We have a goal to raise $4,000 for ATXtoday over the next nine days. Support our positive, hyper-local approach to storytelling with a donation. We love you, Austin.
There’s nothing like being at Q2 Stadium on game night. | Photo by @stevenstamps
Austin FC is back this Saturday, Feb. 22 — the home opener against Sporting Kansas City kicks off at 7:30 p.m.
Ahead of the club’s fifth season, we’ve drummed up everything you need to know about this year’s fan experience. Vamos Verde.
Season snapshot
Austin FC’s 2025 regular season features 34 matches: one home and one away match against each of its 14 fellow Western Conference clubs, and six inter-conference matches against Eastern Conference opponents. Bookmark the full schedule.
From la Barbecue to The Mighty Cone and Mum Foods to Taco Flats, there’s no shortage of good eats at Q2 Stadium.
Photo by ATXtoday
What’s new at Q2?
As always, the food at Q2 Stadium is some of the best in the game. Your ATXtoday City Editors tried some new + returning bites that will be available during home matches. Our faves include:
OG Monster Cone from The Mighty Cone, a rotating partner at The Austin Table near Section 137
S’mores Nachos from 512 Food Co., found in Section 137
Spicy Chicken Empanadas from Little Patagonia, found in Section 126
Let’s play two truths and a lie. Which of the following is not true about Austin FC?
A. Austin FC has sold out all 70 MLS regular season and playoff home matches in the history of the club’s existence. B. Austin FC features adoptable cats as its honorary mascots in partnership with Austin Pets Alive! C. Austin FC’s trademark “bright verde” is Pantone 354.
Opening Reception: “Artistas Sin Fronteras” | 6-8 p.m. | Link & Pin | Free | Attend the opening reception for this group exhibition that highlights artwork by Peruvian artists.
Jersey Boys | Now-Sunday, March 2 | 7:30-10 p.m. | ZACH Theatre | $27 | From the streets of New Jersey to the pinnacle of fame, witness the incredible 40-year friendship that fueled the success of four blue-collar kids in this Tony-winning Broadway hit.*
Danielle Nicole | 8 p.m. | ACL Live at 3TEN | $20+ | The GRAMMY-nominated singer-songwriter from the rock band Trampled Under Foot will be joined by Texas-based musician Cody Jasper.
West 22nd | 7:30 p.m. | Cactus Cafe | Free | See this folk and indie rock band, which was the first all-UT-student band to play ACL Fest, perform during the cafe’s 45th anniversary concert series.
Saturday, Feb. 22
ATX Open | Saturday, Feb. 22-Sunday, March 2 | Times vary | Westwood Country Club | $10+ | Experience world-class women’s tennis at this professional tour-level tournament.
Joining All Musicians Launch Party + Music Showcase | 11 a.m.-11 p.m. | Central Machine Works | Free | Listen to local live music, engage in industry panels, and network with folks in Austin’s music community at this all-day event.
Discover unforgettable spring break fun right in our backyard
Presented by Omni Barton Creek
This resort is ideal for families, friends, or couples seeking tranquility and adventure. | Photos courtesy of Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa
Escape to the breathtaking Texas Hill Country for a spring break filled with relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re craving a tranquil retreat or fun-filled days with family and friends, Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa offers something for everyone.
Austinites are invited to unwind in a luxurious setting with modern amenities, stunning views from every room, and endless fun for the whole family. Here are some can’t-miss things to do during your visit:
Interact with animals + creatures during Zoomagination Animal Encounters
Make memories while playing mini golf and lawn games
Enjoy nightly s’mores at Lady Bird Lawn
Indulge in delectable on-site dining options
And more
Bonus: Parents can sneak away to recharge at the Mokara Spa or tee off on four championship courses while their littles enjoy the Barton’s Kid Zone.
Booking a two-night stay with the Spring Somewhere New package saves visitors 15% — sounds like a sweet deal to us.
UT Austin announced its new interim president yesterday. The university appointed James Davis, who served as senior vice president and chief operating officer, into the position effective immediately. Former president Jay Hartzell announced his resignation last month and will become Southern Methodist University’s leader in June. (Austin American-Statesman)
Biz
Extra, extra, read all about it. Hearst Corporation is poised to purchase the Austin American-Statesman from Gannett Co. Officials from both companies announced the asset purchase agreement yesterday, and the deal should close by the end of March. (Austin American-Statesman)
Weather
Stay warm out there, Austinites. Today’s forecast will bring “the coldest air of the winter” to Central Texas, according to local meteorologists. Protect your people, pets, pipes, and plants, and watch out for potential slick spots on the roads. (KVUE)
Number
4,605. That’s how many affordable housing units were constructed in ATX last year. Austin built more affordable housing than any other US city in 2024, according to a new Yardi Matrix study. The Capital City is projected to gain 9,528 more affordable homes in the next three years. (KUT)
Opening
Handsome Dan’s — a new bar + bodega concept on Springdale Road — will open tomorrow, Feb. 21. Your ATXtoday City Editors visited yesterday for a sneak peek and got to try the stacked-high sandwiches. If you’re a fan of patio hangs and THC on tap, add it to your list.
Job
Paul Macaluso just landed a damn good job — his first day as the new CEO of Torchy’s Tacos is Monday, Feb. 24. Mike Rypka, the founder and current CEO of the restaurant chain, will step into a chief innovation officer role. (Austin Business Journal)
Sports
Will Kyrie Irving’s star power propel the Mavs to the NBA playoffs? Get the biggest stories every day from the local experts of the Dallas Mavericks with Locked On’s daily podcasts.
Coming Soon
Did this catch your eye? That’s because locals (like you) are excited about new happenings in the city. Spread the word about your business, services, big news, or event coming soon to Austin.
Real Estate
Open House Austin believes in homeownership for all, offering personalized real estate services (like guiding first-time buyers through the process) and hosting community events in their whimsical eastside office space. Mark your calendar.*
Finance
Owe more than $10,000 in debt? You’re not alone — personal debt is on the rise. Freedom Debt Relief could help by offering a personalized debt settlement plan and negotiating with creditors to reduce your amount owed (with one low monthly payment + no upfront fees). Get started.*
Category
Drink
🍹 Marg your calendar
Will it be frozen or on the rocks? | Photos by ATXtoday, Codependent, Swim Club, The Loren Hotel Austin, ONETACO., and Tómalo Grill
Sip, sip, hooray — National Margarita Day is on its way and Austin restaurants always rise to the occasion.
Call your friends, book a reservation, and celebrate accordingly on Saturday, Feb. 22.
Azul Rooftop
Sip a $25 flight of mango, passionfruit, watermelon, and strawberry margaritas while you enjoy a live DJ set on the rooftop from 6 to 9 p.m.
Curra’s
Both locations — Hyde Park and Oltorf — will throw block parties for the holiday, complete with drink specials, live music, and raffles.
Edge Rooftop
Drink a $5 margarita made with Espolòn Tequila while taking in skyline views.
Tómalo Grill
Frozen margs will be half-price and house margaritas will be $10 all day at this restaurant near the Rainey Street Trailhead.
Upstairs at Caroline
Reserve your spot on the pet-friendly patio for this party featuring $8 Patrón margaritas, $3 tacos, and a live DJ from 4 to 11 p.m.
ACTIVE Wear laundry detergent. Refresh your gym clothes with this scientifically formulated enzyme blend that removes the lingering smell of sweat and body odor. It’s free from phosphates + each bag can wash up to 90 loads.
I wrote today’s newsletter from Nate’s Baked Goods and Coffee. The sprinkledoodle cookie perfectly complemented my hot vanilla latte, but I’ll be back for lunch because everything on their chalkboard menu sounded delish.
}})
}})
