Good morning, Mankato.

Time is running out for community members to support the Holiday Sharing Tree program by picking up gift cards at sites like Riverhills Mall Food Court and Fleet Farm (drop-off deadline is 5 p.m. Sunday) while online donations will fill any shortages.

A Facebook forum for local businesses now has over 17,000 members and helps owners share updates and holiday offers.

Local operators use the group to reach customers quickly + build community visibility across the area.

Minnesota State University will award 1,971 degrees to 1,695 students at two commencement ceremonies set for Saturday at Taylor Center’s Bresnan Arena.

Graduates from several colleges will participate in the 9 a.m. and noon ceremonies as they prepare for the next chapter.

MSU remains a draw for international students despite recent visa challenges.

The university hosted 1,837 international students last fall and has 1,631 enrolled this fall, while junior Bekdoolot Urustemov (from Kyrgyzstan) said the campus exceeded his expectations as officials prepare to welcome more students in January.

Live Music by Dan Duffy Orchestra

6-9 p.m. — Wow! Zone — Enjoy delicious food with captivating swing and Hot Club music.

World Junior Pre-Tournament Game: Switzerland vs Minnesota State

7-9:30 p.m. — Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center — Ticket details not available — Witness a thrilling pre-tournament match between Switzerland and the Mavericks ahead of the World Junior Championship.

IIHF World Junior Championship: Denmark vs Canada

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center — Tickets available — Witness Denmark face off against Canada in this exciting pre-tournament match.

New Year's Eve Celebration at The Venue

7:30 p.m. — The Venue — Check ticket price — Celebrate the New Year with a festive night in Mankato.

January 2026 League Challenge

All day — The Dork Den — $10 entry — Compete in the first League Challenge of 2026 and claim your Pokémon Play Pack and prizes.