Although the weather has been mild, Austin has plenty of events to get residents and visitors into the holiday spirit. Check these out before they pack up until next year.


Dec. 20-23
Local ballet company performs winter classic
The Georgia B. Lucas Foundation Fund presents the 55th annual production of “The Nutcracker” by Ballet Austin. 2 and 7:30 p.m. $46-$238. Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W. Riverside Drive, Austin. www.balletaustin.org









Central Texans gaze at Trail of Lights
The annual tradition features more than 40 displays and 2 million lights for 15 days. 7-10 p.m. Free (Dec. 9-14, 18-19), $3 (Dec. 15-17, 20-23). Zilker Metropolitan PArk, 2100 Barton Springs Road, Austin. www.austintrailoflights.org





Dec. 20-24
Blue Genie Art Bazaar celebrates 17th year
This annual holiday arts and shopping event features one-of-a-kind homemade gifts made by nearly 200 artisans and craftspeople. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. (closes at 6 p.m. on Dec. 24.) Free. Blue Genie Art Bazaar, 6100 Airport Blvd., Austin. 512-222-7303. www.bluegenieartbazaar.com









Armadillo Christmas Bazaar kicks off
This 11-day fine art fair features award-winning local artists and two full bars for a festive outing. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. $8 (one-day pass), $60 (season pass), free (kids 12 and under). Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs, Austin. www.armadillobazaar.com





Dec. 20-30
Circuit of the Americas hosts a new holiday festival
“Winter Wonderland at the Circuit” features nearly a mile of lights, an ice skating rink, a petting zoo and a visit from Santa Claus plus carnival rides and live music. 6 p.m. $16. Circuit of the Americas, 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd., Austin. www.thecircuit.com/winter-wonderland





Dec. 20-31
ZACH Theatre presents "A Christmas Carol"
This musical adaption of the classic Dickens' story spans genres and eras. The show is two hours and 20 minutes with one intermission, and is recommended for children 6 and older. 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. $83-$143. Topfer Theatre, 202 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin. 512-476-0541. www.zachtheatre.org





Dec. 21
Play holiday games, meet Santa at free event
The city of Austin Parks & Recreation Department hosts the Night Before Christmas Break. At the event, children play holiday games and meet Santa Claus. 5:30-8 p.m. Free. Metz Recreation Center, 2407 Canterbury St., Austin. 512-978-2399. www.austintexas.gov





Dec. 22-25
Alamo Drafthouse throws an "Elf" movie party
Watch the instant holiday classic while also enjoying fun props, a themed contest before the film and a snowball fight inside the theater. Showtimes vary. $15. Alamo Drafthouse Ritz, 320 E. Sixth St., Austin. 512-861-7020. www.drafthouse.com