Good morning, Athens.

County Animal Services Department in Athens has taken custody of Kyle, a friendly black lab whose owner died this week while he awaits adoption or fostering.

The State Botanical Garden hosts Winter Wonderlights through Dec.

30, offering Athens residents festive light displays (a local holiday tradition).

Athens pet owners can shop for winter essentials to keep pets warm and safe as cold weather brings icy sidewalks.

Local retailers and online stores offer heated beds, paw balm and protective jackets for effective pet care this season.

Georgia football will see its playoff path confirmed today when final CFP rankings are released at noon ET — a 28-7 SEC Championship win over Alabama locked the Bulldogs in a 12-team bracket and they are expected to play in the Sugar Bowl on Jan.

1 in New Orleans.

Nuçi's Space 25th Anniversary Benefit Concert

6:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. — Nuçi's Space — Ticket information not available — Celebrate 25 years of music, healing, and community with live performances from beloved local musicians.

Athens Winter Wonderland Craft and Vendor Market

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Tanger Outlets Commerce — Free entry — Discover unique handmade crafts and festive goods at this magical holiday market.

A Charlie Brown Christmas Performance by Good Grief Trio

7-9 p.m. — Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture — Tickets $15-20, Family pack for $60 — Enjoy a soulful rendition of the beloved holiday classic with the Good Grief Trio.

Now After Nothing Concert

8 PM – 12 AM — Flicker Theatre & Bar — Tickets available — Enjoy an evening of music featuring Fixation Fantasy by Now After Nothing.

BloodKin Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — 40 Watt Club — Ticket info not provided — Enjoy an evening with BloodKin & Friends featuring special guest Kevn Kinney.

27th Annual Will Chamberlin Memorial Santa Stroll 8K

1:30-5:30 p.m. — Bishop Baptist Church — Entry fee proceeds support outreach programs — Participate in a festive 8K run with a charitable cause.

The Nutcracker Ballet

2:00 – 3:30 PM — The Classic Center — $33.75+ — Experience a dazzling holiday tradition that brings joy and imagination to life through breathtaking performances.

Pee Dee IceCats vs. Athens Rock Lobsters

7:05-8:35 p.m. — The Classic Center — Check for ticket pricing — Enjoy a fun-filled evening of local hockey action with the Pee Dee IceCats facing off against the Athens Rock Lobsters.

Blackberry Smoke Concert

7-10:30 p.m. — The Classic Center — $108.50+ — Experience the vibrant blend of Southern rock, blues, and country from Georgia's own Blackberry Smoke.