Real Estate Photographer in Austin, TX

Austin, Texas - As the festive season approaches, The Light Medic, a trusted Holiday Light Installer in Austin, TX, is helping homeowners, businesses, and communities light up their spaces with professional, custom-designed holiday displays. Based in Round Rock, The Light Medic brings expertise, safety, and holiday cheer to every project, offering complete services from design to installation, maintenance, and takedown. With a reputation for reliability and creativity, the company makes it easier than ever to transform any property into a festive showcase.

What sets The Light Medic apart is its end-to-end approach. Clients receive a complimentary consultation, during which the team evaluates the property and creates a customized design tailored to the client’s vision and preferences. Once approved, the crew handles installation using commercial-grade materials and safe, tested methods. After the season, the team returns to carefully remove and store the lighting, eliminating the usual holiday hassle. This all-in-one solution allows customers to enjoy the holidays without climbing ladders or dealing with tangled cords.

From elegant roofline outlines with C9 or LED bulbs to intricate tree wrapping and walkway lighting, The Light Medic designs display with precision and style. The company’s services include holiday lighting solutions for shopping centers, restaurants, storefronts, and HOA entrances. Each display is crafted to enhance curb appeal, attract customers, and create a warm, welcoming environment for guests and residents alike. Flexible options also include permanent lighting for year-round celebrations, birthdays, and events.

Safety and professionalism are central to The Light Medic’s operations. The company is first responder–owned and fully insured, providing peace of mind to homeowners and commercial clients alike. The team is trained in secure installation techniques, and all lighting components come with a generous warranty. If a bulb goes out or materials are damaged, The Light Medic replaces them at no charge for returning customers, ensuring every display looks its best year after year.

The Light Medic is also known for its personal service and local roots. As a family-run business based in Round Rock, the team treats clients like neighbors. Whether working with an individual homeowner or an entire community, the goal remains the same: to deliver stunning, stress-free holiday displays that capture the spirit of the season. The holiday lighting company’s customer-first attitude has earned praise from clients across the Austin area, including HOAs, small businesses, and families seeking to create memorable holiday moments.

For anyone in the greater Austin area looking to elevate their holiday decorations this year, The Light Medic offers the perfect solution. With custom designs, expert installation, and worry-free service, the team ensures every property stands out without the stress.

About The Light Medic

The Light Medic is a family-owned holiday lighting company based in Round Rock, Texas. Specializing in residential, commercial, and HOA holiday lighting across Austin, the company provides fully insured, professional installations tailored to each client’s needs. With services including design, setup, takedown, and storage, The Light Medic ensures every holiday display is safe, stunning, and stress-free.

Media Contact

NameThe Light MedicContact nameSam BruceContact phone(512) 987-3240CityAustinStateTexasZip78752CountryUnited StatesUrlhttps://thelightmedic.com/

Last Updated On – 30th November, 2025

Jump To: Affordable | Traditional | Modern & Trendy

Pho Austin lovers know that the city’s Vietnamese food scene continues to grow fast — and pho is one of the biggest standouts. Whether you’re craving a deep, traditional broth or a modern, creative take on the classic soup, Austin has something for every pho fan.

Below are the 10 best pho restaurants in Austin for 2025, organized into helpful categories so you can instantly find the perfect bowl.

Warm up with a bowl of pho, then keep the day going with something fun. Check out the latest Things To Do in Austin This Weekend to find concerts, pop-ups, and seasonal happenings around the city.

Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.

Also, check out our articles on Chinese Food Austin, Vietnamese Food in Austin, and Best Sushi Restaurants Austin.

Affordable Pho Austin

The One Pho is a favorite Vietnamese spot in Austin, known for its extensive menu that includes classic noodle soups and innovative Asian fusion dishes. Locals often praise their signature Wagyu Beef Hot Stone Pho, where the broth is poured tableside over fresh ingredients in a piping hot stone bowl.

Where: 10721 Research Blvd b110, Austin, TX 78759 Operating Hours: Thursday CLOSED | Friday – Wednesday 11:00 am – 8:00 pm

Pho Van is a highly-rated, no-frills Vietnamese restaurant in Austin, known for serving authentic dishes like flavorful pho, fresh spring rolls, and banh mi. Many regulars consider their broken rice plates, such as the grilled chicken or pork, to be an excellent alternative to the namesake soup.

Where: 8557 Research Blvd #120, Austin, TX 78758 Operating Hours: Daily 10:30 am – 9:00 pm

Tan My Restaurant is widely celebrated as one of Austin’s best for authentic Vietnamese cuisine, famous for its rich, aromatic broth that elevates their signature noodle soups. For an especially satisfying meal, be sure to try the Pho Dac Biet, a combination pho that features a generous variety of meats.

Where: 1601 Ohlen Rd # E, Austin, TX 78758 Operating Hours: Sunday CLOSED | Monday – Saturday 10:00 am – 8:30 pm

888 Pan Asian Restaurant is a popular pho Austin spot known for its vast menu of well-priced, generously portioned Vietnamese, Thai, and Chinese dishes. Patrons especially praise the flavorful pho broth, and the crispy spring rolls are a highly recommended appetizer to start your meal.

Where: 2400 E Oltorf St #1A, Austin, TX 78741 Operating Hours: Sunday 12:00 pm – 9:45 pm | Monday – Saturday 12:00 pm – 10:45 pm

Once you’ve finished your pho adventure, explore what else Austin has brewing. Browse our guide to Things To Do in Austin This Weekend for festivals, outdoor fun, and can’t-miss local events.

Best Traditional Pho in Austin

A long-loved staple of South Austin, Pho Saigon delivers a deep, rich broth and the classic herb-forward flavor that makes traditional pho irresistible. Its consistency and generous portions make it one of the city’s most reliable pho spots.

Where: 10901 N Lamar Blvd A108, Austin, TX 78753 Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 10:00 am – 8:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 10:00 am – 8:30 pm

North Austin residents swear by Pho Dan. The broth here is clean and comforting, and the bowls come packed with noodles and meats. It’s a great everyday pho spot, especially for those who love straightforward, authentic flavors.

Where: 11220 N Lamar Blvd B-200, Austin, TX 78753 Operating Hours: Daily 9:00 am – 9:00 pm

Known for bold, aromatic broth and generous toppings, Pho Phong Luu offers classic Vietnamese flavors done right. It’s a go-to for long-time Austin residents seeking a consistently satisfying bowl.

Where: 11800 Dessau Rd Suite 302, Austin, TX 78754 Operating Hours: Wednesday – Thursday CLOSED | Friday 10:00 am – 2:30 pm & 4:30 pm – 8:00 pm | Saturday – Sunday 10:00 am – 2:30 pm | Monday – Tuesday 10:00 am – 2:30 pm & 4:30 pm – 8:00 pm

Best Modern & Trendy Pho Spots in Austin

Sip Pho brings a modern, fresh aesthetic to the pho Austin scene. Expect beautifully plated bowls with a focus on clean flavors, perfect for diners who appreciate high-quality ingredients in a contemporary setting.

Where: 512 W 29th St, Austin, TX 78705 Operating Hours: Daily 11:00 am – 9:00 pm

Pho Please is one of the most popular modern Vietnamese spots in Austin. It has a bright, trendy atmosphere, fast service, and a broth that’s light yet incredibly flavorful. A reliable pick for young professionals and students.

Where: 1920 E Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78741 Operating Hours: Daily 11:00 am – 9:00 pm

While 1618 Asian Fusion isn’t strictly a pho restaurant, its version of the dish has earned a dedicated following. The flavors are balanced and the portions generous, making it ideal for mixed groups craving different Asian dishes.

Where: 1618 E Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78741 Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 10:00 am – 9:30 pm | Friday – Saturday 10:00 am – 10:30 pm

Craving more ways to enjoy the city after your pho stop? Dive into our updated roundup of Things To Do in Austin This Weekend and discover what’s happening across Austin right now.

Last Updated On – 29th November, 2025

Jump To: East | North | South

The holidays return with dazzling displays, family-friendly celebrations, and beloved traditions — and if you’re searching for the best Christmas Tree Lighting Austin 2025 offers, this guide highlights every major ceremony in Austin and surrounding Central Texas cities. Although official 2025 dates are still being released, these verified annual events follow consistent schedules each year, allowing you to plan early and check back for updates all season long.

Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.

East Austin & Surrounding Cities

The Hutto Tree Lighting with Cacao & Carols is an annual event in Historic Downtown Hutto where families gather to witness the traditional tree lighting while sipping hot cocoa and enjoying Christmas carols.

The City of Taylor Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting is a free annual event featuring a festive parade on Main Street followed by a tree lighting celebration in Heritage Square with live music and photos with Santa.

The Bastrop’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is a cherished community event near Austin, Texas, that marks the start of the holiday season with the ceremonial illumination of the town’s Christmas tree.

North Austin & Hill Country Tree Lightings

The Leander Old Town Christmas Festival is a full-day community event near Austin featuring a Rudolph Run, a Christmas Marketplace, a holiday parade, and the lighting of the town’s Christmas tree.

The Dripping Springs Christmas Tree Lighting is a festive community event held at Veterans Memorial Park that features live performances and is typically followed by a free holiday movie showing.

The Cedar Park Heritage Oak Tree Lighting is an annual event at Heritage Oak Park, where the city’s largest live oak tree is illuminated with over 50,000 lights, featuring holiday activities, music, and a visit from Santa.

The Domain Northside Tree Lighting is part of a larger festive event in North Austin’s shopping district that features the lighting of the holiday tree and family-friendly entertainment.

South Austin & I-35 Corridor Tree Lightings

Santa’s Arrival is the official holiday kickoff event in Kyle, Texas, featuring the annual city tree lighting ceremony, choir performances, and free photos with Santa.

The Budafest Tree Lighting is the ceremonial kickoff event for the multi-day Budafest holiday festival, featuring a countdown led by Santa Claus, an ornament market, and live music in Downtown Buda, near Austin.

The Zilker Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony marks the beginning of the holiday season in Austin by illuminating the 155-foot-tall, spiraled Christmas tree made from over three thousand lights draped from a historic moon tower in Zilker Park.

Looking for fun things around ATX? Check out our weekly updates with the best picks for Things to Do in Austin this Weekend — all curated by a local.

Want to discover more Christmas tree lightings across Texas? Take a look at the Houston Christmas Tree Lighting Guide and the San Antonio Christmas Tree Lighting Guide for even more ways to celebrate.

As downtown restaurants and bars head into what's supposed to be one of their busiest times of the year, construction isn't making it very holly jolly.

The I-35 expansion and the new high-rise projects nibble at the edges, but one project is proving to be the most disruptive of all: the years-long reconstruction of the Austin Convention Center.

Now, there's a new incentive meant to lure people back downtown: half-priced Uber rides through the holidays.

"Our public agencies have been clear with us that this construction is only going to really intensify over the next decade," said Vanessa Olson with the Downtown Austin Alliance (DAA), which is subsidizing the Uber rides. "We're testing this program and many others to see what works to make sure people can still support those downtown businesses."

During December, the DAA will pay 50% of the cost for Uber rides to and from downtown within a 30-mile radius. The maximum subsidy is $40 per ride and doesn't include the tip.

The vouchers can be be claimed now at xoxodowntown.com and used Dec. 1 through Jan. 1 at 8 a.m., allowing for a ride home after New Year's Eve.

The DAA has 5,000 vouchers available. Each voucher covers up to six rides. Olson says if all the vouchers are claimed, they might release more later in December.

"It's very difficult to tell exactly the cost of each trip," Olson said, because vouchers could be used for a trip to South Austin or a 27-mile drive to Kyle. "We'll be monitoring it closely and if we are still within our budget, it is very possible for us to release more vouchers say mid-month."

Money for the rides is coming from the DAA's $14.3 million annual budget, which is mostly funded by a tax on privately-owned downtown properties. The DAA also sponsors the KUT and KUTX Holiday Sing-Along and Stroll.

This Uber promotion comes during the first holiday season of the Austin Convention Center expansion and redevelopment, a $1.6 billion project that will nearly double the facility's rentable space to 620,000 square feet.

The convention center isn't expected to reopen until early 2029, leaving downtown without 300,000-plus annual convention attendees.

Businesses closest to the construction site are being dealt a double whammy. On top of seeing fewer tourists, they're also dealing with construction vehicles, fencing and road closures.

"You can feel the vibration," said Joe Nguyen, operations manager for Moonshine Grill. "The noise level is just so freaking loud." He said all the dust has them constantly having to replace HVAC filters.

Since 2002, Moonshine has served Southern comfort food inside a historic 19th century building directly across from the convention center on Red River Street.

"Overall, we're down 30% to 40%," Nguyen said. "Lunch business is down 70%."

Nguyen called the DAA's half-priced Uber rides "a fantastic idea of just at least trying something." He acknowledged it won't solve all their problems but said it's "better than not doing anything at all."

Even restaurants and bars blocks away from the construction zone have seen a decline.

"I would say our sales are off by probably about 20% to 25% with the absence of the convention center," said Heather Potts, co-owner of Cedar Door and Foxy's Proper Pub at Brazos and Second streets. "The convention center was a big part of our business model."

Potts hopes the Uber subsidy brings more Austinites downtown and raises awareness about the struggles facing bars, restaurants and retailers. But she's also hoping for a boom in business when the double-sized convention center reopens in 2029.

"I'm super excited about when it will be finished, definitely," she said. "I need a countdown clock."

Last Updated On – 27th November, 2025

It’s Thanksgiving Day in Austin – Thursday, November 27, 2025 – and whether you’re celebrating with a traditional turkey dinner, seeking out a quick bite, or just hoping to get a head start on the holiday season, Austin has options for you!

While many businesses are closed for the holiday, this city never completely shuts down. Need to grab a latte or a last-minute essential? We’ve got the hours for Starbucks, 7-Eleven, and other key stores like CVS Pharmacy. Ready for a quick meal? Fast-food staples like Whataburger and McDonald’s are expected to be open. Although the biggest events like the Vienna Light Orchestra and the North Pole Flyer begin later in the week, you can still step into the holiday spirit at long-running attractions like the Miracle on 5th Street Christmas Pop-Up Bar. Start your holiday with our definitive guide to what’s open and happening in Austin today!

Celebrate the start of the holiday season right after Thanksgiving at Mozart’s Festival of Lights, a brilliant spectacle perfect for your list of enchanting things to do Thanksgiving week in Austin.

Where: Mozart’s Coffee Roasters, 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703 When: Monday, November 24, 2025 – January 3, 2026 | 6 pm – 10 pm How Much: Free

All aboard the North Pole Flyer! Step into a magical winter wonderland as you travel through the countryside on a vintage train. There will also be visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Where: Austin Steam Train Association, 401 E Whitestone Blvd C-100, Cedar Park, TX 78613 When: Saturday, November 29 – December 14, 2025 | 5:30 pm – 9 pm How Much: Starts at $55 | $10 for lap kids

Step into holiday magic the day after Thanksgiving by securing your seats for the Vienna Light Orchestra Christmas Tour 2025 at The Long Center. Born from the spirit of Vienna, this global concert experience blends sweeping symphonic sound with theatrical beauty.

Where: The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704 When: Friday, November 28, 2025 How Much: Starts at $54.13

Step into Christmas cheer like you have never seen it before at the Miracle on 5th Street Christmas Pop-Up Bar. This wall-to-wall decorated Christmas-themed pop-up cocktail bar features multiple bars and cheery social experiences where you can sip holiday cocktails crafted by the jolly staff.

Where: The Eleanor, 307 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78701 When: Monday, November 24 – December 28, 2025 How Much: Starts at $13.30

Open with a modified holiday menu.

Many Texas locations remain open 24/7, including Thanksgiving Day in Austin.

Many cafés open with reduced hours; great option for coffee or a light meal on Thanksgiving Day.

Many locations open Thanksgiving 2025 with reduced or franchise-set hours; expected to be open through the evening, not necessarily 24 hours.

Confirmed among fast-food chains open Thanksgiving Day 2025; hours vary by franchise, often late-morning through evening.

National open/closed lists show Family Dollar among the chains open on Thanksgiving Day 2025, often with shortened hours such as 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call your nearest Austin store to confirm.

CVS will have many locations open on Thanksgiving Day 2025, typically with reduced hours such as mid-morning through late afternoon (some national lists mention roughly 9 a.m. to 2–5 p.m.). Pharmacy hours may differ from front-of-store hours.

Goodwill’s holiday schedule can vary by region, but many Goodwill organizations close on Thanksgiving Day to give staff time with family. 2025 holiday-hour roundups note that numerous Goodwill locations will be closed, so Austin shoppers should check the Central Texas site or call ahead before planning a visit.

For 2025, Walgreens has shifted policies and will close most locations on Thanksgiving Day, but select 24-hour stores will remain open for essential pharmacy services. If you rely on Walgreens, be sure to search for a 24-hour Austin location and confirm its holiday schedule.

7-Eleven convenience stores are generally open on Thanksgiving, with many operating 24/7 or on slightly reduced holiday hours. They’re a good option for drinks, snacks, and essentials when other places are closed.

That’s your guide to what’s happening in Austin today – Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 2025! We’ll keep updating throughout the day if new info comes in. Be sure to also check our full weekend guide for more events happening this weekend, Friday through Sunday!