Good morning, Corpus Christi.

Saucy Mama’s is open at 4117 S.

Staples St. as Pam Chavez transforms the former Sam and Louie’s into her personal pizza haven—she introduces signature pies like the Honeyfire and Seoul Kiss that blend global flavors with a healthful twist.

On New Year's Day, some Corpus Christi grocery stores and meat markets will open for shoppers.

Asian Market (1–9 p.m.), Island Market Grocery (8 a.m.–10 p.m.), Prescott, QC and Staples Street Meat Markets plus Walmart will operate, while others including Natural Grocers, Champ’s, Moody’s and Sam's Club will be closed.

The stilt cabins on the Laguna Madre are treasured local landmarks steeped in history — weathered boards tell stories of generations of fishermen, families and guides gathering during quiet mornings as the new year begins.

Corpus Christi's historic Ritz Theatre is set for restoration as new executive director Arthur Seago leads pre-construction work and a capital campaign following a $30M award received in June.

The project will reopen the nearly 100-year-old venue with modern additions—hosting films, live theatre, and local events.

Early oil-and-gas exploration along the Coastal Bend led prospectors to White Point where signs like sulfur grains and gas blowouts pointed to subsurface resources.

Their discoveries helped map fields that later spurred Corpus Christi’s deep water port development in 1926.

Corpus Christi PIO Beth Becerra said a water main break on Lake Superior Dr. was fixed Thursday by shutting off service for about an hour — water service is now fully restored while crews finish cleanup work.

Trainer Alain Escobar of AE Fitness offers local residents practical, sustainable fitness tips as they prepare for 2026.

He advises starting small with everyday movements + building a supportive community to boost both physical and mental health.

Local eateries offer soup season as cooler weather arrives.

Favorites include Z Counter’s kimchi soup (1220 Airline Road) and Las Palmas’ chicken tortilla soup (555 N. Carancahua St. #30), along with unique recipes at Sandi’s Diner, Blue Clove, and Lei Kitchen.

A new guide outlines 26 ways to enjoy 2026 (from dining and art to sports and day trips) that will help locals explore fresh eateries, visit revamped waterfront venues, and support community events.

It offers practical ideas to kick off the new year with engaging activities.

Fork & Vines launched its full craft cocktail program last spring, drawing guests with creative drinks and daily happy hour specials from 5-6 p.m. Seasonal updates and a refreshed cocktail menu are coming early 2026.

Local gardening enthusiasts can plant pansies this January as these easy to grow edible blooms add vibrant color and flavor to Coastal Bend yards; gardeners should update their soil with compost and manure and water regularly for strong roots.

In November, Nueces County listings fell to a median price of $339,945—a 1.3% drop from October's $344,350—with homes on the market for 92 days; Corpus Christi metro area listings dipped slightly to $340,000.

Hundreds of runners filled downtown as the two-day CCTX Marathon Weekend concluded with a 5K and a full marathon, where Terry Palmer won and edged closer to qualifying for Boston next year.

Local organizers and businesses celebrated the strong community turnout over the event.

Open Mic Night

6:30-9:30 p.m. — House of Rock — Free entry — Showcase your creativity with music, comedy, and more at an unforgettable open mic night.

New Orleans Privateers at Texas A&M Corpus Christi Islanders Men's Basketball

7 a.m. — Hilliard Center — Ticket prices vary — Catch the Islanders in action as they face off against the Privateers in an exciting basketball showdown.

Nathan Allen Concert

7-11 p.m. — Brewster Street Icehouse - Southside — Ticket info not provided — Experience classic country sounds from Nathan Allen, echoing legends of the genre.

The Groove 2.0 Dance Night

9 p.m. — Rockit's Whiskey Bar & Saloon — No cover — Hit the dance floor with The Groove 2.0 delivering the best of the '70s, '80s, and '90s funk sounds.

McNeese State Cowgirls vs. Texas A&M Corpus Christi Islanders Women's Basketball

5:59-8:59 p.m. — Dugan Wellness Center — $69.43 — Catch the exciting clash between the Cowgirls and Islanders on the court.

18 Hours Live Performance

9 p.m. — Rockit's Whiskey Bar & Saloon — No cover — Experience a blast of '90s and 2000s alternative rock from this local high-octane band.

The Klocks Live Performance

9 p.m. — Rockit's Whiskey Bar & Saloon — No Cover — Experience high-energy hits and epic stage presence with The Klocks at the ultimate party night.

SELF CONTROL Live Concert

6 PM — House of Rock — $11.15 — Experience an electrifying night of high-energy live music with SELF CONTROL and special guests.

Vintage Pictures with Special Guests

8 p.m. — House of Rock — $11.15 — Experience a high-energy night of genre-blending music featuring El Dusty and headliner Vintage Pictures.

The Max Live at Rockit’s Whiskey Bar

9 PM — Rockit’s Whiskey Bar & Saloon — No cover — Experience a night of energetic music with The Max, featuring a blend of rock, pop, and dance hits.