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“Son of a Nutcracker!”
We watched Elf this week. What a hilarious movie. It holds up every time. So many good lines, so much joy packed into 90 minutes.
And honestly? I “watched” half the movie from the kitchen—just watching my family’s faces. Highly recommend it. There’s something special about seeing the people you love laugh at the same moments, year after year.
Here are a few of my favorite quotes and moments:
“Buddy the Elf, what’s your favorite color?”
“I’m sorry I ruined your lives and crammed eleven cookies into the VCR.”
“You sit on a throne of lies!”
“We elves try to stick to the four main food groups: candy, candy canes, candy corns, and syrup.”
The legendary burp scene that goes on way too long—and becomes funnier every second.
Buddy tackling the Christmas tree like he’s playing defensive end for the Aggies.
And of course, Buddy running full-speed in circles inside the revolving door, absolutely losing his mind with joy.
If that movie doesn’t put you in the Christmas spirit, I’m not sure what will.
Cheers,
Nolan
In today’s Scoop:
🏗️ Big space for bigger growth
🌿 Patio vibes perfected
💃 Where confidence finds rhythm
🎄 So many festive stops
🌮 A Patio You’ll Want to Claim
2712 Bee Caves Rd suite#106, Austin
It is easy to miss this spot if you are not paying attention, which makes discovering Pepita’s Cafe & Bar even better. The space feels warm and stylish, with a menu that moves comfortably from brunch plates to tacos and cocktails.
Guests keep calling out the fresh flavors, friendly service and that cozy patio that invites lingering. A relaxed, flavorful find that feels right for any mood.
More details here.
🧑🎄 Ditch the tangled lights + rooftop risk
Let Top Choice Lawn Care handle your holiday sparkle this year. Fast, safe, and stress-free.
🎯 10+ years of holiday installs
✅ Fully insured + safety trained
💵 Mention West Austin Scoop for $50 off
💃 A warm place to learn to dance
3801 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin
Arthur Murray Dance Studio Westlake gets a lot of praise for its friendly teachers and encouraging atmosphere. Many beginners say they walked in feeling nervous but quickly relaxed thanks to patient guidance and clear tips.
Couples rave about how much they learned for their first dances, and several people now see classes as their favorite date night. The studio feels welcoming, supportive, and full of positive energy. A great spot to build confidence and have fun on the dance floor.
More details here.
Don’t miss your chance to reach 7,000+ local readers next week- click here!
🎓 Texas outlines new ESA program rules
The Gist: Texas families can start applying on Feb. 4, 2026 for the state’s new $1 billion Education Freedom Account (ESA) program, rolling out ahead of the 2026–27 school year. If approved, most students can receive around $10,300 a year to use on things like private school tuition, textbooks, transportation, tutoring, or certain therapies. Homeschool families can receive up to $2,000, and students with disabilities may qualify for as much as $30,000. Priority goes first to students with disabilities and lower income families, and awards are expected to be announced by early May.
Why It Matters: This could be a meaningful boost for families who are considering different education paths for their kids. Public school, private school, homeschool, or a mix of supports, every family’s situation is a little different, and it’s nice to see more options available for those who want them. Applications open early next year, and plenty of parents will be watching closely to see how it rolls out.
Read more here.
Winter in Austin may seem quiet, but your yard is anything but asleep. This week’s guide digs into the real science behind soil temps, smart watering, and why your trees are secretly thriving right now. You’ll learn why mulch is the season’s unsung hero, which weeds are plotting their February takeover, and why December is actually tree-planting month in Central Texas. It’s the ultimate prep list for a smooth spring.
Check it out HERE.
🪴 Brought to you by Top Choice Lawn Care
🎬 Elf Movie Event | City Hall Parking Lot | Lakeway | 12/12 | More
A festive outdoor screening with cocoa, treats and twinkling holiday atmosphere.
🛍️ Holiday Bizaar | Town Square Park, Steiner Ranch | Austin | 12/13 | More
A charming neighborhood market featuring local vendors and festive seasonal finds.
🎅 Santa Photos | Hat Creek Burger Company | West Lake Hills | 12/13 | More
Free family fun with Santa photos, cookie decorating and cheerful holiday activities.
🃏 Lakeway Card Show | CraigO’s Lakeway | Lakeway | 12/13 | More
A fun meet-up for collectors to buy, sell and trade favorite cards.
🌲 Evergreen Winter Warm-up | Shield Ranch Campsite | Austin | 12/13 | More
A nature-filled winter gathering with crafts, trails, live music and cozy campfire vibes.
🍕 Curry Pizza House Anniversary Event | Curry Pizza House | Bee Cave | 12/13–12/14 | More
A festive weekend packed with bold flavors, fun giveaways and tasty pizza perks.
👑 Princess Tea Party | Hotel Viata | Austin | 12/14 | More
A charming afternoon of princess stories, sweet treats and magical family moments.
🎶 Christmas and the Blues | Westlake UMC | West Lake Hills | 12/18 | More
A reflective evening with soulful blues offering comfort, hope and gentle holiday warmth.
🎄 Holiday Party | Little Woodrow’s | Bee Cave | 12/12 | More
A cozy ugly-sweater night with festive tunes, hot cider and playful holiday cheer.
🎄 30+ Single Adults Christmas Party | Austin Ridge Bee Cave | Austin | 12/13 | More
A warm, welcoming night to mingle, celebrate and enjoy festive conversation.
🐐 GOGA Goat Yoga | GOGA Goat Yoga Studio | Bee Cave | 12/13 | More
A joyful indoor yoga session made even happier with playful baby goats.
🎁 Asian Season ATX Holiday Market | Beerburg | Austin | 12/14 | More
A festive market spotlighting local Asian artisans alongside great brews and community spirit.
🎉 Jingle & Mingle | Hotel Viata | Austin | 12/16 | More
A festive members-only mixer celebrating connection, gratitude and holiday cheer.
🌟 37th Street Lights Opening Night | 507 W 37th St | Austin | 12/12 | More
A beloved DIY neighborhood light display glowing with quirky, old-school Austin charm.
😈 Austin Mystical Market’s Krampus Market | The Buzz Mill | Austin | 12/12 | More
A whimsical night market featuring mystical makers, unique art and playful Krampus vibes.
🎅 Austin SantaCon 2025 | Coyote Ugly Saloon | Austin | 12/13 | More
A lively holiday bar crawl packed with festive outfits, drink specials and merry chaos.
If you want to read any of our previous issues, check them out HERE on our website.
Thanks for reading West Austin Scoop! We’ll have more updates for you next week!
