Downtown Austin gets decked out for the holidays
It’s that time of year again. Thanksgiving is swiftly followed by a quick succession of holiday traditions and errands. It can be an exhausting time of year, which makes focusing on the more relaxing seasonal rituals that much more important.
December 7, 2013 is a date to mark on your calendar right now. Bring your family and friends to downtown Austin to enjoy a full schedule of events during one of Austin’s newer holiday traditions: the Holiday Sing-Along and Downtown Stroll.
Holiday Sing-Along and Downtown Stroll
Didn’t you know? Trees love singing!
Austin’s Holiday Sing-Along and Downtown Stroll invites visitors and natives to explore a Congress Avenue transformed by the holiday spirit. In one evening, you can stroll down a lighted Congress Ave., sing along with carolers, and meet Santa. All this cheer culminates in the lighting of the Capitol Building Christmas Tree, accompanied by a show of music and lights!
Other reasons to spend December 7th in downtown Austin:
- Art installations and exhibits from the Austin Bike Zoo
- Cookie decorating at Old Bakery
- Kids activities with the Austin Creative Reuse
- A varied assortment of live performances, including aerial dances and performances by the Austin School for the Performing and Visual Arts
If you prefer more introverted activities, the Paramount Theater will be showing a selection of classic holiday cartoons.
The best view
Not only will attendees be able to revel in holiday festivities, but shopping dynamos will be able to take care of much of their gift giving wish list during the stroll. Local boutiques Austin Rocks and Toy Joy will be joining retail forces to supply unique presents at 916 Congress Avenue. Other vendors will also be on site, including a Sustainable Food Center Holiday Market.
Cookie experts will be on hand!
The list of activities is rather long and keeps expanding. Interested readers should check in regularly with the event page.
Important Details for Attendees
Saturday, December 7, 2013
6 PM-9 PM
The Sing-Along takes place on the steps of the Texas State Capitol (11th Street and Congress Ave.). The tree will be stationed at the south gates of the Capitol Lawn. The Stroll will take place along Congress Ave. from 11th St. to 7th St.
Getting there:
Public transportation via Capital Metro is often the best way to get downtown. If you do plan to drive, be prepared to pay between $5-10 for parking. I recommend arriving early and having an early dinner before enjoying the festivities. You don’t want to miss Santa!
@briteshinything asks:
For those attending the Congress Stroll, what do you plan to check off the “holiday to-do” list? Post a comment and mark your calendar!
All article photos courtesy of Brian Gray Photography. Cover photo via Flickr CC by Larry Archer.
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