Good morning, Huntsville.

Downtown Rescue Mission will help hundreds of families this Thanksgiving with their Turkey Box Drive.

The drive will run tomorrow from 9 to 11 and from 1 to 3 — vouchers have been distributed, and service is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Six Huntsville locals shared what they are thankful for this year, highlighting support from family, friends & local leaders in their work and daily lives.

Their reflections show that strong community ties help the area grow and keep it a warm, welcoming place to live.

Food City in Huntsville hosted its first celebrity bagging event to support United Way and raise funds for children’s books through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library + local celebrities helped draw community attention to the cause.

North Carolina-based defense technology company DuoTech will open a new 25,000-square-foot operations center in Thornton Research Park in spring to support military electronics repair and add 50 new jobs.

The move highlights Huntsville’s strong defense industry and skilled workforce—fostering local growth in high-tech business.

Financial expert Jay McGowan from The Welch Group shared strategies for enjoying the holiday season without overspending.

He advised careful budgeting—tips that can help families manage expenses during the festive time.

Thanksgiving travel has kicked off as roadways and airports gear up for the busiest holiday in 15 years.

Alabama troopers and airport staff urge travelers to plan ahead—checking vehicles and arriving early to avoid delays.

North Alabama hospitals are asking residents to donate blood ahead of Thanksgiving because supplies are low — LifeSouth's Becky Cecil said.

Hospitals will meet increased demand during the holiday as shortages continue.

The Hall family in Meridianville has launched a fundraiser to help their daughter Vivian (12) get a diabetic alert dog through Huntsville-based Dylan's Dogs for Diabetes; the service dog, which costs between ($8,000 and $20,000) including training, will alert her to dangerous blood sugar changes.

The Rocket City Marathon announced that 5,100 athletes will run in December’s race weekend in partnership with Huntsville Hospital Foundation — a record turnout set to support hospital programs.

WAAY 31 will broadcast Big Game Friday Night at 10:15 p.m. Friday, November 28, featuring North Alabama high school playoff matchups—Clay-Chalkville at Muscle Shoals, Amoody at Scottsboro, Anniston at Plainview, Apiedmont at Mars Hill, and Acoosa Christian at Pisgah.

32nd Annual Turkey Trot 5K

8:00 AM – 10:30 PM — The University of Alabama in Huntsville — Registration open — Kick off Thanksgiving with family and friends while supporting crisis services.

Quad City Storm vs Huntsville Havoc

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Propst Arena — Check the streaming options for a thrilling hockey match between Quad City Storm and Huntsville Havoc.

Ditto Landing 10K

8 a.m.–12 p.m. — Ditto Landing — Entry fee required — Participate in a scenic 10K run benefiting local scholarships for Huntsville students.

Trail Care: Harvest Square

9 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Harvest Square Nature Preserve — Volunteer opportunity — Help maintain the trails with no experience required and enjoy the great outdoors.

Pancakes with the Grinch at the North Pole

9 a.m. — Dave & Buster's Huntsville — $10+ — Enjoy a festive breakfast banquet and games with the Grinch in a magical holiday atmosphere.

Huntsville Havoc vs. Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs

5-6:30 p.m. — Propst Arena — Streaming available — Watch the Havoc take on the Rail Yard Dawgs in an exciting hockey matchup.

Holiday Magic 2025

6 p.m. — Burritt on the Mountain — $150 per person — Experience an enchanting holiday dinner with gourmet meals and festive performances at the historic site.

Phat Sammy's Phusion Comedy Open Mic

9-11 p.m. — Phat Sammy's — Free entry — Enjoy a night of laughter with local comedians hosted by Branden Willis and Alex Zee.

Bollywood Dance Class

6:15-7:15 p.m. — Saturn Jive Dance Space — $15, $10 for students — Experience the vibrant and energetic world of Bollywood dance combining traditional and modern styles.

Laser Holidays at Campus 805

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Campus 805 — $10 — Experience a dazzling holiday laser show accompanied by festive music and stunning visuals.