Austin, TX
Christmas Eve In Austin 2025 – Events, Food, Fun & More
Last Updated On – 23rd December, 2025
Jump to: Christmas-themed Events | Family-Friendly Activities | Free Events | Adults-Only Christmas Events | Where to Eat on Christmas Eve | Last-Minute Shopping
As the sun sets on December 24, Austin shifts into celebration mode. The air feels lighter, the city feels closer, and the night opens up with events designed to bring people together.
These Christmas Eve in Austin happenings offer the perfect way to spend the final hours before Christmas Day arrives.
And if you are looking for more ways to spend the break, explore concerts, pop-ups, markets, and local outings in our latest guide to the Best Weekend Events in Austin.
Editor’s Note: We strive to keep listings up to date, but details are subject to change. Always verify with event organizers or participating locations before heading out.
This article may contain affiliate links. Purchases made through them may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Looking for more holiday fun? Christmas Eve is just the beginning. From festive shows and light displays to family-friendly outings and seasonal experiences, Austin stays busy all week long. Be sure to explore our full guide to Things to Do During Christmas Week in Austin for even more ways to make the most of the holiday break.
Christmas-Themed Events and Holiday Activities
Merry Makers Market
Get ready for the second annual Merry Makers Market, hosted by Contracommon, where holiday shopping meets local artistry. This booth-style market will showcase art and handmade goods from talented Austin-area artists. It’s the perfect place to find unique gifts while supporting creative small businesses this holiday season.
Browse original paintings, prints, sculptures, jewelry, ornaments, homewares, and more from artists like Alison Lackey, Cara Jackson, Emily Tolipova, and many others.
Where: Contracommon, 12912 Hill Country Blvd f140, Bee Cave, TX 78738
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Free
Mozart’s Festival of Lights
Image credit: Mozart’s Coffee Roasters
Celebrate the holiday season at Mozart’s Festival of Lights, a brilliant spectacle perfect for the whole family.
Experience over a million twinkling lights and brilliant displays that offer endless photo opportunities.
Additionally, you can enjoy a holiday market, dine on tasty bites from vendors like savory Salt Lick BBQ, and treat yourself to delectable sweets and Mozart’s renowned hot chocolate. Live entertainment, including Texas and Celtic Christmas music, will play throughout the festival.
Where: Mozart’s Coffee Roasters, 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Free
The Light Park
Buckle up, turn up the volume, and prepare for a dazzling experience at The Light Park! You will immerse yourself in a mile-long light show featuring millions of stunning LED lights perfectly synchronized to high-energy holiday music presented by DJ Polar Ice.
This resident mixologist spins re-imagined holiday favorites blended with fresh beats to keep the energy high from start to finish, and you can even tune in before arrival to set the festive tone on your drive to The Light Park.
From giant illuminated tunnels to towering animated trees and dancing reindeer, every night promises an unforgettable spectacle of color and sound designed to delight all ages.
Where: Dell Diamond, 3400 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Starts at $29
Ice Rodeo: Lakeside Ice Skating
Celebrate the holiday season at Four Seasons Hotel Austin with the return of Ice Rodeo: Lakeside Ice Skating! From November 21, 2025, through January 4, 2026, this lakeside retreat transforms into a festive gathering spot just steps from Lady Bird Lake.
Enjoy outdoor ice skating, themed skating nights, and cozy festive cabanas, all set against immersive décor that brings the magic of the North Pole to Texas. Then, savor seasonal menus featuring local flavors and create lasting memories in this vibrant holiday destination.
Where: Four Seasons Hotel Austin, 98 San Jacinto Blvd. Austin, TX 78701
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Starts at $35
Santa’s Ranch – New Braunfels
Image credit: Santa’s Ranch-Drive-thru Christmas Light Park
Drive along winding country roads at Santa’s Ranch and see over 3 million lights bring holiday magic to life. You’ll spot Santa on a four-wheeler, elves ice skating, nutcracker castles, and even Star Wars scenes, all glowing across a mile of festive displays.
A towering 50-foot Christmas tree will mark the entrance, welcoming you to this long-running holiday tradition.
You can then stop for hot chocolate, kettle corn, or pet-friendly treats at the concession stand and snap photos of whimsical touches, like Santa tossing footballs to reindeer or lighting a fire under a snowman.
Where: 9561 I-35, New Braunfels, TX 78130
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Starts at $37
37th Street Lights
Image Credit: 37th Street Lights FB Page
Step into the playful spirit of the season as West 37th Street bursts to life with bold colors, imaginative sculptures, and creative light displays. Here, you can see homes and yards decorated with fun themes such as Taylor Swift tributes, circuses, or Candyland, blending holiday lights with humor and DIY charm.
Aside from the lights, the community also sets up interactive stations such as the insecurity checkpoint, where you can share a secret, the manifestation station, where you can write a dream for the year ahead, and the beloved Stuffed Animal Petting Zoo.
The street stays open only to foot traffic, so you and your loved ones can enjoy an easy, relaxed stroll each night from sunset to 10 pm throughout December.
Where: 507 W 37th St, Austin, TX 78705
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Free
Zilker Holiday Tree
Step beneath the Zilker Holiday Tree and watch thousands of colorful LEDs spiral around one of Austin’s historic moontowers. You’ll see the 10-foot double star glowing at the top as the lights shimmer across the 155-foot tree, creating a magical scene that fills the park with a spirited glow.
For fun, try spinning slowly beneath the lights and watch the pattern swirl above you. It’s playful tradition since 1967 that keeps Austin’s longest-standing holiday celebration bright and joyful!
Where: 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Free
Domain Northside Holiday Display
Head over to the Northside Lawn and watch the Holiday Tree light up with a dazzling show of synchronized lights, filling the air with festive energy. You can also catch performances each hour, with extended evening hours on weekends, and enjoy playful touches like the Gen Z Selfie Wall and seasonal photo spots.
You’ll also find Letters to Santa open until December 24, family-friendly activities (like snow globe making, face painting, and balloon twisting), plus ongoing giveaways and holiday guides for shopping and events.
Where: 11821 Rock Rose Ave, Austin, TX 78758
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Free
Family-Friendly and Kid-Focused Activities
Mozart’s Festival of Lights
Celebrate the holiday season at Mozart’s Festival of Lights, a brilliant spectacle perfect for the whole family.
Experience over a million twinkling lights and brilliant displays that offer endless photo opportunities.
Additionally, you can enjoy a holiday market, dine on tasty bites from vendors like savory Salt Lick BBQ, and treat yourself to delectable sweets and Mozart’s renowned hot chocolate. Live entertainment, including Texas and Celtic Christmas music, will play throughout the festival.
Where: Mozart’s Coffee Roasters, 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Free
The Light Park
Buckle up, turn up the volume, and prepare for a dazzling experience at The Light Park! You will immerse yourself in a mile-long light show featuring millions of stunning LED lights perfectly synchronized to high-energy holiday music presented by DJ Polar Ice.
This resident mixologist spins re-imagined holiday favorites blended with fresh beats to keep the energy high from start to finish, and you can even tune in before arrival to set the festive tone on your drive to The Light Park.
From giant illuminated tunnels to towering animated trees and dancing reindeer, every night promises an unforgettable spectacle of color and sound designed to delight all ages.
Where: Dell Diamond, 3400 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Starts at $29
Ice Rodeo: Lakeside Ice Skating
Image credit: Four Seasons Hotel Austin
Celebrate the holiday season at Four Seasons Hotel Austin with the return of Ice Rodeo: Lakeside Ice Skating! From November 21, 2025, through January 4, 2026, this lakeside retreat transforms into a festive gathering spot just steps from Lady Bird Lake.
Enjoy outdoor ice skating, themed skating nights, and cozy festive cabanas, all set against immersive décor that brings the magic of the North Pole to Texas. Then, savor seasonal menus featuring local flavors and create lasting memories in this vibrant holiday destination.
Where: Four Seasons Hotel Austin, 98 San Jacinto Blvd. Austin, TX 78701
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Starts at $35
Santa’s Ranch – New Braunfels
Drive along winding country roads at Santa’s Ranch and see over 3 million lights bring holiday magic to life. You’ll spot Santa on a four-wheeler, elves ice skating, nutcracker castles, and even Star Wars scenes, all glowing across a mile of festive displays.
A towering 50-foot Christmas tree will mark the entrance, welcoming you to this long-running holiday tradition.
You can then stop for hot chocolate, kettle corn, or pet-friendly treats at the concession stand and snap photos of whimsical touches, like Santa tossing footballs to reindeer or lighting a fire under a snowman.
Where: 9561 I-35, New Braunfels, TX 78130
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Starts at $37
Domain Northside Holiday Display
Head over to the Northside Lawn and watch the Holiday Tree light up with a dazzling show of synchronized lights, filling the air with festive energy. You can also catch performances each hour, with extended evening hours on weekends, and enjoy playful touches like the Gen Z Selfie Wall and seasonal photo spots.
You’ll also find Letters to Santa open until December 24, family-friendly activities (like snow globe making, face painting, and balloon twisting), plus ongoing giveaways and holiday guides for shopping and events.
Where: 11821 Rock Rose Ave, Austin, TX 78758
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Free
Free Events and Neighborhood Light Displays
37th Street Lights
Step into the playful spirit of the season as West 37th Street bursts to life with bold colors, imaginative sculptures, and creative light displays. Here, you can see homes and yards decorated with fun themes such as Taylor Swift tributes, circuses, or Candyland, blending holiday lights with humor and DIY charm.
Aside from the lights, the community also sets up interactive stations such as the insecurity checkpoint, where you can share a secret, the manifestation station, where you can write a dream for the year ahead, and the beloved Stuffed Animal Petting Zoo.
The street stays open only to foot traffic, so you and your loved ones can enjoy an easy, relaxed stroll each night from sunset to 10 pm throughout December.
Where: 507 W 37th St, Austin, TX 78705
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Free
Zilker Holiday Tree
Image credit: Zilker Holiday Tree
Step beneath the Zilker Holiday Tree and watch thousands of colorful LEDs spiral around one of Austin’s historic moontowers. You’ll see the 10-foot double star glowing at the top as the lights shimmer across the 155-foot tree, creating a magical scene that fills the park with a spirited glow.
For fun, try spinning slowly beneath the lights and watch the pattern swirl above you. It’s playful tradition since 1967 that keeps Austin’s longest-standing holiday celebration bright and joyful!
Where: 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Free
Nightlife and Adults-Only Christmas Eve Events
The Ugly Sweater Holiday Pop-up Bar
Jingle and mingle at The Ugly Sweater Holiday Pop-up Bar at Rules and Regs! Come dressed in your best festive attire and embrace the merry vibes, complete with kitschy holiday decor, lively drinks, and a fun seasonal menu.
Where: Fairmont Austin, 101 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Not stated
Miracle on 5th Street Christmas Pop-Up Bar
Step into a winter wonderland at Miracle on 5th Street Christmas Pop-Up Bar, the most festive and nostalgic setting in the city!
This Christmas-themed cocktail bar features dazzling wall-to-wall holiday decor, multiple bars, and a whole lot of Christmas spirits.
You can sip one of the many Christmas cocktails crafted by the jolly staff, take your next profile picture in Santa’s Throne, and connect with friends and family in the city’s most decked-out holiday bar, enjoying Christmas cheer as you’ve never seen before.
This is a ticketed event with first-come, first-served tables and seats. For parties of fewer than 8, you can skip the General Admission line by purchasing limited-quantity Dasher Passes!
Where: The Eleanor, 307 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: December 24, 2025
How Much: Starts at $13.30
Where to Eat on Christmas Eve in Austin
If you’re planning a Christmas Eve meal out (or just want to skip cooking), these are five of the most popular, holiday-friendly picks featured in our 2025 guide: Kerbey Lane Cafe for a comforting Austin classic that’s great for an earlier meal, Waffle House for a reliably-anytime option when you need something late, Truluck’s for a special-occasion dinner with holiday vibes, The Cheesecake Factory for a crowd-pleasing spot that works for families and groups, and Din Ho Chinese BBQ when you’re craving something different that still feels festive. Since Christmas Eve hours and reservations can change by location and demand, always confirm before heading out.
For the full, verified 2025 lineup (plus hours and more options across the Austin area), head to our complete guide: Austin Restaurants Open on Christmas Eve.
Last-Minute Shopping and Store Hours
Need a last-minute gift, groceries, or a quick essentials run on December 24? Our 2025 guide highlights five go-to options that cover the biggest needs: H-E-B for groceries and holiday meal pickups, Whole Foods Market for prepared foods and nicer grab-and-go items, Target for gifts and stocking stuffers, CVS Pharmacy for prescriptions and late-in-the-day essentials, and 7-Eleven for true last-minute snacks, drinks, and basics when everything else is winding down. Most locations run on reduced Christmas Eve hours, so it’s smart to shop earlier and double-check your nearest store before you go.
For a list of stores confirmed to be open in 2025, along with expected Christmas Eve hours, visit our full guide to Austin Stores Open on Christmas Eve.
There are always festive events happening across the city during the holidays. For seasonal attractions and local happenings, explore our curated Austin weekend event picks.
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AUSTIN, Texas — A man walking his dog with his son was fatally shot by a neighbor Friday evening in Northwest Austin, police said.
Billy Carlisle, 41, was shot at the intersection of Gardenridge Hollow and Wallace Drive at approximately 6:06 p.m. May 8. Austin-Travis County EMS attempted lifesaving measures, but Carlisle was pronounced dead at 6:45 p.m.
Hunter Buchmeyer, 36, was taken into custody in connection with the shooting.
According to APD, Carlisle was walking his dog with his son when he and Buchmeyer, also walking his dog, got into a verbal altercation. The two neighbors had “prior history,” APD said.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE | APD investigating deadly shooting in NW Austin; suspect in custody
The dispute escalated to the point that Buchmeyer called 911 to report the altercation before shooting Carlisle. According to police, Buchmeyer yelled at someone to “get back” before the call disconnected.
Buchmeyer remained at the scene and attempted CPR on Carlisle before officers arrived.
No charges have been filed. APD said the investigation remains open.
The case is being investigated as Austin’s 23rd homicide of 2026.
Anyone with information is asked to contact APD at 512-974-TIPS or submit an anonymous tip through Capital Area Crime Stoppers at austincrimestoppers.org or 512-472-8477. A reward of up to $1,000 may be available for information leading to an arrest.
There was a significant reduction in the number of antisemitic incidents in Rhode Island in 2025, according to a national Jewish advocacy group.
According to the Anti-Defamation League’s latest Audit of Antisemitic Incidents, there were 26 antisemitic incidents in the state last year. That’s down from the 52 incidents counted by the group in 2024.
Samantha Joseph, New England regional director of the Anti-Defamation League, says a big reason for the reduction is a steep decline in antisemitism on college campuses.
“It shows that campus administrators are taking their responsibilities very seriously to provide a safe environment for all of their students,” said Joseph.
Brown University had over $500 million in federal funding frozen by the Trump administration last year following investigations into alleged antisemitism on campus. The funding was restored after Brown reached a settlement with the administration.
The reduction in antisemitic incidents in Rhode Island reflects a wider trend in New England as a whole. According to the ADL’s report, there were 400 antisemitic incidents in the region in 2025, compared to 638 the previous year.
While she’s pleased about the overall drop in antisemitic incidents in Rhode Island, Joseph says a number of concerning trends continue to persist. In particular, the state is still seeing more anti-Jewish incidents than it did prior to the October 7 attacks on Israel that launched the Gaza War in 2023.
Joseph is also concerned about the violent nature of local incidents of antisemitism.
“Even though overall incidents are down, assaults are up and assaults with a deadly weapon are up significantly,” said Joseph. “Our communities remain concerned for their safety, and our work is far from done.”
AUSTIN (KXAN) — Severe thunderstorms are possible Sunday evening as a cold front arrives in Central Texas. KXAN’s First Warning Weather Team will keep you updated on the weather coverage.
Risks to be aware of are damaging wind gusts that could reach as high as 60 to 75 mph and large hail up to quarter size.
Weather Resources:
Live Updates:
5:22 p.m.: A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is issued for all counties except for Milam County.
3:51 p.m.: A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued for Mason, San Saba, and Lampasas County until 9:00 p.m.
3:30 p.m.: The primary risk for Sunday’s severe weather is damaging wind gusts which could cause power outages.
3:26 p.m.: Storms will likely move toward the I-35 corridor around 6 p.m. Most of the storms will enter the Hill Country around 6 p.m. and the Austin metro counties after 8 p.m.
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