Are you a local business owner? It’s time to brag on yourself. We want you to nominate your biz for Today’s Best. If you’re feeling extra generous, nominate your fellow movers and shakers. Nominations are due Friday, February 21 and voting begins Monday, March 17.
Lake Charles Mardi Gras magic awaits
Presented by Visit Lake Charles
Get ready for an unforgettable Mardi Gras experience. | Photos courtesy of Kathryn Shea Duncan
Get ready to immerse yourself in the spirit of Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras, happening now through Fat Tuesday (March 4).
Lake Charles is bursting with parades, live music, king cakes, and festive events for the whole family.
Whether you’re a seasoned reveler or experiencing Mardi Gras for the first time, Southwest Louisiana promises an unforgettable celebration. Here are some can’t-miss Mardi Gras events to add to your itinerary:
World Famous Cajun Extravaganza & Gumbo Cook-Off | March 1 | Indulge in flavorful gumbo made by the best chefs and krewes in the region.
Krewe of Barkus Parade | March 1 | Watch costumed pets + their owners strut their stuff in this whimsical, family-friendly event.
Royal Gala | March 3 | Be dazzled by Mardi Gras royalty adorned in elaborate costumes during this enchanting evening.
Fat Tuesday Parades | March 4 | Don’t miss the grand finale, featuring the Krewe of Krewes Parade, Jeeps on Parade, and the Motor Gras Parade.
Taste the flavor and savor the spirit of Mardi Gras with a King Cake.
Photo courtesy of Kathryn Shea Duncan
Taste the Mardi Gras magic
No Mardi Gras celebration is complete without indulging in king cake. From classic cream cheese to unique creations like pecan praline and blueberry, Lake Charles bakeries have the perfect slice waiting for you.
Pair your treats with a signature Mardi Gras daiquiri, and don’t forget to sample local favorites like gumbo and boudin along the Southwest Louisiana Boudin Trail.
Southwest Louisiana is the perfect destination to embrace the festive spirit of Mardi Gras. With colorful parades, family-friendly events, and a food scene that will leave you craving more, Lake Charles has it all. Explore the full schedule of events, insider tips, and local dining guides, before planning your trip below.
Issues Over Lunch | 11:30 a.m. | Austin Marriott Downtown | $65 | Join the Downtown Austin Alliance to learn about Our Future 35’s cap-and-stitch project and network.
Wednesday, Feb. 5
Public Stargazing Nights | 7-9 p.m. | Garey Park, Georgetown | $2+ | Spot celestial objects through telescopes with Williamson County Astronomy Club volunteers — and don’t forget your picnic blanket.
Looking for Love | 6 p.m. | Gibson Street Bar | Cost of purchase | You might meet the love of your life at this party for singles with specialty cocktails.
Friday, Feb. 7
Rob Baird | 8 p.m. | ACL Live at 3Ten | $22+ | The Memphis native has performed alongside Jason Isbell, Nathaniel Rateliff, and Billy Joe Shaver.
Saturday, Feb. 8
Valentine’s Day Printing Celebration | 1-4 p.m. | Letterpress PLAY | Free | Create your own heart-shaped Valentine’s Day cards while you sip hot cocoa and snack on sweets.
It’s almost Super Bowl Sunday. If you’re not wearing your favorite team’s merch, shop five comfy tees + sweatshirts that say “I’m just here for the snacks” ... literally.
Austin and Travis County are set to receive $14 million for homeless services from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. It’s the largest sum of money the area has ever received to combat homelessness and will support 16 projects across eight local organizations. (KVUE)
Open
We like this a latte. Luxury designer brand Coach opened The Coach Coffee Shop inside its new location in The Domain over the weekend. Shoppers can now find hot + iced coffee, pastries, soft serve, and exclusive merchandise in the revamped store.
Coming Soon
Chuy on this. Chuy’s plans to open a new south Austin location this year, according to permit filings. The 6,500-sqft restaurant will be located at 126 E. Ralph Ablanedo Dr. and construction is set to be completed in March. (KXAN)
Real Estate
Industry SOMA, a new community of affordable homes in south Austin, is now accepting applications from potential buyers. The development will comprise 23 townhomes ranging from $235,000 to $270,000 and work should wrap in March. (KVUE)
Environment
Austin plans to invest ~$50 million in wildfire prevention, including up to $42 million over six years for tree trimming near Austin Energy power lines. An additional $7.5 million may go toward restoration work in at-risk parks over five years. (Community Impact)
Festival
Hot Luck Live Food & Music Festival will return to Austin Thursday, May 22-Sunday, May 25, and the newly released event lineup is smokin’. You can snag a Whole Enchilada pass, which grants you access to the kick-off party, at a discounted price until early March.
Try This
Love is in the air at Downright Austin. The Downtown hotel’s Rodeo Room will transform into a Valentine’s Day pop-up experience dubbed “My Neon Valentine” Friday, Feb. 7-Sunday, Feb. 16. Look forward to neon decor, live music, and themed drink + dinner menus.
Sports
Mavericks fans were shocked over the weekend when news broke that the team traded Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers. Get the biggest stories every day from the local experts of the Dallas Mavericks with Locked On’s daily podcasts.
Number
3.5 million. That’s how many Americans subscribe to 1440 — a daily digest for unbiased national news on business, politics, culture, and more. Subscribe for free.*
Announced
Meet: ATXtoday’s Best. From pet-friendly places to fitness centers, we’re asking for your insight on the top-tier spots ATX has to offer. Nominate your favorite businesses now through Friday, February 21.
Category
Real Estate
🏡 House it going?
Housing experts foresee predictable mortgage rates, a steady supply of inventory, and consistent sales trends in Austin’s future. | Photo by ATXtoday
Predictable, steady, opportunity. Those are the words Unlock MLS Housing Economist Dr. Clare Knapp used to describe Austin’s housing market this year at the Austin Board of Realtors Headquarters yesterday.
If you’re looking to buy or sell a home in the Capital City in 2025, here’s what to expect.
Predictable mortgage rates
Knapp said mortgage rates will likely stay in the 6% range during the first half of the year and might dip into the 5% range later in 2025.
Consistent home prices + sales
Active listings in Austin were up by nearly 15% in 2024, and Knapp said healthy inventory is expected to carry over into 2025. Home sales and prices will probably remain flat, but Knapp emphasized that prospects may still be hesitant to buy in 2025 if sellers aren’t willing to reduce listing prices.
“If sellers are really willing to meaningfully adjust their pricing expectations, we could see sales increase more,” Knapp said.
Amazon’s No. 1 bestselling water bottle — the Owala FreeSip. It’s a top seller for good reason: Owala has perfected a spout design that allows you to either sip upright through a built-in straw or tilt back to swig a gulp. It’s actually patented.
I went to Zilker Park on Sunday and had a glorious time soaking up the sun + meeting a stranger’s two seven-week-old French bulldogs. If you’re looking for ways to enjoy the warm weather this week, consider this your sign to visit a local park.
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