Spending your Christmas in Austin? It’s nothing like the usual experiences you will have or have had in the past. The city transforms into a winter wonderland every December, offering a blend of Southern charm, festive lights, and live music. The food, vibe, atmosphere, and festive spirit are all worth experiencing in Austin, Texas.
Let’s list down some of the best things to do on Christmas in Austin, so you can enjoy the December season to the fullest! Get ready to celebrate the festival in true Texas style!
Listing the Top Christmas Events in Austin 2025
Austin offers a gazillion ways to celebrate Christmas in style! It not only provides a unique experience to locals and travelers, but also brings the magic of the holidays to life. There’s nothing like Christmas celebrated here! Read on to find out the top events in Austin that are held throughout the holiday season –
Witnessing the Trail of Lights at Zilker Park
One of the most unmissable things you can do in Austin’s holiday season is to witness the breathtaking Trail of Lights in Zilker Park. It’s an Austin holiday tradition with millions of twinkling lights illuminating a walking trail of 1.25 miles. You will find more than 70 displays and 90 lighted holiday trees. Grab a cup of hot chocolate and stroll through the tunnels of twinkling lights. Under the big Zilker holiday tree, click moments that will last a lifetime. This spot in Christmas offers a unique and warm experience to people.
Downtown Holiday Stroll
For those visiting Placemakr Downtown Austin, the Downtown Holiday Stroll offers a convenient, free, and delightful opportunity to embrace the holiday spirit. This occasion features a tree-lighting ceremony, live performances, festive markets, and family-friendly activities, making it perfect for bringing the kids. The historic allure of downtown Austin, paired with festive joy, creates a captivating night that is guaranteed to immerse everyone in the holiday spirit, as it celebrates its 30th anniversary.
The Festive Mozart’s Lake Lighting
One of the best things you can do on Christmas in Austin is to visit Mozart’s Coffee Roasters. It hosts one of the city’s most extravagant holiday light shows. It is beautifully staged along the shores of Austin Lake. Take a seat at their patio with a drink in hand. Visit with your family or friends to experience the peak Austin Christmas things. The synchronized light display illuminates the entire night!
Enjoy The Performances
- Ballet Austin’s The Nutcracker: A cherished ritual highlighted by live performances from the Austin Symphony Orchestra. This magical ballet takes place from early December until Christmas Eve.
- ZACH Theatre’s A Christmas Carol: A new take on the timeless tale, featuring original music and a novel viewpoint. These performances continue throughout the festive season. It’s among the most loved things to do on Christmas in Austin, TX.
- Handel’s Messiah: This is the Austin Symphony Orchestra, which is held annually at the Hyde Park Baptist Church. This night will comfort you with the tunes of Texas and the joy of rediscovery. It’s a powerful performance full of enjoyment, giving an unmatched holiday experience!
Indulge In A Shopping Spree At The Holiday Market
When in Austin, experience some Christmas shopping at the best bazaars!
- Armadillo Christmas Bazaar: One popular thing to do in Austin in December is visiting the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar, which exhibits local art and unique gift items. It’s a vibe in Christmas to visit this market. Enjoy live music, local food, and the art of over 175 artists, craftsmen, and merchants who bring the best to the market. The market is known for spreading Christmas cheer and vibe. Take back some handmade gifts from this bazaar for your loved ones.
- German Christmas Market: You won’t want to miss this unique holiday destination—the German Christmas Market! The air is filled with traditional German Christmas music, and the tables are laden with genuine German goods that are handcrafted in Germany’s Erzgebirge region. A visit from St. Nikolaus himself will be adored by children! An amazing experience when it comes to shopping!
- Blue Genie Art Bazaar: This bazaar features more than 200 incredible artists from the city and the surrounding areas. It’s one of the best free things to do in Austin on Christmas. Throughout December, this bazaar offers an incredible indoor shopping experience. It has the best in ceramics, painting, sculpture, art and handmade gifts, etc. Shopping here is an ideal way to feel the Christmas spirit.
Skate Through the Holiday Season
If you’re looking for the top things you can do on Christmas in Austin with kids, ice skating is a great choice. Embrace the seasonal spirit with ice skating at –
- H-E-B Terrace at Long Center: It’s an outdoor rink that offers stunning views of the skyline.
- Ice Rodeo at Four Seasons: Skate on a rooftop rink with comfortable cabanas and festive decorations.
Family-Friendly Christmas Day Dining
There are many options for enjoying the Christmas day lunch. Consider making reservations at some of the city’s favourite spots like Salt & Time, Jack Allen’s Kitchen, and The Salt Lick. Be sure to check the availability. These are some great places to celebrate the city’s most beloved holiday.
Fun Things To Do in Austin for Christmas
- Teddy Bear Teas and Gingerbread Village: Stay at the Four Seasons Hotel for tea, caroling, and story time by the fire with Santa, and bring a brand-new, unwrapped teddy bear to donate to a nearby charity. Throughout the season until new year’s day, the Gingerbread Village in the lobby offers early-evening open homes with cider, cookies, and the opportunity to mingle with the talented (i.e., Santa and pastry chefs), making it an excellent choice for kids or any baked-good fan.
- Workshops at The Thinkery: For kids, The Thinkery is a great opportunity to indulge in some fun. It features the sights and sounds of the season in full glory. Little ones get to make snowflakes and ‘ski’ on their socks. Kids of all ages can find something to do.
Sign Up For the Best Christmas!
Austin for Christmas is a magical blend of culture, customs, Christmas spirit, fun, and unlimited creativity. It’s an experience of a lifetime. With so many things to do on Christmas in Austin, you will run out of choices. Whether you’re skating with your little ones or enjoying a lunch with family, Austin welcomes each one with a warm and comforting holiday spirit. So, next time you’re looking for destinations to enjoy the best Christmas, this is where you should be! Celebrate the holidays as you should in Austin, Texas.
FAQs
Is Austin good for Christmas?
Yes, if you celebrate like a local! Holidays in Austin are a vibe! Join in some of the city’s beloved local culture and festivities for a memorable day. Whether it’s the holiday lights that you see, the live performances, or the holiday tunes you sway to, you will definitely have an experience of a lifetime! Plus, there is a vast choice of food and drink to try! Not to forget the humungous and beautiful Christmas tree that’s lit everywhere on the streets.
Does it snow in Austin in December?
Austin experiences typically warm winters due to its Central Texas location, with December highs of about 60°F and lows of about 40°F. The city receives less than an inch of snow on average each year, which is extremely uncommon given these unfavorable conditions.
Does Austin have a Christmas market?
Yes, and quite a popular one! It’s the season of a million lights and sounds. The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar has more than 150 musicians and artists, and is a fantastic venue for culture and creativity. Art and crafts combined with live musical performances that perfectly capture Austin’s essence are examples of unique homemade presents.
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