A taste of Ukraine is coming to Leander

Noelle and Charlie switched things up this soccer season and joined Liberty Hill Youth Soccer Association (LHYSA) for the first time, and we've been so happy with the experience!

The league feels well-organized, and while the coaches are still parent volunteers, they've been fantastic! They're knowledgeable, encouraging, and really take the time to help the kids improve.

Noelle is playing U10 this year, which means bigger fields, bigger goals, and 7v7 games. It's been a great next step for her. Charlie is in U8, where they still play 5v5 with smaller fields and goals, which is perfect for the younger kiddos.

The best part is they're having fun, getting better, and looking forward to coming back each week, which is really all I could ask for! I have a feeling we'll definitely be back next season. ⚽

☕ Ukrainian café coming to Leander

The Gist: Something delicious is headed to Leander! Lemberg Roastery & Bakery plans to open at The Square at Crystal Falls in early 2027. Owners Olha Haida and Nataliia Huk are bringing their coffee roasting and baking businesses together under one roof, with freshly roasted coffee, sourdough bread, sandwiches, pastries, and traditional Ukrainian favorites. There are even plans for a drive-through.

Why It Matters: We're always excited to see new flavors come to town, especially when there's a personal story behind them. Inspired by the coffeehouse traditions of Lviv, Ukraine, the café will bring a little taste of the owners' heritage to Leander, along with another spot to grab your morning coffee or catch up with a friend.

💪 Liberty Bells celebrates grand opening in Leander

The Gist: Ready to shake up your workout routine? Liberty Bells is celebrating its grand opening on Saturday, Oct. 24, with free classes, discounted memberships, food and coffee trucks, giveaways, music, and karaoke! The new gym specializes in small-group kettlebell workouts that help build strength, improve mobility, and boost stability, with classes for beginners and experienced exercisers alike.

Why It Matters: Whether you're just getting started or looking for something different, Liberty Bells offers a welcoming place to get stronger with guidance from experienced coaches. You can even try your first class for free! Find them at 401 S. Chitalpa St., Unit 720.

🛋️ Rooms To Go plans new Leander showroom

The Gist: Furniture shopping could soon get a little easier in Leander! A state filing shows plans for a nearly 50,000-square-foot Rooms To Go showroom at 10021 183A Toll Frontage Road.

Construction is expected to begin in January 2027 and wrap up by the end of the year, though those dates could change.

Why It Matters: A new furniture store would mean more shopping options close to home, whether you're furnishing a new house or just ready to replace that couch you've had forever. The project carries an estimated construction cost of $5.8 million, but there's no official opening date just yet.

🍻 Halloween fun and three years of Obsidian

11880 Hero Way W Suite 208, Leander, TX 78641

Obsidian Brewery is a laid-back Leander spot for house-made craft beer, cocktails and wood-fired pizza. Pair a pint with a warm pretzel or pizza, and check out the new food and drink specials each month.

There’s plenty happening this fall, including a family-friendly trunk-or-treat car show on October 23, Halloween movie trivia on October 27 and a costume party on Halloween night.

Then, November 6–8, Obsidian will celebrate its third anniversary with specialty beer releases, collaborations, live music, local vendors, new merch and limited-time menu items.

Meet Thunder

Thunder is a sweet adolescent mixed breed dog looking for a loving forever home. He is friendly with children, gets along well with other dogs, and is Hounds Town approved.

🐶 Name: Thunder
⚧ Sex: Male
🎂 Age: 8 months
📍 Location: Texas Humane Heroes
🐾 Traits: Good with dogs, kids

🎨 Creative parties for kids and grown-ups

14284 FM 2769, Leander, TX

Art Barn ATX in Leander hosts art-focused birthday parties, adult gatherings and team events. Activities include splatter painting, guided painting and other hands-on projects, depending on the type of event booked.

The studio operates by appointment only, with art supplies, instruction, setup and cleanup included in its party offerings. The property also features an arcade room, outdoor spaces and a glow-in-the-dark splatter painting room, giving groups several options beyond traditional art projects.