Good morning, Tyler.

East Texans gathered on Friday to celebrate National Philanthropy Day—honoring charitable work and supporting local giving efforts.

At Caldwell Zoo, Tempo the sloth moved slowly on Thursday—he stretched and roamed the new aviary while enjoying the perfect weather.

The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program kicks off for the holiday season to help ensure every child receives a gift (support available to families statewide).

Organizers say assistance will be provided as families prepare for the holidays (aiming to reach every child in need).

Ronold Ray, a Texas veteran, celebrated his 100th birthday in Tyler, marking a long life devoted to protecting freedom *through years of service*.

His milestone birthday stands as a proud moment for family and neighbors *honoring a century of sacrifice*.

The Tyler Morning Telegraph has published a gift guide that shows shoppers where to find unique holiday gifts at locally owned stores—shops include markets, boutiques, and dining spots offering handmade items and local flavors.

The guide helps boost the local economy by giving clear details on stores and events for holiday shopping.

A local doctor said vaccines are the best protection against whooping cough as cases surge in Texas to levels 10 times higher than last year—though East Texas has had very few cases so far.

The Van Vandals defeated the Center Rough Riders 50 to 48 in the first round of the 2025 high school football playoffs in Tyler.

The close win positions the team for a next matchup — they aim to build on this strong performance.

The Daingerfield Tigers defeated the Harmony Eagles 48-6 in the first round of the 2025 Texas high school football playoffs — the game was broadcast on CBS19 — and secured a decisive win in a key playoff matchup.

The All Saints Trojans defeated the Hill Country Christian School of Austin Knights 49-34 in the first round of the Texas high school football playoffs—an outcome that gives them a postseason boost in Tyler.

In Tyler, the Waskom Wildcats defeated the Cooper Fighting Bulldogs 41-14 in the first playoff round of the 2025 Texas high school football season — the win moves them into the next round.

During the first round of the Texas high school football playoffs in Tyler, the Lindale Eagles defeated the Huffman Hargrave Falcons 63-21.

The win positions Lindale well as they advance in the postseason.

The Winnsboro Raiders defeated the Atlanta Rabbits 28—20 in the first round of the 2025 Texas high school football playoffs in Tyler, advancing their season with a close win.

Childbirth Education Class Series

6:30-8:30 p.m. — CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital - Tyler — Ticket required — Prepare for childbirth with essential knowledge and support in an interactive class series.

Christmas Market at Andy's Frozen Custard

5:30-10 p.m. — Andy's Frozen Custard — Free entry — Discover local vendors and enjoy festive treats at this holiday market.

The Holiday Showdown

6:45-11:15 AM — Rose Rudman Park — Registration fee applies — Compete in a festive run with custom holiday finisher medals to mark your achievement.

2025 Rose City Christmas Parade and Drone Show

6:30-11:59 p.m. — CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Rose Stadium — $1.00 or one canned food item — Experience the festive fun of the Rose City Christmas Parade and Drone Show with a theme of ‘Unite For Good’.

Season's Greetings Running Event

8:00 a.m. — Southside Park — Free entry — Run or walk in a friendly atmosphere with multiple distance options and medals for all participants.

Chanukah Klezmer Concert

7-9 p.m. — True Vine Brewing Company — In-person only — Celebrate Chanukah with joyful Klezmer music from the Tyler Klezmer Ensemble.

Holiday Lights in the Garden

5-8 p.m. — Tyler Rose Garden — Free admission — Experience a dazzling display of thousands of holiday lights in a festive wonderland.

A Dickens' Christmas Celebration

4 PM-8 PM — East Texas State Fair Administration Office — Paid parking — Experience a charming Olde English Christmas town with hot cocoa, carolers, and festive vendors.

Do The Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl

4:30-9:00 p.m. — The SportsZone Bar and Grill — Tickets available online only — Celebrate the season in your ugliest sweater with games, contests, and festive cheer in Downtown Tyler.