The weekend itinerary is here and loaded with fun local happenings such as art shows, concerts and holiday celebrations. From opportunities to give back to relaxing things to do, check out an event—or several—right here with friends and family.

Dec. 17: Paint your own Kwanzaa masterpiece

In celebration of African American culture and heritage, one of Painting With A Twist’s step-by-step painting classes in December will be Kwanzaa themed. Participants will choose a canvas or wood plank board to create their own replica of the art “Kwanzaa Queen” instructed by Marjolyn Varano. 7-9:30 p.m. $43-$49. 1401 S. I-35, Ste. 140, Round Rock. 512-502-5885. www.paintingwithatwist.com/studio/roundrock/event/2911642/

Dec. 17-18: Hometown Holiday in downtown Round Rock

Downtown Round Rock is glowing with holiday light displays until Dec. 31, and there will be live music in the parklets every Friday and Saturday of December. Take photos, shop local and enjoy the festive atmosphere. 8 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Free. 221 E. Main St., Round Rock. 512-218-5400. www.roundrocktexas.gov/event/hometown-holiday/2021-12-01/




Dec. 18: Hear the sounds of the season at a holiday concert

The Round Rock Community Choir, Round Rock Youth Choir and Council Oak Bells will hold their annual holiday concert at the First United Methodist Church. The concert will feature a singalong portion, in which guests are invited to participate. 7 p.m. Free (admission). 1004 N. Mays St., Round Rock. www.roundrockcommunitychoir.org/

Dec. 18: Be a detective for an evening

The Dinner Detective is putting on a live murder mystery and dinner theatre show. Guests will solve a mystery for which the culprit is hiding in plain sight. The three-course menu includes an entree choice of vegetable lasagna, grilled salmon or French-cut chicken breast. 6-9 p.m. $63.99. Courtyard by Marriott Austin Pflugerville, 16100 Impact Way, Pflugerville. 866-496-0535. www.thedinnerdetective.com




Dec. 18: Support and purchase art from local artists

Round Rock’s monthly pop-up art show will return to Prete Plaza in December. Upward of 12 local artists will be selling and demonstrating their art to the public during the art show. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free admission. Prete Plaza, 221 E. Main St., Round Rock. www.roundrocktexas.gov

Dec. 18: Listen to live music at Tiemann Art Gallery’s holiday party

This holiday party is the last chance to view 60 pieces of art by 30 artists in the first-ever juried Central Texas Pastel Society Member Show. Attendees will be able to meet the featured artists and enjoy holiday music by Francis McGarth on piano. 5-7 p.m. Free. 1706 N. Mays St., Round Rock. 512-551-9774. https://tagroundrock.com/




Dec. 18: Pick up fresh food at Round Rock Farmers Market

Farmers market season is not over in Round Rock. This farmers market is every Saturday year-round. Support local farmers and vendors while shopping from the freshest produce and baked goods available. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free (admission). 201 University Oaks Blvd., Round Rock. 956-286-7775. www.facebook.com/farmergeorge.market/

Dec. 19: Attend the 8th Annual DJs Who Stole Christmas Food Drive

Head to Cajjun Eats to see a lineup of DJs who are mixing beats all day to raise donations and monetary support for The Central Texas Food Bank. Some DJs playing include Hella Yella, Big Champ and Specs. Spend the day listening to music and bring nonperishable items to give back this holiday season. 1-11 p.m. Free (admission). 15630 Vision Drive, Pflugerville. www.eventbrite.com/e/the-8th-annual-djs-who-stole-christmas-food-drive-tickets-194860391677?aff=ebdssbdestsearch