Good morning, Tallahassee.

Chabad of Tallahassee held Hanukkah events that included a menorah lighting at Cascades Park on Dec.

14 and a car parade from Killearn to their Chabad House on Dec. 16. Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey and Leon County Sheriff Walt McNeil joined families and students to show unity and support.

NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, who drove a FAMU-themed car in 2022, died along with six others when a private jet crashed shortly after takeoff at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina on Thursday, Dec.

18.

The Artport Gallery at Tallahassee International Airport displays PhotoFest featuring 36 photographs by 27 regional artists and includes local artist Ned Stacey’s reflective piece 'Reflections.' The free exhibition is open until Jan.

19, 2026 and offers travelers a quiet moment to admire nature.

Visitors at the Tallahassee Museum can meet two bearcats, binturongs that emit a natural buttered popcorn scent from a gland below their tails & display their playful nature.

Male Bentley and female Bella are on exhibit through the spring.

Residents across Tallahassee have brightened their neighborhoods with festive light displays for the 2025 Tour of Lights (including classic Charlie Brown decorations and synchronized music shows) as families prepare for Christmas.

The guide notes interactive features and local safety measures at participating homes.

Florida State University awarded 75 honors medallions on Dec.

11 at the Augustus B. Turnbull III Conference Center, recognizing graduates who met rigorous Honors Program requirements (including an honors thesis and high GPA).

Florida does not tax Social Security benefits, though federal taxes may apply based on income thresholds, AARP reported.

More than 5 million Floridians received Social Security benefits as of December 2023, underscoring the state's tax-friendly approach for retirees — a boon for older adults.

The FDA announced an urgent recall for 32oz containers of Publix Rice & Pigeon Peas (which may contain undeclared soy) sold in Florida stores, urging consumers to return or discard the product.

Local dog owners are warned about five common yard plants that can harm pets, such as cycads (toxic seeds) and oleanders that may upset heart rhythms; experts advise removing or fencing off these plants and cleaning up fallen leaves to keep dogs safe.

FAMU football legend Quinn Gray will return as head coach as the team gears up for the next season, with officials noting the appointment marks a homecoming for Gray (who once led the program to many wins).

Less than three weeks away, Tallahassee will host the World Athletics Cross Country Championships at Apalachee Regional Park where athletes and fans from around the world will compete in five races and enjoy interactive events, with live Jan.

10 broadcasts — a fun run supporting Leon County Schools Foundation.

FSU women's basketball lost 79-54 to Virginia Tech on Dec.

19 at the Donald L. Tucker Center as Jasmine Shavers led scoring with 19 points, and the Seminoles will host South Carolina State today at 2 p.m.

The 35th Capital City Holiday Classic featuring 12 boys' high school teams will take place at Tallahassee State College from Friday, Dec.

19 to Saturday, Dec. 20. Seven local teams will face traveling teams — games start Friday at 11 a.m.

Christmas at the Farm 2025

9 a.m. - 1 p.m. — Redemptive Love Farm — $10-$15 admission — Celebrate Christmas with farm animals, festive activities, and Santa in a magical setting.

A Tribute to Soul Legends

7-9:30 p.m. — Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices not listed — Experience an unforgettable evening honoring the soulful music of Johnnie Taylor, Bobby Womack, and Tyrone Davis.

New Year's Eve Celebration at Cascades

7-10 p.m. — Adderley Amphitheater — Free entry — Celebrate the New Year with live music, food trucks, and fireworks at Cascades Park.

Anniversary Weekend Celebration

3-10 p.m. — The Hub at Feather Oaks — Free entry — Enjoy live music and delicious food from local food trucks during this festive anniversary weekend.

Plies Live

10:00 – 11:30 PM — The Moon — Ticket prices vary — Experience the electrifying performance of Plies in an intimate setting for an unforgettable night.