Powerball's $1.7B jackpot could make Christmas Eve unforgettable

Does it seem like lottery jackpots get bigger than they used to? It’s true - the odds are tougher now after a systematic change. But one lucky player could still have an unforgettable Christmas Eve.

Real vs. fake Christmas trees: An expert guide on what to buy this year

From cost and maintenance to sustainability, an industry expert weighs in on how to choose the right Christmas tree for your home and budget.

Harris County law enforcement increasing safety awareness during holiday shopping

As last-minute holiday shopping ramps up, law enforcement officials are urging shoppers to stay alert and take extra precautions to avoid becoming targets of crime. Harris County Constable Precinct Four says deputies are increasing patrols in busy retail areas throughout the holiday season.

Extra security measures for holiday shopping in Harris County
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As Harris County authorities work to prevent crime against holiday shoppers, they're reminding the shoppers themselves on how to stay safe. FOX 26's Jillian Hartmann spoke to Precinct 4 law enforcement on what they're doing and they say shoppers can do to stay protected. 

2025 Holiday Shipping Deadlines: USPS, FedEx, UPS important dates to remember

With the holidays right around the corner, you need to be sure to mail packages early to ensure on-time delivery. Keep these essential 2025 shipping deadlines in mind from USPS, FedEx, and UPS to ensure your cards and gifts reach their destinations in time for Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa and other holidays.

Houston stores open and closed on Christmas Day 2025

Make sure you have everything you need before Christmas Day, because if you have to get some last-minute groceries or gifts, your options will be limited.

Trump’s ‘Warrior Dividend’ for military funded through Pentagon, not tariffs

The president suggested last week that a $1,776 Christmas bonus for troops was made possible through tariff revenue – when it was actually money they were already set to receive from the Pentagon.

Houston restaurants open on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day 2025

Many restaurants in the Houston-area will be open for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day if you decide to skip cooking for the holiday.

Houston holiday travel: What you should know
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From the travel forecast to what you can't have in your carry on, FOX 26's Tom Zizka, John Dawson, and Angie Rodriguez share what you should know as of Saturday, Dec. 20.

Christmas toy giveaways happening in Greater Houston

Multiple Houston-area organizations are stepping up to help give families a happy holiday season.

Houston doctor speaks on new flu strain variant during holiday season
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Dr. Luis Ostrosky with Memorial Hermann joined FOX 26's Caroline Collins and Rashi Vats to discuss of a new flu strain that's expected to spread during the holiday season

Scheduling deliveries to avoid porch pirates
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An expert suggests ways to prevent porch pirates from taking packages sitting at your front door during the holiday season.

Ranking of hottest Christmas toys: What would they cost with inflation in 2025?

The hottest toys at Christmas have come with various price tags over the decades. Here’s a look at what some of the most iconic toys would cost in 2025 if they hit the market today at their original prices.

Most popular festive drinks in the US for the 2025 holiday season- See the top choice in your  state

The holidays are a time to gather with family and friends and celebrate the season.  There are lots of choices when it comes to festive drinks and an analysis by Coffeeness found the most popular holiday drink in each state.

Grinch bots threaten holiday shopping
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If you're having trouble finding a trending toy or gift on your shopping list, it might be due to grinch bots. FOX 26 Consumer Reporter Heather Sullivan has more on what they are and what they do.