Last Minute Things to Do on Christmas Eve in Austin

If you’re anything like me, you’ll probably be out scrambling for gifts today and won’t have time for many of the things on this list. But if your Christmas errands are complete and you find yourself and the extended family with some free time, you may want to have a look. Below are a few ways to make the most out of your Christmas Eve in Austin.

Hit the Bazaars

I put this one first for my fellow shopping procrastinators because I know they’ll be scanning with sparse free time.

Armadillo Christmas Bazaar

The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar is open until 11 PM tonight and they have gift-wrapping on-site. Entrance is $7 for adults and kids are free. They offer a variety of unique gifts from local artists, plus live music from local artists (Jitterbug Vipers go on at 3:30 PM today and they are fantastic). And, of course, beer.

Blue Genie Art Bazaar

The Blue Genie Art Bazaar at The Marchesa Hall & Theatre also carries handmade gift options from talented local artists. They offer free admission and there is plenty of parking. Beer and wine are available while you shop and they also have a free Christmas movie constantly screening in the theatre if you need a break. They’ll be open until 10 PM tonight.

For more local gift ideas, check out our Austin Gift Guide here.

Lights!

The Trail of Lights closed on Sunday, but you still have options.

Willis Littlefield House

This guy Willis Littlefield is just awesome. Not only does he set up and break down decorations every day, but he stands in the street and hands out candy canes to all his visitors. His light display is incredible and worth a stop. He’s located on W. 12th Street in Clarksville.

W. 37th Street

This Hyde Park area in Austin is known for going all-out with their Christmas lights. I must admit, I went a couple of weeks ago and it was much tamer than years past. Hopefully more lights are up by now (maybe you can let us know in a comment). If La Tazza Fresca is open down the street, my wife and I like to stop there beforehand and grab a coffee to keep us warm while we look.

Get Some Exercise

I can’t think of a better way to work off that holiday calorie surplus than to hike your way to the top of Mount Bonnell. You may have family members in town who have never been and the view is unbeatable. If the forecast holds up, it should be sunny today with highs in the 50’s. Perfect.

Catch a Show at the Drafthouse

The Alamo Drafthouse is another Austin staple that’s great to show off to your holiday visitors. They’re offering Christmas movies throughout the day at several locations around the city. Check out showtimes here.

Live Music

It’s Austin, so the live music doesn’t stop for Christmas. There are several shows going on throughout the day. Here’s a list.

That’s it from me. If all else fails, have a conversation. Family you don’t get to see often may cause stress, but time with them should also be cherished. Have a Merry Christmas, y’all!

 

@mattchampionatx asks:

What are your plans for Christmas Eve in Austin?