Home Events Community

for Fri., Dec. 8

  • BookSpring Fest: A Read Aloud Celebration

    Join BookSpring for an enchanting celebration of reading at BookSpring Fest: A Read Aloud Celebration! Enjoy inspiring stories read aloud from pillars of the community, carnival games, a petting zoo, face painters, balloon makers, books, and refreshments (ALL FREE).
    Sat. May 4, 12pm-6pm  
    More Info
    BookSpring

  • The Amazing Acro-Cats: Keep It Weird in Austin!

    The Acro-Cats tour supports Rock Cats Rescue, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Rock Cats Rescue is focused on saving cats "One Click at a Time" through cat welfare, rescue, and adoption. The Acro-Cats show promotes the importance of bonding and training cats with positive reinforcement, while also finding homes for rescued cats.
    Apr. 24-May 5  
    get tickets
    Long Center for the Performing Arts
Recommended

  • Community

    Events

    Austin Trail of Lights

    Austin's beloved tradition returns for its 59th year, featuring more than 2 million lights illuminating the park, 90 lighted holiday trees, and more than 70 other holiday displays and lighted tunnels.
    Dec. 8-23  
    get tickets
    Zilker Park

  • 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.  
    info
    Blue Genie Art Bazaar

  • 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.  
    facebook
    10505 Twilight Vista

  • Community

    Events

    Community First! Village of Lights

    With more than 250,000 Christmas lights choreographed to holiday music, the village is sure to get you in the spirit. They'll have a holiday market with unique, handcrafted gifts created by village artists and makers, and your purchases support its formerly homeless residents. Plus, there'll be holiday movies screening, mini train rides, a life-size snow globe, visits from Santa, and more fun in store.
    Fri.-Sat., Dec. 1-2 & 8-9, 5:30-9pm. Free.
    Community First! Village

  • Community

    Sports

    Texas Stars

    Vs. Chicago Wolves.
    Fri.-Sat., Dec. 8-9, 7pm  
    get tickets
    H-E-B Center at Cedar Park
All Events

  • Community

    Events

    59th Annual Austin Trail of Lights Grand Opening

    The beloved and long-running tradition continues, offering a jubilant display with millions of lights and dozens of lit trees and displays. Plus free photos with Santa, food truck options, and more.
    Fri., Dec. 8, 6-10pm. Free; VIP ticketed options available.  
    get tickets
    Zilker Park

  • Community

    Events

    Accelerated Introduction to AI

    Want to understand the fundamentals of AI, what it can and cannot (yet) do, when to use different AI techniques, and for what kinds of use cases? If so, join Austin Forum for an informative seminar to get up to speed.
    Fri., Dec. 8, 9am-noon. Free.
    Capital Factory Willie Room, 701 Brazos

  • 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, and 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  
    more info

  • Community

    Kids

    Art in Cahoots

    Pre-K kids and their adults will have fun with sensory, multidisciplinary, process-based arts activities.
    Fri., Dec. 8, 10-11am  
    more info
    Dougherty Arts Center

  • Community

    Events

    Austin International Folk Dancers

    Join AIFD for an evening of dances from around the world with no experience or partner required.
    Fridays, 7-9:45pm. $5 (under 18, free).
    Hancock Recreation Center

  • Community

    Events

    Austin Tantra Festival

    A full weekend of inspiring and life-changing workshops in tantra, shamanism, yoga, and conscious movement.
    Fri.-Sun., Dec. 8-10. $399.
    Wilco Workspaces & Events, 1615 Scottsdale Dr. Ste. 200-A, Cedar Park

  • Community

    Events

    Beat Root Revival Holiday Extravaganza

    The multi-instrumentalist roots duo will celebrate the holidays with powerhouse vocals and tunes with elements of folk, blues, country, and rock.
    Fri., Dec. 8, 7pm. $27.  
    get tickets
    The 04 Center

  • 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.  
    get tickets
    Hill Country Galleria

  • Arts

    Theatre

    Beto, Beto el Abeto

    The Zilker Botanical Garden and Teatro de la Tierra present Beto, Beto el Abeto, a play – adapted from Hans Christian Andersen’s The Fir Tree – that blends languages, cultures, genres, and biological kingdoms in an inventive, unorthodox approach to Christmas amidst a world that is changing rapidly.
    Through Dec. 17. Thu.-Sat., 7:30pm; Sun., 2:30pm. Free.  
    Direct Link Right Here
    Zilker Botanical Garden

  • 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  
    facebook
    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

    Civic Events

    City/County/School District Joint Meeting

    The Austin City Council, Travis County Commissioners Court, and Austin ISD Board of Trustees meet to discuss the Texas Education Agency, child care, resilience hubs, and more. Public comment is welcome with sign-in required by 11:15am.
    Fri., Dec. 8, 11:30am  
    more info
    City Hall

  • Community

    Kids

    Color Squad Zine Release

    Creative Action teens completed their latest zine focused on social justice issues, and invite supporters to celebrate its release with live music, snacks, and more.
    Fri., Dec. 8, 6-8pm. Free.
    Creative Action

  • 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

    Fall Songwriter Showcase

    A free show features five up-and-coming songwriters selected out of hundreds of local artists due to raw talent, ability, and artistry: John Wheeler, Ellerieh Lin, Melotheory, Nicole Hale, and Tyler McLaughlin.
    Fri., Dec. 8, 7pm. Free.  
    facebook
    Cactus Cafe

  • 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
    Central Texas Food Bank

  • Community

    Events

    Free Guitars 4 Kids Guitar Drive & Concert

    The national nonprofit has partnered with Yeti to host a concert featuring Jonathan Terrell and a guitar drive to benefit young musicians. The first 100 guests to bring a guitar to donate will receive a Yeti bottle.
    Fri., Dec. 8, 7pm. Free.  
    more info
    Yeti Flagship

  • 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.
     
    more info

  • 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

    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.  
    more info
    Alfred Coffee, 111 E. Cesar Chavez

  • Community

    Out of Town

    Homestead Fair

    Visit the farm north of Waco to learn about agriculture, shop the handmade goods, and enjoy the food and music.
    Fri.-Sun., Nov. 24-26; Fri.-Sat., Dec. 1-2 & 8-9. $15, Free on Dec. 1, 8.
    Waco

  • 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  
    more info
    Four Seasons Hotel

  • 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.
    Blue Owl Brewing

  • 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

    Out of Town

    Main Street Bethlehem

    Wander the narrow streets of ancient Bethlehem looking for the child in a manger.
    Dec. 1-3 & 8-10, 6-9pm. Free; donations accepted.
    Burnet

  • 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  
    Direct Link Right Here
    The Eleanor

  • 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  
    get tickets
    Mozart's Coffee Roasters

  • 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

    Sports

    Night Golf

    A nighttime shotgun-style nine-hole round made more fun and challenging with glow-in-the-dark balls.
    Thu.-Sat., 6-9:30pm. $20.  
    info
    Butler Pitch & Putt

  • Community

    Events

    Nolo Music Video Release Show

    The local alt-rock band plays to celebrate the single and music video release for new track "Appetite." Lineup also includes Swimming With Bears and Saint Loretto.
    Fri., Dec. 8, 8pm. $12.  
    event page
    Hole in the Wall

  • 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.
    Through Dec. 30
    Circuit of the Americas

  • Community

    Out of Town

    Santa Claus Museum

    Trace the history of St. Nick in this one-of-a-kind museum filled with 5,000 Santa Clauses.
    Fri. & Sat. through Dec. 31. Free.
    Columbus

  • 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  
    register here
    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.  
    more info
    Edge Rooftop Bar at JW Marriott, 110 E. Second

  • Community

    Events

    Tail of Lights

    That's not a typo, folks, it's an adorable pun for this furrific event for Fido. Doggos and their people can romp to holiday music and lights, enjoy treats and giveaways, and meet Santa Paws. Holiday dress is highly encouraged!
    Fri., Dec. 8  
    info
    Veterans Memorial Park, 2525 W. New Hope Dr., Cedar Park

  • 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

    Out of Town

    Trail of Lights

    Join a holiday tradition that illuminates the historic brewery with lights, food, music, and joy.
    Dec. 8-9, 15-17 & 19-23. $2-8.
    La Grange

  • 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.  
    more info
    Upstairs at Caroline

  • 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.
    Ongoing  
    volunteer FAQ & Signup
    Central Texas Food Bank

  • 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  
    sign up now
    Apply online

  • 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.  
    more info
    Azul Rooftop Pool & Lounge at Westin
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.  
    facebook
    Various locations
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