Last updated 1/1/2026
Jump to: Restaurants Open on New Year’s Day | Free & Family-Friendly Activities | Outdoor Activities | Open Stores | Wellness Events | Where to Watch Games and Sports
What does the perfect New Year’s Day in Austin look like? It might be a cozy brunch or it might be live music, lake views, or a peaceful walk. It all depends on you. The amazing things is that when you’re in Austin, there are endless ways to begin the year with joy and energy.
Here are some of the best activities to choose from for New Year’s Day in Austin.
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.
Brunch & Restaurants Open on New Year’s Day
Whether you’re craving a comforting brunch, a classic steak dinner, or a casual bite to ease into the new year, dozens of Austin-area restaurants are ready to serve you on January 1. Local favorites like 24 Diner, Moonshine Grill, and Fogo de Chao are confirmed open, offering everything from all-day breakfast to celebratory multi-course meals.
Franchise chains including Whataburger, IHOP, McAlister’s Deli, and The Melting Pot are also welcoming guests, with most operating under regular or slightly reduced hours. From Round Rock to Cedar Park, several neighborhood spots will be open too—so no matter where you are in the Austin metro, you’ll have tasty ways to kick off 2026.
Looking for more options? Check our our full list with over 30 Restaurants Open New Years Day in Austin!
Free & Family-Friendly Events
Polar Bear Splash at Barton Springs
Join the Save Our Springs Alliance for the annual SOS Polar Bear Splash, a beloved Austin tradition that celebrates clean water and brings the community together.
The community jump at 9:30 AM is the perfect way to dive into 2026 with energy and fun. Before that, you can warm up with coffee and donuts, grab a commemorative 2026 t-shirt, and learn about the local efforts to protect Austin’s waters.
Special guests include Commissioner Brigid Shea at 10:00 AM and muralist Fabian Rey at noon. Don’t miss this iconic start to the year!
Where: Barton Springs Pool, 2131 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
When: January 1, 2026 | 8:30 am – 2:30 pm
How Much: Free
New Year’s Day Pickleball Social
Image credit: Austin Pickle Ranch
Kick off 2026 with a fun and active start at the New Year’s Day Pickleball Social at Austin Pickle Ranch! Enjoy open-play pickleball, create your vision board with all the supplies provided, and sip on complimentary caffeine to keep your energy high.
Lace up your shoes, grab your paddle, and make sure to claim your spot before it fills up.
Where: Austin Pickle Ranch, 11000 Middle Fiskville Rd Building B, Austin, TX 78753
When: January 1, 2026 | 11 am
How Much: Not stated
Friends of McKinney Falls First Day Fun Run
Start 2026 on the right foot with Friends of McKinney Falls First Day Fun Run, a trail run set inside the stunning McKinney Falls State Park in Austin. You’re invited to run or walk a scenic ~5K through classic Hill Country terrain, just miles from the state capitol.
This run delivers a truly unique race experience as you move beneath color-changing leaves, hear the steady rush of the falls, and take in the natural beauty that surrounds you. Every step you take directly supports Austin’s own McKinney Falls State Park.
Where: Austin Beerworks, 3001 Industrial Terrace, Austin, TX 78758
When: January 1, 2026 | 11:30 am
How Much: Free – $35
STRONG START 2026! – Racing Minds New Year’s Day Family Fun Run
Image credit: Racing Minds
Kick off the year strong at STRONG START 2026!, the Racing Minds New Year’s Day Family Fun Run built to get you moving with purpose. You can run or walk your way through a 100M dash, half mile, one mile, or a challenging 2.5 miles, with the option to team up with friends for a half mile relay and take on multiple distances if you’re feeling ambitious.
You’ll receive a race bib at check-in, and that same bib enters you into the raffle draw, adding extra excitement from start to finish.
Where: Lakeline Park, 1510 Alexis Dr, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: January 1, 2026 | 10 am
How Much: Free – $35
Mozart’s Festival of Lights
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: January 1, 2026 | 6 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Free
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: January 1, 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: January 1, 2026
How Much: $10 – $15
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: January 1, 2026 | 6 pm
How Much: Starts at $37
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 playful tradition since 1967 that keeps Austin’s longest-standing holiday celebration bright and joyful!
Where: 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
When: 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 celebratory and spirited.
Where: South Mall, University of Texas, 2515 Speedway, Austin, TX 78712
When: January 1, 2026 | 5 pm – 10 pm
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 away 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: January 1, 2026 | 4 pm – 9 pm
How Much: Starts at $35
Outdoor Activities & Parks Open on Jan 1
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
Polar Bear Splash at Barton Springs
Image credit: Save Our Springs Alliance
Join the Save Our Springs Alliance for the annual SOS Polar Bear Splash, a beloved Austin tradition that celebrates clean water and brings the community together.
The community jump at 9:30 AM is the perfect way to dive into 2026 with energy and fun. Before that, you can warm up with coffee and donuts, grab a commemorative 2026 t-shirt, and learn about the local efforts to protect Austin’s waters.
Special guests include Commissioner Brigid Shea at 10:00 AM and muralist Fabian Rey at noon. Don’t miss this iconic start to the year!
Where: Barton Springs Pool, 2131 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
When: January 1, 2026 | 8:30 am – 2:30 pm
How Much: Free
ABW Run Club: New Year’s Day Run
Kick off the year with the 2nd edition of the ABW Run Club New Year’s Day Run! After the run, claim your beer ticket and munch on some awaiting taco options to refill.
Where: Austin Beerworks, 3001 Industrial Terrace, Austin, TX 78758
When: January 1, 2026 | 11 am
How Much: Not stated
Friends of McKinney Falls First Day Fun Run
Start 2026 on the right foot with Friends of McKinney Falls First Day Fun Run, a trail run set inside the stunning McKinney Falls State Park in Austin. You’re invited to run or walk a scenic ~5K through classic Hill Country terrain, just miles from the state capitol.
This run delivers a truly unique race experience as you move beneath color-changing leaves, hear the steady rush of the falls, and take in the natural beauty that surrounds you. Every step you take directly supports Austin’s own McKinney Falls State Park.
Where: Austin Beerworks, 3001 Industrial Terrace, Austin, TX 78758
When: January 1, 2026 | 11:30 am
How Much: Free – $35
STRONG START 2026! – Racing Minds New Year’s Day Family Fun Run
Kick off the year strong at STRONG START 2026!, the Racing Minds New Year’s Day Family Fun Run built to get you moving with purpose. You can run or walk your way through a 100M dash, half mile, one mile, or a challenging 2.5 miles, with the option to team up with friends for a half mile relay and take on multiple distances if you’re feeling ambitious.
You’ll receive a race bib at check-in, and that same bib enters you into the raffle draw, adding extra excitement from start to finish.
Where: Lakeline Park, 1510 Alexis Dr, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: January 1, 2026 | 10 am
How Much: Free – $35
What’s Open: Shopping, Stores & Grocery
Need to restock groceries, pick up essentials, or take advantage of post-holiday sales? Many major Austin stores will be open on January 1, 2026, including H-E-B, Whole Foods, Randalls, and Fiesta Mart—though hours may be shortened. Big box retailers like Walmart, Target, Best Buy, and Apple are also set to open with adjusted schedules.
Pharmacies such as CVS and 24-hour convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Circle K will be operating, while home improvement stores including Home Depot and Lowe’s will welcome shoppers during limited hours. Even international grocers like H Mart and El Rancho will have doors open, making it easy to kick off the year prepared.
Looking for more options? Check out our full article with over 20 Stores Open New Years Day in Austin
Wellness, Yoga & Recovery Events
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
STRONG START 2026! – Racing Minds New Year’s Day Family Fun Run
Kick off the year strong at STRONG START 2026!, the Racing Minds New Year’s Day Family Fun Run built to get you moving with purpose. You can run or walk your way through a 100M dash, half mile, one mile, or a challenging 2.5 miles, with the option to team up with friends for a half mile relay and take on multiple distances if you’re feeling ambitious.
You’ll receive a race bib at check-in, and that same bib enters you into the raffle draw, adding extra excitement from start to finish.
Where: Lakeline Park, 1510 Alexis Dr, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: January 1, 2026 | 10 am
How Much: Free – $35
Flow and Chill into the New Year
Image credit: flowyogatx
Flow and Chill into the New Year invites you to begin the year by moving with intention and settling into stillness. You’ll gently reset physically, mentally, and energetically as you step forward, starting with a mindful flow that builds warmth, circulation, and ease in the body.
The practice then shifts into a slower, grounding sequence with restorative and yin-inspired postures that encourage deep release and rest. Guided mindfulness and moments of reflection are woven throughout, giving you space to pause, breathe, and consciously set the tone for the year ahead.
Where: Flow Yoga Austin – North Loop, 5501 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78751
When: January 1, 2026 | 2 pm – 4 pm
How Much: Starts at $10
Where to Watch Bowl Games & Sports
Champions Austin Restaurant and Bar
This downtown favorite combines an upbeat sports bar atmosphere with elevated all-American fare and plenty of local craft beers, making it an ideal spot to cheer on New Year’s Day games with friends or family.
With big-screen TVs, tasty dishes like chef-crafted burgers, tacos, and loaded nachos, plus a full bar to keep the drinks flowing, Champions creates a spirited environment where fans can celebrate every play and kickoff in comfort right in the heart of Austin.
Where: 300 E 4th St, Austin, TX 78701
Uptown Sports Club
Located on vibrant East 6th Street, Uptown Sports Club offers a stylish yet relaxed setting perfect for a New Year’s Day gathering. While its focus blends great food with community vibes, the historic space provides a welcoming backdrop for catching key games and conversation over a hearty meal.
Where: 1200 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702
The Tavern
Image credit: The Tavern Austin
The Tavern’s lively atmosphere and abundance of screens ensure you won’t miss a moment of the action on New Year’s Day. Known for showing “any game, any time,” this west Austin staple pairs more than 30 TVs with cold beers and classic wings, creating a bustling environment where fans of football, college games, or even soccer can cheer together.
Where: 922 W 12th St, Austin, TX 78703
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.
- New Year’s Day in Austin 2026 – Brunch, Events, Parks & What’s Open - January 1, 2026
- 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
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