Central Texas transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering a dazzling array of events, from spectacular light displays and theatrical classics to unique markets and community celebrations. Whether you're looking for family-friendly fun, a spirited night out, or a place to shop for unique gifts, the Austin area and its surrounding communities provide endless opportunities to celebrate the magic of the season from November through December 2025.

Dazzling Light Experiences

The region is illuminated by brilliant light shows and festive trails that are a cornerstone of the holiday season:

  • Austin Trail of Lights (December 10–23) at Zilker Park invites visitors to enjoy dazzling light installments, live entertainment, food, local vendors, and amusement rides like a Ferris wheel.
  • The iconic Zilker Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony (November 30) kicks off the season. This Austin tradition since 1967 features a 155-foot tree under which you can spin, along with pre-ceremony entertainment and food.
  • Mozart's Annual Light Show (November 22–January 3) at Mozart's Coffee Roasters features a choreographed light show set to music on Lake Austin, complemented by sweet and savory cafe treats.
  • Peppermint Parkway (November 21–December 28) at the Circuit of The Americas is a light trail experience complete with millions of dazzling lights, dancing characters, amusement rides, festive food, and a "Peppermint Pub".
  • Community light displays include the Trail of Lights at the Emily Ann Theatre in Wimberley (November 29–December 26), and The Trail of Lights in Lakeway (December 5–January 1).
  • In Round Rock, the Light Up The Lake event (December 5 & 6) at Old Settler's Park offers a lakeside light show, live music, holiday displays, and family activities.

Holiday Arts and Entertainment

Get into the spirit with classic performances and unique concerts:

  • A Christmas Carol (November 19–January 3) is presented at The Topfer at ZACH Theatre, adapting the Dickens classic with a musical score that spans various genres and eras.
  • A Charlie Brown Christmas (November 7–December 28) will be at The Kleberg at ZACH Theatre, following Charlie Brown's search for the true meaning of Christmas with the Peanuts gang.
  • Ballet Austin's The Nutcracker (December 5–23) at The Long Center features enchanting sets, costumes, and animated choreography.
  • The Trans-Siberian Orchestra (December 18) performs at the Moody Center, offering a mix of Christmas tunes and classical pieces with great staging and effects.

Shopping and Markets

Find unique gifts and support local artists at these popular holiday bazaars:

  • The Blue Genie Art Bazaar (November 14–December 24) at 6100 Airport Blvd, Austin, is a unique market featuring works by over 200 artists offering a wide variety of imaginative gifts.
  • "Golden Year" A Christmas Affair 2025 (November 19–23) at Palmer Events Center is a five-day market with over 200 retail merchants, with proceeds benefiting local non-profits.
  • The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar (December 13–21) at Palmer Events Center is a fine art shopping destination showcasing national and local artists in a festive atmosphere with live music.

Community and Family Celebrations

Enjoy the local charm with city-wide festivities and unique holiday events across Central Texas:

  • The Holiday Downtown Stroll in Austin (December 6) on Congress Avenue is a 29-year tradition featuring artisan vendors, food trucks, music, and photos with Santa.
  • Experience the Austin Ice Rodeo (November 21–January 4) at the Four Seasons Hotel Austin, offering ice skating under the stars with pop-up lounges and extravagant art installations.
  • The North Pole Flyer Train Ride (Weekends: November 29–December 14) from the Bertram Depot is a two-hour ride featuring a visit from Santa, hot cocoa, and holiday cookies.
  • In the surrounding towns, you can find the Tree Lighting & A Jolly Bright Lakeline Night in Cedar Park (December 3), Sights & Sounds of Christmas in San Marcos (December 4–6 and 11–13), the 44th Annual Candyland Christmas Stroll in Georgetown (December 5, 6, and 7), and BUDAFEST (December 5–6).

Adult Holiday Fun

For those seeking a more adult-oriented seasonal outing, options include:

  • Miracle on 5th Street (November 13–December 28) at The Eleanor, Austin, a Christmas-themed pop-up cocktail bar with wall-to-wall decor and cheery social experiences.
  • The Christmas Wine Affair (November 24–December 19) is a self-guided tour for sipping and sampling award-winning wines at over 50 unique Hill Country Wineries.
  • The Elf Pub Run and Movie Screening (December 2) is an annual fun run and movie event at The Paramount Theater, Austin.
  • The Lake Travis Lighted Boat Parade (December 6) at Crosswater Yacht Club, Austin, is a unique event where you can bring your own boat to compete or simply enjoy the spectacle of decorated vessels as a spectator.