There are normally plenty of fun things to-do in Austin during the Christmas holidays. For the most part, things should turn back to semi-normal as far as events and attractions.
Peppermint Parkway at Circuit of the Americas.
Go Carts a Zip line and and other cool stuff. A drive through experience is also available
Trail Of Lights And The Moontower Christmas Tree In Zilker Park
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.
The Nutcracker Is Back
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.
Duke Ellington’s “The Nutcracker Suite”. Dec 18
Not only is the classic nutcracker back in Austin, a new twist is playing in the brand new downtown Amphitheater in Waterloo Park. The new venue is outstanding, and for their first Christmas in ATX they will host Ballet Afrique, led by founder China Smith, as he interprets the classic holiday story set to Ellington’s iconic music. 7 p.m. Dec. 18
Armadillo Bazaar Dec 17-19
Music and Shopping is back in 2021. Dec 17-19, Outside Palmer Event Center Downtown Austin, TX
Other Cool Fun Holiday to-do’s
TEDDY BEAR TEAS – 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
A funky and decked out street in North Austin.
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
GRUENE HALL AND AND TOWN SQUARE
The very old and very cool dance hall, and old school town square have turned into a few blocks long tourist destination with music, food, drinks, and shopping. We love this place.
GEORGETOWN CHRISTMAS STROLL
A quant downtown event about 20 miles north of ATX. The town square Christmas event features a parade, craft boots, food, photos with Santa and more.
MARBLE FALLS
An hour drive from Austin. A nice little town with a very cool Christmas lights show with a Santa in the downtown lake 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 then ride the buses to the event.
For More information on Christmas in the Texas Hill Country – Click Here
Not really in the Hill Country, but not too far from Austin. A pretty cool looking Christmas destination in College Station.
