Good morning, Hattiesburg.

The Salvation Army ended its annual Red Kettle campaign today by encouraging residents to donate funds at local drop-off points.

The fundraiser highlighted community support during the holiday season.

On Christmas Eve, Ms. Audrey's at Southgate Freedom Plaza served free soup, chili & jambalaya to locals in honor of owner Deborah Barnes's son Devonte, and she announced Devonte’s Tree of Hope to help kids and seniors each month.

Laurel-Hattiesburg airport is in the midst of its holiday season with festive decorations and planned events for arriving travelers.

Officials say the updates will boost local cheer and offer a warm welcome to passengers.

Miriam Bowden, a Delta transplant, is renovating the storied Onward Store along U.S. 61 in Rolling Fork as she plans to open a deli featuring local classics by year's end.

She aims to transform the venue into a community hub that will display regional goods and local blues history (including ties to Muddy Waters) to support nearby business owners.

Dozens of holiday travelers flew in and out of Hattiesburg-Laurel Regional Airport on Christmas Eve despite delays from heavy fog affecting United Airlines flights — Airlines for America estimates over 52 million people are traveling this season.

Smith County Hospital treated about 3,000 patients during its first year of service as it met local healthcare needs + the facility continues to expand its community care programs.

WDAM 7 launches its holiday sports programming today with college football, NBA basketball and winter sports events on NBC 7.1, ABC 7.2, and Gulf Coast Sports and Entertainment Network; the schedule runs through Dec.

28 with games, pregame shows and postgame wrap-ups.

Hattiesburg Renaissance Festival

12:00 – 11:30 p.m. — SwitchYard — $15 – $20 — Experience the magic of medieval celebration with crafts, music, and festivities in the heart of Hattiesburg.

Vision Board Party: Vision and Vibes Social

12-3 a.m. — 101 Shadow Lake Dr, Hattiesburg, MS — Included with ticket — Connect with like-minded individuals while creating vision boards and enjoying poetry vibes and food.