Last Updated – 31st December 2025
Jump to: Free | Friday | Saturday | Sunday | Kids
The best free and fun events in Austin, January 2 – 4, include Texas Teeny Tiny Desk Showcase, Tosho-Con, Texas Farmers’ Market – Cedar Park, 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!
Stay on top of the best weekend events in Austin with our always-up-to-date guide to Things to Do in Austin this Weekend! Updates are published every Monday and updated throughout the week.
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.
Things to do in Austin this Weekend – Free Events in Austin (January 2 – 4)
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: Friday, January 2, 2026
How Much: Free
Zouk & Lambada in the Park
Dance under the Austin sky at Zouk & Lambada in the Park, a relaxed outdoor meetup that welcomes beginners, first-timers, and seasoned dancers alike. Start with a short introduction to Brazilian Zouk and Lambada, then ease into an open social practice designed for connection and movement.
Bring comfortable shoes, water, and curiosity, and take in sunset views of downtown as the perfect backdrop for learning, laughter, and dance.
Where: Butler Park, 1000 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, January 3, 2026 | 5 pm – 8:30 pm
How Much: Free
Austin Witches Market @ Cosmic Pickle Rd!
Explore the Austin Witches Market at Cosmic Pickle Road! Enjoy a 21+ evening after 7 pm, with free admission and a pet-friendly atmosphere that welcomes your furry friends.
Where: Cosmic Pickle, 121 Pickle Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, January 3, 2026 | 5 pm – 8:30 pm
How Much: Free
Texas’ Teeny Tiny Desk Showcase
Join the First Annual Texas Teeny Tiny Desk Showcase at Flamingo Cantina, where Central Texas bands take the iconic stage in a Teeny Tiny Desk setting.
The lineup features College of Hip Hop Knowledge & The Dropouts at 5 pm, Cool Under Fire at 6 pm, Mary Wanna at 7 pm, Micah Shalom at 8 pm, Hazard Hounds at 9 pm, Mau Mau Chaplains at 10 pm, Noella Grey & the Imaginary Band at 11 pm, and Lion Heights at midnight.
Where: Flamingo Cantina, 515 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, January 3, 2026 | 4:30 pm – 2 am
How Much: Free
The Highball Retro Market
Image credit: Righteous Retro
Get weird with the Righteous Retro crew at The Highball Retro Market on Saturday, January 3, from 1–8 pm. Browse over 20 vendors offering retro and vintage VHS, vinyl, art, comics, toys, and more, plus dive into retro gaming on NES, SNES, Sega, and PlayStation consoles.
Starting at 4 pm, you can also enjoy local film, music video, and animation screenings, including Ben Buck’s Trillroy, Swirly Straw Animation, and the horror short Mr. Mittens by Miramari Productions.
Where: The Highball, 1120 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, January 3, 2026 | 1:30 pm – 8 pm
How Much: Free
Mozart’s Festival of Lights
Celebrate the end of 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: Saturday, January 3, 2026 | 6 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Free
Tosho-Con: A Teens-Only Anime & Manga Con!
Join Tosho-Con, Austin Public Library’s teens-only Anime & Manga Convention for ages 13–18! Enjoy cosplay, crafting, gaming, karaoke, treats, and panels led by special guests in a fun, teen-focused environment.
Where: Austin Public Library University Hills Branch, 4721 Loyola Ln, Austin, TX 78723
When: Sunday, January 4, 2026 | 12 pm – 4 pm
How Much: Free
Things to do in Austin this Weekend – Friday Events (2nd of January)
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: Friday, January 2 – 3, 2026
How Much: Free – $30
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, January 2 – 3, 2026
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: Friday, January 2 – 4, 2026
How Much: Starts at $29
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, January 2, 2026 – February 1, 2026
How Much: $18 for adults | $15 for seniors and military | $12 for kids 3 – 17 | Free for kids under 3
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend – Saturday Events (January 3rd)
Wolf Rach Farmers’ Market
Start your Saturday morning at the Wolf Ranch Farmers’ Market at Wolf Ranch Town Center in Georgetown. You’ll find a weekly community market created to support local farmers and food producers across Williamson County, Texas.
The market takes place every Saturday morning and stays open year-round.
Where: Wolf Ranch Town Center, 1015 W University Ave, Georgetown, TX 78628
When: Saturday, January 3, 2026
How Much: No cover
Texas Farmers’ Market – Cedar Park
Image credit: Texas Farmers’ Market at Lakeline
Visit the Texas Farmers’ Market in Cedar Park year-round to shop fresh produce and artisan foods from local farmers and vendors. You’ll enjoy live music from local artists and have the chance to take part in the community composting program.
Where: Texas Farmers Market, 200 S Bell Blvd, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: Saturday, January 3, 2026 | 9 am – 1 pm
How Much: No cover
Mug Making
Image credit: Rosa Pottery
Create a custom mug in this hands-on intro workshop! You’ll get your hands covered in clay, explore hand and slab-building techniques, and receive demos and personalized instruction from a seasoned educator.
Take plenty of time to build and decorate your one-of-a-kind mug, choose your final glaze colors, and enjoy a fun, immersive experience from start to finish.
Where: Rosa Pottery Studio, 8711 Burnet Rd Ste F65, Austin, TX 78757
When: Saturday, January 3, 2026 | 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
How Much: $70
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend – Sunday Events January 4th
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, January 4, 2026
How Much: $10 – $15
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, January 4, 2026 | 4 pm – 9 pm
How Much: Starts at $35
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend – Kids Events January 2nd to 4th
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 moments.
Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Friday, January 2 – 3, 2026
How Much: Free – $30
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, January 2 – 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: Friday, January 2 – 4, 2026
How Much: Starts at $29
Fortlandia
Image Credit: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center FB Page
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, January 2, 2026 – February 1, 2026
How Much: $18 for adults | $15 for seniors and military | $12 for kids 3 – 17 | Free for kids under 3
Texas Farmers’ Market – Cedar Park
Visit the Texas Farmers’ Market in Cedar Park year-round to shop for fresh produce and artisan foods from local farmers and vendors. You’ll enjoy live music from local artists and have the chance to take part in the community composting program.
Where: Texas Farmers Market, 200 S Bell Blvd, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: Saturday, January 3, 2026 | 9 am – 1 pm
How Much: No cover
The Highball Retro Market
Get weird with the Righteous Retro crew at The Highball Retro Market on Saturday, January 3, from 1–8 pm. Browse over 20 vendors offering retro and vintage VHS, vinyl, art, comics, toys, and more, plus dive into retro gaming on NES, SNES, Sega, and PlayStation consoles.
Starting at 4 pm, you can also enjoy local film, music video, and animation screenings, including Ben Buck’s Trillroy, Swirly Straw Animation, and the horror short Mr. Mittens by Miramari Productions.
Where: The Highball, 1120 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, January 3, 2026 | 1:30 pm – 8 pm
How Much: Free
Mozart’s Festival of Lights
Celebrate the end of the holiday season 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, January 3, 2026 | 6 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Free
Tosho-Con: A Teens-Only Anime & Manga Con!
Join Tosho-Con, Austin Public Library’s teens-only Anime & Manga Convention for ages 13–18! Enjoy cosplay, crafting, gaming, karaoke, treats, and panels led by special guests in a fun, teen-focused environment.
Where: Austin Public Library University Hills Branch, 4721 Loyola Ln, Austin, TX 78723
When: Sunday, January 4, 2026 | 12 pm – 4 pm
How Much: Free
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, January 4, 2026
How Much: $10 – $15
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, January 4, 2026 | 4 pm – 9 pm
How Much: Starts at $35
- Free and Fun Events in Austin January 2 – January 4 - December 31, 2025
- 30 Restaurants Open on New Years Day Austin – 1st January, 2026 - December 31, 2025
- 40+ New Year’s Eve Dinner Austin 2025 – Discover the Best Restaurants Open on NYE - December 30, 2025
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.