From holiday markets to smaller festivals, there are plenty of things to do in Austin come December. Mark your calendars—It’s going to be a busy month!
ZACH Theatre Presents: "A Christmas Carol"
ZACH Theatre | November 20-December 29 | Website
Ring in the holidays with ZACH Theatere’s rendition of beloved holiday show “A Christmas Carol”. The performance will be a modern twist on the classic story.
Blue Genie Art Bazaar
Blue Genie Art Bazaar | November 22-December 24 | Website
A staple of Austin’s holiday traditions, this expansive art bazaar is the only place you’ll need to shop for gifts this year. From fun finds to intricate art pieces, Blue Genie Art Bazaar has it all!
Teddy Bear Tea
Four Seasons Hotel Austin | December 1, 8, 15
This tea party gives back to the community—Bring a teddy bear to be donated to Dell Children’s Hospital. You’ll be able to listen to a fireside reading by Santa and enjoy some caroling as well.
Driskill Holiday Tree Lighting
Driskill Hotel | December 3 | Website
Kick off your holiday celebrations at the Driskill Hotel, with the annual lighting of The Driskill tree accompanied by the beautiful sounds of holiday music and caroling.
Austin Symphony Orchestra presents Handel's "Messiah"
Hyde Park Baptist Church And Emmaus Catholic Church | December 3-4 | Website
This night of musical magic will comfort you through its familiarity and fill you with the joy of rediscovery. Begin your winter celebrations with a performance full of rejoicing.
German-Texan Heritage Society Christmas Market
German Free School of Austin | December 7
This fun annual market offers both handmade and imported holiday trinkets. While browsing the market you’ll be able to visit Sankt Nikolas, hear some traditional German music, and enjoy a cup of hot spiced wine.
Art From the Streets Show & Sale
Austin Convention Center | December 7-8 | Website
This holiday craft market helps the efforts of AFTS to provide a safe, creative space for homeless and formerly homeless local artists. Shop original works—All proceeds go to the artists.
Cherrywood Art Fair
Maplewood Elementary | December 7-8 | Website
Enjoy hand-crafted goods from over 200 local artists and makers at this fundraiser benefiting the Eastside arts community. You’ll also find food trucks, live music, and kids’ activities at the market.
Ballet Austin's "The Nutcracker"
Long Center for the Performing Arts | December 7-23
Join Ballet Austin for their 57th annual production of “The Nutcracker”, a family-friendly show guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit.
Austin Music Video Festival
Various Locations | December 10-14
Celebrate Austin’s music video heritage at this fifth year of the Austin Music Video Festival, with screenings, awards, panels, and parties.
Austin Trail of Lights
Zilker Park | December 10-23 | Website
Austin’s most well-known holiday tradition is back for its 55th year! Celebrate the community at this extensive Christmas lights experience, and don’t forget to take a spin under the Zilker Tree.
Armadillo Christmas Bazaar
Palmer Events Center | December 13-24 | Website
For 11 days before Christmas, you can shop national and local art, handmade gifts, stocking stuffers, and more at this bazaar. This is one of the city’s longest-running traditions, attracting over 40,000 each year.
Santa Paws Photo Shoot & Hot Chocolate Bar
Austin Animal Medical Center | December 14 | Website
Grab your furry friend and head to the Austin Animal Medical Center for some hot chocolate and a mini photo shoot of man’s best friend. With tasty treats for you and your pet, there’s something for the entire family to enjoy (including your pup.)
Home for the Holidays Series
AFS Cinema | December 20-January 1 | Website
Experience Hollywood holiday classics on the big screen at this holiday film series. AFS Cinema will be screening everything from "It's A Wonderful Life" to "Meet Me in St. Louis".
Austin's New Year
Auditorium Shores | December 31
Looking for the perfect family-friendly event for New Year’s? This alcohol-free happening celebrates our city with storytellers, visual art installations, jugglers, fire dancers, and more.
What are you most looking forward to this December? Show us how you’re spending the last month of 2019 by using #MOREatx on social media.
