Holidays

A federal judge in Texas has blocked a new state law that requires Ten Commandments displays in public schools across the state. As The Texas Newsroom's Lucio Vasquez reports, the temporary block is mainly focused on the state's largest cities. With Thanksgiving coming up next week, our Sean Ryan has tips from Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport for those getting out of town this holiday season.

Turkey prices tend to rise closer to holidays such as Thanksgiving. But tariffs and bird flu could dramatically drive up the cost of turkeys this year.

Tomorrow is Veterans Day, and the Silent Wings Museum is marking the occasion with free admission and a full day of events. Our Bishop Van Buren reports on festivities, including a ceremony, dance lesson, and live music. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Meanwhile, since the start of the federal government shutdown, veterans’ requests for food and housing assistance have spiked. Houston Public Media’s Andrew Schneider reports more than 100,000 veterans are being affected in Texas alone.

The Texas Newsroom's Lucio Vasquez reports the Texas Agriculture Commissioner is pushing back against President Donald Trump’s call to import beef from Argentina, saying it would hurt Texas ranchers already facing historically low cattle numbers. Our Samantha Larned reports on a community ofrenda at the Mahon Library for Día de los Muertos. Community members can contribute photos of their loved ones by bringing them to the Mahon reference desk through Oct. 30.

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.