It’s almost spring time, and that means it’s the start of festival season. Being from Austin, when it comes to spring festivals, we think SXSW, but a lot people often forget about the overshadowed Rodeo Austin. For the last two weeks of March, cowboys and cowgirls from all over the world come to Austin to compete in one of the largest rodeos in the nation. Accompanied by nearly 100 live musical performances, a BBQ cook off that will make you salivate from two counties over, and rivaling attendance compared to SXSW, it’s insane that this event is overshadowed.

This year, Rodeo Austin is starting things off a little different, with its newest production, Kick Open the Chutes – Party on the Dirt.  The opening event provides a behind the scenes look at what it’s like to walk on the dirt of a real rodeo arena and stand inside the barrel like a true rodeo clown. There will be rodeo games, silent auction, two live concerts, a cash bar, and food for purchase provided by local food trucks. The event will be held on Friday March 15^th, and the entrance fee is an affordable $20.

Throughout the remainder of the festivities, professional rodeo events will take place each day followed by a musical performance. The musical performers this year represent many genres ranging from Texas country artists like Parker McCollum to hip-hop acts like Flo Rida. On top of that, Rodeo Austin has plenty for the kiddos. With this being Austin’s largest rodeo and carnival, there is plenty to go around for everyone.

Trust me, I know when you think of Austin the rodeo isn’t the first thing that comes to mind, but it’s flat out worth it. Rodeo Austin is where the tie dye meets the saddle, the love meets the grit, and the weird meet the western. So, if you’re not burnt out from SXSW or just need a change of pace from all of the gentrification, Rodeo Austin is an event you shouldn’t miss.

Event & ticket info: https://rodeoaustin.com/faqs

Phone: (512) 919-3000

Guero’s Taco Bar. Do I need to say more to get you hooked? Yes? Well, if you’re looking for interior Mexican food with a hint of Tex-Mex, this is the spot! Established in 1986 and relocated to its now famous South Congress location in 1993, Guero’s is as much a part of Austin as the hills that surround it. The restaurant is originally owned and operated by Cathy and Rob Lippincott, in recent years they have passed down operations along with their passion for the restaurant to their daughters Lyle and Bette.

As one of the oldest establishments still operating on South Congress, Guero’s is without a doubt a local favorite. Guero’s is famous for their hand made margaritas shaken with freshly squeezed lime juice, and when paired with their tacos al pastor, this combo is an incomparable way to start off your morning or spend your evening. You can enjoy a sit down meal at the main restaurant or go next door to Guero’s Oak Garden bar where you can catch live music under the shade of an oak tree Thursday through Sunday.

Offering free shows (and chips and salsa) throughout SXSW, Guero’s is worth the visit. You never know who you may run into there. Less than a year ago there was a sighting of Bill Clinton! Ever heard of him? Ryan Gosling has also been seen there, and a guy by the name of Quentin Tarantino will occasionally stop by when in town.

If you find yourself on South Congress, even if you’re not in the mood to eat or drink, you should at least drop into Guero’s to get the authentic South Congress experience. I promise you won’t regret it! If tacos, handmade margaritas, and live music don’t get you hooked, maybe Austin isn’t your town (just kidding of course).

The Texas Hill Country is full of hidden gems, and located 30 miles west of Austin is one of Texas’s finest, Pedernales Falls State Park. Alluring people from all over the world since the early 1970s, Pedernales Falls has turned into one of the state’s most popular destinations. The 5,211 acre park has a variety of activities ranging from hiking, mountain biking, swimming, bird watching, and camping to horseback riding.

The 8 mile stretch of the Pedernales River that runs through the park has a shallow limestone bed typical of the Texas Hill Country. The main attraction of the park is the cascading falls located at the north end. The falls drop 50 feet over a 3000 foot stretch through mellow limestone pools and channels, showcasing some of the most beautiful scenery the Hill Country has to offer.  A swimming area is also located a little further downstream and is the perfect spot for cooling off on a hot summer afternoon.

Even though Pedernales Falls State Park is known for its stair stepped limestone falls, the park has much more to offer. Starting with the trail system, visitors can hike, bike, or even explore via horseback (bring your own horse) a wide range of trails varying in difficulty. Along the trails you will find an abundance of wildlife, old ranch structures, and natural springs. If one day is not enough to take it all in, stay the night at one of the parks campsites for a small fee.

Before heading out to Pedernales Falls, make sure to pack plenty of water, food, sunscreen, and anything else you want for your excursion. If you plan to make your way down to the river bed, remember to be aware of weather conditions in the area due to the notorious and occasionally deadly flash flooding. Also, prior to your visit make sure the park has not reached maximum capacity; you can check this by calling the park office (see number below) or by going to their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pedernalesfalls.

Whether one is an outdoor enthusiast or just trying to escape the everyday grind of the city, the sublime landscape of Pedernales Falls will help you unwind and take step back from everyday life. Especially now in the cooler months, there is not a better time to visit Pedernales Falls State Park.

Park Website:  https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/pedernales-falls

Park Phone Number: (830) 868-7304

Here at Oberg Properties, we take great pride in providing a unique and enjoyable experience for our guests. In past months we have received feedback that our linen and towel service is not up to our guests’ standards. We take customer feedback seriously at Oberg Properties! We are happy to announce that this problem is being addressed as we speak. Within the coming month or two, we will be upgrading our linen service to make your stay the experience you deserve.

Previously our linen and towels have been provided by Admiral Linen, a large international uniform and linen company. Our guests, along with us, have been disappointed with the inconsistent quality of linens and towels. Since this has been brought to our attention (thanks to all of our guests’ feedback), we have been searching for a solution and have finally found one! We are happy to introduce Austin Linen Service as our new linen and towel service. Unlike Admiral, they will not be providing the linens and towels. Instead they will be cleaning the linens that we are soon to purchase from Hunt Textiles. This means we will be able ensure a consistent quality of linens and towels on a week to week basis.

We are in the process of phasing out Admiral Linen and plan to complete our transition to Austin Linen Service by the beginning of March. We would like to sincerely thank everyone for their patience and applaud the guests who provided feedback.

If you are looking to stay up to date with anything happening at the Texas Timeshare check out our Facebook page at Texas Timeshare in Lakeway.

Perfectly tucked away on the cliff side of Lake Travis is one of Austin’s leading comfort food establishments, Lucy’s Fried Chicken. Owner and chef James Holmes opened the first Lucy’s back in late 2011 due to his need for a comfort food dive where he could unwind after working long hours late into the night. Since then, he has expanded to four locations scattered all across Austin, with the third coming out to Lake Travis in 2015. When the lake filled back up in 2015, it couldn’t have been a better time to open “Lucy’s on the Lake”.

On arrival, the first thing that will catch your eye is the stunning panoramic view of Lake Travis followed by the appetizing smell of fried chicken. As you make your way through the restaurant, Lucy’s laid-back family friendly atmosphere mimics the feeling of a family picnic by the lake. With seating options inside, outside, or on the enclosed patio, there are plenty of ways to take in the scenery. When it comes to the menu, at first glance, it appears to be a heart attack waiting to happen with everything from savory fried chicken to deep fried deviled eggs.  But don’t worry; you can leave the Lipitor at home because Lucy’s also offers a variety of healthy options like delicious salads, fresh oysters, and grilled chicken dishes. Not hungry, you say? Stop in for happy hour (it’s all day Monday – Friday), and check out the amazing craft cocktail menu, local beers, and the great drink specials.

Whether it’s a cold drink with a view or a relaxing meal with the family, Lucy’s is a one stop shop.  Alongside the unique Austin vibe complimenting the unmatched style of southern cuisine, Lucy’s is a great way to enrich the Lake Travis experience. Next time you’re craving comfort food with a view, let Lucy’s on the Lake be your fix.

Address: 2900 Ranch Rd 620 N, Austin, TX 78734

Website:  https://www.lucysfriedchicken.com/on-the-lake/

It’s that time of year again, and Austin’s hometown musician, Willie Nelson, continues the tradition of ringing in the New Year at Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater with three unforgettable nights of music, family, and friends. Although he’s usually known for his 4^th of July picnic, Willie and the family have shifted gears and are carrying on the party for the seventh year in a row. Whether you’re slightly interested or dying to go, don’t wait until the last minute to purchase your tickets!  Even though it seems like Willie will perform for us till the end of time, these tickets are being sold like there won’t be a next year, so don’t hesitate!

In past years, Willie’s two youngest sons, Micah and Lukas, have opened the show. Micah kicks things off with an acoustic set followed by his older brother Lukas and his rock band “Promise of the Real.” Also joining the act in recent years is Willie’s sister Bobbie Nelson on piano, his daughter Amy on vocals, and nine time Grammy nominee Jamey Johnson on guitar. On top of that, Willie’s set list from 2017 consisted of some of the all-time fan favorites and covers such as “Texas Flood” by the great Stevie Ray Vaughn.

With plenty to look forward to in the 2018 show, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t bring in 2019 with Willie. The shows will be held on Saturday, December 29^th, Sunday, December 30^th, and Monday, December 31^st. Doors will open at 6:30pm and the music will start at 8:00pm for the shows on the 29^th and 30^th. Doors open at 7:30pm and the music will start at 9:00pm for the show on the 31^st. And if you’re on the fence about going, just ask yourself, what would Willie do?

Tickets and Event Info: Dec 29^th– https://acl-live.com/calendar/willie-nelson-family-1

Dec 30^th– https://acl-live.com/calendar/willie-nelson-family-2

Dec 31^st– https://acl-live.com/calendar/willie-nelson-family-3

Austin Trail of Lights

If you’re looking for something to brighten up your holiday spirit this year, look no further. The Austin Trail of Lights is back and brighter than ever. The 54^th annual event will be held in the heart of Austin at iconic Zilker Park beginning next week. The trail will be displaying over 2,000,000 lights, and with nearly 400,000 people attending in 2017, this is not a holiday tradition to miss. The event will be highlighting the past year’s people, music, food, technology, charitable organizations, and businesses that make up our unique city.  

Starting in 1965, The Trail of Lights (known as “Yule Fest” back then) has grown into Austin’s second largest event and has been drawing out families and friends ever since. With the 66 displays, 30 unique food trucks, and 77 live performances, the Trail of Lights offers a little something for everyone. In addition, this year they have added some new attractions, including a 13-foot illuminated carriage, 12 seven-foot lighted guitars highlighting Austin’s musical background, and a 25-foot spiral holiday tree.

The grand opening for the general public will be on Monday, December 10^th and the trail will stay open through December 23^rd. Admission and parking can be purchased in advance or upon arrival, and the option for a shuttle ride from parking to the trail is available as well. The Trail of Lights has a few free nights for the public, but it doesn’t hurt to bring some extra cash in case you get hungry or crave a hot cocoa. So, if you’re feeling a little dull this holiday season or looking for a holiday experience, head down and let the Trail of Lights brighten you up.

Ticket Info and Event Details: https://austintrailoflights.org/

Thundercloud Subs Annual Turkey Trot

When it comes to Thanksgiving, you think of family, delicious home cooked food, and football, but if you’re spending Thanksgiving in Austin, you think of Thundercloud Subs Annual Turkey Trot. With over 20,000 participants, this annual 5K run is an Austin tradition worth celebrating! Providing fun for the whole family for over 25 years, the Annual Turkey Trot is a Thanksgiving must.

What if I don’t feel like doing the whole 5K, you ask?  No need to worry! Thundercloud will also have a 1K walk/run, a kid’s K, post run snacks, live music, children’s activities and a raffle for a new car provided by First Texas Honda.  With all proceeds going directly to Caritas of Austin, a local, nonprofit that is committed to preventing and ending homelessness in the Austin area, you cant help but feel good about participating. Whether you are showing up by yourself or with the whole family, the Turkey Trot is what Thanksgiving in Austin is all about.

Ticket Info and Event details: https://thundercloud.com/event-info/