Holiday Eventsoff the Beaten Path

As the weather gets colder (and then randomly hotter), the Austin holiday season wouldn’t be complete without tried and true events like the spectacle of Mozart’s and the Trail of Lights. While those classics hold a special place in our hearts, we have some recommendations off the beaten path for you to expand your winter traditions this year.

Miracle on 5th Street

Through Dec. 27
Eleanor, 307 W. Fifth

In need of some liquid holiday cheer? The Miracle on 5th Street pop-up bar at the Eleanor puts the spirits in holiday spirit with the hotel’s venue space transformed into a glorious winter wonderland (including Santa’s throne for some festive pics). From a Christmasapolitan (which we would have called a Clausmopolitan, but whatever) or non-alcoholic hot cocoa to the nice and naughty shots, drink options cover just about anything on your list (the drunk & alone shot is a surprise guaranteed to “taste better than coal”). To-go drinks are also available. If you’re in the mood for food, nostalgic snacks like chocolate chip cookies or tamales are also available.

Community First! Village of Lights

Dec. 2-10, Friday & Saturday, 5:30-9:30pm
9301 Hog Eye Rd. #950

The Village of Lights has everything you need for a classic holiday celebration, from a 250,000 light display and holiday movies to a festive train and Santa. The market will also have food and handmade gifts for your holiday shopping needs. The market’s vendors and artists all live in the Community First! Village, which supports people who have previously experienced homelessness. Any purchases at the market go towards the vendors, so come out for a good time and a great cause.

FROST BITES: A Holiday Cabaret

Dec. 2-17, Friday & Saturday, 7 & 9pm
Mastrogeorge Theatre, 130 N. Pedernales

The holidays can be a complicated time for many, including the characters in FROST BITES. The musical comedy, playing at the Alchemy Theatre, brings together six individuals on a sleigh ride as they discuss loneliness, toxic relationships, and other stories related to the holiday season. For those seeking a more relatable take on the cheer and chagrin that comes with this time of the year, general admission tickets are for sale online for $25.

Tail of Lights

Fri., Dec. 9, 6:30pm
Cedar Bark Park, 2525 W. New Hope, Cedar Park

The holidays are a time for family and friends, including the non-human members of your pack. The Tail of Lights event is perfect for both the four-legged and two-legged to enjoy (holiday attire highly encouraged for all). Holiday lights, music and pet-friendly vendors will all be part of the celebration. Santa Paws will also make an appearance for some dog-centric photo opportunities.

A Sherlock Holmes Christmas

Through Dec. 18: Thu.-Sat., 8pm; Sun., 5pm
Pioneer Farms, 10621 Pioneer Farms

The Archive Theater is performing A Sherlock Holmes Christmas, following the infamous detective and Dr. Watson on their search for the Christmas goose and flawless blue diamond. On top of mysterious theatrics, expect this show to bring some holiday cheer with carol singing and live classical music. Special showings at the KMFA Studio (Dec. 10 & 11) are a little closer to home for anyone Downtown. Tavern games, drinks, and live music are promised to entertain once doors open. Individual and table seating is available online with standard pricing ranging from $25 to 35.

Blue Starlite Drive-in

Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-in, 300 San Antonio

Make Austin the backdrop for your favorite holiday movies this year by visiting the Blue Starlite Drive-in movie theatre, where the big screen is on top of a parking garage at the downtown location. Elf, Home Alone, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation and (debatable Christmas classic) Die Hard will be showing through the end of the year on top of new releases. The concession stand has popcorn, candy, and soda to satisfy your theater cravings. Visit their website for movie times and tickets.