Austin’s public transportation service also changed its Instagram profile picture to read “CatMetro.” | Graphic via @capmetroatx
The joke’s on you, because Austinites know how to celebrate April Fools’ Day.
We found some of the silliest pranks local businesses and organizations played on the community yesterday.
CatMetro
Transportation service CapMetro gave us a peek into what it would look like if Austin’s cats got behind the wheel. For starters, there would be no yarn allowed, tolls would be paid in treats, and passengers would have to give the conductor a gentle head pet before boarding.
Hot dog water cider
Don’t be salty about this Austin Eastciders prank. The local cider purveyor joked that it would create a hot dog water-flavored can of its famous drink — perfect for baseball games — containing “real hot dogs” and “real water.”
Chili’s on 45th and Lamar
Austin’s airport is known for its commitment to providing as many local eats as possible and joked that the often-memed location of Chili’s would be next. With the airport’s major expansion ongoing, they teased that a full-scale model of Chili’s on 45th and Lamar was in the works.
“Bob & Jean: A Love Story” | Wednesday, April 2-Saturday, April 19 | Times vary | ZACH Theatre | $48+ | This true love story, set in 1941 New York City, is the work of an Austin native and Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and based on his parents’ lives.
Thursday, April 3
“Breaking the Mold: Beyond 2D” | 5-8 p.m. | Unchained.Art Contemporary Gallery | Free | Attend the opening reception of this sculptural exhibition featuring works by seven artists from around the globe.
“The Arc of Oblivion” | 7 p.m. | The Long Center | $13 | Watch this science-themed documentary from Sandbox Films + an in-person presentation from a leading researcher.
Friday, April 4
Lady Blackbird | 8 p.m. | ACL Live at 3TEN | $35+ | The jazz and soul singer will serenade concertgoers on the “Slang Spirituals” tour with special guests Knowing Nakia + Jo James.
Saturday, April 5
ABC Kite Fest | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | Zilker Park | Free | Bring your coolest kite to show off, or just bring a picnic blanket to take in the views at this nearly 100-year-old beloved local tradition.
Locals Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson paid a visit to the Texas State Capitol on Monday, March 31 and asked lawmakers to pass Senate Bill 22. The bill would add $500 million to a film incentives fund every two years. (KVUE)
Opening
You’ll soon be able to get your red bottoms right here in Austin. Luxury shoe and accessories brand Christian Louboutin — known for its bright red soles — plans to open a store on Century Oaks Terrace at The Domain.
Travel
Private jet company Million Air, which is based in Houston, plans to double its presence at the Austin airport with a $60 million expansion. The project will add three new hangars, two departure lounges, 534,000 sqft of airplane parking, and more. (Austin Business Journal)
Announced
California-based restaurant Pokeworks announced plans to open 10+ restaurants in the Austin area. The chain already has four locations in town and is currently looking for real estate. (Austin Business Journal)
Drink
WWE superstar Hulk Hogan is in town. The retired wrestler is touring Cedar Park, Austin, and Kyle to promote Real American Beer. He’ll be at Specs on Brodie Lane and Wiggle Room this afternoon.
Number
50. That’s how many years Thundercloud Subs has been serving sandwiches to Austinites. The founders grew up eating subs in Chicago + New York and felt that Austin needed a shop. Psst — City Editor Figi likes to order the Austin Club with sprouts. (Community Impact)
Outdoors
The final park in Mueller’s 20-year development plan is now open. Located beneath the control tower — leftover from Austin’s previous airport — Roger Lavon Taylor Sr. Plaza provides green space, a bike path, shade, and a seating wall.
Sports
The Dallas Cowboys released their draft plans and potential picks. Get the biggest stories every day from the local experts of the Dallas Cowboys with Locked On’s daily podcasts.
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Category
Answered
🏙️ Goodbye for now
City Editors Figi and Morgan stopped by the Austin Convention Center on the final day of SXSW to walk through one last time. | Photo by ATXtoday
The Austin Convention Center is reaching its final days as doors officially closed on Tuesday, April 1 in preparation for demolition.
You helped us say goodbye to the Austin Convention Center by sharing some of your memories.
Editor’s note: Some of these entries have been edited for clarity and brevity.
“I volunteered with The Red Cross during Hurricane Katrina recovery. To see an 18-wheeler inside really made me realize the enormity of the building. The organization and room after room of displaced families, donated items, cafeteria, FEMA, and pharmacies was amazing. I made friends with one family. We kept in touch for several months.” — Patty G.
“I still think of this as a new addition to Downtown. Did prom here back in ’96... wow.” — Chad B.
“The Lone Star Volleyball tournament in 1999 is what inspired my dream to live in Austin. I’ve been here 25 years now. Farewell, Austin Convention Center.” — Tricia L.
I visited the Sherwood Forest Faire for the very first time with City Editor Morgan last weekend, and I had the time of my life. I’ll definitely be back and I’m already planning my outfit for next year.
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