What are you doing this weekend? That can be one of the most anticipated, and sometimes dreaded, questions at the conclusion of a busy week.
While the weekend finally provides much-needed me time, it can sometimes be daunting trying to figure out exactly what is going on to participate in.
That’s why we did the work for you and rounded up some of the top local events happening here in Abilene.
Here are three local events you won’t want to miss.
Roller derby
Abilene’s Holy Smokes Roller Derby team will be kicking off their 12th season this Saturday at the Abilene Convention Center, 1100 N. Sixth St., facing off with Assassination City’s Co-Conspiracy team from Dallas.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the game will commence at 7 p.m. Seating will be limited, so attendees are encouraged to bring a chair and a sweater or blanket if they are sensitive to cooler temperatures.
Tickets will be available to purchase at the door. Adults are $15, kids 12 and under are $5 and “lap kids” get in free.
More information can be found on the event’s Facebook page.
Zippity Zoo Day
Celebrate the Abilene Zoo’s 60th birthday this weekend on Saturday at Zippity Zoo Day, 2070 Zoo Lane.
The community is invited to join Abilene zookeepers for up-close animal encounters, special birthday cake enrichment, yard games, zoo trivia, giraffe character meet and greet, and free cake and ice cream.
This family-friendly event is included with zoo general admission and is free for zoo members.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the Abilene Zoo’s website.
Farmers market adoption event
Kick off your Saturday morning with puppies and produce at the Abilene Farmers Market, 626 N. First St., on Saturday.
Abilene’s ALL KIND Animal Initiative will host an adoption event in conjunction with Abilene’s farmers market from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. to feature available dogs and puppies looking for homes.
Whether you’re looking to adopt a dog or just in desperate need of some puppy snuggles, stop by the farmers market to meet some adorable dogs while shopping local Abilene produce and goods.
For more information, visit the events Facebook page or the ALL KIND Animal Initiative website.
This article originally appeared on Abilene Reporter-News: Three things to do this weekend in Abilene July 17-19
Reporting by Lauren Dossey, Abilene Reporter-News / Abilene Reporter-News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

By Lauren Dossey, Abilene Reporter-News | USA TODAY Network
