There are normally plenty of fun things to-do in Austin for during the Christmas holidays. But this year COVID-19 has canceled or watered down much of the holiday fun. But there are still options to stay safe and find a little holiday fun around Austin and the Texas Hill Country.
WINTER WONDERLAND AT CIRCUIT OF THE AMERICAS – They are still working on a game-plan or 2020.
From the looks of things on their website, COTA could out shine the long honored ATX tradition of Trail of Lights. Some of the attractions include:
1 million lights
Santa’s workshop
Petting zoo
Human snow globe
Holiday movies on the lawn
Hot air balloon float up to 100-feet high
Santa’s train ride for kids
Giant skating rink
Camel rides
Carnival rides for both children and adults
Shopping
Adult stuff in the Bud Light Tent!
WOW! I’m sold.
Some attractions cost extra
http://www.circuitoftheamericas.com/winter-wonderland
TRAIL OF LIGHTS AND THE MOONTOWER CHRISTMAS TREE IN ZILKER PARK – You can make a reservation to drive through the show in your car.
This year you must make reservations in advance and you and your party can drive through the modified trail of lights in and around Zilker Park. On the plus side, you don’t have to deal with parking this year.
THE NUTCRACKER – Virtual Access
Austin Ballet puts on a full production of the Christmas classic every year. There a many performance in the downtown theater, the Long Center. It’s a first class experience.
LOCAL HOLIDAY SHOPPING
Armadillo Bazaar Canceled
CHERRYWOOD ART FAIR
Held 4 times a year, and a great event for Christmas time in Austin. They have 2019 info on their website,
Cherrywoodartfair.org/
Other Cool Fun Holiday to-do’s
TEDDY BEAR TEAS – Doesn’t look like you can reserve online. Boo Hoo Located at the 4 seasons, Santa reads twas the night before Christmas by the fire, there is afternoon caroling, and afternoon tea services. Children are asked to bring an unwrapped teddy bear as a donation. Saturday and Sundays, noon and 3. First few weeks in December.
GINGERBREAD WORKSHOPS AT THE THINKERY
A really cool kids\science museum located in the Mueller town center district; previously the old ATX airport. Hour long workshop for all ages. You must reserve a seat, recommended 1 gingerbread house kit for 2-3 people, $12\$20 per kit. 3-24 check website for dates and more information.
THE NORTH POLL FLYER
One of our family favorite kids attractions. A full size old school steam train that runs from North Austin to Burnett and back. There Christmas train ride is something special for the little kids.
37TH STREET LIGHTS – Probably will be up.
These lights are decent, but only a small block. It a good excuse to make a trip to your favorite spot in this part of ATX
ICE SKATING – Whole Food is a No thanks for 2020
During the Christmas season, there is an ice rink of the top of whole foods. There is also a decent Ice Skating Rink that is operated year around in Northcross mall in North Austin. The ice skates at the mall are not the best.
Hill Country Road Trips
GEORGETOWN CHRISTMAS STROLLA very quant downtown event about 20 miles north of ATX. The town square Christmas event is great
http://www.thegeorgetownsquare.com/Christmas-Stroll.html
MARBLE FALLS
An hour drive from Austin. A nice little town with a very cool Christmas lights show with a Santa and a quaint downtown area. I normally make the drive to check it out.
BUDA
There is a nice trail of lights without the big crowds. You can park at the Cabalas and they run buses to the event
