Home Events

for Mon., Nov. 30
  • Maudie's Moonlight Run by The Trail Conservancy

    Join The Trail Conservancy for Maudie's Moonlight 5K Run! The scenic route winds along Lady Bird Lake and the Butler Trail, leading to the ultimate post-run fiesta with legendary Tex-Mex, ice-cold margaritas, and live music! Complete details on the run route, registration, and volunteer info are available online.
    Thurs. June 5, 8pm-10pm  
    Auditorium Shores
  • Fredericksburg Craft Beer Festival

    Grab your friends and come to the Fredericksburg Craft Beer Festival! Give your palate a treat, enjoy the tastes, textures and aromas- you will find a new favorite brewery! If you prefer a glass of wine or seltzer – they’ll have that too. Lively music, food, games, brewers panel and more. Come See What’s on Tap! Sponsored by the Fredericksburg Rotary Club.
    Sat. June 14, 11am-6pm  
    Downtown Fredericksburg Market Square
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  • Community

    Events

    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  
  • Arts

    Classical Music

    Austin Opera: Lauren + Mark Digital Concert Event

    Now, music lovers, now you can watch the opening production of Austin Opera's re-imagined 2020-2021 season – the Lauren Snouffer + Mark Diamond Digital Concert Event – as a limited-edition online release. And you know Nyle Matsuoka provides the piano for this wonderment, right?
    Through Nov. 30. Free.  
  • 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.  
  • Community

    Events

    Blue Genie Art Bazaar

    The beloved Austin holiday shopping experience returns for its 20th year with four shopping options to ensure safety in the time of COVID-19. For in-store shopping, reserve free tickets online for a "no wait" entry. Walk-ins are also welcome, but guests may have to wait outside if it's at capacity. Online shoppers can either pick up items in-store or have them shipped anywhere in the U.S. Personal shoppers and virtual shopping will also be available through the BGAB website. BGAB is a family-friendly experience where you can find one-of-a-kind, handcrafted jewelry, artwork, home goods, and gifts for everyone on your shopping list.
    Through Dec. 24, 10am-10pm daily (10am-6pm on Dec. 24)  
  • 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. 31  
    Downtown Austin
  • Community

    Events

    Final Call for RENT: Relief of Emergency Needs for Tenants

    This program through the city of Austin provides full rent payment for income-eligible renters financially impacted by COVID-19. Get all the details on their FAQ and apply online.
    Applications due Tue., Dec. 8, noon  
  • 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

    Events

    Succulent Native Holiday Specials

    Support small biz and beautify your home with Succulent Native, now offering a Plant Love Club subscription box that brings a new pot, plant, and local goodie to your door each month. For Black Friday and Small Business Saturday (and Sunday), shop in-store for 20% off plants, cacti, and succulents, and get a free December Plant Love box when you spend $250 or free planting with $100 purchase. On Cyber Monday (and Tuesday) they're knocking 20% off online purchases. Their beautiful wares make excellent gifts for plant people, and they host virtual and in-person plant parties if you're looking for a fun, unique activity for the holidays.
    Nov. 27-Dec. 1  
    Online and in-store at 5501 N. Lamar Ste. 101-A
  • Food

    Food Events

    The Eleanor: Miracle on Fifth Street

    Yes, the beloved Christmas-themed pop-up bar returns to The Eleanor for another year of spirited celebration. Joann Spiegel, the mastermind behind the brand’s cocktail repertoire, has created a roster of delightful, holiday-inspired libations, featuring cocktails that play on classic holiday flavors. New this year: Jolly Koala (gin, vermouth, and pine-cardamom-sage cordial), On Dasher (bourbon, mezcal, sweet vermouth, spiced hibiscus, bitters, and lemon), and a Fruitcake Flip (brandy, Jamaican overproof rum, Amaretto, fruitcake, cherry bitters, and a whole egg). (Our personal fave, the Bad Santa, is likewise among the heady lineup.) Also, the full cocktail menu will be available at the main downstairs and mezzanine bars. Note: This year, all Miracle cocktails can be ordered to-go. Note: This year, all Miracle cocktails can be ordered to-go – and a portion of all to-go sales will benefit the Austin Children’s Shelter and Austin Pets Alive. God bless us, everyone!
    Daily, through Dec. 27  
  • Arts

    Books

    The Stars at Night: Constellations

    Each fall, the editors and staff of American Short Fiction host a grand celebration that recognizes literary excellence, extraordinary literary service, great teaching and mentorship, and a debut writer from Texas. ASF’s fifth annual showcase goes virtual this year on November 30, 2020, with a stellar program line-up of acclaimed authors and community leaders in conversation about how we can stay connected in this time of distance through a shared love of literature. Featuring Jamaica Kincaid, C Pam Zhang, Charlotte Gullick, Selena Anderson, and more.
    Mon., Nov. 30, 7pm. $50.  
All Events
  • Community

    Events

    AAYHF Annual Toy Drive

    African American Youth Harvest Foundation is seeking donations of toys for youth 3 months to 17 years of age. Gift cards are also welcome.
    Through Dec. 18  
  • Music

  • Film

    Special Screenings

    AFS Discussion Club

    A special online discussion of the short animated films of Faith and John Hubley with Donna Kornhaber, associate professor at the UT and author of the book Nightmares in the Dream Sanctuary: War and the Animated Film.
    Mon., Nov. 30, 7pm. Free for AFS members.  
    Online via www.austinfilm.org
  • Arts

    Visual Arts

    AO5 Gallery: Disruption

    Hey, you! Globally aware art connoisseur! Don't miss this show of bold visuals from some of the most famous European street artists – like Banksy, Striker, Zero, and Cee Pil – now sharing wall space with works by Austin's own Jason Eatherly, Dave Lowell, and that Impossible Winterbourne.
    Through Dec. 31
  • Community

    Events

    APA! Holiday Store Now Open

    When you're shopping for the animal lovers in your life, you'll find the perfect gift and support the nonprofit at the Austin Pets Alive! online store. They've got a people & pets cookbook, ornaments, toys, and the must-have outerwear for winter: the "I Like Big Mutts and I Cannot Lie" hoodie.
    Ongoing  
  • Community

    Events

    Armadillo Art Concierge

    Sadly, we can't visit the Armadillo Art Bazaar in person this year. The next best thing is Armadillo Art Concierge, an online, curated shopping guide pointing visitors to collections by content, process, medium, or artist location. Follow them on social media @armadillobazaar to see spotlighted art each day.
    Ongoing  
  • Community

    Civic Events

    ATXelerator 2021 Application

    The ATXelerator aims to provide aspiring public officials with an experiential education on how Austin city government functions. This year's program will incorporate a hybrid learning model offering socially distanced, in-person activities as well as having all activities be available virtually.
    Deadline: Dec. 7. Application, free; tuition (if admitted), $195.  
    Online
  • Community

    Events

    Austin Creative Reuse

    ACR is such a neat place, filled to the brim with donations of reusable items, but you don't even have to be there to take advantage of their Earth-friendly stock. Shop online for gifts, holiday wrapping, craft supplies and notions, and even fun mystery packs.
    Ongoing  
    Online or in-store at 2005 Wheless
  • Qmmunity

    Community

    Austin LGBT Chamber Holiday Toy Drive

    The Austin LGBT Chamber Health and Wellness Committee is partnering with Austin Black Pride for its first-ever toy drive. Donate new and unwrapped toys, shoes, clothing, and gift cards appropriate for ages 18 & under at select drop-off sites (see here for locations). Gifts received will go to families enrolled in LifeWorks programs as well as ABP's distribution event on Sat., Dec. 19 at Givens Park (2811 E. 12th).
    Nov. 22-Dec. 17  
    Multiple drop-off locations
  • Film

    Special Screenings

    Austin Polish Film Festival

    This year, APFF has taken most of the screenings to the virtual realm, offering two months of Polish features and documentaries online, as well three films co-presented with Austin Jewish Film Festival and a few screenings at Galaxy Highland.
    Through Dec. 31  
    Online via www.austinpolishfilm.com
  • Community

    Events

    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
  • Arts

    Dance

    Ballet Austin: Nutcracker Gift Barre

    This year – this relentlessly crazy-ass year – Ballet Austin brings their Nutcracker Gift Barre online to offer a great selection of holiday gifts, including nutcrackers, ornaments, tiaras, and T-shirts – with curbside pickup, delivery, or beyond-Austin shipping available. Note: 100% of proceeds will benefit Ballet Austin.
    Through Dec. 18  
  • Community

    Events

    Be a Santa to a Senior

    Fulfilling a senior's Christmas wish couldn't be easier. Simply visit Home Instead Senior Care's virtual tree, choose a recipient, and purchase their wish list item from Amazon. It'll be safely delivered and will make someone's day. You can also visit one of Home Instead's three Austin-area locations to participate.
    Through Dec. 15  
    Virtual
  • Community

    Events

    Blood Bazaar

    Blood Over Texas' online holiday market is the spot to find all kinds of evil wares for fans of goth and horror. All the vendors are local, and include many of the sellers from past Horror for the Holidays events.
    Through Dec. 24  
  • Music

  • Music

    Bret Graham

    Mon., Nov. 30, 6pm
  • Film

    Special Screenings

    Capital City Black Film Festival

    The theme this year is "Breakthrough: Unleash Your Power," with a focus on exploring the impacts of racism on Black mental health. There's a wide range of passes available, from bronze to VIP, and even a free sampler option. VIP is the way to go, getting you access to all the spotlight films and 20 screening blocks, plus industry panels, filmmaker Q&As, a T-shirt, and exclusive treats from sponsors.
    Fri.-Sun., Dec. 4-6. Free-$65.  
    Online via www.capcitybff.com
  • Community

    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  
  • Arts

    Visual Arts

    ChingonX Fire: Group Exhibit

    Inspired by the Mexican American Cultural Center's annual La Mujer celebration – and by the first feminist of the New World, Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz – this online group exhibit is curated by April Garcia and features womxn-identifying and nongender-specific artists whose artwork is tied to activism, feminism, cultural. and gender identity storytelling, environmental protection, and socioeconomic parity.
  • 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.
    Ongoing  
    Online

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