Good morning, South Bend.

South Bend held its annual downtown Christmas tree lighting on Friday when families enjoyed live music as Santa lit the tree and fireworks burst over the gridiron.

He will return every weekend until Christmas to share the holiday spirit with the community.

Copshaholm (the Oliver Mansion) at the History Museum is dressed for Christmas and will host live music, games, and self-guided tours.

The event will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. on Dec. 7 and Dec. 14, with admission at $15-$5 and free for ages 5 and under.

South Bend schools will launch a pilot program next school year to help expelled students stay engaged by providing temporary classes at Studebaker School (serving sixth through tenth graders).

The program will last three weeks, a quarter, or a semester based on each student’s needs.

Mayor James Mueller rang bells for the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign on Friday, Dec.

5 outside PEGGS on South Michigan Street. Donations collected support essential services throughout the year.

Officials warned Friday that thin ice on local lakes and ponds can endanger walkers, skaters, and fishermen — a risk that may lead to drowning — and urged residents to test the ice before venturing out.

Notre Dame basketball secured an 87-85 overtime win over TCU on Friday in Fort Worth, Texas after key player Markus Burton (sidelined with a leg injury) missed most of the game.

Freshman Jalen Haralson led with 20 points as the team rallied with crucial contributions.

Notre Dame women lost 69-62 to Ole Miss Thursday, Dec.

4 in the ACC/SEC Challenge after squandering a 19-point lead. The Rebels outrebounded the Irish and made more 3-pointers, leaving Notre Dame at 5-2 and Ole Miss at 7-0.

Goshen boys basketball overcame South Bend Washington's early lead to win 85-51 Friday night after a 31-0 run transformed the game — starting their season 2-0.

Washington led 26-17 before Goshen's defense and scoring surged.

Dav Pilkey & Dog Man: Guinness World Records Attempt

6 p.m. — Morris Performing Arts Center — Free ticket required — Break a world record and enjoy a live performance of Dog Man: The Musical.

John Crist Live Stand-Up Comedy

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Morris Performing Arts Center — Tickets available — Enjoy an evening with one of today’s fastest-rising comedians showcasing clean humor and relatable commentary.

Christmas with Luminos

7-9 p.m. — 530 E Ireland Rd — Free-will offering — Experience the joy of the season with timeless carols and holiday favorites from Luminos.

Straight No Chaser Live Performance

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Morris Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the captivating harmonies of a modern male a cappella group known for their humor and musical talent.

Hadestown Musical

2:00 – 3:30 PM — Morris Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a Tony Award-winning musical that intertwines mythical tales of love and fate.

Christmas at Loretto

Join us for this beloved holiday choral tradition in the beautiful acoustic of the Church of Loretto on the Saint Mary’s College campus. Enjoy amazing new Christmas music and familiar carols in exciting new arrangements, with conductor Nancy Menk and organist Kevin Vaughn, concluding with our traditional candle-lit Silent Night.

New Years Eve Dance Party featuring Nawty

9:00-10:30 p.m. — Four Winds Casino South Bend — Ticket pricing varies — Celebrate the upcoming year with a lively dance performance by Nawty.