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for Sat., Dec. 16
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  • Community

    Events

    Armadillo Christmas Bazaar

    This vibrant and immersive fine art and music festival has stood the test of time as Austin’s premier destination for high-quality art, live music, and artisan gifts for the holiday season, now in its 48th year. Three dozen musical artists are scheduled to perform, and almost 200 artists will have goods on display.
    Dec. 15-23, 11am-9:30pm  
  • 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  
  • 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.  
  • 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
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, 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  
  • Community

    Events

    Ani's Day & Night Holiday Market

    The Ani's house will be decorated for the holidays and they've curated a day of shopping and food trucks, all paired with roaring fire pits, festive cocktails, mulled wine, hot chocolate, and more.
    Sat., Dec. 9 & 16, noon-5pm. Free.
  • Community

    Kids

    Baby Bloomers

    A special program for visitors ages 0-3 and their families, providing caregivers and early learners the chance to experience the children's museum together. Thinkery will host two storytimes and free play that support the social, emotional, and cognitive development of the earliest learners.
    Saturdays, 8-10am  
  • 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.  
  • 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.  
  • Community

    Events

    Black Austin History Tours at the Oakwood Chapel

    Angela Thornton will lead tours to talk about the Historic Colored Grounds and the burials that were segregated by race and class in the 1800s. There are many individuals buried in this section that represent Black excellence and are inspirations today. Thornton can also offer history about the chapel and online resources to learn more.
    Through Dec. 16. Saturdays, 12:30pm. Free.  
    Oakwood Chapel, 1601 Navasota
  • Community

    Out of Town

    Boerne Bright: A Celebration of Light

    Wander through a wonderland of over 200,000 lights to the strains of your favorite holiday music.
    Fri.-Sun., Dec. 15-17, 22-23, 6-9pm. Free.
    Boerne
  • Community

    Out of Town

    Christmas at San Felipe de Austin

    See how Christmas was celebrated in Stephen F. Austin’s colony and get a taste of colonists’ food at the outdoor oven.
    Sat., Dec. 16, 10am-4pm. $5-10.
    San Felipe
  • 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

    Events

    Donate Blood, See a Movie

    We Are Blood and Alamo Drafthouse team up to reward blood donors with passes for a free movie.
    Dec. 15-24  
    We Are Blood donor centers & mobile drives
  • Community

    Kids

    Dougherty Story Hour

    An inclusive, all-ages storytime to engage young artists, featuring the books Frederick, The Shortest Day, and The Insomniacs.
    Sat., Dec. 16, 11am. Free.  
  • Community

    Events

    Festive Fireside Flicks: Rooftop Movies & S’mores

    Cozy up by the fire pits and take in breathtaking skyline views on the rooftop patio, along with merry movies, s'mores, and delightful holiday cocktails.
    Through Dec. 23. Fri.-Sat., 6:30-8:30pm. Free.
  • 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

    Events

    Fix-It Clinic

    Bring a damaged item you'd like to repair, such as a broken toy, blender, or a shirt with a fallen hem, and learn how to do repairs from expert volunteer coaches.
    Sat., Dec. 16, noon-2pm. Free.  
  • Community

    Events

    Free Lunch ATX Presents: The Big Red

    To support the org's mission to feed Austin's unhoused, get dolled up in your best red duds and enjoy a spaghetti dinner and stellar lineup of local musicians.
    Sat., Dec. 16, 5pm. $30.  
  • 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

    Events

    GoldenGaia Vendor Market + Holistic Fair

    Explore a diverse selection of vendors, including artisans, psychic readers, and holistic practitioners who can help heal mind, body, and spirit.
    Sat.-Sun., 11am-5pm. Free.
  • Community

    Sports

    Grounded Dance Cardio

    Pump up the jams and get moving with a dance fit cardio series blending freestyle, choreography, and toning grooves.
    Saturdays, 10am. Free, but RSVP.  
  • Community

    Events

    Holiday Model Train Exhibit

    Austin Tinplate Trackers will have tons of cool model trains set up at the new library, and future engineers young and old are welcome to run them.
    Dec. 13-30. Wed.-Sun., noon-5pm. Free.  
    Round Rock Public Library, 200 E. Liberty Ave.
  • Community

    Events

    Holiday Ornament Making Celebration

    Craft holiday ornaments and enjoy seasonal treats, holiday-themed entertainment, and artwork made by local seniors at this family-friendly event benefiting low-income seniors.
    Sat., Dec. 16, 2-5pm. $25-40.
    Artly World, 1605 E. 38 1/2
  • 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

    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

    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

    Events

    KMFA's 12 Days of Giveaways

    The classical radio station partners with a host of local arts organizations to give lucky listeners tickets to upcoming shows, including Austin Opera's Carmen, Texas Performing Arts and Broadway in Austin's Wicked, and lots more.
    Dec. 13-24  
  • 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

    Make a Succulent Wreath Class

    Craft a wreath for your home or to give as a gift.
    Sat., Dec. 16, 1-3pm. $140.  
  • 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

    Events

    Neighbors Presents: Happy Howlidays

    Celebrate the season with furry friends and Santa, with holiday tunes, paw print ornament-making, photos, and Merry Mutt Mimosas.
    Sat., Dec. 16. $10-20.  
    Neighbors Dog Park & Cafe, 5609 S. Congress
  • 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.  
  • Community

    Events

    North Loop Pop Up Holiday Market

    Shop an incredible array of unique gifts, from vintage clothing and decor to plants and records.
    Sat., Dec. 16, 10am-4pm. Free.
  • 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
  • Community

    Events

    Pioneer Ghost Tour

    Explore one of the most haunted sites around at the historic farm with Austin Ghost Tours. If you're a fan of history and haunts, this one's for you!
    Third Saturdays, 7pm  
  • 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  
    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
  • Arts

    Visual Arts

    The Blanton: Weird Winter

    Artist and musician Steve Parker brings a new installation to the Blanton that’ll make even the grinchiest grin, complete with brass instruments, musical snowglobes, marionette-animated trees, and carols like you’ve never heard them before.
    Through Jan. 7. $20.  
  • Community

    Out of Town

    The Nutcracker

    Have dinner in one of the fine downtown restaurants and then enjoy the traditional holiday play in the historic 1942 theatre.
    Fri.-Sun., Dec. 15-17. $30-68.
    New Braunfels
  • 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

    Kids

    Una Noche Buena

    A fun new holiday sing-along story about a 10-year-old boy on the last night of Las Posadas entering a new family with big personalities and blended traditions.
    Sat., Dec. 9 & 16, 11am. $19.  
  • 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

    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

    Out of Town

    Winter Solstice Concert in the Cave

    Rudi and The Rudiments fill the Throne Room with a lively mix of modern and traditional tunes, along with carols with guest vocalist Kayla Winslow.
    Sat., Dec. 16, 7pm. $40.
    Boerne
  • Community

    Sports

    Yoga at Republic Square Park

    Welcome the weekend with a balancing and renewing yoga class surrounded by the beautiful views of Downtown. Come early or stay late to explore the SFC market.
    Saturdays, 11am. Free.  
  • 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

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