THURSDAY
The North Pole Flyer offers a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus and all-you-can-drink hot cocoa.[/caption]1. North Pole Flyer
The North Pole Flyer runs daily until Sunday. The 2.5-hour excursion features a visit from Santa and a reading of the North Pole Flyer book, the railroad’s own Christmas story. Santa poses for photographs and hands out a gift to each child.
10 a.m., 2 and 6 p.m. (each date). $38 (age 3 and older), $48 (adult with lap child). Austin Steam Train Association, 401 E. Whitestone Blvd., Ste. C-100, Cedar Park. 512-477-8468. www.austinsteamtrain.org/special-events/north-pole-flyer
2. "Of Mice and Music—A Jazz Tap Nutcracker"
The show is a rhythm tap and jazz spin on the beloved yuletide story, “The Nutcracker.” Of Mice and Music unites the company’s professional dancers with the rising stars of its pre-apprentice youth company, Visions in Rhythm. Shows are also scheduled Saturday and Sunday.
2 or 7 p.m. (depending on date). $13.50-$34. Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W. Riverside Drive, Austin. 512-474-5664. www.thelongcenter.org/event/mice-music-jazz-tap-nutcracker/
3. Trail of Lights
One of Austin's signature holiday events continues this weekend, and the trail includes more than 40 displays, 2 million lights and holiday activities.
7-10 p.m. Free entry (Dec. 15-16), $3 (Dec. 17-23). Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Road, Austin. www.austintrailoflights.org
4. Blue Genie Art Bazaar
The 16th annual marketplace features handmade artwork and gifts from more than 200 local and regional artists. A portion of the proceeds every Monday goes to Make-A-Wish of Central Texas. The event continues daily until Dec. 24. Shoppers are encouraged to bring their own bags.
10 a.m.-10 p.m. (closes at 6 p.m. Dec. 24). Free. 6100 Airport Blvd., Austin. 512-222-7303. www.bluegenieartbazaar.com
The 11-day bazaar features live music and more than 160 artists.[/caption]5. Armadillo Christmas Bazaar
The 11-day, fine-art shopping destination features more than 160 artists and live music. Attendees can find a variety of fine art, handmade gifts, heirloom pieces and stocking stuffers.
10 a.m.-10 p.m. Free (age 12 and younger), $8 (adult single-day pass), $8 (parking). Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road, Austin. 512-447-1605. www.armadillobazaar.com
FRIDAY
6. "Austin Children’s Nutcracker"
The 16th annual production of the holiday classic features dancers ages 8-18 from Austin City Ballet, which is based in Northwest Austin. Shows are also scheduled Saturday and Sunday.
2:30 or 7:30 p.m. (depending on date). Free (age 3 and younger), $15 (age 4-11), $25 (age 12 and older). Dougherty Art Center Theater, 1110 Barton Springs Road, Austin. 512-291-2310. www.austincityballet.org
