A Year of Growth, Firsts & Community Spirit

From new businesses and big community moments to first-ever events and a whole lot of local love, 2025 was a year to remember in Downtown Waco. Our sidewalks stayed busy, our businesses kept growing, and our community showed up again and again—in every season, every celebration, and every corner of downtown. Here’s your official recap of the moments that made 2025 shine.

New Kid on the Block: Waco Block Party

February brought back the Waco Block Party with a vendor market, food trucks, a car show, and Battle of the Bands performances spilling into the streets. It was the perfect start to a packed event season.

Biggest Move: Farmers Market Finds a New Home

In March, the Waco Downtown Farmers Market settled into its new space at Bridge St. Plaza after eight years at its previous location. The move boosted Saturday morning foot traffic and opened the door to even more vendors and visitors.

Most Refreshing First: Summer Sips

June marked the first-ever Summer Sips, where participants matched the Texas heat with ice-cold specialty drinks from every stop on the map. A brand-new tradition was born—and it was a hit.

Sweetest New Neighbor: Kilwin’s Grand Opening

The smell of homemade fudge, waffle cones, and caramel greeted guests all down 6th Street as Kilwin’s officially opened its doors in June.

Glow-Up of the Year: BRÛ’s Historic Move

BRÛ officially opened in the historic Anthem Stories building in October, leaving behind its original location in an elevator shaft of the Praetorian Building.

Most Iconic Community Gathering: Silobration

Magnolia’s Silobration packed downtown once again, hosting 80+ local vendors and performances by Forrest Frank and NEEDTOBREATHE. The event continued its tradition of bringing locals and visitors together.

Cultural Spotlight: ALN Diwali Festival

The Asian Leaders Network illuminated downtown with its annual Diwali celebration, honoring South Asian culture with food, music, and community joy.

Most Whimsical Race: The Great Waco Duck Race

20,000 rubber ducks floated down the Brazos for a great cause, supporting the Imagination Library and delighting crowds at every splash.

Biggest Dinner Party: Prosperity Dinner on the Avenue

Prosper Waco celebrated its 10-year anniversary with over 700 guests gathered for a long-table dinner along Austin Avenue, making it one of the most picturesque events of the year.

Longest Running Tradition: 116th Annual Baylor Homecoming Parade

Since 1909, Waco has welcomed the Baylor Homecoming Parade through its streets. This year was another memorable chapter in a century-long story.

Most Heartfelt Tribute: Veterans Day Parade

Families, veterans, students, and supporters lined the streets to honor those who have served. This is always one of downtown’s most meaningful annual events.

Back by Popular Demand: Cocoa Crawl

Cocoa Crawl returned after selling out in 2024, inviting participants to grab a keepsake mug and enjoy unlimited cocoa from stops all across downtown.

Brightest Future: 20-Year Downtown Redevelopment Plan

Our city’s future is taking shape. In 2026, Downtown Waco will break ground on its 20-year redevelopment plan, reimagining key areas of downtown and enhancing the Riverwalk for generations to come.

To our locals, visitors, small businesses, and community partners: thank you. Downtown Waco thrives because of the people who show up, support local, and fill our streets with energy year-round.

Stay connected through our monthly newsletter, social channels, and website as we prepare to welcome 2026 with more events, more growth, and more ways to experience the heart of Waco.