With the holiday season approaching, here are some of the most popular holiday activities around Austin. From Christmas lights and plays to Christmas tree farms, there’s no lack of festive fun here in Austin, Texas.
Trail of Lights
The Trail of Lights is an Austin favorite and there’s nothing quite like it. Filled with over 2 million stunning lights, it is a beautiful place to take pictures and enjoy quality time with your loved ones. Plus, if you’re hungry there are a variety of vendors and food trucks selling delicious hot cocoa, churros, tacos, and more. With tickets ranging from $8 for a general ticket to $95 for platinum passes, visiting the Trail of Lights is the perfect way to start the holiday season.
The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker is a classic ballet that shows from December 2nd to the 23rd at the Long Center and is an absolute must-attend. Choreographed by the famous Stephen Mills, and featuring some of the country’s most talented dancers, the story of Clara and the Nutcracker is displayed in a way that would captivate anyone and everyone, showcasing complex emotion, choreography, and dedication. If you haven’t seen it, I’d highly suggest that you do so this winter.
“Elgin CHRISTmas Tree Farm”
It’s the season when everyone is buying pine wax melts and candles, but nothing can compete with buying a tree from the Elgin Christmas tree farm and having that authentic fresh scent. Not only do they have cut-your-own Christmas trees, but they also have plenty of entertaining activities such as hay rides, a Christmas maze, and their very own petting zoo full of furry friends. The Elgin Christmas tree farm is THE place to get your Christmas tree and make amazing memories while doing so.
Zilker Tree Lighting
Although not everyone can fly to New York to see the Rockefeller lighting, here in Austin we have our very own tree lighting which is just as spectacular. The tree is 155 feet tall and has a whopping 3,400 lights. During and before the lighting, plenty of vendors sell numerous delicious treats and trinkets. The lighting itself is a stunning show to watch and an event that anyone and everyone would enjoy. It truly is a magical moment seeing the gorgeous tree light up.
37th Street Neighborhood Lights
If you’d prefer a more low-key and hands-on experience, 37th Street is the place for you. This downtown neighborhood takes pride in its fully decked-out Christmas lights. While walking down this street there are many things to do, from a stuffed animal adoption center to alien worlds and many more. Unlike other neighborhood light shows, 37th Street creates an immersive and unique experience.
Peppermint Parkway
Peppermint Parkway is an immersive drive-thru light show at the Circuit of The Americas. The winter wonderland is full of twinkling lights, charming villages, and Christmas-themed characters. While driving through, interactive characters play a multitude of parts as you follow the main character Peppermint’s journey through the South Pole. After going through, you can visit Peppermint Plaza which includes amusement rides, a hands-on petting zoo, the Peppermint Express, and even a pub full of holiday cocktails for the adults. This experience is a festive Christmas activity for all.
Mozart’s Light Show
It’s the time of year for Mozart’s Light show at Mozart’s Coffee Roasters. The show features a spectacle of lights perfectly timed to some of Mozart’s best compositions. The light show has indoor as well as outdoor seating right on the water for a beautiful scene. During the light show there is a beverage bar as well as a delicious hot cocoa bar and many warm treats to keep you cozy. Mozart’s light show is a magical event that I highly recommend to all.
