Holidays

Several major health agencies in Texas are under review by the state's Sunset Advisory Commission, taking a close look at their purpose, priorities and performance. Advocacy leaders say it could lead to more nuanced conversations. The musical "Sugar Skull," which has been touring the country, is now making its way to Levelland's Wallace Theater. Our reporter Bishop Van Buren has more from the show’s lead actor and how the show embraces Día de los Muertos. Performances are scheduled Friday at 10 A.M and 1 P.M. and Saturday at 2 P.M. Tickets can be purchased at wallacetheater.com.

Today is Indigenous Peoples Day, recognized by the state of Texas in 2021. Our reporter Bishop Van Buren spoke to a West Texas Native American who has fought to celebrate that heritage in Lubbock. Gov. Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Department of Public Safety to toughen enforcement against vape and smoke shops that sell hemp products to minors.

Floydada is celebrating its pumpkin pride this weekend with the 38th annual Punkin’ Days. Along with the usual festivities, the city has more on the line this year, with two towns competing for the title of "pumpkin capital."

With autumn on the way, our reporter Mia Shephard has more on how to get involved with one of Lubbock’s favorite fall festivities. The annual Pumpkin Trail will be October 16th and the city is calling for sponsors and volunteers. For more information, contact Ruth Perkins by calling 806-775-2670 or at ruthperkins@mylubbock.us. Starting today, livestock producers affected by wildfires or floods can apply for disaster relief through the USDA's Emergency Livestock Relief Program. You can find more information at fsa.usda.gov/elrp.

Tomorrow is the Fourth of July — and few things are more iconic to this holiday than fireworks. But in Lubbock, it’s important to remember they’re illegal within city limits. Our reporter Bishop Van Buren spoke with Lubbock Police Department and has more. In 2024, Attorney General Ken Paxton pursued a lawsuit over the State Fair of Texas' gun ban. KERA's Toluwani Osibamowo reports the case was dismissed and the fair says it plans to keep its policy in place.

The Fourth of July in Lubbock will look different this year, with new organizers of the 4th on Broadway parade and a last-minute change in location after recent spurts of heavy rainfall. Police are reminding residents that fireworks are still banned within city limits, and public health officials are warning of increased mosquito activity.

A Lubbock man was named alongside more than 300 others in what officials are calling the largest health care fraud takedown in Justice Department history. Our Brad Burt reports he was alleged to have submitted an estimated $19 million in false claims. With the past few days of rain saturating the ground, 4th on Broadway’s evening events will be moved from Mackenzie Park to the South Plains Fairground. Also due to the holiday, city offices will be closed and LHUCA's First Friday Art Trail will instead be on Thursday.

Governor Greg Abbott says he’s still on the fence about a bill that would ban consumable products containing THC. Houston Public Media’s Andrew Schneider looks into why, as well as what might happen if Abbott decides to veto the ban. Tomorrow is Juneteenth and the city of Lubbock is hosting a number events running through the weekend, click here for details.

Cascarones, the confetti-filled eggshells popular during Easter and Fiesta celebrations, are traditionally made from empty eggshells. Despite soaring egg prices, Texas shoppers looking to stock up on the holiday staple won’t have to worry about paying more – at least not this year.

Xcel Energy has warned South Plains customers of possible power shutoffs due to today’s expected strong winds and low humidity. Our reporter Bishop Van Buren has more on the approach to wildfire risk following the Smokehouse Creek Fire last year. Civic Lubbock, Inc. and other community partners have begun planning this year's 4th on Broadway celebration, following changes to the annual event's organization announced in January.