reflecting a long local heritage that continues to shape customer experiences today.

Wichita musician David Lord released his album Way Over The Rainbow on Dec.

12, marking the launch of his new record label Cloud Ear. He recorded the album in Wichita with local musicians Dale Black and drummer Charles Rumback, and the vinyl edition is limited to 100 copies.

Wichita radio host Steve McIntosh, a staple on local airwaves, announced his retirement on Friday, Dec.

12. He served the community for decades and his retirement plans remain unannounced (details are forthcoming).

On Dec. 12, Wichita families gathered to celebrate the Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, honoring Catholic faith + Hispanic tradition.

The Kansas Small Business Development Center at Wichita State released a playbook advising local businesses to prepare for extra traffic from soccer fans traveling between Dallas and Kansas City next year.

Brandy Willett urged owners to update operations (like refining inventory and technology for translations) to capture this opportunity.

WSU Tech culinary students will benefit from a new scholarship established by the Wichita chapter of the American Institute of Wine & Food for fall 2026.

Eligible students must have a 2.75 GPA, 12+ credit hours, and can apply starting March 1 through the WSU Tech Foundation.

The Kansas Department of Health & Environment lifted the stream advisory for The Big Ditch after a December sewage overflow in Haysville; water tests confirmed bacteria and contaminant levels are normal, making the water safe for swimming and livestock use.

Lucy, a 1½-year-old mixed-breed who loves children and knows commands, was introduced by Kansas Humane Society as she awaits a forever home.

The society hosts a Read to Rover event today from 10 to 11:30 a.m. for grades one to five and a Furry Film Friday on Dec. 19.

Hutchinson Community College freshman punter Denzel More (nicknamed Unc), a 26-year-old from Australia, is on track for his NFL dream as his team plays for a title in Canyon next Wednesday.

He began his season this summer and now heads to Texas with strong support from teammates.

Wichita Thunder vs. Idaho Steelheads

2:05 – 3:35 PM — INTRUST Bank Arena — Starting at $26 — Watch an exciting hockey match as the Wichita Thunder take on the Idaho Steelheads.

Chair Yoga at Maize Recreation Commission

1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Embrace gentle movements and mindfulness to boost strength, flexibility, and community spirit.

Merry & Bright Christmas Ornament Activity

10:00-10:45 a.m. — Newton Recreation Center — Cost TBA — Create festive ornaments in a fun and engaging environment for young children.

Wichita State vs. Wofford Basketball Game

6:30-8 p.m. — Charles Koch Arena — $10 for dog collar combo — Cheer on the Shockers and support the Kansas Humane Society with an exclusive dog collar for your furry friend.

Candlelight: Holiday Special Concert

8:45 p.m. — Kansas Aviation Museum — $36.55 — Enjoy a magical musical experience inspired by winter and holiday classics under the glow of candlelight.

Watson's Christmas Express

5:00-8:15 p.m. — O J Watson Park — $15-$20 — Experience a magical ride to the North Pole with Santa, roasted s’mores, and holiday crafts.

Kapaun Mt. Carmel vs. Eisenhower Basketball Game

6-7:15 p.m. — Kapaun Mt. Carmel — Ticket prices vary — Watch the Kapaun Mt. Carmel varsity basketball team compete in a non-conference matchup against Eisenhower.

Candlelight Christmas Special Featuring 'The Nutcracker'

8:45-9:45 p.m. — Kansas Aviation Museum — Ticketed event — Experience a magical evening of classical music inspired by the winter and holiday spirit under candlelight.

Grinchy Heart Holiday Party

9:30 AM - 3:00 PM — Newton Recreation Center — Cost Not Specified — Celebrate the holiday spirit with fun activities for kids aged 7-12.

Christmas Eve & Christmas Night Celebration at Dockum

December 24-25 — Dockum — Seasonal cocktails available — Celebrate Christmas in a cozy speakeasy with crafted spirits and holiday charm.