Experience the magic of the holiday season in Austin, TX, where dazzling lights, festive traditions, and unique cultural celebrations await. Stroll through the iconic Trail of Lights in Zilker Park, marveling at over 2 million twinkling lights and stunning sculptures. Spin under the towering Zilker Holiday Tree, a beloved tradition that lights up the Austin skyline with over 3,300 lights.
Visit the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar, where fine art meets live music in a vibrant 11-day event showcasing over 160 talented artists. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Austin's holiday events promise unforgettable experiences and festive fun for all.
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The Top Christmas Events in Austin
- Trail of Lights
- Zilker Holiday Tree
- Armadillo Christmas Bazaar
- Ballet Austin's The Nutcracker
- Mozart's Light Show
- Blue Genie Art Bazaar
- Cherrywood Art Fair
- Ice Skating on the Whole Foods Plaza
- Annual Holiday Sing-Along and Downtown Stroll
- Christmas Affair
Austin Holiday Light Displays
Trail of Lights
What to Expect:
2-mile walking trail through illuminated displays
Description:
Austin's Trail of Lights transforms Zilker Park into a dazzling spectacle of over 2 million twinkling lights. This 2-mile walking trail weaves through 70 illuminated displays and towering light sculptures. Visitors can snap photos with iconic Austin-themed installations, a nod to the city's vibrant culture. The event traces its roots back to 1965 when it began as a small gathering called the "Yule Fest." Today, you'll find food trucks serving local cuisine and live music performances that amplify the holiday spirit. Stroll through the spinning light tunnel, a favorite among attendees, for an immersive experience.
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Zilker Holiday Tree
What to Expect:
155-foot-tall man-made Christmas tree
Description:
Towering 155 feet into the Austin skyline, the Zilker Holiday Tree stands as a beacon of holiday cheer. This man-made marvel, constructed from one of the city's historic moonlight towers, boasts over 3,300 lights. The tree's unique spiral pattern creates a mesmerizing effect when viewed from below. Austinites have gathered around this illuminated giant since 1967, making it a cherished local tradition. Spin under the tree to experience the dizzying "Zilker Tree effect" – a time-honored custom for visitors. The moonlight tower used for the tree is one of the last of its kind in the world, linking Austin's past to its present.
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Mozart's Light Show
What to Expect:
Synchronized light show over Lake Austin
Description:
Mozart's Coffee Roasters presents a dazzling light show that illuminates the shores of Lake Austin. This synchronized spectacle features over one million LED lights dancing to holiday tunes, creating a reflection on the lake's surface. The show pays homage to Austin's reputation as the "Live Music Capital of the World" with its musical focus. Visitors can sip on Mozart's signature holiday blend while taking in the shimmering display. The light show has become a modern Austin tradition since its inception in 2010, growing more elaborate each year. Witness the giant light-up piano "play" in sync with the music, a crowd favorite that embodies the event's musical theme.
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Luminations at the Wildflower Center
What to Expect:
Nature-inspired light display in native Texas landscapes
Description:
Luminations at the Wildflower Center immerses visitors in a nature-inspired light display set among native Texas landscapes. This unique event transforms the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center into a celebration of winter's quiet beauty. Thousands of luminarias line the paths, casting a warm glow on the dormant gardens. The center, founded by Lady Bird Johnson in 1982, showcases the diversity of Texas flora even in the winter months. Visitors can warm up with local cider while listening to the sounds of local musicians performing throughout the grounds. Witness the towering trees adorned with twinkling lights, creating a canopy of stars overhead. This event offers a serene alternative to more bustling holiday displays, allowing for quiet contemplation of nature's winter transformation.
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Luminations at the Wildflower Center
Austin Holiday Markets and Shopping
Armadillo Christmas Bazaar
What to Expect:
Fusion of fine art show and music festival
Description:
The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar fuses a fine art show with a music festival, creating a uniquely Austin holiday experience. This 11-day event showcases over 160 artists and hosts live music performances on two stages. The bazaar originated in 1975 at the iconic Armadillo World Headquarters music venue, carrying on its legacy of supporting local artists and musicians. Visitors can peruse one-of-a-kind artworks while enjoying the sounds of Austin's vibrant music scene. The event's eclectic mix of art forms – from paintings to jewelry to sculptures – reflects the city's diverse creative community. Sample local craft beers while exploring the array of artistic offerings.
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Blue Genie Art Bazaar
What to Expect:
Curated selection of handmade gifts from local artists
Description:
The Blue Genie Art Bazaar showcases a carefully curated selection of handmade gifts from over 200 local and regional artists. This month-long event transforms a 20,000-square-foot space into a treasure trove of unique creations. The bazaar began in 2001 with just 20 artists and has since grown into a beloved Austin institution. Visitors can explore an eclectic mix of paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and more, all while supporting the local creative community. The event's commitment to affordability ensures that art remains accessible to all. Engage with artists directly and learn about their creative processes as you browse their distinctive works.
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Cherrywood Art Fair
What to Expect:
Neighborhood-based art fair supporting local schools
Description:
The Cherrywood Art Fair brings together over 80 local artists in a charming East Austin neighborhood setting. This grassroots event, organized by the Chula League, directly supports art programs in local schools. The fair has been fostering community connections through art since 2002. Visitors can explore a diverse array of handcrafted goods while enjoying live music performances by local musicians. The event's intimate scale allows for meaningful interactions between artists and patrons. Savor the aroma of food from neighborhood eateries as you browse the unique offerings. The fair's focus on supporting education through art makes each purchase a contribution to the community's future.
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Christmas Affair
What to Expect:
Four-day holiday market supporting the Junior League of Austin
Description:
A Christmas Affair transforms the Palmer Events Center into a four-day holiday shopping extravaganza. This event, organized by the Junior League of Austin, features over 200 carefully selected merchants from across the country. Since its inception in 1975, A Christmas Affair has raised millions for community programs supporting women and children. Visitors can browse an extensive array of gifts, from gourmet foods to designer clothing. The event's themed decor changes annually, creating a fresh experience each year. Attend one of the special events, such as the "Breakfast with Santa," for an extra dose of holiday cheer. Your purchases contribute directly to vital community initiatives, making each gift meaningful beyond its wrapping.
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Austin Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Ballet Austin's The Nutcracker
What to Expect:
Longest-running production of The Nutcracker in Texas
Description:
Ballet Austin's The Nutcracker pirouettes onto the stage as the longest-running production of this classic in Texas. This grand spectacle features over 200 dancers, elaborate sets, and Tchaikovsky's timeless score performed live by the Austin Symphony Orchestra. The production has been a holiday staple in Austin since 1962, evolving over the years while maintaining its core charm. Audiences are transported to a world of sugar plum fairies and toy soldiers come to life. Watch in awe as the Christmas tree grows to colossal proportions during the performance, a technical feat that never fails to impress. The show's longevity speaks to its enduring appeal and artistic excellence.
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Ballet Austin's The Nutcracker
Annual Holiday Sing-Along and Downtown Stroll
What to Expect:
Community-wide caroling at the Texas State Capitol
Description:
Austin's Annual Holiday Sing-Along and Downtown Stroll unites the community in a joyous chorus at the foot of the Texas State Capitol. This beloved tradition brings together thousands of voices to sing holiday classics, creating a powerful shared experience. The event, which began in 1993, has grown into a city-wide celebration of music and togetherness. Participants receive songbooks and can join in with local musicians leading the sing-along. After the caroling, stroll down Congress Avenue to witness the lighting of the downtown holiday tree. The Capitol building, illuminated with over 137,000 lights, serves as a majestic backdrop for this harmonious gathering.
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Annual Holiday Sing-Along and Downtown Stroll
Austin Other Holiday Activities
Ice Skating on the Whole Foods Plaza
What to Expect:
Outdoor ice skating in the heart of downtown Austin
Description:
Ice Skating on the Whole Foods Plaza brings a touch of winter wonder to the heart of downtown Austin. This outdoor rink, set against the backdrop of the city skyline, offers a unique cold-weather experience in the typically warm Texas climate. The rink has been a seasonal fixture since 2005, becoming an unexpected holiday tradition in the Lone Star State. Glide across the ice while taking in views of the bustling city around you. The contrast of palm trees and holiday decorations creates a distinctly Austin winter scene. Warm up after your skate with hot cocoa from the nearby Whole Foods Market, adding a local flavor to this wintry activity.
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Ice Skating on the Whole Foods Plaza
Nearby Events
Georgetown Christmas Stroll (Georgetown)
What to Expect:
Victorian-themed holiday celebration in historic downtown
Description:
The Georgetown Christmas Stroll transports visitors to a Victorian-era holiday celebration in the heart of the most beautiful town square in Texas. This two-day event features costumed characters, horse-drawn carriage rides, and buildings adorned with period decorations. Georgetown's rich history, dating back to 1848, provides an authentic backdrop for this nostalgic experience. Visitors can explore the charming shops of the historic downtown area while enjoying the sounds of carolers and street performers. The event's centerpiece is the lighting of the town's 75-foot Christmas tree, a tradition since 1982. Participate in the Bethlehem Village reenactment, offering a glimpse into holiday celebrations of the past.