Last Updated On – 23rd December, 2025
Jump to: Christmas-themed Events | Family-Friendly Activities | Free Events | Adults-Only Christmas Events | Where to Eat on Christmas Day | Last-Minute Shopping
Christmas doesn’t end when the gifts are opened. In Austin, the day stretches into something more with time to explore, listen, gather, and enjoy the city at a slower pace.
Below, you’ll find our list of the best Christmas Day events in Austin worth checking out for the season. Keep the holiday spirit going!
And if you are looking for more ways to spend the break, explore concerts, pop-ups, markets, and local outings in our latest guide to the Best Weekend Events in Austin.
Editor’s Note: We strive to keep listings up to date, but details are subject to change. Always verify with event organizers or participating locations before heading out.
This article may contain affiliate links. Purchases made through them may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Looking for more holiday fun? Christmas Day is just the beginning. From festive shows and light displays to family-friendly outings and seasonal experiences, Austin stays busy all week long. Be sure to explore our full guide to Things to Do During Christmas Week in Austin for even more ways to make the most of the holiday break.
Christmas-Themed Events and Holiday Activities
Merry Makers Market
Get ready for the second annual Merry Makers Market, hosted by Contracommon, where holiday shopping meets local artistry. This booth-style market will showcase art and handmade goods from talented Austin-area artists. It’s the perfect place to find unique gifts while supporting creative small businesses this holiday season.
Browse original paintings, prints, sculptures, jewelry, ornaments, homewares, and more from artists like Alison Lackey, Cara Jackson, Emily Tolipova, and many others.
Where: Contracommon, 12912 Hill Country Blvd f140, Bee Cave, TX 78738
When: December 25, 2025
How Much: Free
A Christmas Carol
Image credit: ZACH Theatre (Kirk Tuck)
Back for its eleventh dazzling year, this beloved production offers a soulful sleigh ride through the timeless tale. Secure your ticket for this exciting reimagined tale featuring fresh songs and a whole lot of soul.
Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: December 25, 2025
How Much: Starts at $63
The Light Park
Image credit: The Light Park
Buckle up, turn up the volume, and prepare for a dazzling experience at The Light Park! You will immerse yourself in a mile-long light show featuring millions of stunning LED lights perfectly synchronized to high-energy holiday music presented by DJ Polar Ice.
This resident mixologist spins re-imagined holiday favorites blended with fresh beats to keep the energy high from start to finish, and you can even tune in before arrival to set the festive tone on your drive to The Light Park.
From giant illuminated tunnels to towering animated trees and dancing reindeer, every night promises an unforgettable spectacle of color and sound designed to delight all ages.
Where: Dell Diamond, 3400 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
When: December 25, 2025
How Much: Starts at $29
Ice Rodeo: Lakeside Ice Skating
Celebrate the holiday season at Four Seasons Hotel Austin with the return of Ice Rodeo: Lakeside Ice Skating! From November 21, 2025, through January 4, 2026, this lakeside retreat transforms into a festive gathering spot just steps from Lady Bird Lake.
Enjoy outdoor ice skating, themed skating nights, and cozy festive cabanas, all set against immersive décor that brings the magic of the North Pole to Texas. Then, savor seasonal menus featuring local flavors and create lasting memories in this vibrant holiday destination.
Where: Four Seasons Hotel Austin, 98 San Jacinto Blvd. Austin, TX 78701
When: December 25, 2025
How Much: Starts at $35
Santa’s Ranch – New Braunfels
Drive along winding country roads at Santa’s Ranch and see over 3 million lights bring holiday magic to life. You’ll spot Santa on a four-wheeler, elves ice skating, nutcracker castles, and even Star Wars scenes, all glowing across a mile of festive displays.
A towering 50-foot Christmas tree will mark the entrance, welcoming you to this long-running holiday tradition.
You can then stop for hot chocolate, kettle corn, or pet-friendly treats at the concession stand and snap photos of whimsical touches, like Santa tossing footballs to reindeer or lighting a fire under a snowman.
Where: 9561 I-35, New Braunfels, TX 78130
When: December 25, 2025
How Much: Starts at $37
37th Street Lights
Step into the playful spirit of the season as West 37th Street bursts to life with bold colors, imaginative sculptures, and creative light displays. Here, you can see homes and yards decorated with fun themes such as Taylor Swift tributes, circuses, or Candyland, blending holiday lights with humor and DIY charm.
Aside from the lights, the community also sets up interactive stations such as the insecurity checkpoint, where you can share a secret, the manifestation station, where you can write a dream for the year ahead, and the beloved Stuffed Animal Petting Zoo.
The street stays open only to foot traffic, so you and your loved ones can enjoy an easy, relaxed stroll each night from sunset to 10 pm throughout December.
Where: 507 W 37th St, Austin, TX 78705
When: December 25, 2025
How Much: Free
Zilker Holiday Tree
Step beneath the Zilker Holiday Tree and watch thousands of colorful LEDs spiral around one of Austin’s historic moontowers. You’ll see the 10-foot double star glowing at the top as the lights shimmer across the 155-foot tree, creating a magical scene that fills the park with a spirited glow.
For fun, try spinning slowly beneath the lights and watch the pattern swirl above you. It’s a playful tradition since 1967 that keeps Austin’s longest-standing holiday celebration bright and joyful!
Where: 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
When: December 25, 2025
How Much: Free
Domain Northside Holiday Display
Head over to the Northside Lawn and watch the Holiday Tree light up with a dazzling show of synchronized lights, filling the air with festive energy. You can also catch performances each hour, with extended evening hours on weekends, and enjoy playful touches like the Gen Z Selfie Wall and seasonal photo spots.
You’ll also find Letters to Santa open until December 24, family-friendly activities (like snow globe making, face painting, and balloon twisting), plus ongoing giveaways and holiday guides for shopping and events.
Where: 11821 Rock Rose Ave, Austin, TX 78758
When: December 25, 2025
How Much: Free
Family-Friendly and Kid-Focused Activities
A Christmas Carol
Back for its eleventh dazzling year, this beloved production offers a soulful sleigh ride through the timeless tale. Secure your ticket for this exciting reimagined tale featuring fresh songs and a whole lot of soul.
Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, December 19, 2025 – January 3, 202
How Much: Starts at $63
The Light Park
Buckle up, turn up the volume, and prepare for a dazzling experience at The Light Park! You will immerse yourself in a mile-long light show featuring millions of stunning LED lights perfectly synchronized to high-energy holiday music presented by DJ Polar Ice.
This resident mixologist spins re-imagined holiday favorites blended with fresh beats to keep the energy high from start to finish, and you can even tune in before arrival to set the festive tone on your drive to The Light Park.
From giant illuminated tunnels to towering animated trees and dancing reindeer, every night promises an unforgettable spectacle of color and sound designed to delight all ages.
Where: Dell Diamond, 3400 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
When: December 25, 2025
How Much: Starts at $29
Ice Rodeo: Lakeside Ice Skating
Image credit: Four Seasons Hotel Austin
Celebrate the holiday season at Four Seasons Hotel Austin with the return of Ice Rodeo: Lakeside Ice Skating! From November 21, 2025, through January 4, 2026, this lakeside retreat transforms into a festive gathering spot just steps from Lady Bird Lake.
Enjoy outdoor ice skating, themed skating nights, and cozy festive cabanas, all set against immersive décor that brings the magic of the North Pole to Texas. Then, savor seasonal menus featuring local flavors and create lasting memories in this vibrant holiday destination.
Where: Four Seasons Hotel Austin, 98 San Jacinto Blvd. Austin, TX 78701
When: December 25, 2025
How Much: Starts at $35
Santa’s Ranch – New Braunfels
Image credit: Santa’s Ranch-Drive thru Christmas Light Park
Drive along winding country roads at Santa’s Ranch and see over 3 million lights bring holiday magic to life. You’ll spot Santa on a four-wheeler, elves ice skating, nutcracker castles, and even Star Wars scenes, all glowing across a mile of festive displays.
A towering 50-foot Christmas tree will mark the entrance, welcoming you to this long-running holiday tradition.
You can then stop for hot chocolate, kettle corn, or pet-friendly treats at the concession stand and snap photos of whimsical touches, like Santa tossing footballs to reindeer or lighting a fire under a snowman.
Where: 9561 I-35, New Braunfels, TX 78130
When: December 25, 2025
How Much: Starts at $37
Domain Northside Holiday Display
Head over to the Northside Lawn and watch the Holiday Tree light up with a dazzling show of synchronized lights, filling the air with festive energy. You can also catch performances each hour, with extended evening hours on weekends, and enjoy playful touches like the Gen Z Selfie Wall and seasonal photo spots.
You’ll also find Letters to Santa open until December 24, family-friendly activities (like snow globe making, face painting, and balloon twisting), plus ongoing giveaways and holiday guides for shopping and events.
Where: 11821 Rock Rose Ave, Austin, TX 78758
When: December 25, 2025
How Much: Free
Free Events and Neighborhood Light Displays
37th Street Lights
Step into the playful spirit of the season as West 37th Street bursts to life with bold colors, imaginative sculptures, and creative light displays. Here, you can see homes and yards decorated with fun themes such as Taylor Swift tributes, circuses, or Candyland, blending holiday lights with humor and DIY charm.
Aside from the lights, the community also sets up interactive stations such as the insecurity checkpoint, where you can share a secret, the manifestation station, where you can write a dream for the year ahead, and the beloved Stuffed Animal Petting Zoo.
The street stays open only to foot traffic, so you and your loved ones can enjoy an easy, relaxed stroll each night from sunset to 10 pm throughout December.
Where: 507 W 37th St, Austin, TX 78705
When: December 25, 2025
How Much: Free
Zilker Holiday Tree
Step beneath the Zilker Holiday Tree and watch thousands of colorful LEDs spiral around one of Austin’s historic moontowers. You’ll see the 10-foot double star glowing at the top as the lights shimmer across the 155-foot tree, creating a magical scene that fills the park with a spirited glow.
For fun, try spinning slowly beneath the lights and watch the pattern swirl above you. It’s a playful tradition since 1967 that keeps Austin’s longest-standing holiday celebration bright and joyful!
Where: 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
When: December 25, 2025
How Much: Free
Nightlife and Adults-Only Christmas Day Events
The Ugly Sweater Holiday Pop-up Bar
Jingle and mingle at The Ugly Sweater Holiday Pop-up Bar at Rules and Regs! Come dressed in your best festive attire and embrace the merry vibes, complete with kitschy holiday decor, lively drinks, and a fun seasonal menu.
Where: Fairmont Austin, 101 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
When: December 25, 2025
How Much: Not stated
Miracle on 5th Street Christmas Pop-Up Bar
Image credit: Miracle on 5th Street
Step into a winter wonderland at Miracle on 5th Street Christmas Pop-Up Bar, the most festive and nostalgic setting in the city!
This Christmas-themed cocktail bar features dazzling wall-to-wall holiday decor, multiple bars, and a whole lot of Christmas spirits.
You can sip one of the many Christmas cocktails crafted by the jolly staff, take your next profile picture in Santa’s Throne, and connect with friends and family in the city’s most decked-out holiday bar, enjoying Christmas cheer as you’ve never seen before.
This is a ticketed event with first-come, first-served tables and seats. For parties of fewer than 8, you can skip the General Admission line by purchasing limited-quantity Dasher Passes!
Where: The Eleanor, 307 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: December 25, 2025
How Much: Starts at $13.30
Where to Eat on Christmas Day in Austin
If you’re spending Christmas Day out and about (or simply don’t want to cook), these five spots are among the most dependable and popular picks highlighted in our 2025 guide: Waffle House for a classic, anytime meal when everything else feels quiet, Kerbey Lane Cafe for comforting Austin favorites earlier in the day, Truluck’s for a polished, special-occasion Christmas dinner, The Cheesecake Factory for a crowd-pleasing option that works for families and groups, and Din Ho Chinese BBQ for a comforting, tradition-meets-flavor Christmas Day meal. Since hours and reservations often vary by location, it’s always best to confirm directly before heading out.
For the full, verified 2025 lineup (including hours and additional options across the Austin area), visit our complete guide: Austin Restaurants Open on Christmas Day.
Last-Minute Shopping and Store Hours
Need groceries, prescriptions, or a few last-minute essentials for Christmas? Our 2025 guide highlights five reliable options that tend to stay open on Christmas Day: CVS Pharmacy and Walgreens for prescriptions and everyday necessities, 7-Eleven for snacks and quick grab-and-go items, Circle K for fuel and convenience-store basics, and select Whole Foods Market locations for limited grocery and prepared food needs. Most operate on reduced holiday hours, so checking your nearest location before heading out is highly recommended.
For a complete list of stores confirmed open on Christmas Day 2025, along with expected hours, see our full guide: Austin Stores Open on Christmas Day.
If you’re looking for other events you and your loved ones can enjoy, check out more upcoming events and local fun in our Austin weekend guide.
