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Luminations at LBJ Wildflower Center
In a year that could use some sparkle, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is bringing back a beloved winter tradition. It's a strollable Hill Country experience where thousands of luminarias light the way. For the first time ever, Luminations will wind through the Texas Arboretum among glowing oaks and the light-splashed forts of Fortlandia, a collection of forts custom-designed and built by local architects, designers, and artists.Through Jan. 3. Members only on Mondays; closed Dec. 24, 25, 31 & Jan. 1 -
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Events
Winter Wanderland
Snow close, yet snow far out! Austin Motel is decked out for the holidays with a neon rainbow, and they're serving up hot chocolate (with optional peppermint schnapps), a Sugar Plum cocktail, and La Colombe coffee. Snacks include Reindeer Chow and hot pretzels.Through Jan. 3. Free, but RSVP. -
Community
New Year's Guide
2020 Uncaged New Year's Bash
New Year’s Eve at the HighBall has evolved for the times. The Alamo virtual team has re-created the Alamo Drafthouse South Lamar, the Highball, karaoke rooms, and theatres into a virtual 8-bit experience. On NYE, you'll be transformed into an 8-bit avatar, enter the virtual party space, and explore rooms full of entertainment and surprises. The party is also a tribute to all-time fave cinematic hero Nicolas Cage and includes a screening of Mandy, and the interactive quest, photo booths, and video installations will all pay tribute to the king. There's so much more in store: magicians, game rooms, tarot, even personalized poems from Typewriter Rodeo.Thu., Dec. 31, 8pm. $25 and up. -
Community
Events
Austin Trail of Lights
Austin's 56th annual holiday tradition returns to Zilker Park as a drive-through event this year and runs two additional weeks. As you drive through the trail illuminated by more than 2 million lights, tune in via your car radio for holiday music, highlights, and history. This year guests can choose a ticket type based on their preferred date and time, with prices ranging from $25-35 per vehicle for GA or a $60 per vehicle "Dash Pass" which includes early entry and festive refreshments.Through Jan. 3 (except New Year's Day). GA, $25-35 per vehicle; Dash Pass, $60 per vehicle. -
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Community
New Year's Guide
Austin's New Year
The city of Austin’s official New Year’s Eve celebration will be virtual in 2020. Presented by the Austin Convention Center, the special will feature prerecorded performances from eight local bands recorded at iconic local venues across the city including Saxon Pub, the Continental Club, Cheer Up Charlies, Antone's, and Mohawk.Thu., Dec. 31Virtual -
Community
Events
Downtown Holiday Stroll
This year, the hallmark event is more than just one evening; it's a month of free activities and holiday happenings. Visit the 45-foot-tall holiday tree by the Capitol, catch a movie at Paramount or the new Blue Starlite, and download or pick up a holiday passport to guide your way and collect stamps as you experience all that Downtown Austin has to offer.Through Dec. 31Downtown Austin -
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Arts & Culture
Fat Bottom Cabaret: Brown South
Kick off the new year with this thoroughly queer and “curvrageous” evening celebrating BIPOC drag and burlesque performers, hosted by Nikki DaVaughn. Performances by Lady Lola LeStrange and Chola Magnolia, plus special guests Tulla Moore, Jeez Loueez, and more.Thu., Dec. 31, 7-8:30pm. $5-20.Online -
Community
Events
Mozart's 2020 COVID-Cautious Christmas Light Show
Sip a delicious hot bevvie and see the beautiful light show by the lake. Reservations required.Through Jan. 6, 6pm-12mid. $10 per table for one-hour show. -
Community
New Year's Guide
NYE Fireworks at Doc's
One of the best socially distanced options to ring in 2021 is a drive-in movie, and Doc's is offering a fireworks show after every screening. Choose from Sing, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, The Goonies, or The Great Gatsby. They've also got $2 Champagne plus brisket chili, Frito pie, burgers, vegan wings, and more.Thu., Dec. 31, 6pm, 9:20pm, 9:30pm -
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Events
Winter Well-Being Toolkit
The stressors of the COVID-19 pandemic could make this winter and holiday season tougher than usual. Integral Care recently launched a Winter Well-Being Toolkit, a compilation of ideas to boost mental health, fight the winter blues, stay safely connected and celebrate the season in new ways. Topics include ideas to make gatherings special, tips for fighting Seasonal Affective Disorder, steps for improving happiness, ways to get moving and elevate your mood, and mindfulness activities. Plus, check out their YouTube channel for a winter mental health forum video.Ongoing
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#TsoGiving Holiday Initiative
Tso Chinese Delivery has partnered with seven local organizations with the goal to provide $100,000 in meals to Austinites in need. Make a direct donation online, or add a donation to any food order placed at Tso Chinese Delivery. For every $1 raised, #TsoGiving can donate $3 worth of meals.Through Dec. 31Remote -
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Austin Scavenger Hunt
Explore Downtown in search of storied buildings, green spaces, and famous concert venues, all while solving riddles, trivia questions, and completing photo challenges. Now available: "Roam From Home," with family and date night scavenger hunt activities you can do without leaving the house.Anytime. $12.99-24.99.Online and at home -
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Events
BSC Reopening Business Safely Global Forum
Business is not as usual. This is a safe place to talk about business concerns, share ideas, and hear from weekly business expert guests.Thursdays, 12-1pm. Through Dec. 16. Free.Online -
Film
Special Screenings
CANCELED: Back to the Future Marathon
All three Back to the Future movies, starting at 5pm with 30 minute breaks in between. Admission will be donations only; pay what you can to help support the Palace. Wear your best Marty McFly, Doc or Eighties garb to win a prize, and Eighties music and trivia questions liven things up between shows.Thu., Dec. 31, 5pm. Donations accepted. -
Music
CANCELED: New Year's Eve w/ Sahara Allstars
Sahara Lounge is temporarily closed due to COVID-19 and plans to reopen Jan. 6.Thu., Dec. 31, 10pm -
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Civic Events
Capital Metro New Year's Eve Service
Capital Metro will offer regular service on New Year's Eve, with free rides after 5pm on all its services, including MetroBus, MetroRapid, Pickup, and MetroExpress.Thu., Dec. 31Citywide -
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Events
Central Texas Food Bank Giving Opportunities
The holidays will be tougher for everyone this year. The food bank has put together a list of 10 ways to make a difference to someone in need, from an online matched donation to donating your change at participating stores. Check out the list online and help CTFB fight hunger.Ongoing -
Community
Out of Town
Christmas Trail of Lights
Follow the driving tour around the courthouse, and through Hamilton Creek and Wallace Riddell parks.Sat.-Fri., Dec. 26-Jan. 1Burnet -
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Events
City Encourages Safe Celebrations
Austin Public Health would like to remind everyone to spread kindness, not COVID, this season. Keep the health of your family, friends, and neighbors in mind when planning your holiday celebrations, and consider virtual and low-risk activities. Get party ideas and COVID-19 info on the city's site, and if you do plan to go out, be aware that events are subject to cancellation.Dec. 21-Jan. 1Citywide -
Community
Civic Events
City of Austin "How to Help" Portal
Looking for the right way to help your community during the pandemic? Or do you have a volunteer opportunity that you want to list? Visit the city's "How to Help" portal to make a match. The portal includes ways to help from home, donation drives, and active community engagement opportunities.OngoingOnline -
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Country New Year's Eve w/ Nine-Pound Hammers, Chris Ray (acoustic)
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Events
Donate Blood, Get Free Whataburger
All month long, when you donate with We Are Blood, get a free honey butter chicken biscuit from Whataburger. Donors between Dec. 24 and 31 also get a free sweatshirt. Appointments are mandatory; schedule online or call 512/206-1266.Through Dec. 31We Are Blood donor centers & mobile drives -
Community
Events
Donate Platelets, Get a Free Baseball Tee
During its monthlong Platelet Step-Up campaign, We Are Blood is offering a branded baseball tee to donors who successfully donate platelets twice during December. Appointments are mandatory; schedule online or call 512/206-1266.Dec. 1-31We Are Blood donor centers & mobile drives -
Community
Civic Events
Draft Transportation Criteria Manual Review
The draft defines the rules, requirements, and technical guidelines for building mobility infrastructures. Feedback can be made on transit systems, bike and urban trails, and pedestrian zones, among other items in the manual.Deadline: Dec. 31Online -
Community
Out of Town
Dye 2020 New Year’s Eve Weekend
The little craft brewery in the woods has a full weekend of holiday events and music beginning with a: tie-dye party on Thursday, a Bloody Mary Friday, and music on Saturday and Sunday.Thu.-Sun., Dec. 31-Jan. 3Roughhouse Brewery, San Marcos -
Community
Out of Town
Eagle Nest Webcam
The eagle cam is back after being dark for nearly two years, and the pair of eagles are building their nest in preparation of the eggs sometime in December or January. Watch their progress from home.Through early spring. Free.Online via JBS Wetland Center, Seagoville -
Community
Out of Town
Eisbahn, Ice Skating in the Hill Country
Safety protocols are in place in the outdoor skating rink at Marktplatz.Sat.-Sun., Dec. 26-Jan. 3. $15.Fredericksburg -
Community
New Year's Guide
Future Forward NYE 2021
A futuristic outdoor NYE celebration on the heated patio with beats by DJ Phoenix and a complimentary Champagne toast at midnight. Bottle service available at reserved tables.Thu., Dec. 31, 8pm. Free.Reina, 78 Rainey -
Community
Events
Gibson Wonderland
Sip a festive holiday cocktail and snap a photo at the Gibson Sleigh, then tag #gibsonwonderland and @gibsonstreetbar for a chance at a prize.Through Dec. 31 -
Community
New Year's Guide
High 5 Lakeway NYE Family Party
Family package includes an hour of bowling, shoe rental, a large pizza and bottomless soda, plus face paint and balloon art from Silly Sparkles and a NYE countdown Champagne/cider toast.Thu., Dec. 31, 4-11pm. $115/family. -
Community
Out of Town
History in Lights
The pathway of lights illuminates Mission Espiritu Santo in a way that is suggestive of the early days of the Spanish frontier outpost.Through Dec. 31, 6-10pm. $4.Goliad State Park -
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Events
Holiday Lights in Georgetown’s Historic Town Square
Enjoy the lights and local flavor throughout the holiday season.Through Jan. 2. Free.Historic Town Square, East Seventh Street, Georgetown -
Community
Events
Holiday Parties With Urban Axes
Celebrate the holiday season at Urban Axes with add-ons like drink packages, catering from local partners, party decorations to make your celebration special, or an axe trophy for the tournament winner. You can even book the entire facility for your own private party.Ongoing -
Community
Civic Events
Holiday Traveling Risk
Traveling is a high-risk activity due to COVID-19. Austin Public Health encourages the community to safely celebrate virtually during the holiday season.Ongoing -
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Events
IssueVoter Trivia Night for Donors
Locally based nonprofit IssueVoter, a nonpartisan civic engagement platform, aims to raise $52,000, and Subaru is matching donations through Jan. 2. Donors who set up recurring monthly donations will be entered in a drawing to win a Patagonia jacket, and every donor will receive an invite to the trivia night on Dec. 30.Donate through Jan. 2; trivia night, Dec. 30 -
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Events
Judaism UnBoxed
Brought to you by Chabad of Austin, Judaism UnBoxed is hands-on Jewish discovery and growth, Jewish culinary lessons, and quality family time all in one. Receive holiday baking kit boxes for the Jewish holidays and/or challah baking boxes every month.Ongoing -
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Keep Austin Rooted
Gifting a tree through Treefolks is a fun way to surprise a friend or family member with a present that could last a lifetime, while beautifying and benefiting the community. Donors can opt for preset donation tiers of $30 (10 trees), $75 (25 trees), $150 (50 trees), or an amount of their choice.OngoingOnline -
Community
Events
Lost Pines Christmas
There are plenty of holiday happenings in Bastrop, just a hop, skip, and a jump from Austin: Take in the sights at the River of Lights, head downtown to shop the Holiday Sidewalk Stroll, take in Elf! The Musical at Bastrop Opera House, or visit Krampus at Scream Hollow's Twisted Christmas.Through Jan. 1Bastrop -
Community
Out of Town
Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights
The holiday season kicks off with Christmas in the Park in Natchitoches and continues through the fireworks on New Year’s Eve around eastern Louisiana.Through Dec. 31Alexandria-Pineville, Minden, Monroe-West Monroe, Natchitoches & Shreveport-Bossier -
Community
Sports
MADD Virtual Jingle Bell 5K
Run, walk, or jog where you are to benefit Mothers Against Drunk Driving. The first 250 registrants get a swag bag, so sign up ASAP! All participants get a participant medal.Through Jan. 6. $35, adults; $10, kids.Virtual -
Community
Out of Town
Marriott Marquis Houston's Texas Winter Lights
An interactive walk-through or float-under light experience at the hotel’s iconic Texas-shaped lazy river, which will be surrounded by a mile worth of sparkling lights, complete with stunning views of the downtown Houston skyline.Through Jan. 3, 5-10pm. $5-15; hotel packages starting at $143.Marriott Marquis, 1777 Walker St., Houston -
Community
Events
Maywald Christmas Lights
A park-and-walk display that's free with a donation to Make-A-Wish at the box upon entry.Through Jan. 310505 Twilight Vista -
Community
Sports
Mobility Games
Use a bike, micro-mobility modes, or your own body to get around in December and win prizes. Register online and share trips on social media with #MobilityGames20 to be entered.Through Dec. 31 -
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Community
New Year's Guide
New Year’s Eve Celebration
Dance (socially distanced) the night away in a private airplane hangar and ring the New Year in with a: Champagne toast. Shuttle service available for guests not staying at the resort.Thu., Dec. 31, 7pm. $85; dinner and lodging extra.JL Bar Ranch, Sonora -
Community
New Year's Guide
New Year’s Eve With Avid Vines
A virtual champagne tasting with live music, food pairings, and a cave tour.Thu., Dec. 31, 4pmOnline via Zoom -
Community
New Year's Guide
Noon Year's Eve at Austin Aquarium
A family-friendly party with all the creatures of the aquarium, with a balloon drop at noon so the kids get in on the fun without missing bedtime.Thu., Dec. 31, 11:30am -
Community
New Year's Guide
Noon Year’s Eve at Altitude Trampoline Park
A jumping party with a live DJ, games, a kid-friendly toast, party favors, and a balloon drop at noon with more than $5,000 in prizes.Thu., Dec. 31. $15.Altitude Trampoline Park, 2800 S. I-35 #200, Round Rock -
Community
Events
Northern Lights Holiday Spectacular
Presented by Toyota of Cedar Park, this drive-through light show has a special bonus of a different holiday movie screening each night.Through Dec. 31. Light show opens at 5pm; films screen at 7 & 10pm -
Community
Kids
NYE DIY Kids' Party
Your preordered party kit includes hats, party horns, poppers, coloring sheets, mystery prize balloons, and a game card to use on a future visit. Stick around for arcade games if you wish.Thu., Dec. 31, noon-3pm. $15.Austin-area Pinballz Arcades -
Community
New Year's Guide
NYE Masquerade
Arcade games, bottle service, and tunes from Offaiah. Masks and social distancing required; age 18+ only.Thu., Dec. 31, 8pm -
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Kids
Peppermint Parkway
Join Pepper and Mint on their journey down COTA’s Tunnel Road with this drive-through holiday experience. They are on a mission: to deliver letters to Santa for gifts under the tree! On their way they will meet dancing elves and strolling entertainers as they are transported from Candy Cane Lane to an Enchanted Forest. Additional activities include COTA Karting, Peppermint Plaza with amusements and games, and COTA Zipline.Various dates through Jan. 3. $35-90. -
Community
Civic Events
Request for Proposals: TEMPO 2021
Art in Public Places' TEMPO program seeks proposals from practicing visual artists or artist teams for short-term, outdoor art installations.Deadline: Tue., Jan. 26, 2021, 5pmOnline -
Community
Events
Reuse Gift Wrapping Challenge
According to Austin Creative Reuse, if every family chose reused materials to wrap three gifts, the paper saved would cover 45,000 football fields. So they're calling on the community to think outside the box and choose reuse this year. Submit photos of your wrapping ideas to the contest via email, and they'll be judged on creativity, workmanship, and use of reused materials. Get ideas and materials from ACR or use what you have on hand.Dec. 11-31 -
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Events
Santa's Sleigh Selfies
Visit anytime after dark to see the tree lit with thousands of twinkly lights and take photos with Santa's sleigh.Through Jan. 3 -
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New Year's Guide
SOLD OUT: Roaring Twenties NYE
Do it up fancy this year with Roosevelt Room, last year's "Best of Austin" winner for Best Cocktail Bar. They're prepped to be COVID-cautious, and will offer tunes by DJ Beatsmode, Twenties-inspired cocktails, and a primo Champagne selection.Thu., Dec. 31, 8pm. $50-500. -
Community
New Year's Guide
SOLD OUT: Speakeasy's Legendary New Year's Eve Bash
Ring in 2021 at this seated, socially distanced celebration with DJs, live music, bottle service, and a complimentary champagne toast.Thu., Dec. 31, 8pm. $91-150. -
Community
Civic Events
Suffrage Now: A 19th Amendment Centennial Exhibition
Contemporary Texas women photographers share photos commenting on the centennial of the ratification of the 19th Amendment.Aug. 6-Jan. 31Online -
Community
Civic Events
Travis County Christmas Tree Recycling
Give your natural holiday tree new life by recycling it at one of the following locations: West Service Center (4501 FM 620); Del Valle Adult Softball Complex (3614 FM 973, Del Valle); Collection Center (2625 Woodall Dr., Leander); and East Service Center (6011 Blue Bluff). Remove decorations, and trees taller than 6 feet must be cut in half. Flocked trees not accepted.Through Jan. 10. 7am-5pm. Free.Multiple locations -
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Out of Town
Walkway of Lights
The 30-year tradition continues with thousands of lights and more than 350 sculptures illuminating Lakeside Park.Through Jan. 2, 6-10pm. free.Marble Falls -
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Events
We Are Blood Mall Drives
Blood donations are especially needed right now, and it's easy to donate while you shop for the holidays. Look for the bus parked in the Cheesecake Factory parking lot at Barton Creek or the Macy's lot at Lakeline.Dec. 19-Jan. 3 (except Dec. 25 & Jan. 1)Barton Creek Square, 2901 Capital of TX Hwy. S; Lakeline Mall, 11200 Lakeline Mall Dr. -
Community
Out of Town
Wild Texas Film Tour
In ordinary times, filmmaker and conservationist Ben Masters would be traveling the state sharing wildlife, adventure, and conservation stories, but this year the film festival has gone online. The short and feature films showcase the Scottish Highlands, the Texas ocelot, Buffalo Bayou, paddlefish, swift fox, and several other topics that will appeal to a wide variety of audiences.Through Dec. 31. Free, but donations appreciated.Online via www.wildfilmtour.com -
Community
Events
Winter Holiday Mystic Market
An event that partners local, women-owned health and wellness shops with local cosmic practitioners, hosted by Rituals Rising and Joy Organics.Through Jan. 15. Mon.-Sat., 11am-6pm; Sun., noon-5pm -
Community
Civic Events
YMCA Early Learning Readiness Program
A free community program for qualifying low-income families that focuses on preparing children ages 2-4 for school, while providing their caregivers with the tools to facilitate their child’s development. Classes are offered twice a week in English and Spanish and last one hour.English: Mondays & Wednesdays, 9am; Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10:30am. Spanish: Mondays & Wednesdays, 10:30am; Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9am.. Free.Online
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Community
Sports
Austin FC Season Membership Deposits
Austin's Major League Soccer team, Austin FC, is officially taking deposits for 2021 season memberships. Your deposit will reserve your spot in line, which means the earlier you purchase your membership, the earlier you're eligible to select your seats for the season.Ongoing. $50. -
Community
Civic Events
YWCA Greater Austin Warmline
Call 512/548-9922 for support amidst the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic.Mondays-Thursdays, 9am-8pm; Fridays, 9-5pm; Saturdays, noon-4pmCitywide