Good morning, Abilene.

Buffalo Gap is hosting the 43rd Annual Chili Superbowl and Brisket Cookoff—an event featuring the world's largest chili pot that has raised over $2 million for the Ben Richey Boys Ranch.

The cookoff took months of planning with costs reaching up to $7000 on ingredients and will offer plenty of chili this Labor Day weekend for local fans making the short drive from Abilene.

Abilene Absolute Recovery Solutions will host an event for Overdose Awareness Day on August 31 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at 429 N Judge Ely Blvd, and the community will hear speakers, see a Narcan demonstration, enjoy live music and food trucks plus family-friendly activities and a candlelight ceremony to honor those lost to overdose.

Drivers on Labor Day weekend faced heavy traffic and near-miss incidents—one traveler said a box truck driver distracted by his phone nearly caused a crash, prompting the Texas Department of Public Safety to boost enforcement to curb accidents.

This step aims to ensure safer driving during the busy travel period.

Abilene Christian University will receive high-assay low-enriched uranium from the Department of Energy to support its NEXT Lab nuclear research project—testing a 1-megawatt molten salt reactor system known as Natura MSR-1 in partnership with Natura Resources.

The DOE is finalizing contracts and will deliver the fuel by the end of the year.

West Texas Fair & Rodeo

5 PM - 11 PM — West Texas Fair & Rodeo — Varies by activity — Experience thrilling rodeo action and a vibrant carnival atmosphere with delicious food at this beloved local fair.

The Princess Bride Film Screening

7:30-9 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — $7 for adults, $6 for students, seniors, military, and children — Experience a beloved fairy tale adventure as true love conquers all in this classic film.

Round-Up for Rehab Abilene Cattle Sale

11 AM – 3 PM — Abilene Livestock Auction LLC — Support for West Texas Rehabilitation Center — Premier auction with music from legends Red Steagall and Jake Hooker.

2025 Statewide Quail Symposium

12:30 p.m. – 12:00 p.m. — Abilene Convention Center — $100 — Discover expert insights on quail management, habitat improvement, and hunting gear at this engaging symposium.

Texas Tailgate Sale

9:30 AM – 11:59 PM — Alliance Auto Auction Abilene — Free entry — Explore 400 vehicles from top dealers and win exciting prizes including Cowboys game tickets.