Holiday Events Near You

From twinkling lights and live music to ice skating and train rides, this time of year in Austin is full of wonderful family events spreading holiday cheer. We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite ways to celebrate the season near you.

 

 

 

The 58th annual Austin Trail of Lights is returning to Zilker Park! Austin Trail of Lights is one of the most beloved and longest-running holiday traditions of its kind in the Texas capital. The Trail now features more than 2 million lights illuminating the park, 90 lighted holiday trees, and more than 70 other holiday displays and lighted tunnels. More details here.

 

 

 

After going virtual last year, Ballet Austin’s The Nutcracker is now back on its 60th year live from the Long Center. Witness hundreds of dancers perform Stephen MIlls’ enchanting choreography to Peter Tchaikovsky’s magical score with a live accompaniment from the Austin Symphony Orchestra! More details here.

 

 

Check out over 250,000 lights choreographed to holiday music at the Village of Lights by Mobile Loaves & Fishes. Come for the lights and stay for the holiday market featuring handcrafted goods. More details here.

 

 

This beautiful light show is a drive-thru holiday experience at Circuit of The Americas, complete with millions of twinkling lights synchronized to holiday songs, dancing elves, and an appearance by Santa. More details here.

 

 

 

Austin’s own C3 Presents, in collaboration with the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center at The University of Texas at Austin, is proud to announce highly acclaimed British artist Bruce Munro’s Field of Light at the Wildflower Center. Illuminating 16 acres in the Texas Arboretum at the Wildflower Center, Field of Light is a stunning display of 28,000 vibrant solar-powered, fiber-optic light pods that showcase the intersection of art, technology, and nature. The installation unites with the outdoors, celebrating the natural topography of the landscape and creating an immersive and emotional experience for guests. A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales benefit the Wildflower Center. More details here.

 

 

Hill Country Galleria presents Bee Cave on Ice! Come out and enjoy this year's coolest holiday attraction. The ice rink will be open seven days a week and will be able to hold 120 people at a time. The $15 ticket includes a skate rental and a 75-minute skate session. Click here for reservations. Reservations are highly encouraged, but a number of walk-ups will be available.

 

 

Skate beneath the stars – and overlooking Lady Bird Lake – at Austin’s premier ice skating rink and winter experience. Taking place now through January 8, 2023, Ice Rodeo at Four Seasons Hotel Austin features an outdoor ice rink, firepits to roast gourmet s’mores, and cozy “cabins” where you can gather with friends and family over festive food and drinks. Click here for more details.

 

 

 

The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar celebrates nearly five decades of holiday shopping in Austin, TX. They are known for their 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! Click here for more details.

 

 

Seeing the annual holiday Light Show at Mozart’s Coffee Roasters is a tradition to look forward to every winter season. The awesome light displays — along with the hot chocolate and delicious warm treats — make this a holiday experience that the whole family enjoys. More details here.

 

 

Welcome the New Year with a festive fireworks show at Auditorium Shores! Bring your loved ones with you to this family-friendly event with plenty of activities for you to enjoy. Stay tuned for more details about this celebration.