America 250: Big events across the country to have on your radar for 2026

As the United States prepares to mark its 250th anniversary in 2026, museums and historic sites are launching exhibitions and events that reflect on the nation’s history, democratic values, and global influence.

New laws taking effect in 2026: What you need to know

A wide range of new state laws will take effect in 2026, bringing changes that impact workers, students, renters and consumers across the country.

From '6 7' to 'Skibidi': 15 of the most-used Gen Alpha slang terms of 2025

For anyone dreading sitting across from their teenage cousin and feeling like the oldest person to ever walk the earth as families gather over the next few weeks for the holidays, this one is for you.

Flying during a busy holiday season
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The MSP Airport is expected more passengers after the holidays compared to last season. FOX 9's Leon Purvis has more. 

Busy travel days at MSP: 50,000 expected to fly post-Christmas

The Metropolitan Airport Commission at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport said it is expecting an increase in travelers this holiday season, with more than 50,000 people expected to be screened each day on Friday, Dec. 26, and Sunday, Dec 28.

Some stores are charging for holiday gift returns: See the list

If you need to return holiday gifts this year, be ready to pay a price for avoiding return lines in some stores. 

Hudson woman answers letters kids write to Santa

Every year, Richelle Jader reads more than 200 letters to Santa and answers each one, continuing a Christmas tradition that her former neighbors started years ago.

Hudson woman helps Santa answer his mail
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A woman from Hudson, Wis., has taken it upon herself to make sure kids who write letters to Santa Claus get a response. FOX 9's Mike Manzoni has the story.

2026: Things that happened 120 years ago

In 2026, the United States marks the 120-year anniversaries of several major events that shaped the nation’s history, innovation, and culture.

Pope Leo XIV calls for 'peace and consolation' in first Christmas Mass

Pope Leo XIV presided over his first Christmas Mass, calling for “peace and consolation" for victims of wars, injustice, political stability, religious persecution and terrorism.

Serving up meals for first responders on Christmas
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Sometimes you have to work on Christmas. While you're at home enjoying the holiday, there are first responders on duty. We stopped by for some holiday meals in St. Louis Park and Minneapolis.

Viral: Cousins surprise California grandparents with Christmas sleepover

What the video shows is the couple's grandchildren re-creating "Grandparents' Christmas" held in Los Gatos, Calif. – a tribute to an annual tradition of more than a quarter-century, which for several years had gone by the wayside.

Taylor Swift donates more than $2M in holiday gifting spree

Taylor Swift is in the spirit of giving. Multiple organizations are sharing they’ve received donations from the pop star – with some amounting to as much as $1 million.

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.

Restaurants open on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day in 2025

If cooking wasn't on the list this Christmas, here's an idea of where you can go and get a meal on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Millions expected to travel during holidays
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The holiday travel rush is in full swing throughout the U.S., with AAA expecting more than 120 million people to be traveling at least 50 miles to gatherings nationwide the rest of the week.