The City of Abilene kicked off the Christmas season Tuesday night with the annual Christmas parade. AISD's Revolution Strings performed at City Hall as officials prepared to light the Christmas tree. The events downtown are part of the tradition for many in Abilene like Cory Crawford who’s looking forward to the family time the season brings, “Spend time with my family. We are just going to hang out at the house. My father-in-law is coming. Normally on Christmas Eve, I make stuffed shells and we all just hang out, have a good time, and play games.”
Some people took the opportunity to drop off gifts at the Toys for Tots collection boxes at City Hall. Residents are invited to drop off new, unwrapped toys for kids of all ages through December 13th. Donations can be dropped off at Abilene public libraries as well. The organization will distribute the gifts between December 17th and 20th.