Last updated: November 11, 2024
Plan your festive season itinerary with ease in Austin. Our guide has all the top holiday events. Whether you're a familiar face or a new visitor, our guide reveals the holiday wonders of Austin.
Popular Events: Experience the enchanting Trail of Lights, where zillions of sparkling lights illuminate Zilker Park, creating a magical walking path for all ages. With stunning decorations and festive displays, Mozart's Lights offers a cozy lakeside atmosphere combined with musical performances. And the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring local artisans and live music in a vibrant, holiday market setting. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Austin Holiday Light Displays
Trail of Lights
The Austin Trail of Lights is a 60-year-old holiday celebration in Zilker Park, featuring over 2 million lights, 65+ displays, and interactive experiences.
Mozart’s Lights
Mozart’s Holiday Light Show features over 2 million twinkling LEDs, live performances, and interactive activities like a silent disco and LED dance floor, set against the picturesque backdrop of Lake Austin.
Peppermint Parkway
Peppermint Parkway is a drive-thru holiday event featuring a mile of holiday displays, millions of lights, and dancing characters. The event includes a festive plaza with rides, food vendors, and activities like a petting zoo and a Mistletoe Kissing Booth. Guests can also enjoy a track lap on the Circuit of The Americas' F1 track and visit the COTA Candy Cane Observation Tower.
Zilker Tree Lighting
The 57th Zilker Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony features pre-event music by the Austin Civic Wind Ensemble, followed by a tree lighting ceremony with local entertainment, food, and live music. The event includes ASL interpretation services and offers free parking on a first-come, first-served basis.
6th Annual Holiday Market with SANTA CLAUS
Join us for the 6th Annual Old West Christmas Light Fest, where you can immerse yourself in holiday cheer amidst beautifully decorated Christmas trees and sparkling light installations. Enjoy live music, meet Santa Claus, and participate in fun family-friendly activities like a children's scavenger hunt and petting zoo. The event features a variety of food options and shopping at the Old West Trading Post.
Austin Holiday Markets and Shopping
Armadillo Christmas Bazaar
The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar is a vibrant fine art and music festival featuring over 200 local and national artists showcasing unique, handmade pieces. Enjoy live music, festive decor, and a lively atmosphere.
Downtown Austin Holiday Stroll
The Downtown Austin Holiday Stroll is a free family-friendly event featuring artisan vendors, food trucks, and photos with Santa. It takes place on Congress Avenue between 8th and 11th streets, offering a variety of activities to kick off the holiday season.
Blue Genie Art Bazaar
The Blue Genie Art Bazaar is a premier holiday shopping event in Austin, featuring over 200 regional artists showcasing handmade jewelry, artwork, home goods, and unique gifts.
A Christmas Affair
A Christmas Affair is a 49th annual holiday market featuring over 200 vendors from across the country, benefiting The Junior League of Austin's signature programs and nonprofit community partners. The event offers a variety of activities, including parties, children's events, raffle and auction, and Santa photos.
Christmas Stroll
The Christmas Stroll in Georgetown is a three-day event featuring festive activities, holiday shopping, and community gatherings in the historic downtown district.
Austin Holiday Shows and Entertainment
A Christmas Carol at ZACH Theatre
ZACH Theatre's adaptation of Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" is a musical journey through rhythm and time, infusing the traditional Victorian story with a diverse score spanning all genres and eras. This production brings Victorian charm to life with a joyous spirit, featuring Scrooge, the Cratchit family, and three spirited ghosts on an unforgettable adventure of redemption and joy.
Ballet Austin's The Nutcracker
Ballet Austin's The Nutcracker is a timeless holiday classic featuring Clara's dream-inspired adventures through a twinkling winter setting to the Court of the Sugar Plum Fairy. With exquisite costumes, astonishing sets, and live accompaniment by the Austin Symphony Orchestra, this production showcases the artistry of over one hundred artists on stage.
Holiday Heroes at ZACH Theater
Holiday Heroes at ZACH Theatre is an uproariously entertaining sing-along that incorporates elements from various holiday traditions, including Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. This event is designed for families and features interactive surprises, ensuring everyone gets into the holiday spirit.
Mingle and Jingle
Join the PCMA Gulf States Chapter for a holiday celebration featuring live music, heavy hors d'oeuvres, and discounted valet parking at the Otis Hotel Austin.
Austin Other Holiday Activities
Lala’s Little Nugget Christmas
Lala’s Little Nugget is a beloved Austin institution celebrating 52 years with a disco-themed bash featuring groovy tunes, dazzling lights, and signature retro cocktails. The event encourages costumes and promises endless fun with classic festive vibes mixed with 70s sparkle.
Meet us at Santa's Station
Meet Texas Santa at Santa's Station, where you can visit the jolliest man of the season in his iconic black boots and Texas cowboy hat.
Breakfast with Santa and Cookie Decorating
Join Santa and Mrs. Claus for a delightful breakfast at The Westin Riverwalk, featuring holiday music, story time, and cookie decorating.
Santa Paws
Bring your furry friend for photos with Santa at The Junior League of Austin’s Community Impact Center. This event includes high-resolution downloads perfect for holiday cards, with all pets required to stay on a leash.
Austin Gift Guide 2024
