Whether you’re on your own this holiday season, meeting up with friends, or gathering with family; there’s something for everyone to enjoy! These are the 7 Fun and Festive Things to Do at Christmas time in Austin, Texas.
- Trail of Lights – Zilker Park
The Trail of Lights is a fun local tradition that began back in 1965 with a gathering around a yule log, and has flourished into a trail of spectacular light displays. This year due to Covid, the Trail of Lights is a drive-thru, so bring some glute-free cookies to snack on while you and your family enjoy the ride. You must purchase your ticket in advance as tickets are not for sale at the park. General Admission price ranges from $30-40 per vehicle (9-person limit) to $65 for a Dash Pass. End your ride with a stop to twirl under the Zilker Park Tree (trust me, you won’t be the only one twirling). While there, enjoy some hot coco and other snacks for sale (be sure to ask about ingredients if you have a food allergy before purchasing).
- Mozart’s Christmas lights
Motzart’s Coffee Roasters is located on Lake Austin Boulevard and is a great place to go any time of year. Their Annual Christmas Light Show takes place from November 11- January 6, 2022, and shouldn’t be missed! You can park up the hill right across the street for free and walk down. Due to Covid the format is a bit different. You must reserve a table in advance – $20 for 4 and $30 for 6 and up to 1 dog per table, or reserve a free time spot to watch from the parking lot/Baverian Market place, which is a fun space with lots of tasty treats. If you have a gluten or other food allergy don’t forget to ask about ingredients before purchasing.
- The McConaughey tree – The CoOp on the Drag
Alight, Alright, Alright …you know the holidays have officially begun when the McConaughey tree goes up at the University of Texas CoOp. I put this on my list because it’s fun, festive, and well it’s a Christmas Tree of Matthew McConaughey. What more can you ask for 😊 Located on the 2nd floor. Purchase some UT souvenirs while your there, take a stroll of the beautiful campus across the street, or wonder down the cool shops on Guadalupe Street a/k/a the drag. A purchase from the Co-Op can validate parking from the garage behind the Co-Op. There’s metered parking along the streets as well.
- Christmas Pop-Up bars
It’s that time of year for Christmas themed pop-up bars. Some of the best to check out are Miracle on 5th Street located at The Elenore. Try the Christmaspolitan or the Snowball Old Fashion. The Gibson Street Bar has transformed itself into a Christmas Wonderland now through January 2nd. Take a selfie in the Gibson sleigh. Yipee ki yay …don’t miss the Die Hard Pop-Up Bar at Little Drinks Lounge in South Congress, under the Davis SoCo Apartments. Grab a Hans Gruber, a Mr. Cowboy, or a Holly McClane.
- Blue Genie
The Blue Genie Art Bazaar is a great holiday shopping experience with lots of unique handmade options for gifts from very talented local artists. I’ve found some great home gifts and gag gifts here over the years here. There’s a variety of categories ranging from jewelry to pets. It’s open through December 24, 2021 and located at 6100 Airport Blvd. You can shop in person or shop online. Free parking is available. You can order online and pick up or have it shipped.
- Peppermint Parkway – 360 Amphitheater
Now through December 26, 2021, you can purchase a ticket to take a drive down Peppermint Parkway at the Circuit of the Americas. This one-mile-long immersive attraction was a lot of fun last year and I’ll be going again this year. It features live performers along the millions of lights and displays. Afterwards you can park and walk along the village and see if you can spot Pepper and Mint. You can also write a letter to Santa, visit the Missel Toe Kissing booth with that someone special, or enjoy an amusement ride.
- LaLa’s Little Nugget Bar (year-round)
At LaLa’s Bar, it’s Christmas time year-round! Gather your friends and family and end your holiday celebration with a drink at this festive and quirky dive bar. Try Grandma’s Boozy Eggnog or a Lump of Coal shot. If you’re missing the holidays once January comes around, you can always come back to Lala’s for that happy and Christmassy nostalgic vibe. Some fun events at Lala’s are their ½ Christmas Party, Zombie Christmas, Lala’s Christmas Bash, and their Anniversary Party. Please note due to the popularity during the holiday season, Lala’s operates on a first come first serve basis. It’s located at 2207 Justin Lane, ATX 78757.
This Christmas take some time to have some fun, relax, and to be kind to yourself. Drive safe, drink responsibly, and have a Very Merry Christmas y’all!
*Disclaimer – always talk to your server/bartender if you have a food allergy, to make the best decision for yourself.