Hosting Out of Towners? Your Ultimate Hosting Guide This Holiday Season.
Written by: Enjoli Henderson
November in Austin brings cooler air, holiday buzz, and a calendar full of things to do which makes it the perfect time to host family and friends. Whether your guests are in town for Thanksgiving, a long weekend, or just chasing that Austin weirdness, here’s how to show them the best of the city.
Morning Movement with a View
Photo credit: Becca Youngers
Start everyday with intention. Whether it’s a sunrise jog on Ladybird lake, a yoga class at Wanderlust, or a hike at Barton Creek, movement clears your mind and sets the tone for the day. After your morning activity, stop by Codependent for a perfectly brewed coffee and sample their cozy seasonal menu. The kind of slow, mindful start that’ll make your guest fall in love with Austin mornings.
Austin Food + Wine Festival
Photo Credit: Charles Reagan
Indulge in the crisp fall air while it lasts and soak in the best of Austin’s outdoor scene.This month marks the 14th annual Austin Food + Wine Festival (Nov. 7-9). Give your guests a true local experience by bringing them to Friday night’s Made in Texas event at the Long Center. This is a new addition to the festival where top chefs will serve Texas-inspired dishes alongside music and cocktails. It’s the ultimate blend of flavor, culture, and that easygoing Austin energy.
Tickets available here: https://www.austinfoodandwinefestival.com/
Austin Studio Tour
Photo Credit: @thegoldcurrent
The Austin Studio Tour is a free, city wide, self guided art event taking place over two weekends in November. It’s one of the best ways to show your friends and family first hand how Austin keeps its creative spirit alive. Step inside local studios, meet the artists, and see firsthand how they bring their visions to life. Discover the stories behind each piece, purchase unique works of art, and celebrate the incredible talent that makes Austin’s art scene so vibrant and of course a little weird.
Dates:
November 8-9 & 15-16
-12pm – 6pm daily
New and Improved Rainey Street
Photo Credit: Becca Youngers
Check out Rainey St. 3.0, where Austin’s charm meets the city’s energy. What started as a strip of laid back bungalow bars has turned into a go to spot for great food, live music, and creative cocktails all in one walkable stretch. Start on one end of Rainey at Tomalo and enjoy a frozen margarita and some of the best fajitas in town. Make your way down to the other side and top off your Rainey Street trip at Anthem for yummy sharables and a night cap.
Conclusion
Hosting in Austin this holiday season isn’t about perfection. It’s about bringing your loved ones into your world and being present. Let your guests experience the things that make this city shine. The food, the creativity, the sunshine, and that unmistakable laid back spirit. When you mix thoughtful planning with easygoing Austin Energy, everyone leaves feeling a little lighter, and already planning their next visit!