Events in McLennan County, TX

The 2026 Prosper Waco Summit will take place at BASE at Extraco Events Center, bringing together community leaders, partners, and change-makers for a program centered on big ideas, meaningful connections, and discussions aimed at moving the community forward. Sponsorship opportunities are available.

Nexus Nights features promos, opportunities to test decks, and a focus on having fun.

The ninth annual HOT Color Run brings a Halloween twist to a colorful community celebration. This public event supports a local cause, with all proceeds benefiting the local cancer society and helping people in the community. Registration is 25 dollars and includes a Color Run shirt, and the first 15 registrants will receive a surprise. Halloween themed activities take place throughout the run. Family, friends, teams, and coworkers are welcome to participate, and a larger turnout increases the overall contribution. Come ready to move, get covered in color, and enjoy the Halloween spirit while supporting a meaningful cause.

Skate Waco Bellmead hosts a kid-focused Halloween skating celebration filled with costumes, candy, games, and prizes. Skaters can show off creative outfits in a costume contest, dive into a big candy grab, team up for a mummy-wrapping challenge, and enjoy carnival games alongside plenty of time on the rink. Admission options include a $15 Skate Pass with skate rental, a $25 All Access Pass that includes admission and skate rental, two slices of pizza, a drink, and a $10 arcade game card, and a $5 non-skating adult option that includes a drink. This is a special event, so regular passes, memberships, and coupons are not accepted.

Hallelujah Night offers a family friendly celebration at Faith Walk Church centered on faith, fellowship, and fun. Enjoy a trunk or treat, casual games, and time to connect with others. Complimentary hot dogs, popcorn, and drinks are available, with all activities and refreshments provided by Faith Walk at no cost. The event welcomes all ages and is designed for an easygoing evening of community and seasonal cheer.

At Austin Avenue Methodist Church, this yearly Trunk or Treat offers a whole evening of safe, family friendly Halloween festivities. Attendees can make it a quick stop during the night or stay for the duration, and it is open to everyone.

In Waco, the Halfway Home Tour brings We Are Messengers to the stage for a night centered on the ongoing walk of faith, featuring heartfelt songs like Come What May and Wholehearted. Select dates on the tour also include Andrew Ripp with favorites such as Fill My Cup and Jericho, and Allison Eide with Love Who I Am, and the lineup may change. A limited number of VIP tickets are available and include early entry, a pre-show Q&A with We Are Messengers, and a VIP laminate. VIP arrival requirements apply, late arrivals may forfeit the Q&A, and VIP tickets are nonrefundable. To ensure valid tickets at face value, purchase only through the official ticketing partner and beware of resellers. Resale comments may be removed.

An overnight gaming lock-in at Nexus welcomes all ages for a full night of play. Admission is $20. Enjoy party games and tournaments as the action carries on until morning. Entry includes pizza and access to games for the entire night, creating a lively, marathon-style experience.

Queer Coffee offers a relaxed space to connect over drinks at Cha Community. Settle in for conversation and fellowship while you sip a coffee, try boba, or enjoy a snack from the menu.

Waco Teen Connect offers a relaxed hangout with a few games at Bitty & Beau's Coffee in Waco. It is open to ages 13 to 17, and parents are required to stay on site. The goal is to meet other teens and have fun, and it is not intended to be therapeutic. The group meets on the first Sunday of every month. An RSVP list is available to help organizers better support participants, and a contact email is provided for questions or resource needs.

Ridgewood Country Club hosts the 29th annual golf tournament with check-in followed by lunch, then play begins with a shotgun start. Registration is open.

Saddle up for a benefit trail ride at Reynolds Creek Equestrian Park in support of TETRA. Suggested donations are $30 for members and $40 for non members, and riders 18 and under participate at no cost with a paying riding adult. Day riders are welcome for $20 per day, and non riders who would like to join the meal times are $10. Plan to arrive early to complete registration. An appetizer mixer will kick things off, followed by a community potluck dinner the next evening. Meat, drinks and paper goods are provided for the potluck, and participants are invited to bring a favorite appetizer to share. No other meals are provided. Primitive camping is complimentary for this ride, and horse water will be available. Please keep pen setups small. A limited number of sites with electricity, water and pens are offered for $25 per night. Confirm an RV site before registering. Payment can be made online, by mail or on site, with checks preferred for on site registration. If plans change, cancellations receive a credit toward a future ride, and refunds are available with a 10 percent administrative fee. Guided rides are scheduled in the mornings, with an additional afternoon option, and riders may also head out on their own. Dogs must stay leashed at camp and are not allowed on the trails. A silent auction will be held and will close after the potluck dinner, and donated items are welcome. Please do not rely on GPS for directions. If you are feeling ill, please stay home.

During the citywide First Friday celebration, 7th Street in Downtown Waco comes alive with live performances, local vendors, and familiar faces. The block showcases a blend of music, art, and small businesses, creating a place for neighbors, friends, and creatives to reconnect. Visitors can shop with local vendors, catch a performance, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere. It is welcoming for all ages and offers a shared slice of Waco to experience together.

This One Piece EB-05 release celebration at Northstar Games centers on a Heroines Battle featuring heroine leader cards only. Participants bring a constructed deck that follows this rule, showcase a favorite heroine leader, and compete for exclusive rewards. Entry is $30, and the player cap is 16. All players receive one EB03-006 Nami, and the winner takes a WINNER stamped alternate art EB03-006 Nami. Extra prizing may scale with attendance, and duck races are planned for giveaways.

Held in a modern classroom at Republic Gun Club, this hunter safety course is designed for ages 9 to 17, and adults may attend. The fee is $20 per student, paid directly to the instructor by cash, Venmo, or PayPal. The instructor will submit payment to TPWD on the student’s behalf, so do not pay through the TPWD registration website. Students younger than 12 are encouraged to have a parent or guardian present for the classroom portion. Parents or guardians who accompany a student do not need to register unless they also need the certification, and anyone seeking certification, including minors, must register individually. A lunch break is included, and participants may bring snacks, drinks, and a meal or visit nearby dining options. Some activities occur outdoors, so please bring weather appropriate clothing. For additional information, contact Ray Bottenfield at Republic Gun Club at (254) 307-4867 or Training@RepublicGunClub.com.

This monthly Ride with the GM centers on a ride alongside Matt Johnson from Harley-Davidson of Waco.

This event honors the individuals, initiatives, and collaborations that make Goodwill’s mission possible. Tickets and table reservations are available.

Bass Pro Shops honors Veterans with a dedicated breakfast that brings them together to connect and share their stories. One attendee will take home a Land of the Free Swag set.

Experience acoustic music performed live.

Bill and Phil are back at The Will with a high-energy show that trades quiet for singalongs, laughter, and plenty of dancing. Audience participation is part of the experience, with interactive moments that keep the room engaged. It is the kind of night made for groups of friends, hearty appetites, and cold drinks, all wrapped in a loud, celebratory atmosphere. Whether you already know the duo or you are seeing them for the first time, expect an upbeat performance that keeps the fun going.

Experience the thrill of the H-E-B Cameron Park Zoo Stampede at Cameron Park Zoo, where the jaguar takes center stage as the featured animal representative. Known for explosive bursts of speed that can reach up to 50 mph, this powerful big cat inspires runners to channel strength, agility, and speed while tackling the course. Jaguars are the only members of the Panthera genus native to the Americas and are the third-largest big cats in the world, behind tigers and lions. Often mistaken for leopards, they can be distinguished by larger, more complex rosette-shaped spots that frequently include a dot in the center. Their range stretches from the Southwestern United States through Mexico and Central America, deep into the Amazon rainforest, and as far south as Paraguay and northern Argentina. Excellent swimmers and skilled ambush predators, they embody speed, stealth, and strength. Registration is limited to 875 runners. Early registration guarantees a race spot and includes a commemorative race t-shirt and finisher medal.

Honor the Waco Tennis Association’s 100th anniversary with a lively day of tennis activities, food, and prize giveaways. This event is free and welcomes participants of all ages and skill levels.

Community members can pick up fresh fruits and vegetables, pantry goods, and more at a food distribution that takes place at Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church - Downsville. No personal details are requested. Please bring bags or boxes so you can transport items safely. Supplies are limited and will be given out in the order of arrival to support neighbors seeking access to nutritious food.

Presented by the Anna Cheri Foundation, Cowboys, Cowgirls & Casino Night brings an evening of entertainment to the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum. The event features BBQ, games, giveaways and more, with the goal of raising funds for adoptions.

Gain essential hunter education in a classroom at Republic Gun Club. The course is intended for ages 9 to 17, and adults are welcome to attend. For participants younger than twelve, a parent or guardian is encouraged to sit in on the academic portion, as the material may be challenging for younger learners. Parents or guardians accompanying a student do not need to register unless they also require certification. Anyone who needs certification, including minors, must register individually. The fee is $20 per student, payable directly to the instructor by cash, Venmo, or PayPal. Please do not submit payment through the TPWD registration website, as the instructor will handle payment to TPWD on each student's behalf. There will be a lunch break. Students may bring snacks, drinks, and lunch, or visit nearby eateries. Part of the instruction takes place outdoors, so bring clothing suited to the weather. For additional information, contact Ray Bottenfield at Republic Gun Club at (254) 307-4867 or Training@RepublicGunClub.com.

The Turkey Shuffle is a festive fall run hosted by Bigfoot Running Company at Indian Springs Park, celebrating cooler weather and changing leaves with routes through local parks and greenbelts. Participants can choose the Kids Dash, 1 mile, 5K, or 10K, making it a good fit for a wide range of ages and experience levels. A Thanksgiving themed costume contest offers the Biggest Turkey trophy and a prize package that includes two entries to future races, a gift card, and a Bigfoot Running Company swag pack. Expect Bigfoot favorites such as finisher medals, event shirts, an energetic team, live awards, music from a DJ, and a lively finish line celebration. Youth pricing is available, with runners 12 and under able to enter the 5K or 10K for $15. A $20 refund is available when five friends are referred, and group discounts increase with larger teams. Race day includes packet pickup, the Kids Dash, the National Anthem ahead of the start, and awards and results available at the registration tent.

Short-legged speedsters take center stage as a dachshund-only derby returns to The Will of Waco, with three race days of friendly competition and plenty of cheers. Entry carries no fee, and only dachshunds are eligible to race to keep things fair. Prizes await the first, second, and third place finishers, and the atmosphere leans playful with fast sprints and lots of laughter from the crowd. Families and friends are welcome to watch, and dogs can tag along as companions, while only the weenies line up at the start.

Waco-McLennan Public Health is hosting a Carter BloodCare blood drive focused on meeting the constant need for blood. Every two seconds someone requires blood, and that need often arises close to home. Healthy, eligible individuals can book an appointment to donate and make a lifesaving difference in the community. Donors receive a plush blanket with each donation while supplies last.

The OCOF Opportunity & Transition-Aged Youth (OTAY) Subcommittee hosts public meetings that provide a welcoming space to connect, share updates, and collaborate on building stronger support for youth and young adults ages 16 to 24. These gatherings invite providers, parents, youth advocates, and anyone who wants to stay informed or contribute ideas. OCOF centers community input in its work, and participant perspectives help shape ongoing priorities. Meetings occur every other month, typically on the fourth Wednesday of odd-numbered months. For accessibility needs or specific accommodations, contact the OCOF System of Care Coordinator at hello@ocof-hot.org.

A free seminar at West Waco Library & Genealogy Center offers clear guidance for anyone nearing Medicare eligibility, newly enrolled, or helping a spouse or parent navigate the program. Expect straightforward explanations of Parts A, B, C, and D, the differences between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage, how enrollment periods and penalties work, common myths and mistakes to avoid, and how to choose coverage that matches specific healthcare needs. This is an educational session only with no sales presentation. Seating is limited, and registration is required. Hosted by Jason Henderson of Cover6 Financial.

Next Stop Comedy presents a stand-up showcase at Hotel Herringbone in Waco, featuring a rotating roster of comedians with television credits and popular podcast appearances. Each show offers a fresh lineup, bringing lively performances to a local stage.

This event features live acoustic music.

Marking fifteen years of Food + Farming, the Waco Downtown Farmers Market presents a celebration that honors the growers, artisans, and supporters who have gathered since 2011. The day features an expanded slate of vendors, seasonal harvest favorites, and handcrafted goods rooted in Central Texas. Anniversary activities include tastings of local fare, vendor highlights, and commemorative giveaways. A sponsorship celebration shares how community support strengthens Food Access Programs, infrastructure, and the market's mission for the years ahead. Alongside the festivities, it remains the familiar market experience of shopping local, picking up fresh produce and meats, meeting neighbors, and enjoying a welcoming community spirit. The story of "15 Years of Food + Farming" is revisited while looking ahead to the market's future.

McLennan County Master Gardeners present a monthly educational booth at the Waco Downtown Farmers Market, offering a friendly space for garden-minded conversations and learning. This appearance includes a special date change tied to the market’s 15th anniversary.

Studio 4.15 hosts Waco’s Premier Santa for a festive meet and greet where children can slow down, share their holiday wishes, and enjoy a warm, holiday setting. Every child will have personal time with Santa, can leave a letter for him, and will head home with a goodie bag that includes a personalized name ornament, two cookies, a letter to write to Santa, and reindeer food for Christmas Eve. Advance reservations are required, and each reserved time slot accommodates up to three children. Families with more than three children should book an additional slot. Two photo experiences are available. Choose a five minute private visit while capturing as many photos as you like on your own device, or select a five minute private visit with at least 15 professionally edited images from the in-house photographer, with the option to purchase more. The event also features local pop-up vendors offering sweets, children’s clothing, Christmas pajamas, holiday treats, and more. Donations will be collected for the 3rd Annual Toy Drive, and new, unwrapped toys will be shared with a child in need this Christmas season.

Texas Tech travels to Waco for a Big 12 matchup with Baylor at McLane Stadium. With the season in its closing stretch, bowl positioning and bragging rights raise the stakes. The setting is known for a loud, intimate feel along the Brazos River, and these familiar conference opponents are poised for a contest filled with on-the-fly adjustments, explosive moments, and shifting momentum.

Multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated pianist Jim Brickman takes the stage at the Waco Hippodrome in Waco, TX with a live concert that blends his hallmark piano style with stories, lighthearted moments, and a touch of Christmas. The evening features favorites from his catalog, including “Valentine” and “The Gift,” presented alongside holiday selections for a warm, festive program.

A community donation drive at The Will is gathering support for Isaiah 117 House of McLennan County, which serves children and teens who have just been removed from their homes for their safety. Many arrive with very few personal items, so the focus is on meeting immediate needs and offering comfort. The drive welcomes brand new items for children and teens, including pajamas, everyday clothing such as jeans, underwear, socks, and shoes, along with toiletries and hygiene products. Sturdy bags or duffel bags are needed so belongings can be carried with dignity, and comfort items and new toys are also encouraged. Gift cards and monetary contributions are appreciated. Every contribution helps provide essentials and reassurance during a challenging transition, showing each child that their community cares.

An overnight gaming lock-in at Nexus features party games, tournaments, and a full night of play for all ages. Admission is $20 and includes free pizza plus access to games throughout the night. Expect a lively, social atmosphere with opportunities to team up, compete, and keep the fun going from the first match to the last.

OCOF Community Partners meetings welcome all who care about building a stronger, more supportive community for children, youth, and families. These gatherings take place every other month, usually on the first Wednesday of even-numbered months, and offer time to connect across sectors, share updates, and collaborate on shared goals. Community voice guides the work. Attendance is open to providers, parents, youth advocates, and anyone who wants to stay informed. A virtual option is available through Microsoft Teams. If accommodations are needed, contact the OCOF System of Care Coordinator to discuss accessibility needs.

Celebrate the season at Camp Fimfo Waco with festive weekend activities for all ages. Enjoy a Christmas party full of fun and laughter. Deck out your ride for a golf cart decorating contest followed by a parade through the park. Show your creativity in a site decorating contest, then cap it off with a special visit from Santa that brings extra magic to the whole family. Activities are held on weekends only, so be sure to check the schedule before booking.

A live acoustic performance will take place at Encore Restaurant, Lounge & Rooftop Bar in Waco, TX.

Hosted in a modern classroom at Republic Gun Club, this Texas Youth Hunter Safety Course provides instruction for young participants while welcoming adults as well. The fee is 20 dollars per student and is paid directly to the instructor by cash, Venmo, or PayPal. Do not submit payment through the TPWD registration site, as the instructor forwards the TPWD fee for each student. The course is geared toward ages 9 to 17, with adults invited to attend. Learners under twelve are strongly encouraged to have a parent or guardian present for the classroom portion. Parents or guardians who accompany a student do not need to register unless they also need certification, and anyone seeking certification, including minors, must register individually. A lunch break is included. Participants may bring snacks, drinks, and a packed lunch or visit nearby eateries. Plan for changing conditions by wearing weather appropriate clothing, since part of the class takes place outdoors.

Jake Worthington performs live at the Backyard in Waco, TX as part of his Intent to Tonk Tour.

The Texas Elvis Festival returns to the Waco Convention Center for five days dedicated to the life, legacy, and music of Elvis Presley. The lineup features 15 Elvis Tribute Artists, including Donny Edwards, Cody Slaughter, Cote Deonath, Jimmy Holmes, Vic Trevino, Bill Cherry, Moses Snow, Emilio Santoro, Vince King, Riley Jenkins, Alex Mitchell, Al Joslin, Kraig Parker, Finley Watkins, and Braxton Sykes. Performances are backed by the Infinit-E Band and hosted by Tom Brown. The festival includes six stage productions, special guests, and late-night events, with more announcements to come.

An annual Holiday Market brightens downtown Waco as the Waco Downtown Farmers Market becomes a festive marketplace. Browse distinctive gifts from local artists and makers, pick up seasonal produce and fresh baked goods for the holiday table, and enjoy warm drinks in a cheerful atmosphere. Every purchase supports Central Texas farmers, ranchers, and small businesses, so holiday shopping also strengthens the community.

Enjoy a live, acoustic performance at Slowrise on the Brazos in Waco, TX.

At the Waco Hippodrome, William Lee Martin & Friends present a festive Red Dirt Comedy Christmas variety show filled with laughs and holiday cheer. The evening features the comedic talents of MJ Moody and includes a surprise musical guest, blending stand-up, sketch comedy, and seasonal music into one lively program. Celebrated as a distinctive holiday tradition, it brings comedy and music together for a spirited night in Waco.

Build solid 25 meter rifle skills at a Project Appleseed marksmanship and heritage clinic at Central Texas Rifle And Pistol Club in Waco. Instruction centers on core fundamentals using .22 rimfire only, and it welcomes both newcomers and experienced shooters. Between range sessions, stories from the earliest days of the American Revolution are shared to connect marksmanship with American heritage. The clinic spans two days, with most key skills introduced on Saturday. If you plan to attend only on Sunday, efforts will be made to help you catch up. Please arrive early for check-in so activities can begin as scheduled. Lunch takes place on-site, so bring a meal. A range fee of $10 per day applies. There are no refunds, however transfers are available. Your confirmation email includes guidance on how to prepare, and preparation questions can be posted on the event page. Use the tickets link for pricing details and any available discounts.

The program centers on an unplugged set built around acoustic instruments. A straightforward performance that keeps the focus on the music.

Learn essential hunter safety skills in a modern classroom setting at Republic Gun Club. The course is geared to participants ages 9 to 17, and adults may attend as well. Children younger than twelve should have a parent or guardian sit in for the classroom portion to help with the material. Parents or guardians who are only accompanying a student do not need to sign up unless they also want the certification, and every person who needs to be certified must register separately. The fee is $20 per student, paid directly to the instructor by cash, Venmo, or PayPal. The instructor will submit the TPWD payment on the student’s behalf, so do not pay through the TPWD registration site. Some portions of the class take place outdoors, so bring clothing suited to the weather. Students may bring snacks, drinks, and a packed lunch, or they can visit nearby eateries during the break. For additional information, contact Ray Bottenfield at (254) 307-4867 or Training@RepublicGunClub.com.

As the year draws to a close, this free community gathering offers a gentle space to reflect on what no longer serves and to let it go with intention. The gathering begins indoors with warm tea and a brief reading about release. Participants are invited to write down what they are ready to set aside, then carry those words to the fire and offer them to the flames. Fire is embraced as a symbol of transformation, clearing what feels heavy and amplifying personal intentions through the support of community. Tea will be served, and the apothecary will be open before and after. Registration is required, and attendance is limited to adults. The event takes place rain or shine, with a fireplace indoors available if needed. Arrive ready to set down what you do not wish to carry into the new year and to step forward feeling lighter.

Listen to an acoustic set performed live.

Celebrate the arrival of 2026 with a family friendly weekend filled with activities and cheer. The festivities include a New Year party for all ages, trivia focused on 2026 that lets families test their knowledge, and quick one minute challenges to kick off the year. Enjoy plenty of laughs, spirited games, and memory making moments.

Celebrate the New Year with an overnight lock-in at Nexus, open to all ages. Enjoy party games, friendly tournaments, and hours of nonstop play. Entry is $20 and includes free pizza and free games for an all-night gaming celebration.