A variety of holiday events will take place in Pflugerville, Hutto, Round Rock and throughout the surrounding area beginning in December. Check out this list of events to attend this holiday season.

9th annual Hippo Claus Crawl: Hutto’s annual Hippo Claus Crawl will take place in downtown Hutto, where festive beverage stops will be waiting. Participants are encouraged to wear costumes, visit attractions and take photos with Santa.

• Dec. 13, 6-9 p.m.

• Dec. 12-28

Hutto ISD's second transportation center is planned to open by the end of 2026, a new update from the school district shows.

What you need to know: In a Nov. 20 capital improvement update from Sledge Engineering, the firm managing the 2023 bond program, company President Casey Sledge said the future southern transportation hub's master plan is currently under design. 

Per the district's bond schedule, Sledge said, the facility is on track to open in December 2026. 

Health food cafe Lone Star Nutrition opened in North Austin in mid-September.

What they offer: The cafe serves smoothie bowls made with greens, fruit, protein and other toppings, as well as protein snacks such as waffles, doughnuts, chips and granola bars.

The cafe also features a healthy drink menu, such as coffee and thermogenic teas, which can include add-ons such as collagen, protein juice, fiber, probiotics and an immunity boost. There is also an "athletic" menu with pre-workout and post-workout drinks. 

So far in 2025, Community Impact has covered two election cycles, major transportation updates, development news and local businesses throughout the greater Austin area.

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Williamson County will work with local water providers to explore long-term water supply solutions, including an engineering study that will evaluate regional needs for water.

County commissioners approved $500,000 for the study at their Nov. 25 meeting.

The setup: Although the county is not a water provider, County Judge Steve Snell said officials hope to guide cities and utilities in coordinating water procurement, infrastructure planning and conservation efforts through the new study and coalition.

The newly formed Williamson County Water Group includes representatives from the county and major water providers like the cities of Round Rock, Leander, Cedar Park, Georgetown and the Brazos River Authority.

Potential solutions could involve groundwater and surface water development, water reuse, upgrades to aging infrastructure, and a broad conservation plan, Snell said.

What's next: The water study is anticipated to be conducted in April.