A note regarding COVID-19
Upcoming Events in Abilene
Abilene
“America 250”
Jan. 17-Nov. 28
The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St.
The year 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in the United States. The Grace Museum is celebrating this momentous anniversary through an exhibition in the history gallery along with exciting programming throughout the entire year. This includes recognizing the narratives of those who lived here before the founding of the country and those who have weaved into the cultural fabric of our lives today. The exhibition highlights the stories of members of the Abilene community and the surrounding areas, integrating the history of the region into the context of the history of the rest of the country. The exhibition reflects on Abilene’s past and honors the contributions of all Americans.
“Beginnings: Early History of Abilene High School and Lincoln Middle School”
April 4-Nov. 28
The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St.
The Grace Museum presents this exhibition that highlights the early history of Abilene High School and Lincoln Middle School, both formerly located in one of Abilene’s oldest and most significant buildings. Along with narratives about the history of the site, the exhibition includes reproductions of the David S. Castle architectural drawings, historic photographs, and artifacts from the site.
“We’ve Got Spirit: School Pride”
April 4-Nov. 28
The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St.
In connection with The Grace Museum’s “Beginnings” exhibition, this related show highlights clothing and ephemera from Abilene-area junior high and high schools, colleges, and universities.
“All Creatures Great and Small: Selections from the Permanent Collection”
Oct. 17-Feb. 6
The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St.
This exhibit explores the many ways in which animals fascinate and frighten us with their grace, humor, strength, and mystery through art. The artists and the animals that are part of this exhibition challenge us to examine our involvement in the lives of animals in the wild, at home, at play, and at work. They also remind us to be mindful of the animal kingdom and the planet we all share.
“At the Table: Emily LaCour”
Oct. 17-Feb. 20
The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St.
Through the fluidity of her painted relationships and dreamlike environments, Emily LaCour communicates the felt dynamics of relationships that transcend particular spaces. Influenced by her own relationships as part of a family unit and a new mother, she transcribes her personal and observed experiences into paralleling narratives.
“40th Anniversary of Abilene Ballet Theatre’s ‘The Nutcracker’”
Nov. 7-May 8
The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St.
This exhibition celebrates the 40th anniversary of Abilene Ballet Theatre’s stage production of “The Nutcracker” and turns the spotlight on the tireless work of the directors, teachers, dancers, parents, volunteers, stage managers, and dedicated seamstresses. It recounts the history of the production through photographs, performance programs, and oral histories, and highlights the many detailed costumes and set pieces that have been used over the last four decades.
Winter Lightfest
Nov. 28-Dec. 27
Abilene Field of Dreams, 2250 E.N. 10th St.
Winter Lightfest features a 3/4-mile paved walking path that takes visitors through nearly 3 million lights. Enjoy photo ops, meeting Santa, a scavenger hunt, hot chocolate, s’mores, and other festivities.
Downtown Christmas
Dec. 1
Downtown, 555 Walnut St.
Downtown Christmas starts with a number of musical performances and events, along with ongoing downtown shopping opportunities. Later, the 45-foot Christmas tree is lit by Mayor Weldon Hurt, and then the Parade of Lights starts at North First and Pine streets.
Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra Presents “Sinatra Christmas”
Dec. 5
Abilene Convention Center, 1100 N. Sixth St.
Las Vegas icon Steve Lippia brings an uncanny vocal elegance to beloved Christmas classics and signature Sinatra standards during a festive night of sophistication, warmth, and pure joy.
Christmas Celebration at the Abilene Zoo
Dec. 11-23
Abilene Zoo, 2070 Zoo Lane
Enjoy the wonder of the holidays at Christmas Celebration, where you can meet Santa’s magical reindeer, go ice skating, and walk through immersive light displays.
Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra Presents Handel’s “Messiah”
Dec. 13
Paramount Theatre, 352 Cypress St.
Celebrate the holiday season with the Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra as they present Handel’s “Messiah” at the historic Paramount Theatre. This beloved choral masterpiece features the orchestra, talented vocalists, and the Abilene Chamber Singers for an unforgettable evening of music and holiday tradition.
abilenevisitors.com/events/abilene-philharmonic-orchestra-presents-handels-messiah
“Historic Postcards from the Specht Collection”
Dec. 19, 2026-Dec. 11, 2027
The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St.
Postcards have been around since the late 1800s, offering a quick and more inexpensive way to send a note or message to a family member or friend. This exhibition highlights several postcards from the Alice Specht Postcard Collection, which includes over 150 postcards, many of which depict scenes from Abilene and the surrounding areas.
Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra Presents “Generation Rock”
Feb. 6
Abilene Convention Center, 1100 N. Sixth St.
The greatest hits of two iconic decades are brought to life in one unforgettable and electrifying night. Journey, ABBA, The Beatles, Joni Mitchell, Paul Simon, Cher, and more, are represented in a high-energy celebration of nostalgia, classic rock, and pop at its very best.