Good morning, Abilene.

AAA forecasts record-breaking Thanksgiving travel with over 81 million people expected to travel 50 miles or more, including 73 million drivers.

Travelers may switch from flying to driving due to flight cancellations from the previous government shutdown — officials advise leaving early to beat delays through Sunday.

A list of Abilene stores open for last-minute Thanksgiving shopping today shows H-E-B open from 6 a.m. to noon, Cash Saver open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Family Dollar open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Dollar General open at normal hours—while ALDI, United Supermarkets, Market Street, Sam's Club, Natural Grocers, Walmart and Target remain closed.

Over 100,000 gallons of untreated wastewater spilled into Cedar Creek on Tuesday—enough to fill five swimming pools—and the Abilene Water Utilities Department is cleaning up the spill after recent rain likely caused a blockage.

Local residents reported smelling raw sewage and expressed concern about the safety of nearby areas.

The Merkel Volunteer Fire Department is urging residents to mark their house numbers clearly so fire crews can locate homes faster—especially in poor lighting or bad weather.

Fire Chief Eddy Harris recommended using reflective numbers sized four inches by a half inch on door fronts or mailboxes to prevent dangerous delays.

Celebration Singers Christmas Concert

7-8 p.m. — Boone Family Theatre — Suggested donation of $10 — Experience the joy of Christmas with choral performances from the Celebration Singers.

A Christmas Story Screening

2-3:30 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — $7 for adults, $6 for students/seniors/military/children — Relive the hilarious holiday adventures of Ralphie Parker as he dreams of the perfect Christmas gift.

Annual Christmas Concert

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — Free admission — Celebrate the holiday season with festive music performed by the Abilene Community Band.

Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl

4:30-9 p.m. — The Pour House — Ticket required — Don your ugliest Christmas sweater and join a festive pub crawl filled with games, contests, and holiday cheer.

Home for the Holidays Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Paramount Theatre, Abilene, TX — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the season with performances from renowned artists like Peabo Bryson and Sheena Easton.

Gallery Pop-Up Craft Event

2-4 p.m. — The Grace Museum — Free entry — Embrace the holiday spirit with a creative Christmas tree craft for all ages.