Austin News

🚧 Major I-35 crash causes big delays
A significant crash on I-35 near Slaughter Lane early this morning led to a full closure of the highway and a HAZMAT response due to an oil spill. Drivers experienced backups as far as Ben White Blvd. Expect delays if you’re heading southbound.

🏙️ YMCA’s TownLake campus could get a major overhaul
The Greater Austin YMCA unveiled ambitious plans to redevelop its 50-year-old TownLake site into a mixed-use complex with housing, social services, and childcare. The plan’s tall towers have sparked zoning concerns among neighbors. 

📦 AUS upgrades baggage system to handle growth
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport just debuted a much bigger outbound baggage system designed to dramatically reduce delays and keep up with booming passenger numbers. 

🎭 Local culture & arts updates
OutSmart magazine celebrated a joyful queer wedding party in Austin that turned fear into community pride — a great reminder of how Austin keeps redefining celebration.

🎷 Arts scene buzz: Jazzy “Nutcracker” returns
A special jazz version of The Nutcracker is set to hit Austin stages for one night on December 19, blending swing, ballet, and local musicians.

✨ Holiday Lights & Festivals

• Austin Trail of Lights at Zilker Park — a must-see seasonal spectacle running through December 23. CultureMap Austin

• Mozart’s Festival of Lights — shimmering lakeside holiday lights and immersive experiences. MySA

• 37th Street Lights — old-school neighborhood light display (classic Austin tradition).

🎁 Holiday Markets & Shopping

• Blue Genie Art Bazaar — gorgeous local art and gifts open daily. Austin Texas

• Omni Holiday Market — local makers, snacks, entertainment, and free admission. CultureMap Austin

• Holiday markets at Hyde Park, Black for the Holidays, Merry Market Austin, Armadillo Christmas Bazaar — plenty of artisan goodies waiting for you.

🎄 Performances & Culture

• A Christmas Carol at Zach Theatre — big seasonal production.

• Ballet Austin Nutcracker shows at the Long Center — classic holiday fare.
  

🍽️ Food & Drink Spotlights

New & Notable Openings

• Paul Qui’s Kitsu Nori — the James Beard Award-winning chef returns to sushi with a new handroll-centric concept on South Lamar. 

• Two Goose Market & Barbecue — a fresh barbecue joint on N. Lamar offering weekday bites and premium Saturday plates.
  

Holiday Eats & Pop-Ups

• Especial Navideño at Canje — Puerto Rican holiday party with lechón, DJs, and coquito. 

• Kitty Cohen’s Hanukkah pop-ups & Birdie’s Bistro Remy — seasonal eats and themed cocktails.

Local Foodie Notes

• The Eater Austin “Best New Restaurants of December” list includes omakase, Japanese-French fusion, and botanical café vibes. 

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