Home Events Community

for Tue., Dec. 5
  • Pop!

    Turn up the festive vibes at ZACH's new holiday sing-along party, POP! This pop-up party is a wild mix of holiday classics and the hottest hits of Taylor Swift, NSYNC, Mariah Carey, Stevie Wonder, Wham!, The Beatles, and more! Toast with date-night cocktails at a cabaret table for two, or reserve a whole row for your crew. POP!'s musical hosts will guide you through the show, making each night a unique, make-it-your-own of fun.
    Dec. 8-31  
    ZACH Theatre
Recommended
  • Community

    Events

    Maywald Family Lights Display

    See a stunning light display and bring a donation for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, for which the Maywalds raised over $80,000 last year. New this year: a gift shop offering hot chocolate, mugs, shirts, Christmas ornaments, and more.
    Nov. 23-Dec. 28, 6-10pm. Donations for Make-a-Wish encouraged.  
    10505 Twilight Vista
  • Community

    Events

    Blue Genie Art Bazaar

    Austin's fave shopping destination for the holidays is the place to find unique jewelry, art, home goods, and gifts with oodles of Austin flair.
    Nov. 17-Dec. 24. Free entry.  
All Events
  • Community

    Events

    Adult Skate Night

    Leave the rugrats at home and enjoy the roller rink with other grownups.
    Tuesdays, 7-11pm; Saturdays, 9pm-midnight  
  • Community

    Civic Events

    Affordable Care Act Help

    Now's the time to sign up for Affordable Care Act health coverage! Open enrollment runs through Jan. 15, 2024, but if you want coverage starting Jan. 1, you must enroll by Dec. 15. The city has gathered a ton of helpful resources to help you sort out options; go online to learn more or call 800/318-2596.
    Through Jan. 15, 2024  
  • Community

    Civic Events

    AISD Districtwide Repurposing Update

    Join Austin ISD on Zoom to hear updates on the status of the former Brooke Elementary School, Coy facility, former Metz Elementary, former Pease Elementary School, former Rosedale School, and former Sims Elementary School.
    Tue., Dec. 5, 6pm  
  • Community

    Civic Events

    APD Community Forum

    The Austin Police Department invites the public to share thoughts and ask questions about their neighborhood safety.
    Tue., Dec. 5, 5:30-7:30pm  
  • Community

    Events

    Bee Cave on Ice

    Strap on your skates and hit the ice at the rink in Hill Country Galleria's Central Plaza.
    Nov. 10-Jan. 15. $15.  
  • Community

    Events

    Buddhist Book Study

    Do you enjoy contemplating the deep questions that come with being human? Join conversations facilitated by Asenath Avinash based on Buddhist books from great teachers to explore these questions and meditate. Drop-ins welcome; no registration required.
    Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30pm. Donations appreciated.  
  • Community

    Events

    Call for Creatives: BookSpring Originals

    Nonprofit BookSpring seeks submissions of open-access digital books to share with families and nurture early literacy. Learn more and submit your work online.
    Ongoing. Free.  
  • Community

    Events

    Chuy's Children Giving to Children Toy Drive

    Chuy's offers several ways to easily contribute to the Austin Police Operation Blue Santa: Bring new, unwrapped toys to any Chuy's location or to the Trail of Lights Fun Run at Zilker (Dec. 2), donate funds online, or select something from their Amazon wish list. Donations for children ages 11-14 are most needed.
    Through Dec. 10  
    Austin-area Chuy's restaurants and Zilker Park
  • Community

    Out of Town

    Cistern Illuminated

    Experience this limited-edition, site-specific art piece of light and sound in the former underground water reservoir.
    Sat., Nov. 25-Sun., Jan. 7
    Houston
  • Community

    Kids

    Community Hours at Thinkery

    Thinkery provides admission by donation as part of its Open Door Initiative, created to give every child a chance to explore STEAM concepts and develop a lifelong love of learning, regardless of means.
    Sundays, 3-5pm; Tuesdays, 3-7pm  
  • Community

    Events

    Donate Blood, Get a Free We Are Blood Shirt

    Get a special "Nice List Only" long-sleeve shirt when you donate blood or platelets.
    Dec. 1-14
    We Are Blood donor centers & mobile drives
  • Community

    Events

    Feats of Clay Pottery Classes

    Ever dream of getting your hands into some clay and spinning that wheel? Feats of Clay has a variety of classes that let you live those dreams. Check the schedule and sign up for one of their six-week courses to learn a new skill and bring home some pottery to brighten your space or give as a gift.
  • Community

    Events

    Fill a Holiday Table

    Central Texas Food Bank always welcomes donations, but now is a great time to chip in because thanks to community partners Beaumont Foundation and Methodist Healthcare Ministries, every dollar donated through Dec. 31 is doubled (up to $400,000).
    Through Dec. 31
  • Community

    Civic Events

    Free Vaccine Clinics

    Help limit the spread of nasty viruses as holiday travel ramps up. Find a list of free vaccine clinics and other health info on the city's site.
    Ongoing
    Various locations
  • Community

    Events

    Fresh for Less Mobile Markets

    This program from the city of Austin, run by Farmshare Austin, has opened new market locations. There are now six weekly markets around town that sell Texas-grown produce, eggs, honey, and other groceries all at reduced prices. Most major cards are accepted at these markets and if you are a SNAP customer, you can also use your Lone Star card and Double Up Food Bucks. Locations and schedules are subject to change, so check the current info online to find one near you.
  • Community

    Events

    Geeks Who Drink Trivia

    The masters of minutiae present trivia games for prizes, covering everything from Hungary to The Hunger Games, science to sports, the Billboard Hot 100 to Better Call Saul. Find them at watering holes all over town each week.
    Ongoing
  • Community

    Sports

    Grounded Fitness at Fareground

    Get grounded with a high-intensity outdoor workout powered by Swift Fit Events.
    Tuesdays, 6pm. Free.  
  • Community

    Events

    Hapé Ceremony & Community Potluck

    A sacred tobacco ceremony and sound healing opening with intention and calling in guides, angels, and master teachers, leading to a shamanic ceremony with hapé and meditation. Stay after for a vegan potluck.
    First Tuesdays, 1:11pm. $44.  
  • Community

    Events

    Holiday Puppuccinos at Alfred Coffee

    Alfred Coffee at the Line hotel has partnered with Oakland-based sustainable dog nutrition company Petaluma to raise money for the Beagle Freedom Project this holiday season. Treat your pup to a dairy-free whipped cream puppuccino topped with a Petaluma sweet potato jerky garnish, and all proceeds will benefit the nonprofit. Plus, while supplies last, your doggo will get a limited-edition bandanna.
    Dec. 1-31. Free.  
    Alfred Coffee, 111 E. Cesar Chavez
  • Community

    Events

    HR101: Maximizing and Managing Employee Performance

    Learn how to develop and train employees and get coaching on what to do and not do.
    Tue., Dec. 5, 2-4pm. Free.  
  • Community

    Events

    Ice Rodeo

    Skate beneath the stars and overlooking Lady Bird Lake at an outdoor ice rink with outdoor dining cabins, pop-up lounges, immersive holiday decor, extravagant art installations, and more.
    Nov. 18-Jan. 7  
  • Community

    Events

    Improv for Building a Resilient Mindset

    Learn how to navigate tension and uncertainty at a workshop using improv techniques and exercises.
    Tue., Dec. 5, 6:30-8pm. Free.  
  • Community

    Out of Town

    Inspired Minds Holiday Bazaar

    Get your holiday shopping started from a selection of uniquely local handmade gifts.
    Select dates Fri., Nov. 17-Sat., Dec. 23; get details online
    Buda
  • Community

    Events

    Kindness Exchange Clothing Drive

    Blue Owl Brewing is hosting a clothing drive to collect donations for the SAFE Alliance, and will offer prizes in exchange for your donations. Bring hats, coats, gloves, and other warm clothing then spin the Almighty Wheel for your prize.
    Dec. 1-17. Free.
  • Community

    Civic Events

    Land Development Code Updates

    The city is considering changes to the Land Development Code, which could affect how your property or properties near you may be developed or used in the future. Learn more and provide feedback online or at a City Council meeting Thu., Dec. 7, 10am.
    Ongoing
  • Community

    Events

    Late at the Lake

    An open mic for musicians, poets, and comedians. Signup starts at 7:30pm.
    Tuesdays, 8-11pm. Free.  
  • Community

    Events

    LegalLine

    On the first Tuesday of every month, obtaining good, simple legal advice is easy. Just call 512/472-8303 for LegalLine, the free legal advice hotline sponsored by Austin Lawyer Referral Service. Attorney volunteers can answer questions and give brief legal advice concerning many areas of law.
    First Tuesdays, 5:30-7:30pm. Free.  
  • Community

    Events

    Longhorn Lights

    UT-Austin introduces a new tradition by illuminating 24 heritage oak trees with burnt orange and white lights coordinated with tunes from the Longhorn Band.
    Nov. 29-Jan. 1, 5-10pm. Free.
    The Drag (Guadalupe Street between 21st & 24th streets)
  • Community

    Events

    Miracle on Fifth Street

    It began in NYC and it continues here, there, and everywhere festive. Bring your partyingest buds and babes to this long-running Christmas-themed cocktail pop-up with wall-to-wall decor, multiple bars, and plenty of spirits – right in the tinsely heart of Downtown Austin. Best bet for whiskey lovers at the nightly holiday hullabaloo: the Snowball Old Fashioned.
    Through Dec. 27  
  • Community

    Events

    Moxy Astrology Cocktail Series: Sagittarius’ Ring of Fire

    Sagittarians, celebrate yourselves with a special fiery cocktail blending rum, bitters, vanilla, and cinnamon, and take home an affirmation card.
    Through Dec. 21. Free.
    Bar Moxy, 2552 Guadalupe
  • Community

    Events

    Mozart's Holiday Light Show

    Savor some treats with hot cocoa or coffee and take in the gorgeous lakeside light show paired with music.
    Through Jan. 6. Closed Thanksgiving & Christmas Day  
  • Community

    Out of Town

    Nativity Exhibit

    See hundreds of family heirloom Nativity scenes from around the world, some of them rescued from thrift stores and estate sales and others donated by the families specifically for this show.
    Fri., Nov. 24-Sun., Dec. 10. Free.
    Port Lavaca
  • Community

    Events

    Peppermint Parkway

    A drive-thru holiday spectacular with a mile of holiday displays, millions of lights, dancing characters, and a plaza with food, rides, activities, and more.
    Nov. 24-Dec. 30
  • Community

    Events

    Reliant Plumbing Career Fair & Hiring Event

    Find out about exciting career paths in plumbing and speak with technicians, master plumbers, and the company owner.
    Tue., Dec. 5, 2-6pm. Free.
    Reliant Plumbing, 2306 RR 620 N.
  • Community

    Events

    Small Business Division Webinars

    Do you own a small business or have entrepreneurial dreams? The city's Small Business Division is here to help! Find resources and a selection of instructional webinars on the city's site, with many free classes and some with a small fee.
    Ongoing  
    Virtual
  • Community

    Events

    Snow Much Fun at Edge Rooftop

    Sip festive cocktails, roast s'mores, and listen to live music while surrounded by twinkling lights and enjoying snowfall on the hour, every hour.
    Through Dec. 25. Free.  
    Edge Rooftop Bar at JW Marriott, 110 E. Second
  • Community

    Events

    Songwriters’ Open Mic

    Hear all original music from talented local artists on the famed Cactus Cafe stage. Contact Jake Farr at jakefarrmusic@gmail.com if you're interested in hopping onstage.
    Tuesdays, 7:30pm. Free.  
  • Community

    Events

    Tech for Health, Happiness, and Helping

    Join Austin Forum for a presentation and networking event showcasing ways technology can contribute to your health, happiness, and ability to help others.
    Tue., Dec. 5, 6:15-8pm. Free.  
  • Community

    Out of Town

    Texas Furniture Makers Show

    The annual statewide competition features the functional art of the finest custom furniture makers in Texas.
    Nov. 2-Dec. 15
    Kerrville
  • Community

    Civic Events

    Travis County Commissioners Court Voting Session

    See agenda for details, and watch the meeting live on TCTV.
    Tuesdays, 9am  
    Commissioners Court, 700 Lavaca
  • Community

    Events

    Trivia Tuesday

    Weekly sponsors bring prizes and swag, and first through third place winners get a gift certificate.
    Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30pm. Free.  
    Anchor Bar, 2702-B Parker Dr., Round Rock
  • Community

    Events

    Umlauf After Dark: Holiday Market

    An enchanting evening with art, culture, drinks, and more at the sculpture garden.
    Tue., Dec. 5, 6pm. $12.  
  • Community

    Events

    Upstairs at Caroline's Naughty or Nice

    A holiday-themed pop-up activation with festive decor and seasonal drinks.
    Dec. 1-31. Free.  
  • Community

    Civic Events

    Urban Transportation Commission Meeting

    This commission advises City Council on transportation-related matters. See agenda for more details.
    First Tuesdays, 5pm  
  • Community

    Sports

    Virtual Fitness Classes With It's Time Texas

    No matter where you are, ITT has you covered with free virtual classes from cardio and kickboxing to yoga and Zumba. Check out the calendar online for the full range of options and make a date for fitness.
    Free.
    Virtual
  • Community

    Events

    Volunteer Days at ACR

    Organized types will have fun volunteering to help Austin Creative Reuse sort through donated items, roll fabric, and detangle yarn. Registration required.
    Tuesdays & Thursdays  
  • Community

    Events

    Volunteer With CTFB

    Central Texas Food Bank runs on volunteers and donations, and it's fairly easy to sign up for a shift. Virtual food drives are also a great way to help out.
  • Community

    Events

    Volunteer With Meals on Wheels Central Texas

    The season of giving is a great time to get involved with Meals on Wheels, which makes a huge difference to the homebound older adults served by the org. Volunteers deliver more than a meal; they also bring warm smiles and much-needed safety checks. Apply online and get signed up for a Zoom training to get started.
    Ongoing  
    Apply online
  • Community

    Events

    You Fix-It Station

    Ready to tackle a repair project you don't have the tools for? A free pilot program from the city helps you fix broken items like jewelry or zippers using tools at the library. You can also check out tools at the Cepeda Branch library 10am-2pm through Dec. 9.
    Mon.-Thu., 9am-4:30pm, through Dec. 14. Free.
    East Austin Neighborhood Center, 211 Comal
  • Community

    Events

    Yule at Azul

    Take in the scenery from the highest rooftop bar in town and enjoy festive drinks and decor. Daily holiday happy hours (3-5pm) include $5 holiday frozens, $5 house wines, and $5 drafts.
    Nov. 24-Dec. 31. Free.  
Ongoing
  • Community

    Civic Events

    WIC Mobile Unit

    Resources and info about Austin Public Health’s Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) supplemental nutrition program for qualifying pregnant women, new mothers, and young children.
    Check online for current schedule. Free.  
    Various locations

Information is power. Support the free press, so we can support Austin.   Support the Chronicle