Special Holiday Events in Austin

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We are so lucky that Austin offers so many events for families to choose from during the holiday season! Check out our list below and get in the holiday spirit. We are also including special holiday shopping events and volunteering opportunities for you and your family to give back.


Austin

Merry Grinchmas at Domain NORTHSIDE

November 18

Kick off the holiday season, Grinch-style. Guests can head to Domain NORTHSIDE in North Austin on Saturday, Nov. 18 at 3 p.m. for an afternoon of fun-filled Grinch activities including meeting The Grinch himself, Vannagram and selfie opps, bracelet bar, caricature artists, temporary tattoos, hair tinsel studio and holiday tunes followed by the official tree lighting ceremony at 5:30 p.m.


Ice Rodeo

November 18 – January 7

Skate beneath the stars – and overlooking Lady Bird Lake – at Austin’s premier ice-skating rink and winter experience. Taking place November 18, 2023, through January 7, 2024, Ice Rodeo at Four Seasons Hotel Austin features an outdoor ice rink, outdoor dining cabins, pop-up lounges, immersive holiday décor, extravagant art installations and more.

SAFE Holidays Program 2023

SAFE depends on generous sponsors like you to help create joy and magic every holiday season! We are seeking hundreds of sponsors to search for the perfect gifts and basic needs to grant the wishes of SAFE clients.


2nd St District Holiday Window Walk

November 24

Starting on Friday, November 24, visitors can watch the storefronts of 2nd Street District businesses transform into decorative holiday scenes during the holidays!


Letters to Santa

Now through Dec. 24 
Need to get your list to Santa Claus? Visit the NORTHSIDE Santa House between Grimaldi’s and RH The Gallery! Drop off your Letters to Santa through Dec. 24. For every Letter to Santa submitted, NORTHSIDE will donate $1 to The SAFE Alliance. The SAFE Alliance exists to stop abuse for everyone by serving the survivors of child abuse, sexual assault, trafficking, and domestic violence.

Now through Jan. 1 | noon to midnight

Throughout Domain NORTHSIDE, get into the holiday spirit with the beautiful holiday decorations, located at various spots around the center. When you post photos to Instagram, you’ll be entered to win a shopping spree at Domain NORTHSIDE. To enter – take a photo or Elfie with any of the holiday decorations, upload your photo to Instagram, geo-tag “Domain NORTHSIDE” + tag @domainNORTHSIDE + #HolidaysatNORTHSIDE.


Snow Much Fun

November 24-December 25

Snowfall on the hour, every hour at Edge Rooftop makes Snow Much Fun Austin’s favorite holiday pop-up. Sip on festive cocktails, roast s’mores, and listen to live music while surrounded by twinkling lights. Edge Rooftop Bar, 110 E 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701


Peppermint Parkway

November 24-December 30th

Ready, Set, Glow! Peppermint Parkway returns to Circuit of the Americas November 25th through December 30th!  Experience a drive-thru holiday spectacular with a mile of holiday displays, millions of lights, dancing characters and a holiday plaza full of food, rides, activities and more.


I Love You Snow Much Selfie Wall

Now through Dec. 31
I Love You Snow Much! Take a selfie at the all-new holiday selfie wall! Located on Palm Way, across from the Lawn, near YETI. Scan the QR code and snap a pic in front of the selfie wall.

Strolling Carolers

November 25 & Every Saturday in December

The sounds of the season will drift through The Domain each Saturday night as strolling carolers roam the sidewalks! Saturdays from 6PM-8PM.


The Nightmare Before Moxy

December 1 – December 31

Visit Moxy Austin – University all December long for “The Nightmare Before Moxy” Christmas pop-up bar, inspired by Tim Burton’s iconic 1993 film. Seamlessly blending the spooky with the festive, indulge in holiday cocktails crafted by Bar Moxy, or get warm and cozy with churros from Zombie Taco. Don’t forget to stop by Sandy Claw’s Cinema for holiday movie nights every Wednesday night in December.


Jingle Bell Jamboree

December 2

Families can enjoy live music, take part in holiday craft activities, balloon twisting, a holiday photo opportunity and more! Saturday, December 2nd from 3pm – 5pm located on Century Oaks in The Domain


WinterSol

November 20- February 9

WinterSol will immerse you into the wonders of winter, 11 stories high in Austin’s West Campus District. While you cozy up by the fire, you may enjoy cocktails and a specialty light bite menu created to enhance the feeling of winter. For a special rooftop experience, rent a private igloo!

Where: Otopia Rooftop: 1901 San Antonio St Unit 1100, Austin, TX 78705

Dates: 11/20/23 – 2/9/24


Cookies for Caring

Cookies for Caring- On Sale beginning November ($55/dz)

Pick-up Dates: Dec 1-3 (Lobby/Cafe)

In 1969 volunteers organized a bake sale to save the hotel from demolition, and because of their efforts, the hotel is still standing today. Cookies for Caring continues the tradition of The Driskill’s beloved baked sales, and raises funds for the Austin American-Statesman’s Season for Caring. All profits will go to Austin American-Statesman Season for Caring families.


Rudolph’s Roadhouse

December 1 – December 31

Step into yuletide yeehaw at Ruloph’s Roadhouse, where Santa’s little helpers find their after-hours cheer! Running from November 30 to December 31, this interactive holiday popup takes over Lefty’s Brick Bar and Gin Bar. Get ready for a tinsel-tastic time with festive cocktails, over-the-top decorations, and a merry mayhem of themed events all month long! Lefty’s Brick Bar, 1813 C E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702


Merry & Bright on Aldrich Street

December 1

Mark your calendars for Merry & Bright Tower Lighting 2023! The fun starts at 6 pm!

This free event will offer something for the whole family, including live music, a holiday photo opportunity with a live alpaca, cotton candy, lighting displays and more. Come enjoy holiday specials at some of your favorite Aldrich Street local businesses and retailers.


Sounds of the Season

December 1st – 19th

“Sounds of the Season” is a free community-wide event where brass, string, and woodwind ensembles of the Austin Symphony Orchestra (ASO) will canvas the Greater Austin area during the month of December. It is our mission to bring the sounds of the holidays to the community. By taking the orchestra out of the concert hall and into public spaces, we reach thousands of people and get to introduce ourselves to new audiences. Find the full schedule HERE


Holiday Afternoon Tea

December 2 & 3

Served on the grand Mezzanine Ballroom foyer of the Driskill Hotel, this sublime experience is available for two afternoons only. Enjoy the very best of The Driskill afternoon tea experience elevated with a distinct selection of holiday fare and fine teas – set to the tunes of our live pianist.


Princess Holiday Tea

December 10

The Driskill will be transformed this holiday season into the whimsical and enchanting world of princesses. Held on The Driskill Grand Mezzanine, Princess Holiday Tea is perfect for children of all ages. Enjoy a lavish spread and a selection of bespoke blends. Following tea, join the princesses for singing, dancing, stories and photos!

Adult tickets include tea service and champagne. Child tickets include tea service, non-alcoholic beverages and accessories fit for royalty.

Young guests are encouraged to dress as their favorite princesses. We kindly request that adults refrain from wearing costumes to ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone and out of respect for our talented performers.


Armadillo Christmas Bazaar

December 15 – 23

The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar celebrates nearly five decades of holiday shopping in Austin, TX. We are known for our curated collection of art, gifts and live music in a festive, family friendly, entertaining atmosphere. Find last minute Christmas gifts that come from the heart, new art for your personal collection, have a cocktail and tap your toes at this iconic Austin event.  It’s the best way to enjoy Christmas in Austin!


Austin Holiday Mini Market

December 3

Join us for Holiday Mini Market on Sunday, December 3rd from 10am to 4pm at Distribution Hall. Guests can browse over 60 women-owned businesses including baby and kid clothing and accessories, women clothing and accessories, beauty, home goods and more. Gifts for everyone on your list!


2023 A Christmas Affair

November 15 – 19

The Junior League of Austin (JLA) returns to Palmer Events Center November 15 – 19 for A Christmas Affair 2023: Cosmic Holiday. Blast off into the holiday season and join in the spirit of giving with the 48th annual holiday market benefitting The Junior League of Austin’s signature programs and nonprofit community partners. With more than 200 vendors from across the country and more than 25,000 patrons in attendance each year, what began as thirty booths in the Driskill Hotel in 1976 has grown into the largest League event of its kind in the nation. As The Junior League of Austin’s largest fundraiser, A Christmas Affair funds our mission, programs, and outreach, and allows us to continue our work of empowering women and serving our community.


Island of Spices

ALL DECEMBER

Sitting on the coast of Tanzania is the Island of Spices, also known as Zanzibar. Explore the Island’s native flavors this holiday season featuring curated spiced cocktails highlighting cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and more! Zanzibar, 304 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78701


Blue Genie Art Bazaar

November 17 – December 24

The Blue Genie Art Bazaar is an annual holiday art show held in Nov/Dec. FREE admission! Shop for gifts from 200+ talented artists. The Blue Genie Art Bazaar is a fixture of the Austin holiday shopping season. Open from late November to Christmas Eve. The Bazaar features unique work from over 200 local & regional artists. Parking & admission are always FREE of charge.


Vintage Market Days of Greater Austin

December 1 – 3

Join us as we host interior designers, decorators, and over 100 dealers with unique vintage & antique goods, handmade treasures, clothing & jewelry, LIVE plants, and so much more!

Hungry?! Enjoy a great mix of food options including custom and vegan menus! Snag anything from a delicious wood-fired pizza to a delectable deep fried treat! Caramel apples, gourmet fudge and chocolates, delicious treats, and it doesn’t stop there!

Participate in one-of-a-kind shopping, giveaways, and so much more! Children 12 and under admitted free of charge!

The market is indoors, so weather is not a factor! Come shop in comfort the most unique, one-of-a-kind shopping experience!


Blue Santa

The mission of the Austin Police Operation Blue Santa is to provide toys and food for families in need during the holiday season. Our service began with about 20 needy families, this year we will easily serve over 8,000 families. This is only possible because of the goodwill and big hearts of Austin’s citizens, businesses, foundations and civic groups that support us each year.  Thank you Austin and surrounding communities!


Naughty or Nice

December 1 – December 31

Upstairs at Caroline presents Naughty or Nice, a holiday-themed pop up activation with

festive decor and seasonal drinks throughout the month of December!

Where: Upstairs at Caroline,109 E 7th St, Austin, TX 78701


Yule at Azul

November 24 – December 31

Azul rooftop presents Yule at Azul, a holiday popup with festive drinks and decor at the highest rooftop bar in Austin. For the full month of December, we’re cheers-ing to a daily holiday happy hour! 7 days a week from 3-5 pm with $5 holiday frozens, $5 house wines, and $5 draft beer. Azul Rooftop, 310 E 5th St., Austin, TX 78701


NYE Bash at Hotel ZaZa Austin

December 31st

Join Hotel ZaZa Austin for a night to remember at their glamorous NYE Bash on Saturday, December 31st. Dress to impress for an unforgettable evening featuring live music, a grand bubbly toast and more! Held at the property’s ballroom, enjoy delightful sips and bites from 10 pm to 12 am and welcome the new year the ZaZa way. VIP packages including entry for four and a bottle of choice are available for purchase. 21+


Speakeasy NYE

December 31

Celebrate the countdown in style at Speakeasy~ Austin’s Longest Running NYE Party!   Join us for an unforgettable night of glamour, music, and endless fun as we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new.  Date: December 31st  Location: Speakeasy Austin  2 Live Music Stages featuring Chandler & The Bings, AND ZOODUST along with Silent Disco, DJ Mister E & More!  Balloon Drop on all levels & Complimentary champagne toast at midnight  Limited tickets available for the ALL INCLUSIVE packages


Bee Cave

Bee Cave on Ice

November 10 – January 15

Hill Country Galleria and the City of Bee Cave present Bee Cave on Ice! Come out and enjoy this year’s coolest holiday attraction from Friday, November 10th – Monday, January 15th. The $15 ticket includes a skate rental and a 60-minute skate session. Reservations are highly encouraged, but a number of walk-ups will be available. Skate times each day vary


The Holiday Arts Market at Hill Country Galleria

December 2 – December 24

Hill Country Galleria has transformed the Central Plaza into a holiday market open every weekend in December!  Located within one of the most beautiful places for holiday shopping, visitors will experience shopping at local artisan vendors of jewelry, home goods, art, and holiday fare. Experience the outdoor ambiance filled with holiday cheer, holiday performances, glittering holiday lights, and an abundance of family fun. Admission and parking is FREE.


Dripping Springs

Christmas on Mercer

December 7

The sights and sounds of Dripping Springs’ 15th Annual Christmas on Mercer Street will come alive on Saturday, December 7 from 10 am to 5 pm as Mercer Street and the downtown area transform into a hometown holiday festival featuring holiday shopping and more.


Georgetown

42nd Annual Christmas Stroll

December 1 & 2
Kick off your holiday season with some jolly, family-friendly fun at the 42nd annual Christmas Stroll held in historic downtown Georgetown, Texas. Check the weather and wear a comfortable pair of shoes!
 
Christmas Stroll has something for everyone! The young and young at heart will enjoy a variety of
 live entertainment, shopping, dining, and activities. Be sure to set your alarm for everyone’s annual favorite, the Christmas Stroll Parade on Saturday at 10am. Afterwards, stop by the courthouse for a photo with Santa!

Downtown Holiday Sing-a-long & Stroll

December 2

Join KUT, KUTX & the Downtown Austin Alliance for our 29th Annual Tree Lighting, Sing-Along and Stroll. Let’s ring in the holidays together. This free family-friendly event is on Congress Avenue between 9th and 11th streets. Featuring artisan vendors, food trucks, photos with Santa and more, the Holiday Stroll is the perfect way to kick off your holiday season.


December 8

Are you a Dr. Seuss fan? Do you love Christmas and hot Chocolate? Then you are the perfect person to come to the City of Lakeway’s Grinch Movie Event on Friday, December 8 at 6 PM at the Lakeway Activity Center Parking lot. Continuing on with our trail of lights, we will be hosting a movie night in the parking lot where we will be playing the Grinch on the jumbo screen. Bring your whole family as we will have other games, vendors and hot chocolate. Plus, the Grinch himself will be there to entertain all the guest that attend.


December 29

Join us for a chilly good time at the Lakeway Swim Center! Participants will enter the leisure pool by taking a brisk ride down the big slide. Warmup after the plunge with hot chocolate while enjoying snacks. There will be a special guest appearance by the Lakeway Polar Bear! Participants must be at least 48 inches tall.


Cookies, Cocoa and Kindness Kits

December 16

Reach for the Stars ATX is proud to organize and sponsor the 2nd annual Cookies, Cocoa, and Kindness Kits holiday event! This year we are hoping to double the number of “kindness kits” created last year, taking us from 50 to 100, all for the benefit of the clients of Caritas of Austin.

For those unfamiliar, Caritas of Austin (pronounced CARE – it – ahs) means love or charity in Latin. and serves those experiencing homelessness in the Austin area. The “kindness kits” we will be putting together contain hygiene and comfort items for those most in need.


Llano

Snow Day

December 2

​Sled riding in Badu Park the second Saturday in December will be fun for the entire family.
Wristband required, sled riding will be from 2 to 6pm.


Round Rock

Holiday Extravaganza

November 10

Bring the entire family for shopping, food trucks, kids activities, face painting and balloon art, and so much more! Featuring live music by the Alex Winters Band. 


Holiday Bingo, Elf Hunt & S’mores

November 26 – December 22

This event starts off with an exciting Elf Scavenger Hunt (60 elves are hiding in Santa’s Jingle House). After the hunt we have complementary drinks, cookies and a fabulous s’mores table. We will play several rounds of Holiday Bingo. You can win some great prizes!


Light Up The Lake 2023

December 1 & 2

BIG & GLOWING holiday cheer is coming back to Round Rock for 2 amazing nights in December! Join us for the annual Light Up the Lake, a 2-day holiday festival around the lake and festival area at Old Settlers Park on Fri, December 1stand Sat, December 2nd.

The event will feature SPECTACULAR giant balloons hovering over Bright Lake, amazing light show, LIVE music, holiday displays, holiday food and refreshments, crafts, family activities, yule log and more!


Holiday Bazaar Arts and Crafts Show

November 11

The City of Round Rock’s Clay Madsen Recreation Center invites you to the 19th Annual Rockin’ Around the Holidays Bazaar from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023.
Enjoy live music while you shop and stroll!

Admission is free but please bring a canned food item or boxes of colorful Band-Aids for the Children’s hospital.

The Holiday Bazaar is an opportunity for local and surrounding city exhibitors and crafters to sell and display their unique, hand-crafted and creative merchandise. This event is hosted by the Clay Madsen Recreation Center, Round Rock Parks and Recreation Department.


Brown Santa

Williamson County Sheriff’s Brown Santa supports children, in our area, through a general distribution of toys, books and a stuffed animals for Christmas. Within this primary mission, we get many requests from volunteers to help provide a more personal Christmas experience through Adopt-A-Family (AAF). AAF reviews situations and assigns families in need to sponsors. The sponsor then engages the family directly to understand the specific needs (toys, clothing, food, etc.), shops for the gifts, wraps gifts (based on family preference) and delivers the gifts to the parents.


Beginning November 18

Prepare for an enchanting holiday adventure as Splashway Waterpark proudly introduces our latest event, Splashway Christmas! Commencing on November 18th, immerse yourself in a unique family-centered celebration. At Splashway Waterpark, we’re committed to creating extraordinary moments. Splashway Christmas is where magic comes alive, and we’re thrilled to have you join us. Check out full schedule of events HERE!


Kyle

Santa at The Kyle Railroad Depot and Heritage Center | Saturday & Sunday

Santa Claus will be at the Kyle Train Depot, 100 N. Front St. Dec. 16 and 17.
For the low price of signing the Kyle Train Depot’s guestbook guests can visit with Santa, take photos and check out the depot in all its holiday glory. Guests can also enjoy tours of the historic site during the event.
On Saturday, Dec. 16 Santa will be at Kyle Train Depot from 10 a.m. – 2p.m., and on Sunday, Dec. 17 Santa will be at the Kyle Train Depot from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.