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Austin Volunteer Opportunities – Holiday Charities & Giving Campaigns For 2024

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Austin Volunteer Opportunities

Austin Volunteer Opportunities

Austin Volunteer Opportunities

For the Community

For the Animals

The holiday season is a time for giving back and Christmas volunteering Austin locals can make a difference with are waiting for you! Some options include LifeWorks Austin, which helps youth and families experiencing homelessness and Austin Pets Alive!, an animal shelter dedicated to saving the lives of animals.

Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.

Christmas Volunteering in Austin For the Community

Caritas of Austin

christmas volunteering in austin

Image credit: Caritas of Austin

Caritas of Austin is a local non-profit that helps people experiencing homelessness in the city. This Christmas, consider volunteering your time to support their important work. You can assist clients directly by helping them find housing or employment, support staff with daily operations such as preparing meals or organizing donations, or participate in special holiday events that raise awareness and funds.

Where: 611 Neches St, Austin, TX 78701

Operation Blue Santa

By volunteering with Operation Blue Santa, you can help bring joy and hope to children in need this Christmas. This is an annual program run by the Austin Police Department that provides toys and food to children and families in need during the holiday season.

Where: 4101 S Industrial Dr #260, Austin, TX 78744

Austin Disaster Relief Network

christmas volunteering austin

Image credit: Austin Disaster Relief Network

The Austin Disaster Relief Network is one of the best places for Christmas volunteering Austin locals and visitors can head out to. Volunteer opportunities include hands-on work such as cleanup and debris removal, behind-the-scenes support with administrative tasks and logistics, and providing emotional support to survivors.

Where: 13801 Burnet Rd Suite 100, Austin, TX 78727

Community First! Village

For over 25 years, Community First! Village has been supported by tens of thousands of volunteers who share their time and talents with the community. Whether you’re an individual, a family, or part of a larger group, there are opportunities for everyone to get involved. By volunteering, you’ll join a movement to support and care for individuals who have experienced homelessness, ensuring they are not forgotten.

Where: 9301 Hog Eye Rd Suite 950, Austin, TX 78724

LifeWorks Austin

christmas volunteering austin

Image credit: LifeWorks Austin

LifeWorks Austin is dedicated to helping youth and families experiencing homelessness build stable futures. When you choose this organization for Christmas volunteering Austin has, you join a community committed to solving youth homelessness in our city. Whether you prefer direct service with young people, supporting behind-the-scenes operations, or making a financial contribution, your involvement makes a significant difference.

Where: 3700 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704

SAFE Holidays Program

SafePlace’s Safe Holidays program provides support to survivors of domestic violence and abuse during the holiday season. This year, the program focuses on providing Thanksgiving meals, holiday gifts, and festive decorations to create a sense of normalcy and joy for families in need. Check out their website for more information on Christmas volunteering Austin has this year.

Where: 4800 Manor Rd building k, Austin, TX 78723

Volunteer on Christmas in Austin For the Animals

Austin Pets Alive!

volunteering christmas austin tx

Image credit: Austin Pets Alive!

Austin Pets Alive! (APA!) is an animal shelter that works to save the lives of animals in Austin. Volunteers are important to their work. With Christmas volunteering Austin opportunities like this won, you can help care for animals, gain new skills, and connect with other animal lovers. APA! believes everyone can help animals, and volunteering is a great way to get involved.

Where: 1156 W Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78703

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Christmas Lights in Austin Area – Best Holiday Lights 2021

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Bastrop Holiday Lights Trail
Christmas Lights in Austin, Texas: Bastrop is aglow with the warmth and twinkly lights of the season (Credit: Colin Guerra)

Are you looking for Christmas Lights in Austin area? Read on to find out the best places to enjoy holiday displays with your family in and around the Hill Country.

Hear, hear, the sparkly season is near! From now through the end of the season, festive holiday light trails adorn Texas Hill Country, and we’ve discovered the best and brightest dazzlers around.

We love love love the Trail of Lights at Zilker Park, yet if you want to set forth on an illuminated adventure beyond Austin’s most famous light trail, follow these shining beacons signaling from across Texas Hill Country.

These holiday light trails go above and beyond for those of us beguiled by the night and mesmerized by shiny objects. Yeah, I’m waaay into it. If you crave holiday glitz and are up for a quick road trip, then these nine Hill Country destinations will satisfy your quest to shine on.

One exciting new trend I’ve noticed this year is that some of these light trails have added even more events, attractions, and/or lights, and most of them are open longer than before. This gives you extra time to make the short road trip to experience these twinkly trails.

Note: I’ve added the distances to each trail from the Texas State Capitol this year to better help you plan your trip. Happy lights-gazing!

[Read more…]

Must See Socially Distant Drive-Through Holiday Light Spectaculars

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Austin Trail of Lights 2019

As we all know, COVID-19 has not been kind to small businesses, restaurants, or life in general. And as we roll into the holiday season, many may find it hard to get into the holiday spirit for a variety of reasons. 

Luckily, you can’t keep a festive season down, even in the midst of the pandemic. If you’re looking for a bright and jolly way to spend an evening from the comfort and safety of your car, look no further than our top picks for seasonal and safe drive-through light shows guaranteed to delight young and old alike. 

NOTE: While many of these events have walking trails, we’re only focusing on the drive-thru portion of the experience. If you choose to take these trails, please exercise proper social distancing and coronavirus precautions. 

Santa’s Ranch

Santa's Ranch Light Trail in New Braunfels
Santa’s Ranch mixes dinosaurs, pickup trucks, and bible stories with keen enthusiasm (credit: Santa’s Ranch)

Fancy a short road trip? Take IH-35 South to New Braunfels and check out Santa’s Ranch where over 1.5 million animated holiday lights await. Not only are the displays stunning, rolling through over a mile of winding country roads screams classic holiday cheer. And it’s all delightfully Austin weird. Cowboys, dinosaurs, biblical scenes, and a host of random ideas combine to create a magical aura for every attendee. It’s a lovely event in a beautiful setting.

Visit santasranch.net for directions, pricing, and tickets.

Peppermint Parkway at COTA

Everything about COTA’s Winter Wonderland at the Circuit is LIT! (credit: COTA)

A relative newbie to the ATX holiday scene, Peppermint Parkway at Circuit of the Americas grew from upstart to December mainstay in no time. Due to the ongoing pandemic, this year’s event is mainly vehicular, but don’t let that stop you from experiencing over a million lights displayed over a mile-long course.

This year’s theme lets visitors follow hosts Pepper and Mint as they race to deliver letters to Santa. Exhibits include elves, holiday sculptures, an enchanted forest, and a 60 foot spiral light tree. And no trip to a holiday display would be complete without a visit from the man in red himself! My family will be cruising down Tunnel Road rocking our Christmas jammies sometime soon—so join us!

Go to circuitoftheamericas.com for ticket prices and more information.

Trail of Lights

Trail of Lights 2015 Aerial
Trail of Lights 2015 from the air (Credit: Jared Tennant)

It wouldn’t be the holidays without the 56th annual Austin Trail of Lights spectacular. And while you won’t be able to take a spin under the Zilker Tree this year, there’s still plenty to marvel at during this incredible holiday experience. Guests will be able to enjoy classic exhibits like Santasaurus, Spaceship Santa, and 12 Days of Christmas whist being dazzled by over 2 million lights.

The Trail of Lights team went to great lengths to capture the spirit of the event while keeping it COVID free. Festive elves scan your tickets upon entry and holiday classics are broadcast on an in-park radio station. They even hand out cookies! And although the entire trip takes about 15 minutes, the sensory overload is worth it.

If I wrote a “You’re Not an Austinite Until” article, visiting this annual holiday celebration would be close to the top of the list. And although this version of the Trail of Lights is decidedly 2020, it’s still worth hopping into the car for a one-of-a-kind hit of holiday cheer.

The Austin Trail of Lights runs through January 3; you can purchase passes at austintrailoflights.org.

Buda Trail of Lights

The Buda 12th annual Trail of Lights starts at Stagecoach Park at 880 Main Street (credit: City of Buda).

For a weekend display, visit our neighbors down south for the 12th annual Buda Trail of lights at the historic Stagecoach Park. This year’s event is completely drive-through so you can experience holiday cheer from the safety of your vehicle.

The Buda Trail of lights is free and accessible December 10-13 and 17-20 from 6:00 to 10:00 PM. More info is available on the City of Buda site.

Home Displays

Motorcycle Light Display
A light covered motorcycle is just one of the crazy things you’ll find out in Austin’s neighborhood light displays (credit: That Other Paper via Flickr CC).

Everyone’s neighborhood has the “go all out” block. The row of homes where everyone gets together to celebrate the season under a blanket of glittering lights. And better yet, can be enjoyed from the comfort and safety of your vehicle. Here’s a quick run down of some of our favorites:

@BillTuckerTSP wants to know:

Where are you going for your socially distant holiday cheer this year?

Top Local Stores for Last-minute Gifts in Austin

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Local Stores for Last-minute Gifts in Austin
Toy Joy is a wonderland of werid, wild, and pure entertainment (Credit: 2nd Street District + Giant Noise)

You made up a list and checked it off twice.
You’ve cruised around Google for buying advice.
The presents all finished, it’s time to relax.
When holiday madness mounts an attack.

A knock on the door from your cousin Hannah
That last-minute party, a work Secret Santa.
Panicked about all the season what-ifs?
Here are six local places for last-minute gifts!

1/ Unexpected Guest: A-Town

Random visitors can be half pleasant surprise, half panic-inducing. A-Town makes it easy to snag a last-minute gift that shows your unexpected visitors you truly care. Everything from boutique clothing to local art is on offer at this long-standing Burnet Road shop.

And did I mention local? A-Town specializes in hard-to-find and one-of-a-kind gifts made by Austin artisans. And the best part is, it’s mostly stuff your guests can wear or use. From cool coasters with ATX landmarks to handmade jewelry, you can avoid the knick knacks and get your loved one something they’ll truly enjoy–all while supporting local brands and businesses. A win for everyone.

5502 Burnet Road – Website

2/ Last-minute Party Invite: WhichCraft

Last-minute Party Gift in Austin
WhichCraft at Mueller (Credit: Caitlin Johnson)

Tired of running to H-E-B for that boring bottle of wine? When you get an invite to a last-minute get-together, then grab some craft beer! WhichCraft, one of Austin’s premier bottle shops, excels in both service and selection.

The X factor is an extremely knowledgeable staff. Whether you’re headed to a holiday potluck or traditional Christmas tamale feast, the WhichCraft crew will pair the perfect beer to your food stuff of choice.

Here’s a pro-tip: if you can’t find something on the shelf that suits your mood, then get a couple of tastes (or pints if you have the time) from one of the 30 on-tap beers. Once you find a favorite, grab a couple crowlers to go, and you’re officially set for the soiree. A hip alternative to that plain old bottle of red.

1900 Simond Ave. #200 – Website

➡️ Keep reading: Kick Back at These 4 Bars in the Expanding Mueller Community

3/ You Forgot Your Cousin’s Kid: Terra Toys

From toy cars and trains to mind-bending puzzles and furry friends, Terra Toys is an oasis of enriching playthings for kids of all ages. Nearly everything in the store is designed with hands-on play in mind. You won’t find video games or electronic gizmos on the store floor.

This fits perfectly when it comes to last-minute gifts. The Terra team members are pros at helping customers select the best gift for a kid you may not know very well. And with their focus on ensuring stock is filled with mentally-nourishing toys, you can feel good that your gift will not only entertain, but also enrich.

2438 W Anderson Lane – Website

4/ Company White Elephant: Toy Joy

Need a dopamine hit of pure holiday happiness? Wander into a Toy Joy location and prepare to be delighted. An explosion of lights, sounds, and color, I’d recommend swinging by even if your shopping is done for the season.

In the context of gifts, Toy Joy shines with pure variety. When I worked downtown, every company White Elephant came from these masters of holiday magic. It’s the epitome of Austin weird, sure to make your random gift one everyone is lobbying to steal.

403 West 2nd St. / 4631 Airport Blvd. #114 / Austin Airport by Gate 11 – Website

➡️ Keep reading: 6 Locally-owned Austin Toy Stores

5/ For the Geeky Loved One: Game Over Videogames

Game Over Videogames in Austin
Game Over Videogames

Have a gamer on your holiday list? Instead of running to GameStop or Amazon, considering swinging by Game Over Videogames for all your button-mashing needs. While many of today’s hot titles are on the shelf, the bulk of the shop is dedicated to retro experiences.

From ancient Atari 2600 games to classic Super Nintendo titles to the original X-Box, Game Over is a old school gamer’s dream. They also sell retro consoles, including modern machines that can play every game in the box stuffed into your best friend’s closet.

And everything can be tried before purchase, so you can get your game on before making the buy. An easy one-stop shop for all your last-minute gamer needs.

110 N I-35, Round Rock / 911 W. Anderson Lane / 3005 S. Lamar, #B105-B – Website

➡️ Keep reading: Game Over Videogames Keeps Retro Gaming Alive

6/ A Little Something for Yourself: Lammes Candies

In the bustle and rush of the holiday season, it’s easy to forget the most important person on your list: you! One of the oldest businesses in Austin, Lammes Candies is the perfect place to treat yourself for being an incredible gift giver.

With multiple locations all over town, you’re guaranteed to be near one. And the instant sugar rush will help fuel you through that final push of holiday shopping. An excellent way to take care of yourself during this stressful yet wonderful holiday season.

5330 Airport Blvd. / Lakeline Mall / Barton Creek Mall / 2927A W. Anderson Lane / Market at Round Rock, 110 I-35 – Website

@BillTuckerTSP wants to know:

What are your go-to local stores for last-minute gifts?

The original version of this article was published Dec. 11, 2014.

10 Austin Restaurants Open Christmas Day

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Geraldine's Open Christmas Day in Austin
Elegant Geraldine’s is one of our favorite Austin restaurants open Christmas Day (Credit: Geraldine’s)

The only thing harder than finding someone who was born and raised in Austin is finding a good restaurant that’s open past midnight on the weekends, or at all on major holidays.

Over Christmas, Austin can feel like a ghost town. If you find yourself in search of sustenance on Dec. 25, then here’s a list of Austin restaurants open Christmas day. Eat, drink, and be merry!

[Read more…]

Be a Holiday Party Hero With These 8 Delectable Party Trays

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Ritual Catering Holiday Party Trays in Austin
Ritual’s crudites board comes with yummy spreads AND they’re a sight to behold (Credit: Ritual Catering)

Party time, Austin-style! Festivities are reaching peak season, and good holiday party trays can be edible works of art to feed and impress the masses.

Whether for work or private parties, these Austin companies have the hookup on noteworthy holiday party trays and boxes that will have your loved ones drooling with appreciation.

[Read more…]

Enjoy Austin Ice Skating on Whole Foods Rooftop

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Whole Foods Market Ice Skating
Bring your friends and family for fun on the ice (Credit: Whole Foods Market)

Ice skate on the rooftop of Whole Foods Market, now through Jan. 20, 2020!

Austin ice skating has returned to the rooftop plaza at Whole Foods Market’s flagship store for its 15th season. Enjoy this festive, wintry activity at the landmark location on North Lamar Boulevard between 5th and 6th Streets. It is real ice, so Austinites can relive childhood memories or introduce their own children to this strange, frozen substance we don’t see much of in Austin.

[Read more…]

9 Christmas Shows in Austin That’ll Get You in the 2019 Holiday Spirit

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A Christmas Carol Holiday Shows in Austin
ZACH Theatre’s “A Christmas Carol” is one of many brilliantly entertaining shows you can see in Austin this holiday season (Credit: Kirk Tuck)

With the clock counting down to Christmas, you’re probably rushing to holiday markets, searching for presents, and fitting holiday parties into your (sparse) free time. Let’s be real. The holidays tend to be more stressful than fun sometimes.

If you need to take a step back and enjoy a fun activity with the family, then the Austin area has multiple classic and original Christmas shows that can transport you to another place. Here are my nine recommendations for 2019.

[Read more…]

Austin’s Best Bazaars, Fairs, and Markets for Your Holiday Shopping

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Austin's Best Markets for Holiday Shopping

The holidays can be a joyous time of year with friends and family. But this season can also be stressful, as you try to find the perfect gift for those you love.

Whether you’re looking for arts, crafts, Texas foods, or gift certificates, our team at The Austinot believes local gifts make the best gifts! So here’s a rundown of the best bazaars, fairs, and markets in Austin to make your holiday shopping a breeze.

[Read more…]

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