Good morning, Abilene.

The 2026 Abilene Idol Finals will take place this Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Paramount Theater.

Twenty local contestants in three age groups will compete for cash prizes and a demo recording opportunity with Wonderland Records, with community votes influencing the scores.

Grain Theory hosted a St. Patrick's Day block party yesterday at its Abilene location, featuring a 15-minute Irish bagpipe performance, themed food and beer, and a trivia contest that celebrated Irish culture for about 3,000 local families while future events will be announced on social media.

Abilene welcomed its first board game lounge on March 13 when Tables of Sundries (offering over 200 games) opened its doors to families and teens, and the venue features a cozy indoor and outdoor patio for local game enthusiasts.

The Taylor County Sheriff's Office is working with a Caps property owner to monitor dozens of dogs on the property—since there is no ordinance limiting their number—and focus on the animals' welfare.

City Link in Abilene improved its on-time bus service under new leadership as February saw 20,000 riders on regular routes (General Manager Joe Fernandez provided the data).

Local commuters say friendly drivers and reliable schedules help them get to work.

Abilene dad McIver biked 150 miles to Dallas on March 14, finishing in less than 24 hours to honor his daughter Vera and raise nearly $3,000 for high-risk pregnancy care — a journey that now supports local families facing difficult pregnancies.

Outlaws and Legends Music Festival - 2 Day Pass

6:00 PM – 12:15 AM — The Back Porch of Texas — $268 - $299 — Enjoy a weekend of live music from top artists at this exciting festival in Abilene.

Abilene Idol at the Paramount Theatre

7-10 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — Proceeds benefit Chorus Abilene — A delightful night of local talent competing in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

Wade Bowen Live

7-11 p.m. — Potosi Live — $30 general admission — Experience the captivating country music of Wade Bowen with opener Caleb Sutton And The High Stakes.

2026 Steamboat Challenge

7:30-10:29 a.m. — Buffalo Gap Community Center — Save up to $10 — Conquer scenic hills in a timed running challenge featuring 5k, 10k, and half marathon options.

ArtWalk: Flower Faire

12-4 p.m. — Center For Contemporary Arts — Free entry — Celebrate spring with art vendors, food trucks, and festive activities for all ages.

Abilene Ducks Unlimited Annual Dinner

6 PM – 12 AM — 201 Mesquite Event Center — Tickets required — Celebrate wildlife conservation while enjoying a lavish banquet.