Last Updated On – 28th November, 2025

Jump to:  Free | Friday | Saturday | Sunday | Kids

The best free and fun events in Austin, November 28 – 30, include Santa on the Terrace at The Long Center, Small Business Saturday, and more!

I’ve rounded up the top events and activities happening across the city, from festivals and outdoor fun to live shows and family-friendly picks. Please scroll down for my picks or use the links above to skip to your favorite section!

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Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. 

We update this guide each week with verified listings from trusted sources. Still, details can change — please confirm with the event organizer before heading out. This post may contain affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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Free and Cheap Events in Austin

Blue Genie Art Bazaar

Join Austin’s beloved holiday shopping experience, the Blue Genie Art Bazaar (BGAB), as it returns for its spectacular 25th year!

You can find unique handmade jewelry, beautiful artwork, home goods, and gifts for everyone on your list, all featuring the work of more than 200 talented regional artists.

As always, BGAB offers a family-friendly, hassle-free environment where you can easily purchase holiday gifts while supporting local vendors.

Where: Blue Genie Art Bazaar, 6100 Airport Blvd, Ste C, Austin, TX 78752
When: Friday, November 28 – December 24, 2025
How Much: Free

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Game Day Watch Party at Heydey

Celebrate the UT Football season with cold drinks and friends at the Game Day Watch Party at Heydey. Head up to the 8th-floor rooftop at Heydey Social Club to make sure you never miss a game.

Where: Heyday Social Club, 721 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, November 28, 2025
How Much: Free

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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.

In addition to the market, Contracommon will host a festive holiday party and Mario Kart Tournament on Saturday, December 13th, from 6 pm to 11 pm.

Where: Contracommon, 12912 Hill Country Blvd f140, Bee Cave, TX 78738
When: Friday, November 28, 2025 – January 2, 2026
How Much: Free

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ELF Holiday Movie Under the Stars at Vista Brewing

Bring the whole family to Vista Brewing for a free outdoor screening of the classic Christmas comedy ELF.

Gather in the Beer Garden and enjoy the movie projected onto a big screen under the stars.

Where: Vista Brewing, 13551 Ranch to Market Rd 150, Driftwood, TX 78619
When: Saturday, November 29, 2025 | 5:30 pm – 9 pm
How Much: Free

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Santa on the Terrace

Santa’s back at the Long Center for Santa on the Terrace, and this year’s event is bigger and better than ever! Here, you can snap a photo with Santa in his signature sleigh, complete with the iconic Austin skyline as your backdrop. And yes, leashed pets are welcome too!

In addition to meeting Santa, you’ll get to mingle with Mrs. Claus (who might just pass along your holiday wish to the big guy), take “elfie” photos, and have the opportunity to purchase discounted tickets to upcoming Long Center shows.

Plus, you’ll receive instant digital copies of your photos, along with on-site printing to take home a holiday keepsake. Don’t miss this festive kickoff to the season!

Where: The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, November 29, 2025 | 11 am – 2:30 pm
How Much: Free – Pay what you want

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The Big Ole Queer Market

Celebrate the holidays at The Big Ole Queer Market, where there’s something for everyone and every budget. Experience the vibrant energy of Austin’s creative community with amazing art, local artists, and small businesses offering unique, handmade goods.

Whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for that perfect gift, the market is packed with positive vibes and one-of-a-kind treasures.

Where: Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, November 29 – 30, 2025
How Much: Free

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The Market at Zach

Get ready for a fresh holiday shopping experience at The Market at Zach, an open-air pop-up showcasing the best local artisans and makers from Austin and Central Texas. The People’s Plaza will transform into a vibrant hub filled with unique finds from handcrafted home goods and jewelry to art, candles, clothing, and much more.

With over two dozen curated artists and makers, plus a bar serving specialty holiday drinks and local food stalls, there’s something for everyone.

The Market at Zach runs for five dates this holiday season, including a special Kids’ Market on December 6, featuring creations by young artists.

Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, November 29 – December 20, 2025
How Much: Free

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Mozart’s Festival of Lights

Celebrate the start of the holiday season right after Thanksgiving at Mozart’s Festival of Lights, a brilliant spectacle perfect for the whole family.

Experience over a million twinkling lights and brilliant displays that offer endless photo opportunities.

Additionally, you can enjoy a holiday market, dine on tasty bites from vendors like savory Salt Lick BBQ, and treat yourself to delectable sweets and Mozart’s renowned hot chocolate. Live entertainment, including Texas and Celtic Christmas music, will play throughout the festival.

Where: Mozart’s Coffee Roasters, 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
When: Saturday, November 29, 2025 – January 3, 2026 | 6 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Free

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Free and Cheap Events in Austin this Friday, November 28, 2025

Vienna Light Orchestra Christmas Tour 2025

Step into the holiday spirit the day after Thanksgiving with the Vienna Light Orchestra Christmas Tour 2025 at The Long Center. This global concert experience, born from the heart of Vienna, blends sweeping symphonic sound with stunning theatrical beauty.

Immerse yourself in a nostalgic atmosphere as over 2,000 flickering candle lights illuminate world-class musicians and vocalists, performing the most cherished Christmas classics. It’s a magical evening you won’t want to miss!

Where: The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, November 28, 2025
How Much: Starts at $54.13

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‘Home is Here’ Concert

Don’t miss the Home Is Here Concert, featuring an incredible lineup of Texas musicians, including Shakey Graves, Nina Diaz, and Shawn Colvin. This epic event also welcomes Being Dead, Tekle Mezghebe, and Yowhannes Tquabo, as they come together to celebrate Austin’s immigrant community.

Join in this powerful night of music and solidarity, supporting the message that Austin remains a safe and welcoming place for refugees and asylum seekers.

Where: The Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, November 28, 2025
How Much: Starts at $40

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A Christmas Card Musical

From the moment you enter, the theater transforms into a festive wonderland, kicking off with a pre-show party full of glittering projections, live music, and themed cocktails.

Follow Reagan Steele as she returns home to film a Hallmark-style Christmas romance, only to find herself living out her own love story.

Featuring Austin’s top talent, including Emmy Award-winning actors and B. Iden Payne Award-winning choreography, this dazzling Christmas cabaret will leave you filled with holiday cheer.

Where: Sterling Stage, 6134 E Hwy 290, Austin, TX 78752
When: Friday, November 28, 2025 | 8 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Starts at $19

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Weekly Tree Lightings at Hotel Viata

Make sweet holiday memories by attending one of the Weekly Tree Lightings in Hotel Viata’s Courtyard.

Gather on the hilltop as the switch is flipped on the holiday tree, guaranteed to be complete with a 100% chance of snow at every lighting.

You can also enjoy live music with holiday covers almost every Friday and Saturday, write Letters to Santa, savor complimentary cookies and hot cocoa by the tree, or warm up around the fire pits with s’mores kits available for purchase.

Where: Hotel Viata, 320 S Capital of Texas Hwy, West Lake Hills, TX 78746
When: Friday, November 28 – December 27, 2025 | 5 pm – 7 pm
How Much: Complimentary access

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Oh, What Fun! Austin Holiday Market

Kick off your holiday season right on November 20th by visiting the brand-new Oh What Fun! Austin Holiday Market.

Running through Christmas Eve, this market showcases a curated, rotating selection of local makers and retailers offering everything from handmade jewelry and ceramics to clothing and artisan treats.

You can shop for gifts from 11 am to 9 pm every Thursday through Sunday, grab a bite from local food trucks, enjoy musical performances, and sip a themed drink until 10 pm at the festive “What a Wonderful Lounge” cocktail bar.

Where: Republic Square, 422 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, November 28 – December 21, 2025
How Much: No cover

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Peppermint Parkway

Experience a drive-through holiday spectacular at Peppermint Parkway, where you will find holiday displays, millions of lights, and dancing characters.

You can enjoy festivities in Peppermint Plaza before or after your trip down the Parkway, where you can race at COTA Karting, enjoy amusement park rides, grab a bite to eat, and sing holiday carols.

You can also snap a picture with Santa, grab a holiday-themed drink at the Peppermint Pub, shop at Mint’s Market, and even take a spin on the brand-new Circuit Breaker supercoaster.

Where: Circuit of the Americas, 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd, Del Valle, TX 78617
When: Friday, November 28 – December 28, 2025
How Much: Starts at $10

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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 reimagining that features fresh songs and a whole lot of soul.

Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, November 28, 2025 – January 3, 202
How Much: Starts at $63

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Miracle on 5th Street Christmas Pop-Up Bar

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 like you’ve never seen it 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: Friday, November 28 – December 28, 2025
How Much: Starts at $13.30

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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: Friday, November 28, 2025 – January 4, 2026
How Much: Starts at $29

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The Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail

Step into the magical world of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

Austin is one of only two cities in the entire country to host this innovative, walk-through experience, giving you a rare chance to see beloved characters like Jack Skellington, Sally, and Zero brought to life right here in Texas.

Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Friday, November 28 – 29, 2025
How Much: Starts at $31

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A Charlie Brown Christmas

See the beloved holiday classic, A Charlie Brown Christmas, come magically to life on stage!

Follow the wonderful journey of Charlie Brown as he searches for the true meaning of Christmas. The entire Peanuts gang, including Snoopy and Linus, will be joining him on his quest.

Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, November 28 – December 28, 2025
How Much: Starts at $30

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Fortlandia

Discover your new secret hideout at Fortlandia, an exciting interactive exhibit waiting for you this fall at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center! Connect directly with the environment by climbing upon, crawling through, and exploring a brand-new lineup of unique forts designed by local artists.

Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Friday, November 28, 2025 – February 1, 2026
How Much: $18 for adults | $15 for seniors and military | $12 for kids 3 – 17 | Free for kids under 3

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Free and Cheap Events in Austin this Saturday, November 29, 2025

Santa on the Terrace

Santa’s back at the Long Center for Santa on the Terrace, and this year’s event is bigger and better than ever! Here, you can snap a photo with Santa in his signature sleigh, complete with the iconic Austin skyline as your backdrop. And yes, leashed pets are welcome too!

In addition to meeting Santa, you’ll get to mingle with Mrs. Claus (who might just pass along your holiday wish), take “elfie” photos, and enjoy discounted tickets to upcoming Long Center shows.

Plus, you’ll receive instant digital copies of your photos, along with on-site printing to take home a holiday keepsake. Don’t miss this festive kickoff to the season!

Where: The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, November 29, 2025 | 11 am – 2:30 pm
How Much: Free – Pay what you want

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Small Business Saturday

Join on November 29th to celebrate Small Business Saturday. Keep it small and keep it local this holiday season. We’ve got some exciting releases planned for you.

Where: 415 E St Elmo Rd 1 d2, Austin, TX 78745
When: Saturday, November 29, 2025 | All Day
How Much: Not stated

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2025 Thanksgiving Turkey Gobble Trot 5K/10K/13.1

Get ready to wobble before you gobble at the 2025 Thanksgiving Turkey Gobble Trot 5K/10K/13.1 in Austin/Round Rock. Burn some calories and make memories with your family, friends, and community as you run or walk before diving into the holiday feast. Spots go quickly, so sign up soon to secure your place.

When you register, you’ll receive a swag bag that includes a running T-shirt, a Finisher’s Towel or giveaway, a Finisher’s Medal, a Digital Training Pack, and an invitation to join one of the local running clubs.

Where: Brushy Creek Lake Park, 3300 Brushy Creek Rd, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: Saturday, November 29, 2025 | 7:30 am
How Much: Not stated

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North Pole Flyer: A Vintage Holiday Train Ride

All aboard the North Pole Flyer for a magical winter adventure! Travel through the countryside on a vintage train, where you’ll be visited by Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Enjoy delicious cookies and hot cocoa while singing along to festive holiday tunes. Watch as the season comes alive with sparkling holiday cheer, making this an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Where: Austin Steam Train Association, 401 E Whitestone Blvd C-100, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: Saturday, November 29 – December 14, 2025 | 5:30 pm – 9 pm
How Much: Starts at $55 | $10 for lap kids

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A Nostalgic Night with Macaulay Culkin: Home Alone 35th Anniversary

Celebrate the 35th anniversary of Home Alone with a special screening and an exclusive interview with Macaulay Culkin, the iconic star who brought Kevin McCallister to life. Hear about his time on set, his favorite memories, and why Home Alone has become a beloved holiday tradition for fans of all ages.

For an extra-special experience, grab one of the limited VIP tickets, which include a commemorative laminate, early access to autographed merchandise, premium seating, and a private post-show Q&A with Macaulay Culkin.

Where: Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Saturday, November 29, 2025 | 7:30 pm
How Much: Starts at $58.20

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Free and Cheap Events in Austin this Sunday November 30, 2025

Lights on the Lake – a Christmas Walk Thru!

Step into a holiday wonderland at Lights on the Lake, the newest Christmas walk-through experience in Austin! Set along the beautiful shores of Lake Travis, this magical event offers stunning Christmas displays, vibrant lights, and endless festive fun for the whole family.

Stroll through enchanting light displays, capture unforgettable photos, and enjoy holiday crafts, festive drinks, and delicious food. Meet Santa on Saturdays, or visit the Grinch on open days. With cozy spots to relax, play games, and soak up the season, there’s holiday magic around every corner.

Where: Volente Beach Waterpark, 16107 Farm to Market Rd 2769 Suite D, Leander, TX 78641
When: Sunday, November 30, 2025 – January 4, 2026
How Much: $10 – $15

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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: Sunday, November 30, 2025 – January 4, 2026 | 4 pm – 9 pm
How Much: Starts at $35

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Free and Cheap Events in Austin for Kids

Weekly Tree Lightings at Hotel Viata

Make sweet holiday memories by attending one of the Weekly Tree Lightings in Hotel Viata’s Courtyard.

Gather on the hilltop as the switch is flipped on the holiday tree, guaranteed to be complete with a 100% chance of snow at every lighting.

You can also enjoy live music with holiday covers almost every Friday and Saturday, write Letters to Santa, savor complimentary cookies and hot cocoa by the tree, or warm up around the fire pits with s’mores kits available for purchase.

Where: Hotel Viata, 320 S Capital of Texas Hwy, West Lake Hills, TX 78746
When: Friday, November 28 – December 27, 2025 | 5 pm – 7 pm
How Much: Complimentary access

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Peppermint Parkway

Experience a walk-through holiday spectacular at Peppermint Parkway, where you will find holiday displays, millions of lights, and dancing characters.

You can “Fa-La-La” in love with Peppermint Plaza before or after your trip down the Parkway, where you can race at COTA Karting, enjoy amusement park rides, grab a bite, and sing holiday carols.

You can also snap a picture with Santa, grab a holiday-themed drink at the Peppermint Pub, shop at Mint’s Market, and even take a spin on the brand-new Circuit Breaker supercoaster.

Where: Circuit of the Americas, 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd, Del Valle, TX 78617
When: Friday, November 28 – December 28, 2025
How Much: Starts at $10

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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 reimagining that features fresh songs and a whole lot of soul.

Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, November 28, 2025 – January 3, 202
How Much: Starts at $63

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Blue Genie Art Bazaar

Join Austin’s beloved holiday shopping experience, the Blue Genie Art Bazaar (BGAB), as it returns for its spectacular 25th year!

You can find unique handmade jewelry, beautiful artwork, home goods, and gifts for everyone on your list, all featuring the work of more than 200 talented regional artists.

As always, BGAB offers a family-friendly, hassle-free environment where you can easily purchase holiday gifts while supporting local vendors.

Where: Blue Genie Art Bazaar, 6100 Airport Blvd Ste C, Austin, TX 78752
When: Friday, November 28 – December 24, 2025
How Much: Free

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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: Friday, November 28, 2025 – January 4, 2026
How Much: Starts at $29

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A Charlie Brown Christmas

See the beloved holiday classic, A Charlie Brown Christmas, come magically to life on stage!

Follow the wonderful journey of Charlie Brown as he searches for the true meaning of Christmas. The entire Peanuts gang, including Snoopy and Linus, will be joining him on his quest.

Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, November 28 – December 28, 2025
How Much: Starts at $30

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Fortlandia

Discover your new secret hideout at Fortlandia, an exciting interactive exhibit waiting for you this fall at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center! Connect directly with the environment by climbing upon, crawling through, and exploring a brand-new lineup of unique forts designed by local artists.

Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Friday, November 28, 2025 – February 1, 2026
How Much: $18 for adults | $15 for seniors and military | $12 for kids 3 – 17 | Free for kids under 3

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The Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail

Step into the magical world of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

Austin is one of only two cities in the entire country to host this innovative, walk-through experience, giving you a rare chance to see beloved characters like Jack Skellington, Sally, and Zero brought to life right here in Texas.

Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Friday, November 28 – 29, 2025
How Much: Starts at $31

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2025 Thanksgiving Turkey Gobble Trot 5K/10K/13.1

Get ready to wobble before you gobble at the 2025 Thanksgiving Turkey Gobble Trot 5K/10K/13.1 in Austin/Round Rock. Burn some calories and make memories with your family, friends, and community as you run or walk before diving into the holiday feast. Spots go quickly, so sign up soon to secure your place.

When you register, you’ll receive a swag bag that includes a running T-shirt, a Finisher’s Towel or giveaway, a Finisher’s Medal, a Digital Training Pack, and an invitation to join one of the local running clubs.

Where: Brushy Creek Lake Park, 3300 Brushy Creek Rd, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: Saturday, November 29, 2025 | 7:30 am
How Much: Not stated

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ELF Holiday Movie Under the Stars at Vista Brewing

Bring the whole family to Vista Brewing for a free outdoor screening of the classic Christmas comedy ELF.

Gather in the Beer Garden and enjoy the movie projected onto a big screen under the stars.

Where: Vista Brewing, 13551 Ranch to Market Rd 150, Driftwood, TX 78619
When: Saturday, November 29, 2025 | 5:30 pm – 9 pm
How Much: Free

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North Pole Flyer: A Vintage Holiday Train Ride

All aboard the North Pole Flyer for a magical winter adventure! Travel through the countryside on a vintage train, where you’ll be visited by Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Enjoy delicious cookies and hot cocoa while singing along to festive holiday tunes. Watch as the season comes alive with sparkling holiday cheer, making this an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Where: Austin Steam Train Association, 401 E Whitestone Blvd C-100, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: Saturday, November 29 – December 14, 2025 | 5:30 pm – 9 pm
How Much: Starts at $55 | $10 for lap kids

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Santa on the Terrace

Santa’s back at the Long Center for Santa on the Terrace, and this year’s event is bigger and better than ever! Here, you can snap a photo with Santa in his signature sleigh, complete with the iconic Austin skyline as your backdrop. And yes, leashed pets are welcome too!

In addition to meeting Santa, you’ll get to mingle with Mrs. Claus (who might just pass along your holiday wish), take “elfie” photos, and enjoy discounted tickets to upcoming Long Center shows.

Plus, you’ll receive instant digital copies of your photos, along with onsite printing to take home a holiday keepsake. Don’t miss this festive kickoff to the season!

Where: The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, November 29, 2025 | 11 am – 2:30 pm
How Much: Free – Pay what you want

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Mozart’s Festival of Lights

Celebrate the start of the holiday season right after Thanksgiving at Mozart’s Festival of Lights, a brilliant spectacle perfect for your list of enchanting things to do Thanksgiving week in Austin.

Experience over a million twinkling lights and brilliant displays that offer endless photo opportunities.

And enjoy a unique twist on classic holiday markets featuring charming wooden chalets, savory Salt Lick BBQ, delectable sweet treats, and Mozart’s renowned hot chocolate while live entertainment, including Texas and Celtic Christmas music, plays throughout the festival.

Where: Mozart’s Coffee Roasters, 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
When: Saturday, November 29, 2025 – January 3, 2026 | 6 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Free

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Lights on the Lake – a Christmas Walk Thru!

Step into a holiday wonderland at Lights on the Lake, the newest Christmas walk-through experience in Austin! Set along the beautiful shores of Lake Travis, this magical event offers stunning Christmas displays, vibrant lights, and endless festive fun for the whole family.

Stroll through enchanting light displays, capture unforgettable photos, and enjoy holiday crafts, festive drinks, and delicious food. Meet Santa on Saturdays, or visit the Grinch on open days. With cozy spots to relax, play games, and soak up the season, there’s holiday magic around every corner.

Where: Volente Beach Waterpark, 16107 Farm to Market Rd 2769 Suite D, Leander, TX 78641
When: Sunday, November 30, 2025 – January 4, 2026
How Much: $10 – $15

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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: Sunday, November 30, 2025 – January 4, 2026 | 4 pm – 9 pm
How Much: Starts at $35