Good morning, Mankato.

Three local women left a $500 tip for Pub 500 server Lexxi Pickell this afternoon, giving her extra help during a challenging time.

Their act aims to inspire holiday giving & encourages neighbors to check in on one another.

Eagle Lake Youth will host a craft fair this Friday from 6pm to 8pm at Eagle Lake City Hall — over 20 youth crafters will sell handmade items while learning business skills by setting their own prices.

The annual memorial horse ride will begin with a downtown parade in New Ulm at noon on Dec.

24 and finish with a ceremony at Reconciliation Park in Mankato on Dec. 26 — marking shared history and healing among the communities.

Mankato Area Public Schools approved a plan to convert two Eagle Lake Elementary classrooms into child care spaces for independent operators.

The project, estimated at $1.18 million (cost includes renovations) and scheduled for spring and summer 2026, will proceed after the district receives proposals.

Brown County Heartland Express in New Ulm will use FTA funds from MnDOT's $4.4m Low and No Emissions grant to purchase two propane buses and build fueling infrastructure for rural transit as MnDOT manages nearly $13.5m in federal funding for transit projects.

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.

Bemidji State Beavers vs Minnesota State Mankato Mavericks Men's Basketball

3:30-5:00 p.m. — Centennial Student Union — Ticket prices vary — Catch the exciting matchup between the Beavers and Mavericks on the court.