Good morning, Jackson.

On Monday night, 400 foster children received brand new shoes, a hat, and books at the Mississippi Children’s Museum during the 10th annual Kicks for Kids event.

The program was a community effort by Fondren Church (partnered with Swell-O-Phonic and the state).

New restaurants are sparking growth downtown as Just Vanilla Coffee Bar opens in Regions Plaza while Taste of the Island Caribbean scales up and Boondocks starts in Belhaven.

Downtown Jackson Partners’ President Liz Brister says more changes will come in six to nine months.

Legendary singer Bob Dylan will perform at Thalia Mara Hall at 8 p.m. Apr.

25 (tickets go on sale Dec. 12).

Jackson hosted its annual holiday parade where families watched flashy floats, marching bands, and Santa and Mrs. Claus appear downtown.

Dr. Robert Smith served as Grand Marshal while Musical Expressions Experience made its parade debut.

Mississippi timber mills and landowners face challenges as the EU deforestation rule takes effect immediately, lowering timber prices and adding new contract restrictions.

Agriculture Commissioner Andy Gipson said local businesses are adjusting practices + preparing to push back against these overseas mandates.

Barry White (a longtime preservation leader) has been named the new director of the Archives and History department; he will begin transitioning early next year to replace Katie Blount, who remains until July 1.

Therapist Jill McVan and mental health advocate Christiane McCarty advise residents to seek help if seasonal depression limits daily tasks — affecting work, church, or self-care.

They also stress community volunteering can help lift spirits during the holidays.

Wise Carter and the American Heart Association donated an Automatic External Defibrillator to the Mississippi Basketball and Athletics Foundation in North Jackson to enhance youth safety.

CEO Jeffery Lewis said the foundation will train staff on proper use.

Ole Miss is set to host No. 11 Tulane in its first-ever College Football Playoff game on Dec.

20. The Rebels remain at No. 6 and are led by new head coach Pete Golding — keeping most of their offensive staff from last season.

Jackson State lost 23-21 to Prairie View A&M in Saturday's SWAC Championship, ending their hopes for a consecutive title; Prairie View, winning its first conference title since 2009, now prepares for the Celebration Bowl with South Carolina State.

Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl in Jackson

4:30-9 p.m. — Library Lounge — 25% OFF with code UGLY25 — Don your ugliest sweater and enjoy a festive night of drinks and holiday cheer in Downtown Jackson.

Liam St. John Live Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Tickets $25.30 ($30.45 day of) — Experience an evening of blues and rock with 'The Voice' contestant Liam St. John.

Chess Class at Alexander Library

4-6:30 p.m. — Margaret Walker Alexander Library — Free entry — Explore the fundamentals and strategies of chess in a friendly environment.

Santa Zoo Station

10 a.m.–1 p.m. — The Jackson Zoo — Timed tickets required — A festive holiday extravaganza filled with crafting, photos with Santa, and family fun awaits.

HEADCANNON Live Performance

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Hal & Mal's — $15 — Experience an electrifying night with HEADCANNON and friends, featuring a unique tattoo pop-up.

Cecily Wilborn Live Concert

7-10:30 p.m. — Mississippi Coliseum — Tickets available — Experience a Southern Soul party with music and dance in Jackson.

Happy Landing Live Performance

8-9:30 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Ticket prices vary — Experience an energetic folk rock concert from the rising band hailing from Oxford, Mississippi.