Austin, TX

I-35 expansion project: Austin officials show off new renderings

Published

1 year ago

November 15, 2024

I-35 expansion project: Austin officials show off new renderings

I-35 expansion project: Austin shows new renderings

The city of Austin is giving a visual update on its Cap and Stitch program. The project is part of the Texas Department of Transportation’s expansion of I-35.

AUSTIN, Texas – The city of Austin is giving a visual update on its Cap and Stitch program. The project is part of the Texas Department of Transportation’s expansion of I-35.

The city says the project is aimed at creating public spaces over the highway.

TxDOT held a groundbreaking ceremony on the I-35 Capital Express Central Project last month.

The project will lower the highway’s main lanes between Lady Bird Lake and Airport Boulevard.

The city of Austin plans to add caps and stitches to the project to create more public spaces and bridge the East and West sides of town.

TxDOT breaks ground on I-35 expansion project

The Texas Department of Transportation is breaking ground on the I-35 Capital Express Central project.

“The key intent is really to document what we have been hearing from residents and community members over the past two-ish years of our outreach in regard to Austinites’ desired outcomes for the city’s cap and stitch effort,” says Transportation Public Works transportation officer Michelle Marx.

Residents were surveyed at several open houses from the months of May through August. A new draft of the vision plan was presented in front of the mobility committee on Thursday.

“The vision plan does start by articulating where Cap and Stitches are going to be possible in Austin and those are the locations you are seeing on your map here in blue. We do also identify where The University of Texas is evaluating opportunities outside the city’s efforts,” says Marx.

I-35 expansion project to begin construction

TxDOT is expected to break ground this week on a massive I-35 expansion. However, protesters are still trying to stop the project from moving forward.

According to the city, the Caps and Stitches could create up to 25 acres of public space, stretching from Holly Street to Airport Boulevard, which should include large trees, shade, lighting, public art, walking and bicycle paths, landscaping and micromobility hubs.

“A wide array of open space, park-like features as well as buildings in some, if not many locations,” says Michelle Marx.

The city says the buildings will be limited to two stories. The spaces will be used for recreational activities.

Updated I-35 cap-and-stitch plans unveiled

The city of Austin showcased some updated plans for caps and stitches across I-35 in downtown at an open house on Saturday.

But the Caps and Stitches must meet certain guidelines.

“The real driving factor for that is the requirement that TxDOT has provided us is that we provide a minimum of 16 and a half feet of vertical clearance from the roadway surface at any highway or on and off ramp locations to any kind of deck,” says Michelle Marx.

The concepts and plans were split into five phases, according to the draft provided.

“TxDOT will be constructing the structural elements on our behalf. They will be city funded but constructed in conjunction with the project, so TxDOT will be breaking ground in approximately mid-26. They are scheduled for substantial completion in approximately 2032, so any city funded cap features that we fold into their scope we are looking at about a 2032 completion date,” says Marx.

There will be another meeting next to discuss the next steps in the process and the funding.

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Austin, TX

RFQ alert: City of Austin seeks quotations for 111 solar installations

Published

3 hours ago

December 16, 2025

Press Room

RFQ alert: City of Austin seeks quotations for 111 solar installations

Austin, Texas seeks offers of design, engineering, installation, operations and maintenance and decommissioning of solar projects on municipal facilities.

December 16, 2025
Anne Fischer

Image: Jan Van Bizar, Pexels

Last spring Austin, Texas city council members approved a resolution to put solar on the rooftops of city-owned buildings. The resolution supports the Austin Climate Equity Plan that aims for net-zero community-wide carbon emissions by 2040 with an emphasis on cutting emissions by 2030. In keeping with that plan, the city is seeking a request for quotations (RFQ) for the solar projects planned for 111 municipal facilities.

Austin plans to make use of existing infrastructure by placing solar on rooftops and over parking lots. In addition to parking lots, the City-owned facilities on the site list designated for solar include at least seven fire stations, libraries, maintenance facilities, garages, recreation centers, city hall, and more.

Quotations on design, engineering, building, operations, maintenance and decommissioning are due by January 6, 2026 at 2 p.m. CST with questions due by December 22, 2025 at 5 p.m. CST. An online pre-offer conference will take place via Microsoft Teams on December 19, 2025 at 11 a.m. CST. Teams meeting ID: 277 171 690 189 99 Passcode 45Vf2kK3. Solicitation-specific questions can be directed to shawn.willett@austintexas.gov.

Austin’s electric customers are served by Austin Energy and connected to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) grid.

This content is protected by copyright and may not be reused. If you want to cooperate with us and would like to reuse some of our content, please contact: editors@pv-magazine.com.

Austin, TX

Texas music legend Joe Ely dies at 78, leaving lasting Austin legacy

Published

15 hours ago

December 16, 2025

Press Room

Texas music legend Joe Ely dies at 78, leaving lasting Austin legacy

Joe Ely, a Texas singer-songwriter and guitarist, passed away at the age of 78 on Monday, as reported by Rolling Stone.

Ely, a pivotal figure in the 1970s progressive country movement, died at his home in New Mexico due to complications from Lewy Body Dementia, Parkinson’s, and pneumonia.

Ely’s influence on Austin’s music scene was profound. Known for his unique blend of country, rock, folk, and Tex-Mex, Ely was a driving force behind the city’s progressive country music scene.

ALSO| Austin Jewish community continues Hanukkah celebrations amid global tragedy

He was inducted into the Austin City Limits Hall of Fame in 2022, a testament to his enduring impact on the music community.

Born on Feb. 9, 1947, in Amarillo, Texas, and raised in Lubbock, Ely’s music was deeply rooted in West Texas. Despite his close association with Austin, he often returned to the wide-open spaces of West Texas for inspiration.

“Every time I start a new album, I head up to West Texas and drive around,” Ely told Texas Monthly in 2011.

Ely’s career began with the formation of the Flatlanders, a trailblazing country trio with fellow Texans Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Butch Hancock. Although their debut album, “All American Music,” was initially overlooked, the group later gained recognition as a quintessential display of West Texas country storytelling.

Throughout his career, Ely collaborated with a diverse array of artists, including Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, and the Clash. His live performances were legendary, captivating audiences from Lubbock to London. Ely’s contributions to music were recognized by the Texas Legislature, which named him the Official 2016 Texas State Musician.

Reflecting on his journey, Ely once said, “I made it this far. I had teachers tell me I wouldn’t make it to 21 when I was going to high school, so I beat the odds, you know?” His legacy as a songwriter’s songwriter and a musician’s musician will continue to inspire generations to come.

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Austin, TX

Free And Fun Events In Austin December 19 – December 21

Published

1 day ago

December 15, 2025

Press Room

Free And Fun Events In Austin December 19 – December 21

Last Updated On – 15th December, 2025

Jump to: Free | Friday | Saturday | Sunday | Kids

The best free and fun events in Austin, December 19-21, include Leslie Odom Jr: The Christmas Tour, The Mutt-Cracker (SWEET!), and more!

I’ve rounded up the top events and activities happening across the city, from festivals and outdoor fun to live shows and family-friendly picks. Please scroll down for my picks or use the links above to skip to your favorite section!

Stay on top of the best weekend events in Austin with our always up-to-date guide to Things to Do in Austin this Weekend! Published every Monday and updated throughout the week!

Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change.

We update this guide each week with verified listings from trusted sources. Still, details can change — please confirm with the event organizer before heading out. This post may contain affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Christmas Lights are shining brightly across Austin! Check out our capstone article on Best Christmas Lights 2025 in Austin.

And if you want detailed guides on the best neighborhoods, check out our posts on 37th Street Lights, Pemberton Heights Christmas Lights, Austin Trail of Lights, and Georgetown Square Holiday Lights.

Things to do in Austin this Weekend – Free Events in Austin (December 19 – 21)

Blue Genie Art Bazaar

Join Austin’s beloved holiday shopping experience, the Blue Genie Art Bazaar (BGAB), as it returns for its spectacular 25th year!

You can find unique handmade jewelry, beautiful artwork, home goods, and gifts for everyone on your list, all featuring the work of more than 200 talented regional artists.

As always, BGAB offers a family-friendly, hassle-free environment where you can easily purchase holiday gifts while supporting local vendors.

Where: Blue Genie Art Bazaar, 6100 Airport Blvd, Ste C, Austin, TX 78752
When: Friday, December 19 – 24, 2025
How Much: Free

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.

In addition to the market, Contracommon will host a festive holiday party and Mario Kart Tournament on Saturday, December 13th, from 6 pm to 11 pm.

Where: Contracommon, 12912 Hill Country Blvd f140, Bee Cave, TX 78738
When: Friday, December 19, 2025 – January 2, 2026
How Much: Free

The Market at Zach

Get ready for a fresh holiday shopping experience at The Market at Zach, an open-air pop-up showcasing the best local artisans and makers from Austin and Central Texas. The People’s Plaza will transform into a vibrant hub filled with unique finds from handcrafted home goods and jewelry to art, candles, clothing, and much more.

With over two dozen curated artists and makers, plus a bar serving specialty holiday drinks and local food stalls, there’s something for everyone.

The Market at Zach runs for five dates this holiday season, so catch it while it’s here!

Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, December 19 – 20, 2025
How Much: Free

Mozart’s Festival of Lights

Image credit: Mozart’s Coffee Roasters

Celebrate the start of 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: Saturday, December 20, 2025 – January 3, 2026 | 6 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Free

Winter Solstice Festival

Celebrate the season at the Winter Solstice Festival, hosted by Moss Market! Enjoy a day filled with live music, festive ornament-making, and shopping from local vendors. Warm up by the fire as you indulge in delicious food and drinks.

Where: Ani’s Day and Night, 7107 E Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78741
When: Sunday, December 21, 2025
How Much: Free

Things to do in Austin this Weekend – Friday Events (19th of December)

He Rules The World

Step into an unforgettable holiday evening with He Rules The World. When you reserve your seat, you’ll enjoy a triple-feature celebration that brings together The Nativity Rock Opera, The Nutcracker Reading with a Christmas Carol Sing-Along, and The Fire & Water Show in one spectacular night.

Showtimes start at 6:30 PM and 8:30 PM, and limited tickets are available, so you’ll want to secure your spot for this immersive holiday experience.

Where: Mozart’s Coffee Roasters, 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
When: Friday, December 19 – 20, 2025
How Much: Starts at $45

Ventana Ballet presents Frostbite: The Witch Who Melted Winter

Ventana Ballet invites you into Frostbite: The Witch Who Melted Winter, an immersive holiday adventure full of magic, mischief, and laughter. The mischievous witch sets out to take control of the season, sending guests on a journey from the eerie Undead Woods to the sparkling realm of Winterland.

Along the way, you’ll encounter enchanting characters like Señor Snow, the Polar Bear, the Ice Unicorn, and a lively flock of penguins. Every moment blends comedy, charm, and winter wonder, creating a festive experience that surprises and delights at every turn.

Where: East Side Performing Arts, 979 Springdale Rd Ste 815, Austin, TX 78702
When: Friday, December 19 – 21, 2025
How Much: Starts at $20

The Mutt-Cracker (SWEET!)

Image credit: The VORTEX

Step into a one-of-a-kind holiday spectacle in Austin! This year’s performance showcases incredible rescue dogs, including the newest stars, Dragonfly and Firefly.

Watch in awe as Darren Peterson dazzles with his expert juggling, unicycling, and extraordinary dog-training skills.

Where: East Side Performing Arts, 979 Springdale Rd Ste 815, Austin, TX 78702
When: Friday, December 19, 2025
How Much: Starts at $15

Austin Trail Of Lights

Enjoy the Austin Trail of Lights, where more than 2 million lights brighten the park with 90 lighted holiday trees and over 70 displays and tunnels.

At the center of the Trail, the North Pole features Santa’s House and Santa’s Workshop, adding a classic holiday touch to your visit. Zilker Square rounds out the experience with more food, rides, shopping, and live music, giving you plenty to enjoy throughout the night.

Where: Zilker Metropolitan Park, Austin, TX 78746
When: Friday, December 19 – 23, 2025 | 7 pm
How Much: Starts at $10.62

Ballet Austin: The Nutcracker

Ballet Austin presents its 63rd annual production of The Nutcracker, a holiday tradition brimming with magic and wonder.

Follow Clara from a festive holiday party to the shimmering Land of Sweets, where she meets the dazzling Sugar Plum Fairy and the brave Nutcracker Prince.

Where: The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, December 19 – 23, 2025
How Much: Starts at $25

Luminations

Image credit: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Experience the magic of Luminations at the Wildflower Center this winter, where twinkling lights illuminate the natural beauty of the gardens. Stroll glowing paths, enjoy nightly live music, and savor hot chocolate and churros while capturing festive photo-worthy moments.

Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Friday, December 19, 2025 – January 3, 2026
How Much: Free – $30

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: Friday, December 19 – 30, 2025
How Much: Not stated

Weekly Tree Lightings at Hotel Viata

Make sweet holiday memories by attending one of the Weekly Tree Lightings in Hotel Viata’s Courtyard.

Gather on the hilltop as the switch is flipped on the holiday tree, guaranteed to be complete with a 100% chance of snow at every lighting.

You can also enjoy live music with holiday covers almost every Friday and Saturday, write Letters to Santa, savor complimentary cookies and hot cocoa by the tree, or warm up around the fire pits with s’mores kits available for purchase.

Where: Hotel Viata, 320 S Capital of Texas Hwy, West Lake Hills, TX 78746
When: Friday, December 19 – 27, 2025 | 5 pm – 7 pm
How Much: Complimentary access

Oh, What Fun! Austin Holiday Market

Kick off your holiday season right by visiting the brand-new Oh What Fun! Austin Holiday Market.

Running through Christmas Eve, this market showcases a curated, rotating selection of local makers and retailers offering everything from handmade jewelry and ceramics to clothing and artisan treats.

You can shop for gifts from 11 am to 9 pm every Thursday through Sunday, grab a bite from local food trucks, enjoy musical performances, and sip a themed drink until 10 pm at the festive “What a Wonderful Lounge” cocktail bar.

Where: Republic Square, 422 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, December 19 – 21, 2025
How Much: No cover

Peppermint Parkway

Image Credit: Peppermint Parkway

Experience a drive-through holiday spectacular at Peppermint Parkway, where you will find holiday displays, millions of lights, and dancing characters.

You can enjoy festivities in Peppermint Plaza before or after your trip down the Parkway, where you can race at COTA Karting, enjoy amusement park rides, grab a bite to eat, and sing holiday carols.

You can also snap a picture with Santa, grab a holiday-themed drink at the Peppermint Pub, shop at Mint’s Market, and even take a spin on the brand-new Circuit Breaker supercoaster.

Where: Circuit of the Americas, 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd, Del Valle, TX 78617
When: Friday, December 19 – 28, 2025
How Much: Starts at $10

A Christmas Carol

Back for its eleventh dazzling year, this beloved production offers a soulful sleigh ride through the timeless tale. Secure your ticket for this exciting reimagined tale featuring fresh songs and a whole lot of soul.

Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, December 19, 2025 – January 3, 202
How Much: Starts at $63

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: Friday, December 19 – 28, 2025
How Much: Starts at $13.30

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: Friday, December 19, 2025 – January 4, 2026
How Much: Starts at $29

A Charlie Brown Christmas

See the beloved holiday classic, A Charlie Brown Christmas, come magically to life on stage!

Follow the wonderful journey of Charlie Brown as he searches for the true meaning of Christmas. The entire Peanuts gang, including Snoopy and Linus, will be joining him on his quest.

Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, December 19 – 28, 2025
How Much: Starts at $30

Fortlandia

Discover your new secret hideout at Fortlandia, an exciting interactive exhibit waiting for you this fall at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center! Connect directly with the environment by climbing upon, crawling through, and exploring a brand-new lineup of unique forts designed by local artists.

Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Friday, December 19, 2025 – February 1, 2026
How Much: $18 for adults | $15 for seniors and military | $12 for kids 3 – 17 | Free for kids under 3

Things to Do in Austin this Weekend – Saturday Events (December 20th)

Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings

Experience the magic of live holiday music in a whole new way. Set against the soft glow of candlelight, the Alma Thomas Fine Arts Center at Southwestern University becomes the perfect backdrop for a festive evening of Christmas carols, beautifully performed on strings.

The program includes timeless classics like “12 Days of Christmas,” “Angels We Have Heard On High,” “Carol of the Bells,” and many more, creating an unforgettable night of holiday cheer.

Where: Alma Thomas Fine Arts Center at Southwestern University, 1001 E University Ave, Georgetown, TX 78626
When: Saturday, December 20, 2025 | 8:45 pm
How Much: Starts at $57.50

Christmas Cookie Decorating Class at Fareground

Get ready for a hands-on holiday treat! This Saturday, dive into the art of cookie decorating as you learn expert techniques like piping, flooding, and texturing, all while decorating six festive cookies.

No prior experience is needed—just bring your creativity and holiday cheer for a fun, interactive class that’s perfect for both food lovers and crafty minds alike.

Where: Fareground Austin, 111 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, December 20, 2025 | 6 pm
How Much: Starts at $59

Hoppy Holidays with Tinsel Singers

Image credit: nchmuseum

Join in the festive cheer at Beerthoven’s annual holiday celebration! This year, the Tinsel Singers bring their signature blend of carols to the front steps of the Neill-Cochran House Museum, filling the air with a mix of classical and contemporary holiday favorites.

Known for their innovative arrangements and stunning vocal talent—featuring Grammy® winners and classically trained singers—Tinsel brings a fresh twist to cherished Christmas classics.

While you enjoy the live performance, sip on hot cocoa, warm pastries, and cold beer, all courtesy of Easy Tiger and Lazarus Brewing, completely free of charge! Plus, each ticket includes a voucher for a future visit to the museum’s exhibits.

Cozy up with a blanket, and get ready for a night of great music, delicious treats, and unforgettable holiday spirit.

Where: The Neill-Cochran House Museum, 2310 San Gabriel St, Austin, TX 78705
When: Saturday, December 20, 2025 | 7 pm
How Much: $10 – $30

Armadillo Christmas Bazaar

Explore 44,000 square feet of artist booths, temporary galleries, and unique holiday shopping. Enjoy full bars, local eats from Southside Flying Pizza, and fun photo ops throughout the venue.

The event also hosts the annual National String Off Competition, just another way the Armadillo helps “keep Austin weird.”

Where: Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, December 20 – 21, 2025 |11 am – 8:30 pm
How Much: Starts at $12

Thinkery’s Gingerbread Workshops

Thinkery’s Gingerbread Workshops invite you and the kids to build, decorate, and make magical memories together in a festive, hands-on environment.

Each 60-minute workshop is designed for children of all ages (best for ages 2+) and blends creativity with kid-powered engineering. Enjoy a Candy Bar Buffet, explore candy chemistry, and dive into all the joyful mess you don’t have to clean up.

Where: Thinkery, 1830 Simond Ave, Austin, TX 78723
When: Saturday, December 20 – 23, 2025
How Much: $60 – $70

Things to Do in Austin this Weekend – Sunday Events December 21st

Leslie Odom, Jr.: The Christmas Tour

Get into the holiday spirit with Leslie Odom, Jr. as he brings his Christmas Tour to life! Enjoy a mix of beloved holiday classics, original songs from his Christmas albums, and special renditions of hits from Hamilton, the Broadway smash that earned him a Tony Award.

Where: The Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
When: Sunday, December 21, 2025 | 7 pm
How Much: Not stated

Lights on the Lake – a Christmas Walk Thru!

Step into a holiday wonderland at Lights on the Lake, the newest Christmas walk-through experience in Austin! Set along the beautiful shores of Lake Travis, this magical event offers stunning Christmas displays, vibrant lights, and endless festive fun for the whole family.

Stroll through enchanting light displays, capture unforgettable photos, and enjoy holiday crafts, festive drinks, and delicious food. Meet Santa on Saturdays, or visit the Grinch on open days. With cozy spots to relax, play games, and soak up the season, there’s holiday magic around every corner.

Where: Volente Beach Waterpark, 16107 Farm to Market Rd 2769, Suite D, Leander, TX 78641
When: Sunday, December 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026
How Much: $10 – $15

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: Sunday, December 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026 | 4 pm – 9 pm
How Much: Starts at $35

Things to Do in Austin this Weekend – Kids Events December 19th to 21st

Ventana Ballet presents Frostbite: The Witch Who Melted Winter

Where: East Side Performing Arts, 979 Springdale Rd Ste 815, Austin, TX 78702
When: Friday, December 19 – 21, 2025
How Much: Starts at $20

The Mutt-Cracker (SWEET!)

Step into a one-of-a-kind holiday spectacle in Austin! This year’s performance showcases incredible rescue dogs, including the newest stars, Dragonfly and Firefly.

Watch in awe as Darren Peterson dazzles with his expert juggling, unicycling, and extraordinary dog-training skills.

Where: East Side Performing Arts, 979 Springdale Rd Ste 815, Austin, TX 78702
When: Friday, December 19, 2025
How Much: Starts at $15

Ballet Austin: The Nutcracker

Ballet Austin presents its 63rd annual production of The Nutcracker, a holiday tradition brimming with magic and wonder.

Follow Clara from a festive holiday party to the shimmering Land of Sweets, where she meets the dazzling Sugar Plum Fairy and the brave Nutcracker Prince.

Where: The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, December 19 – 23, 2025
How Much: Starts at $25

Luminations

Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Friday, December 19, 2025 – January 3, 2026
How Much: Free – $30

Weekly Tree Lightings at Hotel Viata

Make sweet holiday memories by attending one of the Weekly Tree Lightings in Hotel Viata’s Courtyard.

Gather on the hilltop as the switch is flipped on the holiday tree, guaranteed to be complete with a 100% chance of snow at every lighting.

Where: Hotel Viata, 320 S Capital of Texas Hwy, West Lake Hills, TX 78746
When: Friday, December 19 – 27, 2025 | 5 pm – 7 pm
How Much: Complimentary access

Peppermint Parkway

Experience a walk-through holiday spectacular at Peppermint Parkway, where you will find holiday displays, millions of lights, and dancing characters.

You can “Fa-La-La” in love with Peppermint Plaza before or after your trip down the Parkway, where you can race at COTA Karting, enjoy amusement park rides, grab a bite, and sing holiday carols.

You can also snap a picture with Santa, grab a holiday-themed drink at the Peppermint Pub, shop at Mint’s Market, and even take a spin on the brand-new Circuit Breaker supercoaster.

Where: Circuit of the Americas, 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd, Del Valle, TX 78617
When: Friday, December 19 – 28, 2025
How Much: Starts at $10

A Christmas Carol

Back for its eleventh dazzling year, this beloved production offers a soulful sleigh ride through the timeless tale. Secure your ticket for this exciting reimagining that features fresh songs and a whole lot of soul.

Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, December 19, 2025 – January 3, 202
How Much: Starts at $63

Blue Genie Art Bazaar

Join Austin’s beloved holiday shopping experience, the Blue Genie Art Bazaar (BGAB), as it returns for its spectacular 25th year!

You can find unique handmade jewelry, beautiful artwork, home goods, and gifts for everyone on your list, all featuring the work of more than 200 talented regional artists.

As always, BGAB offers a family-friendly, hassle-free environment where you can easily purchase holiday gifts while supporting local vendors.

Where: Blue Genie Art Bazaar, 6100 Airport Blvd, Ste C, Austin, TX 78752
When: Friday, December 19 – 24, 2025
How Much: Free

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: Friday, December 19, 2025 – January 4, 2026
How Much: Starts at $29

A Charlie Brown Christmas

See the beloved holiday classic, A Charlie Brown Christmas, come magically to life on stage!

Follow the wonderful journey of Charlie Brown as he searches for the true meaning of Christmas. The entire Peanuts gang, including Snoopy and Linus, will be joining him on his quest.

Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, December 19 – 28, 2025
How Much: Starts at $30

Fortlandia

Christmas Cookie Decorating Class at Fareground

No prior experience is needed—just bring your creativity and holiday cheer for a fun, interactive class that’s perfect for both food lovers and crafty minds alike.

Where: Fareground Austin, 111 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, December 20, 2025 | 6 pm
How Much: Starts at $59

Armadillo Christmas Bazaar

Explore 44,000 square feet of artist booths, temporary galleries, and unique holiday shopping. Enjoy full bars, local eats from Southside Flying Pizza, and fun photo ops throughout the venue.

The event also hosts the annual National String Off Competition, just another way the Armadillo helps “keep Austin weird.”

Where: Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, December 20- 21, 2025 |11 am – 8:30 pm
How Much: Starts at $12

Thinkery’s Gingerbread Workshops

Thinkery’s Gingerbread Workshops invite you and the kids to build, decorate, and make magical memories together in a festive, hands-on environment.

Where: Thinkery, 1830 Simond Ave, Austin, TX 78723
When: Saturday, December 20 – 23, 2025
How Much: $60 – $70

Mozart’s Festival of Lights

Celebrate the start of the holiday season right after Thanksgiving at Mozart’s Festival of Lights, a brilliant spectacle perfect for your list of enchanting things to do Thanksgiving week in Austin.

Experience over a million twinkling lights and brilliant displays that offer endless photo opportunities.

And enjoy a unique twist on classic holiday markets featuring charming wooden chalets, savory Salt Lick BBQ, delectable sweet treats, and Mozart’s renowned hot chocolate while live entertainment, including Texas and Celtic Christmas music, plays throughout the festival.

Where: Mozart’s Coffee Roasters, 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
When: Saturday, December 20, 2025 – January 3, 2026 | 6 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Free

Winter Solstice Festival

Where: Ani’s Day and Night, 7107 E Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78741
When: Sunday, December 21, 2025
How Much: Free

Lights on the Lake – a Christmas Walk Thru!

Where: Volente Beach Waterpark, 16107 Farm to Market Rd 2769, Suite D, Leander, TX 78641
When: Sunday, December 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026
How Much: $10 – $15

Ice Rodeo: Lakeside Ice Skating

Where: Four Seasons Hotel Austin, 98 San Jacinto Blvd. Austin, TX 78701
When: Sunday, December 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026 | 4 pm – 9 pm
How Much: Starts at $35

Lacey is a freelancer and Austin local who’s always on the hunt for new restaurants to try, fun activities to do, and local events to attend. She loves sharing her discoveries with others through her writing and hopes her work encourages both visitors and locals to be active in the community. When she’s not writing, you can find her exploring one of the city’s many hiking trails with her Blue Heeler, Oreo, getting lost in a good book, or dancing the night away to some house or techno beats at one of her favorite rave spots.