Good morning, Wichita Falls.

Downtown Wichita Falls Development will launch Cajun Fest in just over one week with live music, a crawfish eating contest, a mullet contest and a new duck calling contest—drawing local families downtown and supporting plans to revitalize the area.

The Wichita Falls Farmers Market will host its 'Color Me 'Egg-Cited' Easter Celebration on Saturday, April 19 — from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 807 Austin St. The event will feature egg hunts for different age groups, live music with Decker Rumfelt, face painting and a Poach-a-Prize egg grab.

Wichita Falls Police say that Elmondo Leusay Gildon, held in jail on charges including firearm possession, marijuana, and a murder charge from Dallas, has been charged with homicide—an allegation tied to an investigation into Trevanian Mitchell’s death in May 2024.

AAA Texas reported that average gas prices dropped nine cents from last week to $2.73 per gallon for regular unleaded—54 cents lower than this time last year.

Lower crude prices and softer travel demand may keep pump prices down as summer nears, with El Paso drivers paying $2.87 and Abilene drivers paying $2.54 per gallon.

The U.S. Drought Monitor updated its report for Wichita County as of April 17—showing that the area remains classified as D0 Abnormally Dry.

Neighboring counties including Wilbarger, Baylor and Archer are also facing similar conditions.

TxDOT reported nearly 28,000 work zone crashes in 2024 that caused over 215 deaths statewide while the Wichita Falls office recorded 266 crashes in nine counties with 9 fatalities and 9 serious injuries.

The agency urges drivers to slow down—follow speed limits and give road crews space near active work zones.

Iowa Park officials announced a plan to renovate City Hall by relocating it to a former church building at an estimated cost of $1.8 to $2 million.

City Manager Jerry Flemming said the city will cover about $1.5 million and the two-year project will update technology—benefiting future generations—and preserve the old structure.

High school softball and baseball games were played on Thursday—April 17.

Iowa Park scored 14 to 4 over Henrietta in softball while W.F. Memorial beat Abilene High 4 to 1 in baseball.

Open House Tour

1-3 p.m. — 1645 Ardath Ave — Free entry — Explore a charming three-bedroom home with stunning features and modern amenities.

Southwest Open Chili Championship

Chili cookoff, Salsa and Bean events added to raise funds for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Wichita Falls. Free to judge and must be 18 or older. Judge Salsa at 10:45am, Beans at 11:45am and Chili at 12:45, 1:30 or 2:10. 2400 Northwest Frwy, WF

Disney's Frozen Jr.

3-7 p.m. — Wichita Theater Performing Art Centre — Cheap tickets available — Experience the magic of Disney's Frozen Jr. live on stage in Wichita Falls.

Disney's Frozen Jr. Performance

1-5 p.m. — Wichita Theater Performing Art Centre — Affordable tickets available — Experience the magic of Disney's Frozen Jr. live on stage.

District Finals - Original Team Roping Association

8 AM – 5 PM — J S Bridwell Agricultural Center — Check event site for entry fees — Witness top team roping talent compete for buckles and awards at the District Finals.