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Locals can celebrate the holiday season by watching a festive performance at Ballet Austin, strolling through the Trail of Lights at Zilker Park or getting some holiday shopping done at the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar.
There is something for everyone to enjoy as the year comes to a close.
This list is not comprehensive and all events are subject to change.
Peppermint in the Park
Locals can head to COTALAND for a look at the park’s holiday display, festive decor and seasonal treats and rides.
Nov. 12-Jan. 4
$19.99 (holiday evening walking ticket), $34.99 (holiday evening ticket), $39.99 (all-day holiday ticket)
9111 Circuit of the Americas Blvd., Austin
“A Sherlock Carol”
Patrons of the arts can head to the Austin Playhouse for a performance of “A Sherlock Carol.” The play portrays a twist on a holiday classic in which Ebenezer Scrooge is dead from the very beginning and Sherlock Holmes sees ghosts. Children under 5 are not permitted to attend the play. Austin Playhouse will offer pick-your-price Thursdays and half-price student tickets for flexible pricing options.
Nov. 13-Dec. 20
405 W. 22nd St., Austin
$38+ (tickets)
Bicycle Repair Clinic
Yellow Bike Project mechanics will be on site at Austin Central Library for a monthly repair clinic. Mechanics will offer hands-on assistance on a first-come, first-served basis. Repair sessions will be limited to 30 minutes each.
Nov. 29, 1-4 p.m.
Free (repairs)
710 W. Cesar Chavez St., Austin
Elf Pub Run
Participants will start at the State Theatre and run or ride to Scholz Garten for an array of activities, including a snowball fight and costume contest. Participants will then head back to the State Theatre for a screening of “Elf” and holiday caroling.
Dec. 1; 5:30 p.m. (doors for pub run), 7 p.m. (doors for film), 8 p.m. (film starts)
$61 (admission includes 1 complimentary beer at Scholz Garten and 2 at the State Theatre), $64 (admission includes complimentary candy, popcorn and a non-alcoholic beverage at Scholz Garten), $80 (VIP admission with 1 complimentary beer at Scholz Garten and 2 at the State Theatre, as well as access to the Elf Party Bus)
719 Congress Ave., Austin
“The Nutcracker” at Ballet Austin
Ballet Austin will present its 64th annual production of “The Nutcracker” at The Long Center. The holiday performance follows Clara as she and the Nutcracker Prince embark on a journey with many notable characters, such as the Sugar Plum Fairy. Austin Symphony Orchestra will provide a live accompaniment.
Dec. 4-23, times vary
$25-$135 (tickets)
701 W. Riverside Drive, Austin
2026 Holiday Sing-Along & Stroll
Downtown Austin Alliance will host a holiday event with singing, strolling and shopping. The family-friendly event will take place along Congress Avenue, featuring live music, art, local food, artisan vendors and an appearance from Santa Claus.
Dec. 5, 5-8 p.m.
Free (admission)
Downtown Austin, along Congress Avenue
“White Christmas” at The Texas Spirit Theatre
The Texas Spirit Theatre will host multiple screenings of the 1954 holiday film “White Christmas,” including multi-sensory effects. During the movie, attendees will get to experience a white Christmas as snow falls indoors.
Dec. 9, 13 & 17; 6 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (film)
$15 (adult)
1800 Congress Ave., Austin
Trail of Lights
The 62nd Trail of Lights will return to Zilker Park in December, with seven free nights. The outdoor display features over 2 million lights, 90 lit holiday trees and 70 other holiday displays and tunnels.
Dec. 10-23
Free (Dec. 10-11 & Dec. 13-17), $8 (general admission for individuals 12 and older)
2100 Barton Springs Road, Austin
The Holiday Market at Zach
A holiday pop-up market is returning to the Zach Theater with goods from local artisans, drinks, performances and a family-friendly environment. The market is free to attend; however, RSVPs are recommended.
Dec. 12 & 19; 3-7 p.m.
Free (attendance)
202 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin
Armadillo Christmas Bazaar
The holiday bazaar, which began in 1976, will offer unique gifts, stocking stuffers and fine art. Attendees can also see live music, with up to three bands playing each day. This year’s lineup includes CJ Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band, West Texas Exiles and Beat Root Revival.
Dec. 12-21, hours vary per day
Free (children under 12), $15 (one day ticket), $25 (VIP first look), $75 (season ticket)
900 Barton Springs Road, Austin
