Cedar Park, TX December 2025

LIFE + CULTURE

CELEBRATE THE SPIRIT OF THE SEASON AROUND TOWN

The Brightest Part of the Season

I wake up each day grateful to have a sister. Haley is, without a doubt, the best gift I’ve ever received. At five years apart, my earliest memories mostly start when she came into my life. In many ways, my life truly began with hers.

She has been my constant light, especially through my darker chapters. Now, at 20, she’s grown into this incredible young woman (which she’ll cringe to hear me say) and I constantly find myself wondering where the time has gone.

The holiday season always reminds me of the traditions that bring comfort, laughter, and nostalgia. Whether we’re crafting at home with hot cocoa in hand or I’m dragging her around town to see holiday lights, the season is brighter because of my not-so-little sister. Despite the hustle and bustle, those moments of pure happiness really shine through.

One of my favorite traditions is our Christmas cards. If you caught my October Lifestyle Letter, you’ll remember that my mom loves a good theme. Our holiday decor is no exception. That’s why once we’ve agreed upon a theme, Haley and I have to make our card fit it, too. In recent years, think: the Snow Meiser and Heat Meiser, the Grinch, and that classic little red truck. The list goes on and on.

I also love hunting for presents for her. It’s not like I don’t regularly purchase anything that remotely reminds me of my sister, but there’s something about the holidays that makes gift-giving feel extra meaningful. Still, the season isn’t about what ends up under the tree—it’s about everything wrapped around it.

We should chase joy year-round, yet it’s at the end of the year when I believe it’s easiest to lean into. There’s just so much community magic and positive energy that we have the opportunity to embrace. You feel it in every act of kindness, every shared meal, every Christmas card. The holidays, after all, are about the people you share them with.

As you read our Holiday & Giving Issue, I hope this sentiment rings true. I hope you tell someone you value them (even if they cringe). And I hope that you and yours have nothing short of a spectacular December, no matter what and how you celebrate.

Thank you for spending 2025 with Cedar Park City Lifestyle!

MEGAN MARSHALL, EDITOR @CEDARPARK_CITYLIFESTYLE

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Pam Dugdale | pam.dugdale@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Megan Marshall | megan.marshall@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Myke Toman

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Madison Peterson

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Kiana Alejandra

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

inside the issue

Winter Wonders

Discover

Celebrations Served in Style

See

A

Be

ifeline for Hope & Healing

DECEMBER 2025

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Cedar Park Police Chief Mike Harmon at National Night Out to promote neighborhood spirit. 2: Independent children’s bookstore The Kids Book Shop opens with Leander Chamber ribbon-cutting ceremony. 3: Come and Hike It Founder Roland Jimenez takes group selfie at Summit of Hope Gala. 4: Singer-songwriter Amy Hooper performs during REIZ Adaptive Fitness’s Redefining Strength fundraiser at Red Horn Scottsdale. 5: 9Round Fitness’s Rebecca Kumar with the Beck family at X-Golf Cedar Park grand opening. 6: NightMarket.fun brings food, art, and performances to Lakeline Park, inspired by Asian night markets. 7: Artist creates live painting during Artoberfest, organized by the Leander Public Arts and Culture Commission.

Fun Events are brewing this December at SereniTea Cup

SereniTea

Save $10 on $100 gift cards at X-Golf Cedar Park

Need a present for someone who loves golf? Swing into the holidays at X-Golf Cedar Park, home of the world’s most accurate golf simulators. It’s the perfect place to play, train, and entertain while watching your favorite sporting events on TV. You can also snack on appetizers and enjoy delicious cocktails from their full-service bar. Get your gift cards now and save on every $100! Offer is valid through December 31st while supplies last. playxgolf.com

Scan to read more

Toast to the opening of Cork2Glass Wine Bar & Retailer

After much planning, research, and tasting, Cork2Glass held their grand opening festivities on October 11th. Their team of wine enthusiasts has brought to life a cozy, music-filled space where every bottle in their curated selection tells a story. You are invited to experience guided tastings with their in-house sommelier and quiet nights out paired with your favorite varietal. They look forward to blending community, culture, and conversation over thoughtfully-created dishes and organic, natural drinks. cork2glass.com

Cothron’s Security Professionals sets up shop in Cedar Park

First established on South Congress in 1948, Cothron’s Security Professionals has now expanded its offerings with a new location on Cypress Creek Rd. With the fundamental philosophy to never leave a customer unhappy, their team of experts is available 24/7 with complete solutions for all your security needs. They design and implement systems that ensure you, your assets, your home, and/or your business are secure. That includes locksmithing, access control, safes, and door hardware. cothrons.com

Welcome inclusive hub

The Secret Lantern Books & Games

When Dianna Lora and Dan Condaxis first started envisioning The Secret Lantern, it came from a desire for community. They wanted to build a place where creative and curious people would feel safe and supported. On October 4th, they hosted the store’s soft opening, which was packed with people who love all things literature, storytelling, and gaming. Located on S Bell Blvd, The Secret Lantern is here to guide you toward your next adventure. thesecretlantern.com

Lady Babka offers 15% off gift box online to our readers

Interested in a delicious and unique gift for the holidays? Lady Babka has you covered with handmade, melt-in-your-mouth creations! Their Best Sellers Gift Box is now available online, featuring cinnamon, dark chocolate, and butter pecan babkas. You can enter the code COMMUNITY until December 15th for a special discount on this box. (And if you’re hosting a holiday event, check out their 10-inch round babka that can serve up to 35 people.) ladybabka.com

Winter Wonders

ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL

There’s always something merry in motion across Central Texas during the most wonderful time of the year. With countless city-wide celebrations, artisan markets, and winter treats from your favorite coffee shops, this marks the perfect season to shop for all ages.

The Crossover Ice & Field Old Town

On December 6th, Old Town Leander will come alive with festive joy. Start with the Rudolph Run 5K, then visit the vendors, food, and entertainment at the Christmas marketplace while waiting for the parade. End with their tree lighting and holiday movie under the stars. Explore local traditions and seasonal delights all December

The coolest winter experiences are coming to The Crossover. Don’t miss the Holiday Ice Show on December 6th and 7th, featuring performances from nationally ranked skaters. Return on December 14th for Grinch Skate with DJ Paul Secrest, and Silent Night Evening Skate on December 23rd.

For 50 years, the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar has honored the creativity of local artists, offering one-of-a-kind pieces that showcase the best of our neighbors’ talents. Penny V Productions is bringing holiday cheer with Friday and Saturday markets at the Hill Country Galleria in Bee Cave. And Christian Resource Center is hosting its annual Christmas Store, giving families the chance to donate toys for infants through teens, emphasizing the true spirit of giving.

Whether your traditions sparkle with a night at Peppermint Parkway at Circuit of the Americas, a stroll

through the Austin Trail of Lights at Zilker Park, or a glowing walk through Luminations at the Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center… the magic is everywhere. You might even enjoy taking a scenic drive to experience the “Twinkliest Town in Texas” (aka Johnson City) or to the German-inspired festivities of Weihnachtszeit in Fredericksburg. However you celebrate, December is yours to pack with fun.

At the heart of the holidays is time well spent. No matter how busy it gets as we push toward 2026, make this a time to connect. Because this is also the perfect season to create memories with those who matter most.

Sweet Eats Adventure Farm

sweeteats.com

Every day in December is a celebration of the season when you visit Sweet Eats. Enjoy their Breakfast with Santa, hunt candy canes with Grumpy Farmer Green, and indulge in homemade sweets with Cookie Palooza. Plus, you might just find a tree to take home!

Dress your furry friends in costume and head to Lakeline Park for the holliest and jolliest Tail of Lights. On December 13th, get your dog’s photo with Santa Paws and put in for some pet-friendly giveaways. The Yappy Hour treats are sure to make spirits bright.

Celebrations Served in Style

’Tis

the season for mobile bartending at your intimate events with Social Butterfly ATX

When it comes to unforgettable gatherings, Social Butterfly ATX is the experience that brings the party to you. Whether you’re celebrating a corporate soirée, a rehearsal dinner, or a milestone birthday, this boutique mobile bartending service knows how to keep glasses full and guests smiling.

Founded by Millie and Charles Clark, whose love story began over cocktails, Social Butterfly ATX was born to share their passion for good drinks and good company throughout the Texas Hill Country. She brings the vision and hospitality magic, and he brings the maintenance and organization.

“While my background is mostly in events and communications, I have bartended and bar managed, as well,” says Millie. “It was in April of this year, after bartending a private backyard wedding ceremony for some friends, that Social Butterfly ATX started to come to life. To be invited to execute such an important aspect of their big day meant everything to me. I told Charles, ‘Babe, we need to be doing this for ourselves.’”

Once that idea sparked, the Clarks got to work on developing a client-first system powered by a robust CRM that keeps communication quick, clear, and stress-free. And because no two celebrations are alike, after signing a

ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MYKE TOMAN

contract, clients receive a questionnaire that dives into preferences and expectations for the bar. That’s when the fun part happens: crafting a custom cocktail menu.

Social Butterfly ATX is a dry-hire service, so upon menu approval, they send a detailed list of what alcohol is needed for your event. Don’t want to deal with pickup? They offer a complimentary concierge service for exactly that. The Clarks will also show up fully stocked with eco-friendly drinkware, ice, and coolers, and perform a full clean-up at the end.

Their first official event was with Austin veterinary clinic Modern Animal during a pet psychic pop-up. It was there that they found their groove, refined their process, and streamlined their workflow. Each event since has been another step toward working smarter, not harder.

“The fact that people are trusting us to be a part of their important life moments is really fulfilling. We take that responsibility seriously and do our best to help make the event a memorable one,” says Charles. “Working together is just the icing on the cake. We both bring our own strengths to the table, and we work very well together.”

They bring even more sparkle this holiday season, with winter menus packed with festive sips. In particular, Millie’s Maple-Glazed Old Fashioned is a household staple.

“Every year, I also like to make coquito, a traditional Christmas drink that originated in Puerto Rico. It’s typically made with rum, but I like to leave the rum out and let friends add their choice of spirit—or keep it zero proof,” says Millie.

“I get to do the fun stuff like cocktail quality control, serving as a guinea pig for Millie’s new creations. I mean, who wouldn’t enjoy that?” says Charles. “I’m just excited to taste whatever concoctions she comes up with.”

The Clarks bring the ease, energy, and expertise that let you relax during your special occasion. They come ready to elevate every toast with flawless service and a friendly touch.

“Social Butterfly ATX was created to be different. From the first inquiry to the final sip of the evening, clients can expect to feel supported each step of the way,” says Millie. “We are rooted in hospitality and want nothing more than to exceed client expectations.”

Submit an inquiry form and receive a proposal for your services at: socialbutterflyatx.com

LEARN HOW CC4C CREATES COMMUNITIES FOR FAMILIES IN NEED

A Lifeline for Hope & Healing

In their latest impact report, 100% of families shared that their child’s emotional well-being improved through CC4C’s programs. That’s the heart of what Cheyanna’s Champions 4 Children does. They walk alongside families of children with rare and undiagnosed conditions, offering aid through four core pillars: financial assistance, uplifting trips, family well-being, and Dream Teams.

In 2020, Alison Havens and her daughter discovered CC4C while volunteering with the National Charity League. Their first step into this nonprofit was Project Valentine, where volunteers create personalized Valentine’s cards for Spotlight Children. As a former teacher, the chance to brighten a child’s day struck a chord. Alison’s role grew from Programs and Volunteer Manager, where she led Project Valentine, to now serving as Director of Programs.

This initiative is just one of many fun experiences powered by Dream Teams—high school teams and organizations that are matched with children based on shared interests.

“Spotlight Children are with their Dream Team for two years,” says Alison. “We say that they’re honorary team members. The child and team wear personalized motto wristbands to show that they are all part of the team, whether it’s dance, cheer, football, or baseball.”

One of Alison’s favorite opportunities is the twice-yearly trip to the National Ability Center

in Park City, Utah. With CC4C covering the costs, children and their parents get to focus on making memories through completely adaptive summer and winter sports.

“Some kids have never seen snow. Most have never been skiing,” says Alison. “Sharing that bonding experience with the families allows me to get to know them on a different level and see what their daily and hourly challenges are. I used to take so much for granted, but now I see how every moment, every milestone, is a gift.”

CC4C partners with the entire family until the age of 19 with wellness support and social events for siblings, moms, and dads, ensuring no one feels alone in their journey. Families also receive helpful resources—from adaptive camps to therapy connections—and may qualify for up to $5,000 per child in medical assistance, easing the strain rare conditions often bring.

“It’s a blessing to be a part of something as big as that for someone,” says Alison. “We offer a community of support. In our newsletter, families can see upcoming events that they can look forward to. And if you have something to look forward to, your mindset is a lot healthier and more positive.”

Stay connected through their newsletter, explore volunteer opportunities, or find out about sponsoring their Night 2 Uplift gala on February 20th at: cc4c.org

DISCOVER THE RESTAURANTS THAT DEDICATE THEIR CULINARY EXPERTISE TO GIVING BACK TO CANDLELIGHT RANCH

THE HEART

CULINARY COMMUNITY OF AUSTIN’S

At Candlelight Ranch, healing begins not just in nature, but in the love and generosity poured out by the Austin restaurant community—where every meal served becomes an act of hope. For more than two decades, local chefs and restaurateurs have opened their hearts and kitchens to help children and families of all abilities learn, explore, and heal in nature.

Nowhere is that spirit more beautifully on display than at Candlelight Ranch’s annual Light a Path gala, an evening that has become a cherished tradition within the Candlelight community and an essential event in raising funds that sustain our mission each year. Each fall, some of Austin’s most beloved restaurants transform the gala into a culinary experience that celebrates both flavor and purpose. Their food fuels the evening, but their generosity fuels the heart of Candlelight Ranch. The restaurants are, without question, vital to the success of this event and to the countless lives it impacts.

Among these cherished partners are Jack and LuAnn Gilmore of Jack Allen’s Kitchen, whose family has supported the Ranch since 2013. Each holiday season, the Gilmores and their grandchildren handpick Christmas gifts for Candlelight Ranch families, ensuring every child experiences the warmth of the season. Their son, Bryce Gilmore, carries that same legacy of generosity through Odd Duck, continuing a family tradition of service and community.

Carlos, Santos, and Patricia of Blue Corn Harvest bring their signature Hill Country hospitality to Light a Path and the annual Chili Cook-Off & Car Show, serving with joy and heart

year after year. Roberto Espinosa of Tacodeli, whose restaurant and Candlelight Ranch both began in 1999, has stood beside the Ranch for 25 years, growing together through shared values of connection and care. And from the very beginning, Quality Seafood’s Carol Huntsberger has been a cornerstone of support, uniting chefs and restaurants around the cause of helping children thrive.

Candlelight Ranch is also deeply grateful for the many other culinary partners who make Light a Path a celebration of community and compassion. The 2025 lineup included Salt Traders Coastal Cooking, Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream, Via 313 Pizzeria, El Dorado Café, Mama Betty’s Café, SLAB BBQ & Beer, and Michelle’s Patisserie, each bringing their own flavor, creativity, and heart to the table.

Together, these restaurants remind us that food has the power to do more than delight; it can connect, comfort, and create change. Through every shared meal and act of kindness, Austin’s culinary community helps light the path for children and families to discover healing, hope, and joy at Candlelight Ranch.

Learn more about the Ranch’s events and programs here: candlelightranch.org

Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?

Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.

Stand Behind Their Start

MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY SUPPORTING BUDDING YOUNG LEADERS THROUGH THE CHILDREN’S ENTREPRENEUR MARKET

The Children’s Entrepreneur Market is an award-winning program from Utah that has expanded across the country, igniting a new generation of innovators. Through hands-on learning, kids discover entrepreneurship by launching small businesses from scratch: choosing products, creating booths, speaking to customers, and handling real money.

For Kandiss Torres, the journey began with her seven-year-old’s mission to make money. They came across the CEM and immediately loved how it teaches real-life skills that shape kids’ futures. Today, Kandiss proudly serves as Lead Supervisor.

“When I started with the company, I was the 28th manager and we were in a handful of states. Watching it grow to almost all 50 states has been absolutely heartwarming,” says Kandiss. “Just knowing that kids all over the nation are getting the same experience to learn, grow, and thrive the way I saw in my local community is amazing!”

While stepping up to sell can be intimidating, she’s seen how confidence takes over with that first sale. They just need a great product, a solid pitch, and their best foot forward.

One standout memory is when a father approached her in tears. His son had been struggling with sales, but instead of lowering prices, he chose to work harder. That courage paid off when he complimented the shirt of the next shopper, and she bought two bracelets to match.

Instances like these, where kids realize their potential and parents shine with pride, are what fuel Kandiss’s passion for the program.

“I hope that kids ultimately walk away feeling empowered. Empowered to do the things that bring them joy and make them money. Empowered to try new things, push themselves outside of their comfort zone, and embrace the hard moments,” says Kandiss. “I hope they feel a sense of pride in all they accomplished, whether that was $5 in sales or $500, because they put themselves out there.”

Stay up to date with new markets at: kidsmarkets.com

SMART SEASONAL CARE

Guard your home against winter hazards with expert tree care from Good Guys Tree Service

ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF GOOD GUYS TREE SERVICE

Good Guys Tree Service brings together four Certified Arborists, over 25 years of experience serving Greater Austin, and full insurance for your peace of mind. They offer the local mom-and-pop feel while maintaining a big presence. And when it comes to tree care, they are quick to pick up the phone to ensure your needs are covered.

“We’re not new to this area. We’ve been in this area, we’re going to stay in this area.”

—Casey Hummell

Keeping an eye on your trees is crucial this time of year. Good Guys recommends watering regularly (but not if it’s below freezing) and avoiding over-mulching. Their team knows what it takes to help trees survive the Central Texas winter, including hazard pruning to reduce risk and maintain their health.

“Winter is when trees go dormant. That’s why it’s best to prune beforehand, so when the trees come back, their energy won’t go toward dead branches,” says Daniel Cranfill. “All they do is store up energy as it gets colder, and with winter prep, they’ll look that much better when spring hits.”

As temperatures drop, animals look for warm shelter, and the last place you want them is inside your home. Proper structure and roof line clearing keep

everything away. Don’t forget your power drops from the main line to your home—removing weak or hanging limbs helps prevent damage during storms.

Protecting your entrances, driveways, sidewalks, and playscapes is just as important. As much as you want your family and property safe, Good Guys wants them safe, too. They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

“We’re an Austin company,” says Casey Hummell. “Our guys are training on these trees. Experience goes a long way in this business, and we definitely have that.”

Get a professional set of eyes by visiting: goodguystreeservice.com

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

DECEMBER 3RD

Kick off the holidays at the Heritage Oak Tree Lighting

875 Quest Pkwy, Cedar Park, TX 78613 | 6:30 PM

Did you know that Cedar Park is home to a 400-year-old oak tree that stands 57 feet tall? Every December, you can see it illuminated with over 50,000 sparkling lights. Come out to see the lighting for yourself! There will be cookie decorating, community performances, and a photo op with Santa for an evening full of festive magic. cedarparktexas.gov

DECEMBER 4TH - 6TH

Walk, drive, and experience Follow The Star by Good Shepherd

700 W Whitestone Blvd, Cedar Park, TX 78613

In a live outdoor production featuring ten scenes of the life of Jesus, Good Shepherd goes beyond the typical Christmas story. From 6:30 to 9:00 PM across three nights, their cast and crew put on a unique display that ends with the modern-day reading of the Nativity story. Donations of canned goods for Hill Country Community Ministries are encouraged. gstx.org

DECEMBER 6TH, 7TH, 13TH, & 14TH

Austin Steam Train Association’s North Pole Flyer returns

170 S Gabriel St, Bertram, TX 78605

If you loved The Polar Express growing up, you don’t want to miss out on Texas Hill Country’s favorite holiday train ride. This year, ASTA is excited to introduce themed train cars, each decked out with unique decorations that bring the Christmas spirit to life. Get your tickets for a heartwarming tradition complete with cookies and hot cocoa. austinsteamtrain.org

DECEMBER 6TH

Arthritis Foundation Jingle Bell Run at Lakeline Park

1510 Alexis Dr, Cedar Park, TX 78613 | 8:00 AM

Be there with bells on at the most festive holiday fundraising 5K around! In the spirit of the season and in honor of 40 years of service, the Arthritis Foundation is hosting the Jingle Bell Run. Whether you choose to run or walk, your participation will spread joy and make strides toward a brighter future. Join a team today. arthritis.org

DECEMBER 12TH

Cedar Park hosts first A Jolly, Bright Lakeline Night event

1510 Alexis Dr, Cedar Park, TX 78613 | 6:30 PM

Free, family-friendly activities and timeless holiday cheer. That’s what you get to be part of at the inaugural A Jolly, Bright Lakeline Night! Stop by the food and beverage vendors, then sip and stroll through the artisan marketplace. When you aren’t jamming out with the Big Night Vintage Blues & Jazz Band, check out the trail of lights. cedarparktexas.gov

DECEMBER 24TH

Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland returns to the H-E-B Center

2100 Ave of the Stars, Cedar Park, TX 78613 | 2:00 PM

TCG Entertainment invites audiences of all ages to step into a world of holiday enchantment. In the perfect fusion of circus artistry and beloved melodies, Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland is bringing an all-new show to town. With fresh costumes, music, and storylines, complete with daredevil athleticism, your family is in for a one-of-a-kind Christmas Eve experience. hebcenter.com