Mix a warm cup of cocoa, blast a holiday playlist, and grab your calendar, because Austin is swarming with festive and cheerful events this holiday season. From annual traditions to a new spin on old favorites, there is so much to do this year to get you and your family in the holiday spirit.
57th Annual Trail of Lights
When: November 27 - December 31
Where: Zilker Park
Austin’s most-beloved and longest-running holiday tradition is back this year for its 57th annual celebration. Like last year, the event will take place in drive-thru format where guests can enjoy cookies, music, and heat from the comfort of their own car. Complete with over two million lights, 90 illuminated holiday trees, and 70 additional displays; this event is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit! Tickets can be purchased here.
Mozart’s Holiday Light Show
When: November 11 - January 6
Where: Mozart’s Coffee Roasters
Awaken the senses at Mozart’s annual holiday light show! Their vibrant and bold display of holiday lights is synchronized to the music of beloved Christmas classics. Grab a warm drink, some Christmas cookies, and prepare to be amazed! Be sure to book a table online in advance, or register to watch the show from the Bavarian marketplace in the parking lot.
Luminations at the Wildflower Center
When: December 2 - January 30
Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Experience the natural beauty of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in a whole new way. The walkway is lined with thousands of luminarias, illuminated oak trees, and the light-splashed forts of Fortlandia. There are also s’mores kits, food trucks, and drinks available for purchase. Tickets are required, so get yours today!
COTA’s Peppermint Parkway
When: November 26 - December 26
Where: Circuit of the America’s
The holidays are sweeter with a trip to Peppermint Parkway. This immersive experience starts with a drive through Tunnel Road, where guests will encounter over 6 million lights, live characters and elves, roller-skating snowflakes, and even sightings of the Grinch. The drive will end at the Peppermint Plaza for guests to enjoy rides, food, drink, and more entertainment. Get your tickets here!
A Christmas Carol at ZACH Theatre
When: November 24 - January 2
Where: The Topfer at ZACH Theatre
Reminiscence with the Charles Dickens classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, but in a new and exciting telling. Bring the whole family for this upbeat and lively version of A Christmas Carol, with musical surprises of popular songs along the way. For more information regarding COVID protocols and to purchase tickets, click here.
The Nutcracker by Ballet Austin
When: December 4 - 24
Where: The Long Center
Watch hundreds of ballet dancers perform Stephen Mills dazzling choreography to Peter Tchaikovsky’s musical score of The Nutcracker. This annual performance brings the magic of the season to life with colorful sets, glistening costumes, live music from the Austin Symphony Orchestra, and vignettes throughout the center for photo ops. Tickets can be purchased here.