There are plenty of exciting Christmas events happening all around Austin to help you celebrate the holidays!
We have hand-chosen a few of our favorites to help you decide:
Trail of Lights
The Austin Trail of Lights Festival in Zilker Park (near downtown) is a one mile walk through beautiful light displays! Next, get a cup of hot chocolate and gather the whole family around the stage for nightly live performances, including dance, comedy, music, theater, and more. Zilker Park is an Austin icon and favorite of all hip Austin-ites! The lights can be enjoyed between December 16th and 23rd.
Zilker Tree Lighting
Sunday, December 2, 2012 at 6:00pm- Another Zilker Park favorite and local tradition is the lighting of the Zilker Christmas Tree. This amazing tree consists of over 3,300 Christmas lights and stands more than 150 tall. Young and old alike are sure to enjoy this festivity, and what better way to ring in the season!
Ice Skating on Whole Foods Roof
Although we do not have snow most Christmases in Austin, we can still enjoy a little ice skating on the roof of the Whole Foods Market in downtown Austin. Lots of fun for the whole family!
First Night Austin
December 31 at 10:00pm-Enjoy the uniquely Austin, now somewhat famous, First Night Austin in downtown Austin on New Year’s Eve. The event features food, music, dance, and live entertainment for all ages, including a 7:30 Family Finale for children. This is a family friendly, alcohol-free celebration!
Blue Santa
Join Austin’s Operation Blue Santa in spreading Christmas cheer to thousands of Austin children in need by donating a new, unwrapped toy for a child ages 12 and under. This is one of our favorites because it really captures the essence of the Christmas season. Take a friend or engage your children and make it really feel like Christmas. Your can drop toys off at these locations or make a donation online here.
Trail of Lights 5k
Saturday, December 16, 2012 at 6:00pm- For all you runners (or walkers), the Trail of Lights 5k takes participants past the Zilker Tree, through the Austin Nature and Science Center, and into the Trail of Lights (the night before it opens to the public). What a fun way to celebrate the return of the Trail of Lights to the Austin community!
