Good morning, Fargo.

Today, community members gathered outside the downtown branch of the Fargo Public Library to light a menorah led by Rabbi Yonah Grossman from the Chabad Jewish Center while sharing traditional Hanukkah songs and foods.

Local law enforcement increased patrols + boosted security + to help ensure a safe celebration amid global tensions.

Ken’s FM, a local station that began in 2012 (and went off-air when its founder passed away), is streaming online as the family accepts donations to bring it back to the airwaves while preserving its mix of alternative and indie music.

Travelers checking in for holiday flights should plan for high volumes as TSA advises arriving early for morning flights and allowing extra time for additional screening if using non-REAL IDs (the most common alternate is a passport), with next Tuesday expected to be particularly busy.

North Dakota Health and Human Services reported that influenza and RSV cases have tripled since last week and are expected to rise through December.

Health experts advise getting vaccinated, washing hands, and covering coughs (simple steps to slow spread).

Coach Karla Nelson told MSUM women’s basketball players that they must improve their defense and mature faster during crunch time.

The weekly conversation with reporter James McCarty emphasized the need to refine their play.

MSUM men’s basketball senior forward Sam Hastreiter spoke with Big Game James McCarty on December 17 about his confident start to the season + helping newcomers adjust to Dragon basketball.

His comments illustrated his leadership in easing the transition for new players at MSUM.

MSUM men’s basketball head coach Jason Kemp said the team must improve its defense after a tough road trip last weekend — he emphasized practicing key defensive drills this week to boost performance in upcoming games.

Kevin Marshall, host of FCS Nation, joined Big Game James McCarty and Jace Denman on December 17 to review the road to the FCS semifinals and discuss what the teams will bring this weekend, offering local insights for Fargo fans.

Post-Traumatic Funk Syndrome’s Have Yourself a Funky Little Christmas!

Post-Traumatic Funk Syndrome’s Have Yourself a Funky Little Christmas! returns to the Sanctuary Events Center on Friday, December 19 — a beloved Fargo holiday tradition powered by their iconic 12-piece horn band and festive, feel-good classics. If you can't make it to Friday, don't worry; they bring the groove back for a second night on Saturday, December 20.

Christmas Pop-up Painting Party

6-9 PM — THE ART BAR — Pre-registration required — Paint an adorable 'Christmas Highland Cow' with a community group on a 16x20 canvas.

Gnome Craft Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Unglued Craftatorium at Brewhalla — Registration required — Create your own festive gnome while learning about Norwegian folklore in a fun crafting experience.

Stained Glass Mosaic Gnome Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Unglued Craftatorium — Costs vary — Create colorful stained glass mosaic gnomes in this hands-on art class.

2025 Essentia Health West Fargo Winter Classic

10 a.m. — Essentia Health Plaza — Check event details for entry fees — Experience thrilling competition as top teams from North Dakota and Minnesota battle it out in the Winter Classic.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve

3-5 p.m. — FARGODOME — Tickets on sale starting September 12 — Experience the spectacular holiday fusion of rock and classical with a tribute to Beethoven's Last Night.

Fargo Force vs Lincoln Stars

6:05-7:35 p.m. — Scheels Arena — Cost info not provided — Catch the thrilling hockey action between the Fargo Force and Lincoln Stars on FloHockey.

Hygge Charm Jewelry Workshop

6-12 p.m. — Unglued Craftatorium — Ticket required — Create a cozy charm necklace or bracelet while embracing the Danish concept of hygge.

Nice Boy Haircut Concert

9:30 p.m. – 1:30 a.m. — Dempsey's Public House — Free entry — Enjoy a polished, high-energy cover band that keeps the dance floor moving all night long.

Lunch Hour Creativity Practice with Soulful Creations

11:30 a.m. — Brewhalla - Market / Events / Hotel — Ticket required — Engage in a relaxing creative process during lunch and rejuvenate your soul.

Gate City Bank to Open New Location, Bringing First Bank to Horace, N.D.

Gate City Bank, the region’s leading financial institution and the #1 mortgage lender in North Dakota, is expanding into Horace. The first full-service bank planned for the community, the new location is expected to open in spring 2027.