AUSTIN (KXAN) — Two special guests are in Austin this weekend to showcase the best of our city and Texas.
TODAY show’s Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager stopped by the capital city for their ‘Texas Takeover’ and broadcasted live from The Long Center Thursday morning.
The Austin visit is special for Bush Hager, who attended Austin High School and the University of Texas at Austin. The high school hosted a pep rally for the pair.
“We’ve been everywhere. Hoda’s never been to Austin, so I had to show my girl all of the hot spots,” Bush Hager said in an interview with KXAN’s Kristen Currie.
Crowds gather at the Long Center to watch Hoda and Jenna broadcast NBC’s TODAY show from Austin on Oct. 24, 2024 (KXAN Photo/Todd Bailey) 
Crowds gather at the Long Center to watch Hoda and Jenna broadcast NBC’s TODAY show from Austin on Oct. 24, 2024 (KXAN Photo/Todd Bailey) Crowds gather at the Long Center to watch Hoda and Jenna broadcast NBC’s TODAY show from Austin on Oct. 24, 2024 (KXAN Photo/Todd Bailey) Crowds gather at the Long Center to watch Hoda and Jenna broadcast NBC’s TODAY show from Austin on Oct. 24, 2024 (KXAN Photo/Todd Bailey)
Kotb said standing beside Bush Hager in the city is like being “with the mayor” and that visiting Austin High stole her heart.
The pair also visited some popular Austin establishments, including El Arroyo, Donn’s Depot and Mean Eyed Cat. There was even time to indulge in barbecue at Lamberts.
“It was like, falling off the bone, the barbecue rib… with that pepper jelly. Insane,” Kotb said.
Actor Matthew McConaughey made an appearance on Thursday’s broadcast, and the UT Austin band was also featured.
After Thursday’s broadcast, Kotb is heading to Miraval Austin on Friday to host a wellness weekend.
