Good morning, Amarillo.

Amarillo’s Toys for Tots is preparing to provide holiday gifts as more families join the program, with over 500 already signed up and last year’s efforts reaching over 5,000 children.

Coordinator Dawnette Lusk said donations and volunteers are needed to meet the rising demand—costly toys have strained many families’ budgets.

Amarillo area agencies will host the Barrio Safety Fair on Tuesday, Nov.

18 at the Wesley Community Center—1615 S. Roberts St—from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., where attendees will receive free winter clothing, meals, and snacks and have the opportunity to connect with local safety and wellness experts.

Amarillo Parks and Recreation will host a swim-in movie night featuring Elf at Warford Activity Center on December 6 from 7 to 9 p.m. Tickets will cost $10 per person and reservations must be made by December 4.

Amarillo locals shared their favorite churches via social media, naming ten top congregations for finding a church home—reflecting the region’s deep faith and commitment.

The list shows a growing interest in religious fellowship as residents search for a welcoming community.

Amarillo residents planning for Thanksgiving can use a new map to find meal donation and food assistance opportunities from local groups—restaurants are also offering dining out and catering options for those who prefer not to cook.

The map helps everyone in the community prepare for a safe and supported holiday.

Amarillo is hosting a holiday lights contest that invites residents to share photos of their festive displays until December 22—one entry will win a $500 gift card from Ace Hardware.

Participants can submit their photos using the provided form to showcase the city's brightest decorations.

The 30th WRCA World Championship Ranch Rodeo is underway at the Amarillo Civic Center from Nov.

12 until 16 and features contests such as ranch bronc riding and wild cow milking + displays of cowboy hats, equipment, and jewelry by vendors. Special events like the Special Kids Rodeo and live music add to the excitement for attendees.

Residents in Amarillo saw a rare display of the Northern Lights over the past few days—experts say if the sky stays dark away from city lights, the vibrant display should appear again tonight after 7 p.m. The lights result when energy particles from the sun hit gases in Earth’s upper atmosphere.

Former Amarillo Mayor Paul Harpole was named TxDOT’s Road Hand Award recipient for his role in advancing local transportation projects—he pushed for funding to extend Loop 335 and supported measures to reduce distracted driving.

His name is now added to the Road Hand Hall of Honor plaque as one of only 283 citizens honored since 1973.

West Texas Wheels, Amarillo's newest shuttle service, will offer a 90-minute holiday lights tour that picks up at the Amarillo National Tennis Center and visits festive neighborhoods from Nov 29 until Dec 24 + tickets cost $20 each and include onboard Christmas karaoke.

This ride gives families a stress-free way to enjoy the season.

RHCSA Exam Preparation Training

Nov 17-21 — Amarillo College — $2250 — Rapid training to fill gaps in Linux system administration knowledge for RHCSA certification.

Discovery Fridays

9 a.m.–4 p.m. — Don Harrington Discovery Center — Check website for pricing — Engage kids in hands-on science labs and exciting demonstrations for a day of fun discovery.

CFMOTO USA Off-Road Tour at Amarillo Farm & Ranch Show

9 a.m.-3 p.m. — Amarillo Civic Center Complex — Free entry — Explore the latest off-road vehicles and enter to win up to $50,000 towards your choice of vehicle.

Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl

4:30-9 p.m. — O.H.M.S. Cafe & Bar — Ticket discounts available — Wear your ugliest sweater and enjoy a festive night out with drinks and fun.