🌵 The pizza slice that doubles as a plane ticket

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Favorite Christmas things in Austin… go.

The Trail of Lights used to be magical in a very simple way—less commercial, less crowded, easier to say yes to on a random night. It’s still cool, no doubt. It’s just harder to make happen now. A little more planning. A little more patience.

I still love Mozart’s this time of year. The vibe is unbeatable. The light show is impressive, but honestly? I prefer an early afternoon visit—coffee in hand, lights up, less chaos. Feels more Austin that way.

The Galleria ice skating rink has also gotten pretty cool. Unexpected, festive, and just structured enough to feel special without being overwhelming.

But if I’m being honest—nothing beats cutting out cookies with mom. Just flour everywhere and eating more dough than you bake.

That’s the good stuff.

Cheers,
Nolan

Baldinucci Pizza Romana has a way of making casual lunches feel like a quick Italian getaway. Their dough brings that airy, flaky texture people love, alongside their bright, and flavorful pizza toppings.

Favorites like the Diablo, the Arugula and Fig, and focaccia keep locals coming back. The gelato, especially the stracciatella, is the quiet showstopper that always earns a return trip.

Let Top Choice Lawn Care handle your holiday sparkle this year. Fast, safe, and stress-free.

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Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park is a go-to spot when the kids need to burn off some energy. Parents rave about how clean it is, and the staff gets a lot of love too. They’re friendly, helpful, and great with everything from everyday visits to busy birthday parties.

There’s plenty to keep kids moving: trampolines, obstacle courses, slides, ninja-style challenges, and a foam pit. And it’s not just for big kids. There are plenty of options for younger ones, too, so everyone can jump in and have fun!

The Gist: Construction is underway on a new Staybridge Suites hotel in West Austin after a Dec. 4 groundbreaking with the West Austin Chamber of Commerce. The 100 room hotel will include guest laundry, outdoor grilling areas, a fitness center, pool, and meeting space. It is expected to open in October 2026 and will be managed by the current general manager of Hyatt Place Lake Travis.

Why It Matters:
The hotel adds more lodging options as West Austin continues to grow. Feels like a good fit for a busy corner of the city that keeps drawing visitors!

🎄 Maywald Christmas Light Display | Maywald Christmas Light Display | Bee Cave | Now - 12/27 | More
A lighting spectacle tradition glowing with community delight and festive wonders.

⛸️ Bee Cave on Ice | Hill Country Galleria | Bee Cave | Now - 01/03 | More
Outdoor skating with holiday cheers, perfect for families and community winter fun.

🎶 Christmas and the Blues | Westlake UMC | West Lake Hills | 12/18 | More
Soulful melodies and heartfelt reflection, perfect for slowing down the holidays.

👨‍👩‍👧 Family Fridays | Sloan & Parker | Steiner Ranch | 12/19 | More
Laid-back family games, happy hour perks, with activities for kids and parents alike.

🍪 Kid’s Cookie Decorating Class | JoJo’s Bakery | West Lake Hills | 12/19 | More
Holiday cookie decorating with festive treats and creative baking for little ones.

🛒 Lakeway Village Square Farmers Market | Village Square | Lakeway | 12/20 | More
Fresh artisanal goods and lively neighborhood vibes in a charming, open-space market.

❄️ Lakeway Polar Bear Plunge | Swim Center | Lakeway | 12/31 | More
A refreshing, cold plunge bringing neighbors together for a spirited year-end celebration.

🎤 Bad Decisions Karaoke Night | Feral Housewife Wine | Bee Cave | 12/18 | More
Unfiltered karaoke night with bold pours, sing-alongs and zero judgments.

🥂 Bottomless Mimosa Sunday | Laurel Restaurant | West Lake Hills | 12/21 | More
Endless drinks paired with great brunch in a relaxed, indulgent Sunday setting.

🎱 Pool Tournament | LT Corner Pub | Lakeway | 12/22 | More
High-stakes pool rivalry with ice-cold beers and winner-takes-all energy.

🧠 Trivia Night | Hops & Thyme | Lakeway | 12/24 | More
Spirited trivia night fueled by knowledge, great cocktails, and buzzing groups.

🕎 Community Chanukah Celebration | Centennial Plaza | Round Rock | 12/17 | More
Family-friendly festivities with crafts, treats, music, and joyful holiday spirit.

🧝 Round Rock Elf Trivia | Tony C’s Pizza & Beer Garden | Round Rock | 12/17 | More
Holiday movie trivia fun with friendly competition and festive community spirit.

🎉 A Very 90’s Christmas Party | The Highball | Austin | 12/19 | More
Throwback holiday fun with nostalgic hits, festive energy, and playful 90s cheer.

🎁 Last Minute Santa Gifts & Photos | Capital City VFW | Austin | 12/20 | More
A festive indoor market with unique gifts, Santa photos, and cheerful holiday energy.

🥞 Breakfast with Santa | Safe in Austin | Leander | 12/23 | More
A heartwarming morning of pancakes, rescue animals, and cheerful Santa moments.

No memes for this issue, but I'd love to share my favorite comic strip ever. It's brilliant and the drawings are the best!