Whether you’ve lived in Austin for years or just moved here, spending the winter holidays in the capital of Texas is quite a treat. Not only do you not have to shovel any snow, but also you have your pick of festive events every year! In the time between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve, you’ll have access to everything from blocks of twinkling lights to massive decorated Christmas trees, all topped off with delicious hot cocoa, of course. So if you’re in the mood to be merry, here’s where to go in Austin.
Joyous Mozart’s Christmas Light Show
Every year, Mozart’s Coffee Roasters puts on a beautiful light show for local families to enjoy together. The free event features over 1 million LED lights, holiday music, hot chocolate and overall Christmas spirit. There’s also a small market that serves dessert, so this is the perfect spot for getting in the holiday spirit any night between November 19 and January 1. The location overlooks Lake Austin, so you can’t get much better than this view.
Armadillo Christmas Bazaar
If you’re in search of a spot to stroll around, shop and sip a cold beer during the holidays, head to the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar. It’s a 12-day event that features lots of fine art, shops, live music and two bars. Stop by day or night between December 13 and 24 to enjoy this Austin holiday destination with friends and family.
Austin Trail of Lights
Come to Zilker Park every year to experience the Austin Trail of Lights. As you might assume, you can expect to see lots of Christmas lights here. But aside from that, you’ll also be treated to live music, pictures with Santa, rides, food vendors, crafts and more. This Austin holiday event runs from December 10 to 23, and the hours are from 7 pm to 10 pm every night.
Winter Wonderland at the Circuit
Many of Austin’s holiday events have been going on for years, which is great if you like longstanding holiday traditions. But sometimes it’s nice to add something new to your Christmas celebration schedule, and you have the chance to do just that with the Winter Wonderland at the Circuit. It’s only in its second year as of 2018, but it’s seen a great turnout so far. And that’s no surprise considering that it features everything from ice-skating and a petting zoo to Santa’s Workshop and a Chinese Lantern Festival. So bring the whole family or meet up with friends who want to get festive at this Austin holiday event.
Austin’s New Year
If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly way to finish out the year, head to the Austin’s New Year event at Auditorium Shores. This free event takes places on December 31 from 3 to 10 pm, and it offers everything from live music and food trucks to activities for the kids and fireworks. If you still feel like celebrating after the event, surely you can find another party at a nearby hotel or bar, such as Whisler’s or the JW Marriott Austin–both of which are planning New Year’s Eve specials.
If you don’t already live in the Austin area, you’re going to want to after you attend any of the holiday events here. And when you start preparing to make that move, come to 3 Men Movers to arrange for the help of experienced Austin movers!
