Good morning, Mankato.

Mankato and North Mankato residents can recycle no-longer-fresh Christmas trees for free at four drop-off sites in Mankato until Jan.

30 and at one North Mankato site open daily until Jan. 5; participants must remove all ornaments, garland, tinsel, lights and tree stands before drop-off.

The Makatoh Reconciliation and Healing Horse-Ride finished its 330-mile trip from South Dakota when it arrived in Mankato on Friday, marking a day of healing (a celebration of unity) for local residents.

DHS agents are in Mankato today with valid credentials; Public Safety says it is not assisting with any operations and is unaware of the agents’ specific duties (residents should call 911 to verify identities).

Local gyms in Mankato are expecting a rush of new members as people pursue New Year’s resolutions and prepare for summer; managers plan to add staff and offer promotions to support an influx in January—ensuring that machines are working and facilities stay clean for everyone.

Faisal Suleman, a first-time homebuyer and Army National Guard member, seeks a three-bedroom house in Mankato (to mow the yard and plow snow) in a tight market with limited listings under $300K.

He has partnered with realtor Erik Jensen as he prepares for deployment next January.

Mankato East and West gymnastics programs are off to strong starts this season, with early meets showing promising routines (sparking local interest in the sport) and disciplined performances.

The Kwik Trip Holiday Basketball Tournament at Bethany Lutheran College started Friday with wins by JWP, Maple River, MVL, and New Ulm.

Semifinals are scheduled for today and the championship and third place games will be held Monday, Dec. 29.

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.

Twins Caravan at Mankato Chevrolet

Noon–2 PM — Mankato Chevrolet — Free to attend — Enjoy lunch and meet special guests including Kris Atteberry.

Northern State Wolves vs. Minnesota State Mankato Mavericks Men's Basketball

5:30-7:10 p.m. — Taylor Center — Ticket prices vary — Watch an exciting men's basketball matchup live from Taylor Center.

Mavericks vs Cougars: Men's and Women's Doubleheader

5:30-7:05 p.m. — Centennial Student Union — VIP tickets available — Catch the thrilling match-up between the Minnesota State Mankato Mavericks and Sioux Falls Cougars in this highly anticipated doubleheader.