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for Sun., Dec. 15
  • 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  
    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  
    Long Center for the Performing Arts
Recommended
  • Community

    Events

    Austin Trail of Lights

    The Austin Trail of Lights has been an Austin tradition since 1965! Holiday light displays line a 2-mile trail through the park, and there are food trucks, live entertainment, and interactive activities. General admission is free seven out of the 14 nights; ages 12 & under are always free of charge (on most weekend nights admission is $5).
    Dec. 10-23. $5 GA; premium, $20+.  
  • Community

    Events

    Blue Genie Art Bazaar

    Need something Austin-y (art, jewelry, prints, clothing, etc., whatnot, and then some) for a loved one this year? Thousands of original works from more than 200 artists and artisans will help you with your gifting conundrums.
    Through Dec. 24, 10am-10pm (open 10am-6pm on Dec. 24). Free admission.  
    Blue Genie Art Bazaar, 6100 Airport
  • Arts

    Theatre

    La Pastorela

    La Pastorela – a tradition since the 16th century, the annual yuletide play that's been performed all over Mexico and Latinoamerica – is adapted and directed by Teatro Vivo founder Rupert Reyes. This year, Clemencia Zapata returns as music director of the story of shepherds on a pilgrimage that pits them against angels and demons who test their strength and faith along the way.
    Through Dec. 22. Thu.-Sat., 8pm; Sun., 2pm. $6-21.  
  • Community

    Kids

    Mexic-Arte Museum Family Day

    Enjoy printmaking activities, plus a performance of Mexican holiday carols by MiTrova from 2-3pm.
    Sun., Dec. 15, noon-4pm. Free.  
  • Community

    Out of Town

    Trail of Lights at EmilyAnn

    Stroll through a walking path featuring more than 100 holiday light displays created by businesses, organizations, school groups, and families, and enjoy live entertainment most evenings. Admission is free. Donations are appreciated.
    Nov. 30-Dec. 28. Sun.-Thu., 6-9pm; Fri. & Sat., 6-10pm. Free.  
All Events
  • Community

    Civic Events

    2020 Point in Time Count Volunteers Needed

    ECHO is looking for 800 volunteers to make its annual count of everyone experiencing homelessness in Austin and Travis County a success. The 2020 count takes place Jan. 25. Anyone 18 or older can participate; volunteers will work in teams counting folks in their assigned area. Others can collect donations for the care packages distributed during the count.
    Nov. 18-Jan. 21  
    Online
  • Community

    Kids

    A Christmas Carol: Reduced, Reused, and Recycled

    In this new family musical, school’s out for the holidays, but Timmy Cratchit is stuck at Scrooge’s Plastic Emporium where his mom labors overtime on a last-minute deadline. Tim and his cousins work on a school project while Mr. Scrooge eavesdrops and learns about the serious environmental problems caused by the plastics his company produces.
    Sat.-Sun., Dec. 7-15, 11am & 1pm. $10-15.  
  • Community

    Sports

    Acro & Ales

    Join Empowered Acro for an hourlong beginner-friendly acroyoga class, then stick around for a brew with your fellow acroyogis.
    Third Sunday of every month, 11am-12:30pm and Third Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8pm. Through Dec. 17. $18.  
  • Community

    Civic Events

    Amnesty International Austin Write-4-Rights

    Write cards to political prisoners and their families this holiday season. And while you’re at it, drop a line to “representatives of repressive governments, urging them to uphold international norms regarding the treatment of activists.”
    Sun., Dec. 15, 5-8pm. Free (donations accepted).  
  • Community

    Events

    Armadillo Christmas Bazaar

    Nothing says holidays in Austin like scouring aisles and aisles of local art, crafts, and self-care products. But there's live music. And beer. Find the complete artist list and music lineup here.
    Dec. 13-24. Daily, 11am-10pm; Christmas Eve, 11am-8pm. $10-50; ages 12 & under, free.  
  • Community

    Events

    Art Spark Texas Holiday Art and Gift Show

    Unique artwork and gifts from Texas artists, including cards, jewelry, prints, original final art, clothing, books, ceramics, glass, and more.
    Through Dec. 23. Tuesdays-Saturdays; Mon., Dec. 23, 10am-6pm  
    AGE of Central Texas, 3707 Home Ln. #101
  • Community

    Events

    Articulate Artist Market

    Featuring local artists and vendors slinging handmade, vintage, and fine art items. Live music by Bad Advice Entertainment.
    Sun., Dec. 15, noon-6pm  
  • Community

    Sports

    Austin Distance Challenge

    This is a series of local running events, kicking off with the CASA Superhero Run on Sun., Sept. 15, and ending with the Austin Marathon & Half Marathon on Sun., Feb. 16. The races increase in distance as the series progresses so it's an ideal training opportunity. Other races in the series include: Run for Water (Nov. 3), Decker Challenge (Dec. 15), and 3M Half Marathon (Jan. 19, 2020).
    CASA Superhero Run: Sun., Sept. 15, 7am (see website for other races). $75.  
    Various locations
  • Community

    Events

    Bears & Bedtime Toy Drive

    Stop by your nearest Mattress Firm to donate new, unwrapped teddy bears, stuffed animals, and other bedtime toys for foster youth in the Austin community.
    Through Dec. 16
    Austin-area Mattress Firm stores
  • Community

    Out of Town

    Camp Off & Out

    24-hour digital detox complete with a campfire breakfast and all camp accommodations
    Sat.-Sun., Dec. 14-15. $175.  
    Flat Creek Crossing Ranch, 339 Ulrich Rd., Johnson City
  • Community

    Kids

    Candy Chemistry Workshop

    Explore sugar at a molecular level by creating cotton candy, lollipops, and chocolate pops, then use your candy creations to decorate your very own gingerbread house.
    Dec. 7-8, 14-15, 20-24, 10:30am-1pm. $5 per person.  
  • Community

    Sports

    Cars & Coffee Austin

    Fam- and dog-friendly event where attendees can enjoy coffee and concessions while browsing cool cars. Portion of proceeds donated to a different charity each month.
    Sun., Dec. 15, 8am. Free ($5 to enter car show).  
  • Community

    Events

    Central Machine Works Pop-up Sip N' Shop

    The new Eastside brewery hosts over 20 local vendors including Mac Jagger Tarot, Muchacho Vintage, and Maggie Louise. Plus live music from Star Parks and kids' crafts.
    Sun., Dec. 15, noon-5pm. Free.  
  • Community

    Out of Town

    Christmas at the Caverns

    Try out caroling in the caverns, search for Santa's reindeer in a maze, step into a giant snow globe, and more. New this year is an ice skating rink with synthetic ice.
    Sat.-Sun., Dec. 7-8, 14-15, 21-23. $24-28.
  • Community

    Kids

    Christmas at the Farm With Santa and Live Reindeer

    Photos run on a "take a number"/first come, first served system, so get there early. Other activities include pony rides, a petting zoo, a jump pad, duck races, treasure mountain, face-painting, and more.
    Nov. 29-Dec. 22. Sat.-Sun., 9am-6pm. $16; ages 2 & under, free.  
  • Community

    Kids

    Classic Gingerbread Workshop

    This tot-friendly workshop is appropriate for all ages and offers everything you'll need to build and decorate your very own gingerbread house.
    Dec. 7-8, 14-15, 20-24. Multiple times daily (see website for schedule). $5 per person.  
  • Community

    Events

    Cute AF "Holiday Bizarre"

    Shop cute AF handcrafted and vintage wares. A portion of all vendor fees will be donated to Out Youth.
    Sun., Dec. 15, 11am-4pm. Free.  
  • Community

    Sports

    Decker Challenge

    Run 13.1 miles around Decker Lake, or opt for a 5K fun run & walk, the latter of which raises funds for the Housing Authority of Travis County.
    Sun., Dec. 15, 8am. Half marathon, $90; 5K, $25-35.  
  • Community

    Events

    Handmade Holiday Market at Lady Quacks

    An eco-friendly market featuring handmade and vintage local businesses, plus $2 mimosas, pastries & sweets, and an array of wines and specialty teas.
    Sun., Dec. 15, 10am-3pm. Free.  
    Lady Quackenbush's Cakery, 1900 Simond Ave. #300
  • Community

    Events

    Heavy Metal Holiday Market

    Shop local vendors for gifts and stocking stuffers, and don't forget to get your Polaroid taken with Metal Santa on his decked-out motorcycle. Plus metal holiday tunes and drink specials.
    Sun., Dec. 15, noon-6pm. Free.  
  • Community

    Events

    Hill Country Holiday Village

    Walk the decorated walkways and shop for gifts and goods from holiday vendors. Carolers and local dance and choir groups perform, and guests will have the chance to take photos with St. Nick at Santa's Workshop.
    Select dates through Dec. 24  
  • Community

    Events

    Holiday Flea at Radio Coffee & Beer

    Shop local handmade items and vintage wares, including jewelry, bath & body products, artwork, and more.
    Sun., Dec. 15, 10am-4pm. Free.  
  • Community

    Events

    Holiday Folk Art Bazaar

    Looking for some unique gifts? Here's folk art from New Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and the Middle East, featuring pottery, textiles, wood carvings, photos, paintings, and more from the private collection of Judy and Harold Liebowitz.
    Sun., Dec. 15, 1-4pm  
  • Community

    Events

    Holiday Light Stroll at Hyatt Regency Lost Pines

    A festive display of over 3,000 twinkling lights winds through the resort’s grounds and features a 20-foot-tall LED animated Christmas tree. On Friday and Saturday evenings, the resort’s culinary team will serve specialty hot cocoa and made-to-order mini doughnuts.
    Nov. 30-Jan. 1. Free with on-site paid parking ($8-15).
    Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa, 575 Hyatt Lost Pines Rd., Cedar Creek
  • Community

    Out of Town

    Holiday Model Train Show

    The Austin Tinplate Trackers hobby club builds a Christmas village around the model train tracks in the Downtowner Gallery.
    Nov. 29-Jan. 4. Wed.-Sun.
    Round Rock
  • Community

    Events

    Holiday Pet Portraits: Belterra

    Tomlinson's Feed is teaming up with Mumford Pet Photos for its second annual pet portraits with a Texas Winter Wonderland theme. Proceeds will be donated to Tomlinson's Feed's Pound 4 Pound Food Donation Drive. All reservations are first-come, first photograph basis within the event window.
    Sun., Dec. 15, 11am-3pm. $10 per pet (reservations required).  
    Tomlinson's Feed, 164 Belterra Village Way Ste. Y-400
  • Community

    Events

    Indian Roller Holiday Bazaar

    Vendors showcase locally sourced foods, holiday crafts, floral arrangements, and much more. Plus special holiday seasonal drinks and Grandma Steven hosts Lotería!
    Sun., Dec. 15, 1-5pm  
  • Community

    Out of Town

    Johnson City Lights Spectacular

    The county courthouse, the Pedernales Electric Co-op building, and the town are bathed in twinkling lights with parades, food courts, and special events on weekends.
    Nov. 29-Jan. 5. Free.  
    Johnson City
  • Community

    Out of Town

    LBJ Christmas Tree Lighting

    A tradition started 50 years ago by the 36th U.S. president and his wife continues with carolers, a live nativity scene, and Santa Claus.
    Sun., Dec. 15, 4:30-8pm. Free.  
    Stonewall
  • Community

    Civic Events

    Listening Session: Cameron and Dessau Roads

    Stop by whenever to help the Austin Transportation Department better understand the safety and mobility needs for people using Cameron Road and Dessau Road (51st Street to Parmer Lane). Your input will help identify improvement projects. For those who can’t attend, see the online survey, open Nov. 21 through Dec. 22.
    Online: Nov. 21-Dec. 22  
  • Community

    Out of Town

    Lost Pines Christmas

    Bastrop puts on seasonally themed light displays, a nighttime holiday parade, a snow day, and more activities for the whole family throughout the month.
    Weekends through Dec. 24. Free.
    Bastrop
  • Community

    Events

    Luminations

    The Wildflower Center is lighting up the gardens with thousands of luminarias and bringing plentiful aerial dance performances from Blue Lapis Light, live music, and festive fun to make this a tradition to remember.
    Dec. 5-8, 12-15, 6-10pm. $18; ages 4 & under, free.  
  • Community

    Events

    Make a Mini Living Wall Class

    Here's your chance to learn how to make Articulture's signature creation. All materials provided, plus complimentary beverages.
    Sun., Dec. 15, 2-4pm. $55+.  
  • Community

    Civic Events

    Marketplace Health Insurance Open Enrollment

    During open enrollment, Foundation Communities' Prosper Centers can help you get insurance coverage, switch plans, and track down financial assistance with their (pretty awesome) team of experts.
    Mon.-Thu., 9am-7pm; Fri.-Sat., 9am-1pm. Free.  
    2600 W. Stassney Ln.
  • Community

    Events

    Mozart's Light Show

    Check out the holiday lights and get you a freshly baked German treat while local musicians play tunes on the grand piano.
    Nov. 21-Jan. 5, 6pm-12mid, except Christmas Eve (closes 10pm); closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Free.  
  • Community

    Events

    Paul Klemperer's Festivus Celebration

    Gather round the mighty Festivus pole for the Airing of Grievances, the Feats of Strength, and observance of Festivus Miracles. It’s also a fundraiser for Austin Children’s Shelter.
    Sun., Dec. 15, 7-9pm  
  • Community

    Out of Town

    Pilgrimage to Bethlehem: A Live Nativity

    Follow the path of Mary and Joseph to the manger in Bethlehem.
    Sat.-Sun., Dec. 14-15, 5:30-8:30pm
    Taylor
  • Community

    Events

    Poketo Holiday Pop-up Shop

    Shop the L.A.-based lifestyle brand's signature stationery, apparel, and accessories collections.
    Through Dec. 15. 10am-6pm. Free.  
  • Community

    Events

    Pound 4 Pound Pet Food Drive

    Every holiday season, Tomlinson’s Feed hosts Austin’s largest pet food drive in support of local animal rescues and shelters. It's easy to give: Every bag of pet food donated through Christmas Eve will be doubled by pet food suppliers, pound for pound. (Their goal this year is 160,000 pounds of pet food.) More of an internet shopper? Just donate online.
    Through Dec. 24  
    Austin-area Tomlinson's Feed stores
  • Community

    Kids

    Santa's Workshop at Hotel Ella

    Enjoy a festive brunch at Goodall’s Kitchen, kids’ holiday crafts, and photos with Old Saint Nick (complimentary with a new toy donation to Caritas of Austin).
    Sun., Dec. 15, 11am-2pm
  • Community

    Events

    Sembrando Herencia 2019: Las Lavanderas

    Puerto Rican Folkloric Dance's original, bilingual musical pays tribute to the lavanderas (laundresses), an organized group of women who fought for better living and working conditions in San Juan in the mid-19th century.
    Dec. 14-15. Saturday, 6:30pm; Sunday, 3pm. Adults, $15-20; ages 3-12, $5; ages 2 & under, free.  
  • Community

    Kids

    Seriously Sweet Structures Workshop

    Explore how to build a sturdy gingerbread house through a series of structural engineering challenges, draft plans, and build your very own gingerbread house. Recommended for ages 8 & up.
    Dec. 7-8, 14-15, 20-23, 2-4:30pm. $5 per person.  
  • Community

    Events

    Slavic Christmas Fair

    Get into that festive mood while shopping and mingling with local Slavic artists and enjoying a glühwein and blini station.
    Sun., Dec. 15, 11am-4pm
  • Community

    Civic Events

    Social Justice Activist Meditation

    A community-centered meditation for empathic change makers with Amira Glickman, Chanelle Glover, Alec Brownridge, Chris Isom, and Jacob Fischer. Email to reserve a spot.
    First & third Sundays, 10-11:45am.. $15 suggested donation.  
  • Community

    Events

    Sour Duck Holiday Market

    Vendors include La Flaca, Two Hives Honey, Stitch and Stone, Marpy Naturals, and more. Happy hour specials featuring $3 Texas drafts, $6 draft cocktails, and half-off select menu items.
    Sun., Dec. 15, 3-6pm
  • Community

    Civic Events

    Stassney Lane Improvements Feedback

    ATD wants your input on how to improve transit options along Stassney from West Gate Blvd. to South Congress, so visit the link online and share your thoughts!
    Comments will be accepted from Dec. 5, 2019, through Jan. 5, 2020  
    Online
  • Community

    Events

    Sunday Tarot

    Join Carly for a 15-minute reading with the deck of your choice.
    Sundays, 6-8pm  
  • Community

    Sports

    Texas State Men's Basketball

    Vs. Bethany College.
    Sun., Dec. 15, 5pm. $7+.  
    Strahan Arena, 106 Charles Austin Dr., San Marcos
  • Community

    Kids

    The Rock and Roll Playhouse Plays the Music of the White Stripes for Kids

    Kids (ages 10 & under) will enjoy games, movement, stories, and an opportunity to rock out in a sensory-friendly environment.
    Sun., Dec. 15, 11am-noon. $12 in advance; $15 at the door.
  • Community

    Civic Events

    Volunteers Needed to Make a Difference During Tax Season

    United Way of Williamson County is looking for volunteers to help with free tax prep services in Georgetown, Hutto, Leander, Liberty Hill, and Taylor. Work includes tax prep, translating, and greeting. No prior experience necessary, as a free training is provided, complete with IRS certification.: The sites will be open from Jan. 28 through April 15. Bilingual folks are sorely needed. Email, call, or visit the website for more info.
    Nov. 22-Jan. 23  
    Apply online
  • Community

    Out of Town

    Walkway of Lights

    Get a jump on the holiday season with a stroll through 2 million sparkling lights in the park along the lake.
    Nov. 22-Jan. 1, 2020. Nightly, 6-10pm. Free.  
    Marble Falls
  • Community

    Events

    We Are Blood: Platelet Step-Up Campaign

    Platelet donors have the chance to receive up to six Alamo Drafthouse movie passes through the end of the month. First donation = one pass; second = two passes; and third = three passes. To schedule a platelet donation, call 512/206-1266 or visit www.weareblood.org.
    Through Dec. 31  
    Austin-area We Are Blood Donor Centers
  • Community

    Events

    Wild Bill's Honky Tonk Holidaze

    Opening night of Bill Ogden's original Christmas musical is sold out, but there are still three more nights to shop nontraditional wares at the pre-show gift market – with live music, local artists, and more. This year's production benefits HOME (Housing Opportunities for Musicians and Entertainers).
    Sun.-Mon., Dec. 8-9, 15-16. $20-25.  
    Dec. 8-9 at “Santa’s Stash Pot” (777 Shady Ln.); Dec. 15-16 at Sam’s Town Point (2115 Allred Dr.).
  • Community

    Events

    Yule Bazaar

    Presented by the East Austin Handmade Arts Market, this all-local, all-handmade arts pop-up offers an array of arts & crafters, live music all day, free food and beverages while they last, and a visit from Santa Elvis.
    Sun., Dec. 15, 11am-5pm. Free.  
Ongoing
  • Community

    Sports

    Austin FC Season Membership Deposits

    Austin's Major League Soccer team, Austin FC, is officially taking deposits for 2021 season memberships. Your deposit will reserve your spot in line, which means the earlier you purchase your membership, the earlier you're eligible to select your seats for the season.
    Ongoing. $50.  

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