Last Updated – 18th December 2025
Jump to: Christmas Lights and Displays | Christmas Eve and Day Shows | Family-Friendly Events | New Year’s Eve and Day Events
There’s no shortage of festive fun in Austin during the Christmas week break, especially from December 24 through January 1. In this guide, we’ve rounded up verified holiday lights, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day entertainment, family-friendly daytime picks, and the best ways to ring in New Year’s in ATX.
And if you are looking for more ways to spend the break, explore concerts, pop-ups, markets, and local outings in our latest Things to Do in Austin this Weekend.
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.
Christmas Lights & Holiday Displays (Dec 24–Jan 1)
Mozart’s Festival of Lights
Image credit: Mozart’s Coffee
Celebrate the holiday season 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: November 22, 2025 – January 3, 2026 | 6 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Free
Luminations
Experience the magic of Luminations at the Wildflower Center this winter, where twinkling lights illuminate the natural beauty of the gardens. Stroll glowing paths, enjoy nightly live music, and savor hot chocolate and churros while capturing festive photo-worthy moments.
Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: December 19, 2025 – January 3, 2026
How Much: Free – $30
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: November 28 – December 27, 2025 | 5 pm – 7 pm
How Much: Complimentary access
Peppermint Parkway
Image Credit: Peppermint Parkway FB Page
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: November 21 – December 28, 2025
How Much: Starts at $10
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: November 7, 2025 – January 4, 2026
How Much: Starts at $29
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: November 14, 2025 – January 4, 2026
How Much: $10 – $15
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: November 1, 2025 – January 3, 2026 | 6 pm
How Much: Starts at $37
37th Street Lights
Image Credit: 37th Street Lights FB Page
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: Whole of December
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.
You can even spin slowly beneath the lights and watch the pattern swirl above you, 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 1, 2025 – January 1, 2026 | 6 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Free
Longhorn Lights
Stroll through the University of Texas campus and see over 400,000 burnt orange and white lights stretching along nine miles of trees on the South Mall. You’ll catch the glow framing the iconic UT Tower, which shines brightly even as it undergoes its first major restoration since the 1930s.
After select football games, the lights even synchronize to music, like the Texas Fight and The Eyes of Texas, making each evening feel lively and celebratory.
Where: South Mall, University of Texas, 2515 Speedway, Austin, TX 78712
When: November 18, 2025 – January 1, 2026 | 5 pm – 10 pm
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: November 24 – December 25, 2025 | 5 pm – 9 pm
How Much: Free
Christmas Eve & Christmas Day Shows (Dec 24–Dec 25)
The Mutt-Cracker (SWEET!)
Image credit: The VORTEX
Step into a one-of-a-kind holiday spectacle in Austin! This year’s performance showcases incredible rescue dogs, including the newest stars, Dragonfly and Firefly.
Watch in awe as Darren Peterson dazzles with his expert juggling, unicycling, and extraordinary dog-training skills.
Where: East Side Performing Arts, 979 Springdale Rd Ste 815, Austin, TX 78702
When: December 19, 2025 – January 3, 2026
How Much: Starts at $15
Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland
Image credit: Cirque Musica
Step into a winter wonderland filled with awe and enchantment and experience world-class circus artistry paired with beloved holiday music in a spectacular show that dazzles the senses.
Where: H-E-B Center, 2100 Ave of the Stars, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: December 24, 2025 | 2 pm
How Much: Starts at $35
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: November 19, 2025 – January 3, 2026
How Much: Starts at $63
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: November 7 – December 28, 2025
How Much: Starts at $30
Family-Friendly + Easy Daytime Ideas (Dec 24–Jan 1)
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 13, from 6 pm to 11 pm.
Where: Contracommon, 12912 Hill Country Blvd f140, Bee Cave, TX 78738
When: November 28, 2025 – January 2, 2026
How Much: Free
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: November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026 | 4 pm – 9 pm
How Much: Starts at $35
Candlelight: Holiday Special featuring “The Nutcracker” and More
Candlelight invites you into a live, multi-sensory concert set inside The Mansion in Austin, where Christmas-inspired music unfolds beneath the warm glow of candlelight.
You’ll get to enjoy a carefully curated program featuring holiday medleys and timeless favorites such as “Hark the Herald Angels Sing,” “The First Noël,” “O Holy Night,” and “Joy to the World,” alongside seasonal gems like Debussy’s “The Snow is Dancing” and selections from Tchaikovsky’s “The Seasons.”
The evening crescendos with highlights from “The Nutcracker,” including the March, Waltz of the Flowers, Trepak, and the iconic Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, delivering a complete holiday musical journey with smooth, logical flow from start to finish.
Where: The Mansion – Austin, 2312 San Gabriel St, Austin, TX 78705
When: December 27, 2025 | 8:45 pm
How Much: Starts at $40.50
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas
Image credit: Long Center
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas invites you to experience a holiday tradition that has captivated audiences for 40 years.
Created by Grammy Award winner Chip Davis, this live show delivers beloved Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics through the instantly recognizable Mannheim sound. Watch as 15 musicians perform on more than 20 instruments while dazzling multimedia effects surround the stage, creating an immersive yet intimate atmosphere that captures the spirit of the season.
Where: The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: December 30, 2025 | 7 pm
How Much: Starts at $46.82
New Year’s Eve + New Year’s Day (Dec 31–Jan 1)
Austin’s New Year
Image credit: Austin’s New Yaer
Austin’s New Year returns to celebrate everything that shaped 2025 and welcome 2026 with a citywide celebration at Auditorium Shores, framed by the iconic Austin skyline. Enjoy local food and beverage vendors, live music, and a spectacular firework display at midnight as the city marks the moment together.
As the Live Music Capital of the World®, Austin sets the tone with a standout lineup led by acclaimed indie-folk band The Head & the Heart. You can also catch performances from local artists Chaparelle, Tameca Jones, and The Point.
Where: Auditorium Shores, 900 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: December 31, 2025 | 7 pm
How Much: Free
Brisket Eve 2025
Brisket Eve 2025 brings you Austin’s late-night celebration of smoked meat, pop-punk nostalgia, and good times, all packed into one high-energy event. You dive into a scene fueled by brisket trucks and pop-up vendors, where the aroma of smoked meat sets the tone and keeps the night moving with purpose.
Where: The Far Out Lounge & Stage, 8504 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78745
When: December 31, 2025 | 7 pm
How Much: $20 early bird | $25 day off
Crawl ‘Til The Ball Falls: Austin NYE Bar Crawl 2026
Crawl ’Til The Ball Falls: Austin NYE Bar Crawl 2026 delivers one epic New Year’s Eve across Austin’s best bars and clubs in a single, seamless night. Move from venue to venue for champagne toasts, watch the televised Times Square ball drop, and hear top-tier music playing across the city’s hottest spots as the countdown to 2026 builds.
Your wristband unlocks entry to all participating locations and gives you access to drink specials all night.
Where: Various locations around Austin
When: December 31, 2025 | 6 pm – 2 am
How Much: $20
New Year’s Eve Comedy Show
Catch comedian Chris Fairbanks headlining two sets at 7:00 PM and 9:30 PM at Cap City’s New Year’s Eve Comedy Show!
The 9:30 PM show rolls straight into an after-party in the lounge, complete with a champagne toast, breakfast buffet, drink specials, party favors, and an upbeat atmosphere that carries you into the new year.
Where: Cap City Comedy Club, Bldg B, 11506 Century Oaks Terrace, Unit 100, Austin, TX 78758
When: December 31, 2025 | 7 pm and 9:30 pm
How Much: $20
St. Elmo (daytime) NYE Party
St. Elmo Daytime New Year’s Eve Party invites you to celebrate early with food, drinks, music, and a festive balloon drop in a lively, family-friendly setting. Gather at either St. Elmo location and at 4 PM, celebrate with a balloon drop, countdown, and free champagne toast.
There will also be New Year’s Eve bites from on-site food trucks and seasonal holiday drinks.
Where: St. Elmo Brewing Company, 440 E St Elmo Rd, G-2, Austin, TX 78745
When: December 31, 2025 | 12 pm – 6 pm
How Much: Free
Thinkery’s New Year’s Eve Celebration
Image credit: thinkery
Thinkery’s New Year’s Eve Celebration invites you to welcome 2026 with joy, balloons, and playful fun.
Choose from two celebration sessions, 9–11 AM or 1–3 PM, and enjoy a family-friendly New Year’s Eve filled with exciting balloon drops, a gentle scarf drop for little ones, and hands-on STEAM activities that spark creativity and fun.
Where: Thinkery, 1830 Simond Ave, Austin, TX 78723
When: December 31, 2025 | 9 am and 1 pm
How Much: $30 – $35
Quiet Events presents New Year’s Eve 2026 Silent Disco Bash
Image credit: Quiet Events
Dance the night away with a live DJ and a 3-channel silent disco experience and celebrate the countdown with a midnight champagne toast as everyone welcomes 2026 together.
Where: The Pub – Triangle, 815 W 47th St STE 103, Austin, TX 78751
When: December 31, 2025 | 9 pm
How Much: Starts at $25
Matcha (Half) Marathon
Austin’s Matcha (Half) Marathon invites you to a 13-mile community walk where every stop celebrates matcha at local cafes. Starting at the Capitol, stroll down Congress Avenue, through South Congress, and up South First Street, enjoying your favorite cafes along the way.
Your ticket includes free matcha from sponsoring and partnering cafes, a reusable Matcha (Half) Marathon tote bag, a Matcha Passport to collect stamps and stickers from each stop, and a matcha merch gift bag for true enthusiasts.
Where: Texas Capitol, 1100 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
When: January 1, 2026 | 9 am
How Much: Starts at $30
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.
- How to Spend Christmas Week in Austin: Events, Lights & More - December 18, 2025
- Free and Fun Events in Austin December 19 – December 21 - December 18, 2025
- Austin Highlights: Dec. 15 to 18 – Food, Music, Arts & More - December 14, 2025
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