Austin may not get a lot of snow but we still know how to celebrate the holidays. From holiday shows to caroling downtown, here are some surefire ways to get you in the holiday spirit.
Austin Ballet, The Nutcracker
https://balletaustin.org/performances/the-nutcracker
Dec. 3 – Dec. 23
Head to the long center for the 54th annual production of Stephen Mill’s The Nutcracker based on the 200-year-old story by E.T.A Hoffmann. Enjoy the live music accompaniment of the Austin Symphony Orchestra as you become entranced by wintry adventures with sugar plum fairies.
Trail of Lights
http://www.austintrailoflights.org/
Dec. 10 – Dec. 23
This year’s 52nd annual trail of lights in Zilker park will feature more than 40 light displays. Get a picture taken with Santa, enjoy free treats from candy land and witness one of the best views of Austin’s skyline set against the twinkling lights from the trail.
Rodgers and Hammersteins Cinderella
http://cinderellaonbroadway.com/
Dec. 6 – Dec. 11
Witness the magic that only broadway can bring at the Texas Performing Center with Rodger and Hammersteins Cinderella. Relieve all the beloved memories from childhood including the magical pumpkin carriage, the ball and of course, the glass slippers.
Armadillo Christmas Bazaar
http://www.armadillobazaar.com/
Dec. 14 – Dec. 24
Hosted by the palmer events center, the 41st annual Armadillo Christmas Bazaar is set to attract more than 40,000 shoppers. Find the perfect gifts for loved ones whether it’s a piece of artwork commissioned directly from the artist or a Christmas ornament perfect for their tree. There will be live bands and cold beer – the perfect Austin holiday experience.
Four Seasons Gingerbread Village
http://press.fourseasons.com/austin/hotel-news/2016/gingerbread-village/
Nov. 21 – Dec. 25
Pastry Chef Courtney Capuchino is constructing this year’s annual gingerbread village at the Austin Four Seasons. All proceeds of the houses and baked goodies benefit the Seton Shivers Cancer Center. The gingerbread village will be available for public viewing 24 hours a day but the Holiday Open Houses are Nov. 28 and 29.
German Christmas Market
http://germantexans.org/christmas-market-2016/
Dec. 3
The German-Texan Heritage Society presents the annual Austin German Christmas market at the German Free School of Austin. Browse imported holiday decorations like nutcrackers and ornaments while sipping on Glüwein or hot, spiced wine and eating German sausage.
Thinkery Gingerbread House Workshops
https://thinkeryaustin.org/gingerbread/
Dec. 3 – Dec. 24
Bring the kids to The Thinkery to build and decorate gingerbread houses with fresh gingerbread from La Mexicana Bakery. There will be plenty of candies and icing and kids can explore The Thinkery while their house dries.
Downtown Holiday Sing-Along Stroll and Christmas Tree Lighting
http://www.downtownaustin.com/holiday-stroll
Dec. 3
This free event starts with caroling on the steps of the capital followed by the Christmas tree lighting and a light show. Downtown shops and restaurant will stay open late for participants as they walk through downtown spreading holiday cheer.
Lights and Ice at The Omni
Dec. 16 – Jan. 1
Enjoy ice-skating at this 4,000 foot indoor ice-skating rink overlooking scenic Austin Hill Country. Sip on hot beverages and say hello to Santa all while benefiting the Austin Make-A-Wish Foundation.
