Good morning, Kalamazoo.

After eight years of service, the food pantry at Milwood United Methodist Church closed on Friday after its final distribution; the closure came when federal funding ended—this may increase pressure on nearby pantries.

Today at 11 a.m., the annual Maple Hill Holiday Parade begins in downtown Kalamazoo with a record 110 entrants (including community groups, marching bands, and giant balloons) as roads close at 10:30 a.m.; afterwards, families can enjoy free photos with Santa, craft activities, and interactive events until 3 p.m.

Texas Township hosted its third annual tree lighting and maker's market on November 15 with live music, food, vendors, and a visit from Santa.

Organizers said the event brought the community together—demonstrating a festive spirit and local pride.

On Nov. 28, Kalamazoo will host its annual tree lighting ceremony at Bronson Park, where live music, food trucks, vendors, and family activities begin at 5 p.m. The tree will be lit at 5:45 p.m.—with Mayor David Anderson and City Commissioners leading a festive reading—followed by seasonal performances and a Holly Jolly Trolley ride.

Last night, Edison Academy hosted the Kalamazoo Public Schools board meeting where Superintendent Darrin Slade said the district will hold two more meetings this year and teacher Julie McDonald explained how teachers are trained to use a program called Capturing Kid’s Hearts—an Excel-driven strategy that boosts student engagement and improves behavior, attendance and teacher retention. The meeting also marked the start of the third year at the new Lake Street building.

A Very Kalamazoo Christmas

2-5 p.m. — Farmers Alley Theatre — Tickets available — Enjoy a hilarious holiday rom-com parody featuring local charm and wit.

Kalamazoo Wings vs. Fort Wayne Komets

5-8 p.m. — Wings Event Center — Free LED bracelet — Celebrate Wicked Night with a magical hockey experience featuring a painted ice theme.

KAR Turkey Trot Time Prediction Run

2-3 p.m. — Portage, MI — Family-friendly event — Celebrate Thanksgiving with a fun time-prediction run for all ages.

A Very Kalamazoo Christmas

7:30 p.m. — Farmers Alley Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a satirical holiday comedy that blends local humor with festive cheer.

Jerico Faire

11 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Jerico — Free entry — Celebrate local artistry with handmade goods and unique creations from Michigan's makers.

A Very Kalamazoo Christmas

2:00 – 3:30 PM — Farmers Alley Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a satirical holiday rom-com that brings local humor and charm to the stage.

A Christmas Carol

8-10 p.m. — The New Vic Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience Dickens’ warm tale of redemption and the spirit of Christmas this holiday season.

A Very Kalamazoo Christmas

Dec 5, 7:30 p.m. — Farmers Alley Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a festive comedic take on holiday rom-coms with local charm and humor.

A Carpenters' Christmas Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Miller Auditorium — $46.56 — Celebrate the season with a tribute concert featuring the beloved Christmas songs of the Carpenters.

A Very Kalamazoo Christmas

2-8 p.m. — Farmers Alley Theatre — Ticket prices vary — A holiday rom-com parody that delivers laughs and local humor just in time for the festive season.