Santa, Live Music, and Gems around Waco this weekend.

Good morning, Waco! This is the Waco Buzz, just like the North Pole, we are working around the clock to bring you news and events in fun trinket form.

In today’s Waco Buzz:

• Holiday Events This Weekend

• Restaurant Spotlight: Curry Up and Wok This Way

• Live Music around Waco this weekend 🎸

• Open House 🏠
  
  Let’s get to it!

Buzzworthy News

🚧 Local News: Bigger Lanes, Bigger Future for Waco

Waco’s about to get a little more elbow room on the road! Two big TxDOT projects kicking off in January will add lanes to the Twin Bridges and I-35, from 12th Street to Loop 340. While some local businesses might have to dodge the construction zone, these upgrades will ease traffic and support Waco’s rapid growth. The good news? Contractors are incentivized to finish early—because who doesn’t love a little extra motivation? This isn’t just about making your commute smoother today; it’s about future-proofing Waco for the growing traffic of tomorrow. Target completion date…..(drumroll please)….2029.
🫠🫠 (KWTX with more details)

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

We know you're juggling a lot this weekend, but here are some must-do events to add to your calendar!

Friday
🎄 Santa at the Silos | Stroll Magnolia Market at the Silos while soaking in holiday magic. Santa himself will be there from 12–5 PM. Bonus: Perfect photo op!

🛼 Skate Day | Bring the kids to Skate Waco Bellmead for a fun-filled afternoon. Starts at 2 PM—get those wheels spinning!

🛷 Rudolph: The Red-Nosed Reindeer | This family-friendly favorite hits the stage at Waco Civic Theatre. Show starts at 5 PM. Tickets available!

✨ Christmas Lights in the Village | Walk through Mayborn Museum Complex's twinkling light displays. Gates open at 6 PM.

🎭 The Nuttier Cracker Comedy Show | Need a good laugh? Head to The Hippodrome for a holiday comedy twist starting at 7:30 PM. Tickets here.

🎶 A Rat Pack Christmas | Step back in time with Royce Montgomery as he channels the charm and holiday spirit of Sinatra, Dean, and Sammy. A festive evening of timeless tunes awaits at Waco Civic Theatre, starting at 7:30 PM. 🎄✨ Tickets here.

Saturday
🌾 China Spring Farmers & Crafters Market and Waco Downtown Farmers Market| Shop local treasures at both locations from 9 AM to 1 PM.

🎅 Santa Claus in the Backyard | Grab a drink at The Backyard Bar while the kids share their wish lists with Santa! Starts at 11 AM.

🎭 Eastside Winter Market | Spend your evening browsing Brotherwell Brewing's cozy market starting at 5 PM.

🎄 Christmas Carol Paddle on the Brazos | Float down the river singing carols! Meet at Bledsoe-Miller Park at 6 PM. Reserve your spot ahead of time!

Sunday

✨ Lights of West Christmas Light Park | Drive through this local favorite dazzling light display from 6 PM on.

🎭 Rudolph: The Red-Nosed Reindeer | Another chance to catch this heartwarming show at 2 PM at Waco Civic Theatre.

Last Call
🎅 Santa Photos | Don’t forget to grab a pic with the big guy before Christmas! Check out Santa at the Silos or other locations around Waco.

🎄 Shop Local | Knock out your last-minute gift list at local markets or boutiques—perfect for finding unique treasures!

✨ Holiday Lights | From Cameron Park Zoo’s Wild Lights to Christmas Lights in the Village, there’s no shortage of sparkle in Waco this season.

🛷 Trolley Christmas Lights Tour | Hop on the Waco trolley for a festive lights tour. Two departures nightly, but tickets go fast! Grab them here.

Happy holidays, Waco! 🎁

Restaurant Spotlight: Curry Up and Wok This Way

If you’re craving a culinary adventure, look no further than Curry Up & Wok This Way.

Starting as a humble stall at the Downtown Waco Farmers Market in 2020, this gem quickly grew into two thriving locations: Union Hall (2021) and Union Grove (2023). The masterminds behind it, Chef Bank Garsee and co-founder Ning Garsee, both hail from southern Thailand, and their dedication to bold flavors and fresh ingredients is evident in every dish.

What to try?

• 🍲 Panang Curry: Rich, creamy, and downright unforgettable.

• 🌿 Pad Kra Pow: A savory stir-fry with a spicy kick.

• 🍜 Pad Thai: The ultimate classic done to perfection.

✨ Fun Fact: They’ve been featured in Wacoan Magazine four times and even graced the cover as the Best Editor’s Pick in 2021!

From their start at the market to becoming a community favorite, Curry Up & Wok This Way is proof that Waco knows how to support its own. Swing by and let your taste buds take a trip to Thailand! 🌏❤️

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

Friday

• The Grape Wine Bar & Bistro | Maxx "Smokinmaxx" Carter | 6:00 PM

• Cambria Hotel | Dave Innis in Concert | 6:30 PM

• Blue Pup Wine & Martini Bar | Gary Beard | 8:00 PM

• The Backyard Bar Stage and Grill | CREED FISHER | 8:30 PM

• Tandem Rooftop Bar | EDM Night | 9:00 PM

Saturday

• Slow Rise on the Brazos | Monte Rose | 5:00 PM

• Segovia Wine Bar | Charlie Brown Christmas Songbook with the Dave Wild Trio | 6:30 PM

• Lounge ’93 | Stan Wilfong | 7:30 PM

• The Will | Rewind Party Band | 8:00 PM

• Wolf’s Sports Bar | Christmas Pajama Party with Colton Hawkins | 8:00 PM

• Tandem Rooftop Bar | Darrell "D-Rail" Ray | 9:00 PM

Sunday

• Valley Mills Vineyards | Charlie Brown Christmas Jazz with the Dave Wild Trio | 4:00 PM

• The Will | The Brazos Brothers | 5:00 PM

• Lakeside Bar | Song Swap & Open Mic Night with Michael Saldana | 6:00 PM 

OPEN HOUSE
_{We’ll give you a few facts about the listing and you guess the price.}

🔑 What makes this home special?

• 4 Bed, 4.5 Bath + Guest Quarters | 2.6+ Acres in Cameron Park

• Stunning formal living and dining spaces with 10 ft ceilings and antique details like 100-year-old front doors and pegged hardwood floors.

• Chef’s kitchen with Sub-Zero fridge, Viking ovens, and a cozy breakfast nook featuring its own fireplace.

• Finished basement with a large living area, separate bedroom, and bath—perfect for teens or guests!

• Beautifully landscaped grounds with perennials, mature trees, and a serene balcony overlooking the estate.

💭 Guess the Price? Scroll to the end of this email to find out!

Baylor Sports 🐻🐻

Basketball: Baylor Women’s Basketball at Kansas on Saturday at 4 PM | Lawrence, KS

THANKS!

Thanks for reading the Waco Buzz today. If you found something helpful, please share it with someone who has Hallmark Christmas movies on repeat.

Have a great weekend, Waco!