Home Events

for Thu., Dec. 24
  • Affordable Art Fair Austin

    Affordable Art Fair Austin will launch in May 2024, showcasing original contemporary artworks ranging between $100 to $10,000. Welcoming a whole host of local, national and international exhibitors, their spectacular first edition is set to be unmissable!
    May 16-19  
    Palmer Events Center
  • Kadampa Meditation Center Austin

    This evening talk offers a special visit with renowned Buddhist teacher and NKT-IKBU Deputy Spiritual Director Gen-la Kelsang Jampa. Gen-la will share Buddhist advice on developing our love as a way to protect our self from suffering and learn to become truly happy. Our life then becomes immensely meaningful in benefiting others with our mind of unconditional love.
    Fri. May 3, 7pm-8:30pm  
    Vuka North
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  • Community

    Events

    Luminations at LBJ Wildflower Center

    In a year that could use some sparkle, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is bringing back a beloved winter tradition. It's a strollable Hill Country experience where thousands of luminarias light the way. For the first time ever, Luminations will wind through the Texas Arboretum among glowing oaks and the light-splashed forts of Fortlandia, a collection of forts custom-designed and built by local architects, designers, and artists.
    Through Jan. 3. Members only on Mondays; closed Dec. 24, 25, 31 & Jan. 1  
  • Community

    Events

    Winter Wanderland

    Snow close, yet snow far out! Austin Motel is decked out for the holidays with a neon rainbow, and they're serving up hot chocolate (with optional peppermint schnapps), a Sugar Plum cocktail, and La Colombe coffee. Snacks include Reindeer Chow and hot pretzels.
    Through Jan. 3. Free, but RSVP.  
  • Arts

    Theatre

    Xmas Unwrapped: A Holiday Cabaret

    Shrewd Productions, one of Austin's most vibrant, independent theatre companies, brings back the classic holiday cabaret with a cast of performers engaging in song, dance, burlesque, aerials, and storytelling, all for your virtual viewing pleasure – and hosted by none other than Jesus Valles.
    Streaming through Dec. 26. $15-25.  
  • Community

    Events

    Austin Trail of Lights

    Austin's 56th annual holiday tradition returns to Zilker Park as a drive-through event this year and runs two additional weeks. As you drive through the trail illuminated by more than 2 million lights, tune in via your car radio for holiday music, highlights, and history. This year guests can choose a ticket type based on their preferred date and time, with prices ranging from $25-35 per vehicle for GA or a $60 per vehicle "Dash Pass" which includes early entry and festive refreshments.
    Through Jan. 3 (except New Year's Day). GA, $25-35 per vehicle; Dash Pass, $60 per vehicle.  
  • Arts

    Dance

    Ballet Austin: The Nutcracker

    Local luminaries enliven the stage with holiday splendor and wintery exuberance in this Nutcracker digital film, featuring Ballet Austin’s 2019 stage production by Stephen Mills, now streaming on-demand and including a plethora of bonus material, cast and crew interviews, and behind-the-scenes featurettes. Note: You can get access with a tax-deductible donation to Ballet Austin and view the kinetic wonderment until the new year dawns.
    Through Jan. 1  
  • Community

    Events

    Blue Genie Art Bazaar

    The beloved Austin holiday shopping experience returns for its 20th year with four shopping options to ensure safety in the time of COVID-19. For in-store shopping, reserve free tickets online for a "no wait" entry. Walk-ins are also welcome, but guests may have to wait outside if it's at capacity. Online shoppers can either pick up items in-store or have them shipped anywhere in the U.S. Personal shoppers and virtual shopping will also be available through the BGAB website. BGAB is a family-friendly experience where you can find one-of-a-kind, handcrafted jewelry, artwork, home goods, and gifts for everyone on your shopping list.
    Through Dec. 24, 10am-10pm daily (10am-6pm on Dec. 24)  
  • Community

    Events

    Downtown Holiday Stroll

    This year, the hallmark event is more than just one evening; it's a month of free activities and holiday happenings. Visit the 45-foot-tall holiday tree by the Capitol, catch a movie at Paramount or the new Blue Starlite, and download or pick up a holiday passport to guide your way and collect stamps as you experience all that Downtown Austin has to offer.
    Through Dec. 31  
    Downtown Austin
  • Qmmunity

    Arts & Culture

    Gremlins (1984)

    Bulimianne Rhapsody's Holiday Horrors: A teenager’s furry little pet of mysterious origins spawns a whole town full of snaggle-toothed killer gremlins ... with a side of digital drag. Performances by Louisianna Purchase, Kitty Buick, Chique Fil-Atio, Rosalind Hussell, and Geneva Convention.
    Thu., Dec. 24, 10pm. $10 suggested donation.  
    Online: www.twitch.tv/poopooatx
  • Community

    Events

    Home for the "Howl"idays

    If you're ready to make the commitment and have extra love to give this season, now's the perfect time to add a new furry friend to the family. For one week, Austin Humane Society is offering discounted adoption fees: only $20.
    Dec. 17-24  
  • Arts

    Dance

    Metamorphosis Dance: The Nutcracker

    The Metamorphosis Dance company presents this annual and unique telling of the beloved holiday classic – coming to you virtually this year, via video of the ballet's performance at the Carver Museum.
    Through Dec. 24. $10-50.  
  • Community

    Events

    Mozart's 2020 COVID-Cautious Christmas Light Show

    Sip a delicious hot bevvie and see the beautiful light show by the lake. Reservations required.
    Through Jan. 6, 6pm-12mid. $10 per table for one-hour show.  
  • Arts

    Visual Arts

    Northern-Southern: Baton

    This is a group show by relay, begun in July of 2020 as a method of socially distancing a community in the height of the pandemic: Artists took turns alone in the space, each adding to the exhibition. Now, as it nears its close, the exhibition resembles a community in which work converses and overlaps. With Adreon Henry, Vy Ngo, Dawn Okoro, Leon Alesi, Matt Steinke, Sev Coursen, Stella Alesi, and more.
    Closing reception: Sat., July 24, 3-9pm
  • Food

    Food Events

    The Eleanor: Miracle on Fifth Street

    Yes, the beloved Christmas-themed pop-up bar returns to The Eleanor for another year of spirited celebration. Joann Spiegel, the mastermind behind the brand’s cocktail repertoire, has created a roster of delightful, holiday-inspired libations, featuring cocktails that play on classic holiday flavors. New this year: Jolly Koala (gin, vermouth, and pine-cardamom-sage cordial), On Dasher (bourbon, mezcal, sweet vermouth, spiced hibiscus, bitters, and lemon), and a Fruitcake Flip (brandy, Jamaican overproof rum, Amaretto, fruitcake, cherry bitters, and a whole egg). (Our personal fave, the Bad Santa, is likewise among the heady lineup.) Also, the full cocktail menu will be available at the main downstairs and mezzanine bars. Note: This year, all Miracle cocktails can be ordered to-go. Note: This year, all Miracle cocktails can be ordered to-go – and a portion of all to-go sales will benefit the Austin Children’s Shelter and Austin Pets Alive. God bless us, everyone!
    Daily, through Dec. 27  
  • Community

    Events

    Winter Well-Being Toolkit

    The stressors of the COVID-19 pandemic could make this winter and holiday season tougher than usual. Integral Care recently launched a Winter Well-Being Toolkit, a compilation of ideas to boost mental health, fight the winter blues, stay safely connected and celebrate the season in new ways. Topics include ideas to make gatherings special, tips for fighting Seasonal Affective Disorder, steps for improving happiness, ways to get moving and elevate your mood, and mindfulness activities. Plus, check out their YouTube channel for a winter mental health forum video.
    Ongoing  
All Events
  • Community

    Events

    #TsoGiving Holiday Initiative

    Tso Chinese Delivery has partnered with seven local organizations with the goal to provide $100,000 in meals to Austinites in need. Make a direct donation online, or add a donation to any food order placed at Tso Chinese Delivery. For every $1 raised, #TsoGiving can donate $3 worth of meals.
    Through Dec. 31  
    Remote
  • Arts

    Visual Arts

    AO5 Gallery: Disruption

    Hey, you! Globally aware art connoisseur! Don't miss this show of bold visuals from some of the most famous European street artists – like Banksy, Striker, Zero, and Cee Pil – now sharing wall space with works by Austin's own Jason Eatherly, Dave Lowell, and that Impossible Winterbourne.
    Through Dec. 31
  • Community

    Events

    APA! Holiday Store Now Open

    When you're shopping for the animal lovers in your life, you'll find the perfect gift and support the nonprofit at the Austin Pets Alive! online store. They've got a people & pets cookbook, ornaments, toys, and the must-have outerwear for winter: the "I Like Big Mutts and I Cannot Lie" hoodie.
    Ongoing  
  • Community

    Events

    Armadillo Art Concierge

    Sadly, we can't visit the Armadillo Art Bazaar in person this year. The next best thing is Armadillo Art Concierge, an online, curated shopping guide pointing visitors to collections by content, process, medium, or artist location. Follow them on social media @armadillobazaar to see spotlighted art each day.
    Ongoing  
  • Arts

    Visual Arts

    Art for the People: Where the Bots Begin

    Lauren Briére’s art escorts the viewer on a visual journey into outer space, the fun of sports, walks in nature, and various adventures and shenanigans, as Art for the People showcases 200-plus sketches that are the artist's penciled beginnings to creating her whimsical "Robots in Rowboats."
    Through Jan. 3
  • Arts

    Theatre

    Austin Acts! Virtual Stage Talent Competition

    The eight actors here, competing since last July, are vying for the grand prize in this online event from Austin's City Theatre, which features the performances that got them to the finals via embodiment of works by Tom Stoppard, Edward Albee, Paula Vogel, Neil Simon, Terrence McNally, Tennessee Williams, Anna Deveare Smith, and more.
    Through Jan. 10. Donations accepted.  
  • Community

    Events

    Austin Creative Reuse

    ACR is such a neat place, filled to the brim with donations of reusable items, but you don't even have to be there to take advantage of their Earth-friendly stock. Shop online for gifts, holiday wrapping, craft supplies and notions, and even fun mystery packs.
    Ongoing  
    Online or in-store at 2005 Wheless
  • Film

    Special Screenings

    Austin Polish Film Festival

    This year, APFF has taken most of the screenings to the virtual realm, offering two months of Polish features and documentaries online, as well three films co-presented with Austin Jewish Film Festival and a few screenings at Galaxy Highland.
    Through Dec. 31  
    Online via www.austinpolishfilm.com
  • Community

    Events

    Austin Scavenger Hunt

    Explore Downtown in search of storied buildings, green spaces, and famous concert venues, all while solving riddles, trivia questions, and completing photo challenges. Now available: "Roam From Home," with family and date night scavenger hunt activities you can do without leaving the house.
    Anytime. $12.99-24.99.  
    Online and at home
  • Music

  • Community

    Events

    Blood Bazaar

    Blood Over Texas' online holiday market is the spot to find all kinds of evil wares for fans of goth and horror. All the vendors are local, and include many of the sellers from past Horror for the Holidays events.
    Through Dec. 24  
  • Music

  • Community

    Events

    BSC Reopening Business Safely Global Forum

    Business is not as usual. This is a safe place to talk about business concerns, share ideas, and hear from weekly business expert guests.
    Thursdays, 12-1pm. Through Dec. 16. Free.  
    Online
  • Arts

    Visual Arts

    Camiba Art: Perspectives on 2020

    If anyone can make sense out of this dumpster fire of a year, it's probably the artists of Camiba. Valerie Fowler, Edward Lane McCartney, Kate Bradshaw, Lee Albert Hill, Orna Feinstein, Adreon Henry, Zoe Schulman, and more – these bright talents will provide much food for thought and images to conjure with as we slide into what we can only hope isn't the out-of-the-frying-pan-and-into-the-fire situation of 2021.
    Through Dec. 26  
  • Community

    Events

    Central Texas Food Bank Giving Opportunities

    The holidays will be tougher for everyone this year. The food bank has put together a list of 10 ways to make a difference to someone in need, from an online matched donation to donating your change at participating stores. Check out the list online and help CTFB fight hunger.
    Ongoing  
  • Arts

    Visual Arts

    ChingonX Fire: Group Exhibit

    Inspired by the Mexican American Cultural Center's annual La Mujer celebration – and by the first feminist of the New World, Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz – this online group exhibit is curated by April Garcia and features womxn-identifying and nongender-specific artists whose artwork is tied to activism, feminism, cultural. and gender identity storytelling, environmental protection, and socioeconomic parity.

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