5 Things to be Grateful for in Austin
Remembering to Appreciate the Positive
While this year has been a trying time for many, there is so much more to be grateful for than to complain about—especially when it comes to East Austin locales. This Thanksgiving, find time to practice gratitude for all this community has to offer. From the beautiful outdoors to great eats and handmade goods, here are just a few things to celebrate and enjoy this fall.
Cozy Outdoor Patios
The fall weather is finally upon us and there is nothing better than enjoying a delicious meal in the autumn air. Several Eastside patios are open for business. Enjoy the laid back atmosphere at Hank’s or head over to Central Machine Works to sip on a cold one in their outdoor beer garden. Other local favorites with outdoor spaces include Oddwood Ales, Sawyer & Co., Batch, Odd Duck, and Mour Café.
Scenic Hike and Bike Trails
There is no place like home, and there is so much to see here in Austin. Explore Texas’ natural beauty on one of the many hike and bike trails located on the Eastside. Bring the kids, dogs, and a sense of adventure for a stroll or ride at Southern Walnut Creek Trail in Govalle Park, or perhaps explore East Boggy Creek Greenbelt on Stuart Circle, J.J. Seabrook Greenbelt on Pershing Drive, hike around Lady Bird Lake, or stroll through Mueller Lake Park and patronize local vendors at the Farmers’ Market on Sundays.
Locally Made Goods and Small Businesses
Show loved ones gratitude with a present as special as they are. Find unique, local gifts at Eastside businesses and support local artisans. Head over to Take Heart to explore a curated selection of handmade goods, heavily featuring local artists. From apparel to books to home goods, there is something for everyone at this boutique. Find something special at Fail Jewelry, East Austin’s premier fine jewelry store. Designer Christine Fail’s aesthetic captures the spirit of the city and is sure to please. Succulent Native, home to all things green, is offering several Black Friday deals, including 20% off all plants in-store. Their creative succulent arrangements are an eye-catching addition to any space.
The Spirit of Giving
Austin is a city that cares. Several organizations in the community are hard at work making sure the holiday is special for all. Local Eastside nonprofit Red Beans & Ricely Yours delivers free meals weekly to Austinites in need. Central Texas Food Bank works to alleviate hunger throughout the region and from now through Nov. 25, they are tripling all donations. Both organizations accept donations and volunteers.
Stress-Free Thanksgiving Take-Out
Who needs the added stress of cooking during the holidays? Skip the prep work this year and support local restaurants by ordering in. Buenos Aires Café is offering Thanksgiving Feast kits that are easy to whip up at home. Or put an Italian spin on holiday classics with selections from Intero. For something different, order the Lucky Family Meal, an American-Chinese feast for four, from Old Thousand. Leave the planning up to the experts and spend that extra time with the ones who mean the most.
