The fabulous Lawrie Bird hosts and the fun begins at 1 PM. What else do you need to know? All are welcome.
Vist an indoor Latinx art and arts and crafts market at the Artisan Mercado, 506 Congress Avenue in downtown Austin, Texas. The Mercado, fashioned after markets in Latin America, operates from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. the first and third Saturday from June through December.
Spice up your Wednesdays with Austin's longest-running ALL LATINX drag showcase! đ„âš Catch Divina with host host Tatiana Cholula every week at 10 PM. đđ
Discover the fresh and vibrant local food scene in Central Texas at SFC Downtown Farmersâ Market. Every Saturday, rain or shine, from 9am â 12pm, we bring together the best local farmers, ranchers, food producers and artisans committed to offering top-notch products.
Tuesdays Unplugged! Live acoustic music from 8:00 PM. Enjoy chill vibes, great tunes, and a relaxed atmosphere every Tuesday night
Every Wednesday at Speakeasy Hailed as âThe Ultimate New Wave 80âs bandâ playing the best of (and sometimes the worst of) the most beloved decade of all time! Your Mother is sure to approve of these four lovable nerds, who come equipped with suspenders, pin-wheel hat, helmet, and neck brace, as well as an emotional support chicken to inspire even the most modest audience member to âcut foot looseâ. With their charmingly bad dance choreography and jokes thatâll make your Dad smirk, everyone is guaranteed to be on board as you take a trip back to the 1980âs.
Join St. David's on the first and third Thursdays of the month for their Cafe Divine lunch! Menu updates weekly.
Marking its 42nd year, Mexic-Arte Museumâs DĂa de los Muertos celebration and the 2025 exhibition, En lo mĂĄs negro del verano / In the Darkest Domain of Summer (September 5, 2025 â January 4, 2026), invite you to participate in our annual Call for Photos for the community Ofrenda. Each year, altars fill the gallery with memories, photos, and offerings that honor loved ones who are no longer with us. Join us in celebrating, remembering, and keeping this tradition alive together.
En lo mĂĄs negro del verano / In the Darkest Domain of Summer is a contemplative exhibition inspired by a haunting poem by Peruvian writer Blanca Varela. Twelve emerging artists respond through painting, ceramics, installation, film, and more, exploring death as an ever-present force woven through memory, mourning, and renewal. Much like DĂa de los Muertos, these works become echoes of people, places, and histories, inviting visitors to reflect on the cycle of life where beauty and loss intertwine.
90s Night every Friday at 9 PM! Come dance, vibe to your favorite throwback tracks, and enjoy a night of great music and good times!
See Austin legend Soul Man Sam live on our patio, bringing classic soul, blues, and great vibes to downtown all season long. Guests can enjoy an iconic Austin music experience with no cover.
Wrap your mittens around our delicious Christmas-y concoctions like the Snowball Old Fashioned and the Chistmapolitan. Enjoy the floor-to-ceiling festive décor, bask in the nostalgia of the memories of your family's den on Christmas morning, watch some of your favorite Christmas movies on our movie projector, and enjoy some classic holiday tunes. Treat yourself to an early Christmas present... Claus you're worth it.
Grab the Mic, Rule the Night! ïžVery Merry Karaoke, Every Friday in November & December from 9pm to midnight! đ€
Complete with firepits, delicious treats, and stunning skyline views, Hilton Austinâs rooftop pool deck is the perfect place to cozy up while watching holiday movie favorites. Every Saturday from November 29 through December 27, the hotel will feature one of several film classics for guests to enjoy poolside. Sâmores, seasonal beverages, and warm blankets will be available for purchase at the Pool Bar. The event is free and open to the public.
Starting December 1st, Crazy Conchaz goes crazy for Christmas! Come try our Cafe Canela and Christmas Conchas all December long. We also have various food and drink specials througout the week and live bands Thursday-Saturday. Come get crazy with us this Christmas!
Individuals who are looking to maintain their wellness routines during the holidays can sign up for a themed class at the F45 Training studio, located on the eighth floor of Hilton Austin. Infusing daily workouts with a festive flair, F45 Trainingâs heart-pumping workouts will leave all participants feeling extra joyful while giving studio members a chance to win raffle prizes. 12 Days of Fitmas will take place December 1-12.
Explore a Die Hard inspired full activation of the bar for the Christmas Season! We feature a holiday cocktail menu inspired by characters and scenes from Die Hard 80's vinyl dj sets ala the Nakatomi Plaza Christmas Party of 1988 There are TONS of photo ops in the bar - including an actual firehose you can use as a rope swing just like in the movie. Seasonal food changes as well as festive cocktails and spiked hot chocolate & eggnog We're open daily now from 4-2am on Thurs-Sat and 4-12am Sun-Weds.
This holiday season, The Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel is once again transforming its iconic Stephen Fâs Bar and Terrace into Ralphieâs on Congress, a festive pop-up bar inspired by the beloved holiday classic A Christmas Story.
Marlow will be decked out in tasteful holiday decor perfect for holiday hangs with friends and family, corporate holiday parties, and with our own original programming peppered throughout the month.
Cozy up to your holiday home-away-from-home at the historic Paramount Theatre for festive live music, family-friendly shows, an ELF-in legendary pub run, and the season's most iconic films on the big screen!
A treasured holiday tradition returns! Ballet Austinâs 63rd annual production of The Nutcracker is a dazzling spectacle filled with magic, wonder, and timeless charm. Follow Clara on her enchanting journey from a festive holiday party to the shimmering Land of Sweets, where she meets the dazzling Sugar Plum Fairy and the brave Nutcracker Prince. Featuring festive sets, exquisite costumes, and live accompaniment by the Austin Symphony Orchestra, this beloved classic creates cherished holiday memories year after year.
The Austin Gay Menâs Chorus invites you to A Not-So Silent Night: Fierce, Fabulous, and Full of Light. A night where tradition meets transformation, where candlelight glows beside glitter, and where our unapologetically queer joy takes center stage.
Explore the artistry of Emily Amey Jewelry at our upcoming trunk show this December. Known for her one-of-a-kind gemstones and luminous color stories, Emilyâs handcrafted jewelry and vibrant rings showcase natural beauty in every shadeâeach stone carefully selected and set in her signature organic designs. This special collection offers everyone the opportunity to explore a wide range of statement rings and collectible pieces that celebrate individuality, artistry, and joy of gemstones.
A night where tradition meets transformation, where candlelight glows beside glitter, and where unapologetically queer joy takes the stage.
Bat City Comedy Club, downtown Austin's best-kept-secret, is back for an evening of unstoppable laughter and plenty of holiday cheers. Featuring hilarious stand-up routines from host Callan Ream and an electric lineup of talented comedians, this is one night you won't forget! Content is for mature audiences (ages 21+) only. Complimentary self-parking is provided in Hilton Austin's garage.
Save the date for the Downtown Austin Alliance's 31st annual Holiday Sing-Along & Stroll with KUT News and KUTX 98.9 on the first Saturday of December
An excellent pre-stop for the Downtown Holiday Sing-Along & Stroll tree lighting to purchase gifts and goods
Get ready to kick off the season at the annual Austin Trail of Lights Fun Run, presented by Raising Cane's on Saturday, December 6, 2025. Be among the first to experience the magic of the Trail! Join us for a leisurely stroll, jog, or run along a 2-mile untimed course that starts at the iconic Zilker Holiday Tree and winds through the enchanting Austin Trail of Lights. Afterward, stay for the ultimate Finish Line Festival, right in the heart of Zilker Park.
Experience breakfast with Santa, complete with an enhanced breakfast buffet, holiday photo opportunities, and a special visit from Old Saint Nick â the perfect way to savor the holidays. Guests are encouraged to make reservations for breakfast on OpenTable
Enjoy an evening of holiday previews at our complimentary annual Tree Lighting benefiting Dell Childrenâs Medical Center. Enjoy complimentary cookies, treats and hot cocoa while the hotel lights its dazzling tree. After, enjoy photos with Santa and explore both The Fairmont Express and The Ugly Sweater pop-up on the 7th floor. For those taking Santa photos, a toy drive donation for Dell Childrenâs Holiday Village is requested. New, unwrapped toys can be dropped off at the donation boxes in the hotel lobby.
Get into the holiday spirit at Waterloo Park with family-friendly activities, snacks, live music, and a special appearance by Santa Claus!
Meet nineteen Texas authors, buy their latest books, and enjoy holiday treats at the historic Byrne-Reed House in Austin!
Mindful Miles Run Club Meetup
Weenie Wonderland at Oh What Fun! đđŸ Calling all Austin dachshunds (and the humans who adore them!) â Weenie Wonderland is coming to Oh What Fun! on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 12â2PM, hosted in partnership with ATX Weenies! @atx.weenies Bring your festive little long dog for an afternoon of cuteness, community, and holiday cheer â and as a special treat, any attendee who brings a dachshund will receive a ticket for a FREE coffee from our onsite cafĂ©. âïžâš Come meet fellow weenie lovers, snap adorable holiday photos, and enjoy the magic of Oh What Fun! with your four-legged best friend. â€ïžđ¶ 6d
Kick off the season at the Holiday Spa Bazaar at Fairmont Spa Austin, featuring two days of festive wellness experiences and exclusive shopping. Explore Texana wellness shots, interactive retail activations, and complimentary gift wrapping while enjoying seasonal sips and sweets. Guests will also be entered into a raffle for a Heated Quartz Bed Experience, making this the perfect stop for holiday gifting and self-care.
The Austin Saengerrunde's German Christmas Music Concert and Market
Hosted by the Trail of Lights Foundation, the annual event in Zilker Park celebrates the unique spirit and people that make Austin the place we love to call home. The trail features more than 2 million lights illuminating the park, 90 lighted holiday trees and more than 70 other holiday displays and lighted tunnels.
This December, Hayes Carll will take the stage with his band, The Gulf Coast Orchestra, for his annual run of Christmas shows. Whatâs become a favorite tradition for Hayes is a chance to share songs, swap stories, and spread a little holiday cheer with fans. These shows are about music, laughter, and being together at the year's end.
An Eliza Page Favorite: Limited-Edition & One-of-a-Kind Jewelry | Step into the world of Armenta, Houstonâs handcrafted jewelry house beloved by tastemakers like Eliza Page. Each piece is artisan-made, using rich mixtures of metalsâ18K yellow gold, rose gold, oxidized sterling silverâand adorned with diamonds, semi-precious stones, and relic-like textures. Inspired by âduendeâ â the spirit born from struggle, passion and beauty â Armenta designs are at once rugged and refined, romantic and raw. Wearing an Armenta piece is more than style; itâs telling a story. Explore this exclusive collection of limited and one-off treasuresâstatement rings, layered necklaces, bold earringsâthat resonate with artistry, heart, and meaning.
BookPeople welcomes Jan Brett and her special Christmas tour bus to celebrate the release of The Christmas Sweater.
Get ready to celebrate the season with us at the Mexic-Arte Museum Holiday Party! Join friends and family for an unforgettable gathering filled with art, culture, and festive vibes. Enjoy the current exhibits, lively music, and tasty traditional treats and holiday-themed beverages! Donât miss out on this perfect way to kick off your holiday celebrations! This event will also recognize the official designation of the 5th St Mexican American Cultural District by the Texas Commission on the Artsđ Ticket Includes: đïžOpening Reception of Los Nacimientos đ«Antojitos: Tamales, Tacos, Rompope & Strawberry Ice Cream, Buñuelos đ„2 Drink Tickets đ§Entertainment đ Mystery Gift Sale đïž20% Off Mexic-Arte Museum Store Holiday Sale đšArt Activity
Nativity scenes, mangers, or belenes are traditional elements of the Christmas season in Mexico, especially among Catholic communities. However, it is not necessary to belong to a religious tradition to appreciate the creativity, craftsmanship, aesthetics, symbolism, and dedication involved in assembling or creating a nativity scene. The tradition of nativity scenes dates back nearly 800 years to Saint Francis of Assisi, who first created a life-size nativity scene in Italy, featuring real people and animals. Over time, the practice spread throughout Europe, particularly in religious settings. By the 15th century, smaller figurines were introduced, making it easier for people to set up nativity scenes in their homes. In Mexico, this tradition began during the early years of the conquest as a strategy to aid in the evangelization of indigenous peoples. Over the course of five centuries, both the composition and technique of the nativity scene have evolved significantly. It is difficult to pinpoint the exact elements that made up the original nativity scene but usually a visual representation of the birth of Jesus Christ is present, as well as scenes from heaven and hell. The diverse array of nativity scenes is deeply shaped by the cultural traditions of each region or town, as well as by the unique geographical features of the area. The nativity scene featured in this gallery includes pieces generously donated by collectors Edwin R. Jordan and Charles H. Geffen. Los Nacimientos will be on display from December 11, 2025, until January 4, 2026.
Holiday Market featuring local artisans and vendors for gifts and more!
All vinyl holiday dance party in the Marlow living room with the legends of QVC & ABC!
Experience a warm and uplifting winter evening as Chorus Austin performs carols, choral favorites and a brand-new premiere.
Join the Austin Chamber Music Center for a live concert of all of your favorite tunes from the holiday classic. Celebrate the season with the original Charlie Brown music of Vince Guaraldi featuring violinist Sandy Yamamoto, bassist Utah Hamrick, drummer David Sierra, and other special guests, including Snoopy! Bring your family to this Austin tradition and get in the holiday spirit!
Come join the SoCo Womenâs Chorus as we explore musical extremesâŠfrom fiery passion to frozen beautyâŠin a dazzling winter concert. From the glowing energy of Kat Gimon's Fire to the frozen quiet of Ola Gjeilo's Tundra and Äriks EĆĄenvalds's Northern Lights, this program reflects how opposite forces can illuminate one another. Come and experience the magic with us!
Get ready for an epic night with Can I Kick It? as DJ 2-Tone Jones live-scores Gremlins at Republic Square on Saturday, December 13 at 6pm. Don't miss this thrilling event where hip-hop, funk and soul fill the park for an unforgettable holiday screening!
CAN I KICK IT? and Downtown Austin Alliance present GREMLINS, featuring a live soundtrack by DJ 2-Tone Jones, at Republic Square. Sat 12.13.25.
Bring the family to Brunch with Santa, including holiday cookie decorating led by Christophe Frigara, Executive Pastry Chef, and his team, plus enjoy favorites like pumpkin pancakes and brioche French toast. St. Nick will read âTwas The Night Before Christmas and guests are invited to share in the spirit of the season by bringing new toy donations to support Dell Children's Holiday Village (12/14) or by choosing a wish from the wish tree in support of Make-A-Wish Central and South Texas (12/20). Self-parking Included.
Ballet Afrique, Austinâs only Black-owned en pointe dance company proudly presents the 2025 production of Duke Ellington's The Nutcracker Suite, a performance that not only honors tradition but also embraces the power of innovation and collective spirit. Join us on Monday, December 15th, 6pm at The Historic Paramount Theatre for an unforgettable evening that reimagines the classic holiday tale through the vibrant lens of Harlem's jazz era.
Indsutry focused (but not exclusive) Christmas party - Tiki drinks, DJ, Santa wet t-shirt contest (for real) & fundraiser for service industry organizations
Purchase your favorite sushi, then head upstairs for a free holiday dessert and a peek at our new event space! Happening the third week in December.
Celebrate the season with Home Alone in Concert as your Austin Symphony Orchestra performs John Williamsâ enchanting score live to picture in this heartwarming holiday classic beloved by the whole family.
For three decades, Michael Martin Murphey's Cowboy Christmas has been an extraordinary blend of music, encompassing his numerous best-selling Christmas albums, alongside his beloved country and pop hits. This vibrant holiday celebration takes the form of a captivating multi-media production, featuring Murphey's renowned "Rio Grande Band," dramatic lighting, video, as well as the use of Western Art, captivating master-artist photographs, breathtaking videos, and delightful cowboy poetry. "Michael Martin Murphey's Cowboy Christmas" beautifully captures the rustic essence of the story of Jesus' birth in the countryside village of Bethlehem, where the joyous tidings first reached the humble livestock caretakers and herders, often referred to as "cowboys," over two millennia ago.
Join Facilitation Lab Austin for hands-on practice with real facilitation challenges, and try new techniques, get feedback, and build confidence in a supportive group.
Join the Downtown Austin Alliance the third Thursday of each month for a virtual Downtown Safety Forum.
Join us for Texas crooner William Beckmannâs Fourth Annual Las Posadas Tour - a five city special set of performances featuring an intimate night of Christmas music, crooner standards, Spanish songs, storytelling and select Beckmann originals. Charity package sales and add-on fees will be donated to assist Texas Hill Country flood victims in partnership with Vaqueros del Mar Relief Fund.
Live music, Christmas Carol piano jam hosted by @b3nmo with numerous guest singers and musicians - Weâll have âA might be drunk Santaâ for photos - Free Christmas cookies - This is not to be missed, itâs our best party of the year. Itâs lively, fun, warm, and great for celebrating with family and friends!
Deck thaâ halls and hang them balls! Itâs a holiday homecominâ ya never saw aâcomin! Dust off that bacon and get your legs shakin to the olâ State Theatre for: A MOST âMEMERABLE HOLIDAY EVENING with REBECCA HAVEMEYER & STANLEY ROY! Grab a seat for an intimate evening of song, dance, and hullabalooinâ with your tried and true, Glorious Two!
Experience the Magic of the Season with Leslie Odom, Jr. Tony and Grammy Award-winning artist Leslie Odom, Jr. returns for his 2025 Christmas Tour, following last yearâs completely sold-out run. Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with a dazzling evening of music, warmth, and joy. This festive concert features beloved holiday classics, heartfelt originals from his acclaimed Christmas albums, and special performances of songs from Hamilton, the Broadway phenomenon that earned Odom a Tony for his iconic role as Aaron Burr.
Reserve a table at The Ugly Sweater located in Rules & Regs for a 'Jolly Dolly Holiday' drag brunch hosted by Extragrams' favorite drag queens! Enjoy special holiday performances of merry entertainment and brunch options.âŻThis annual show has proved to offer hilarious holiday delights and delicious bites.
For the first time ever, Local Foods is open the week between Christmas and New Year's! Stop by and fuel up while you see holiday attractions downtown.
Weâre breaking out the chandeliers and disco balls so you can experience Bob like youâve never seen him before. Come party in the glittering-gold Paramount Theatre to ring in the new year! This show and party combo is the best way to see 2025 out in style while ensuring your first moments of 2026 are unforgettable.
đ Ring in 2026 with Us at Estherâs Follies! NYE Shows Now On Sale! đ„ Celebrate the end of 2025 in style at Estherâs Follies on historic 6th Street with our special New Yearâs Eve shows â happening December 31st at 7:00pm and 9:30pm! Join the cast of Estherâs as they toast the New Year and roast 2025 with unforgettable sketches, songs, and jaw-dropping magic by Estherâs own award-winning magician, Ray Anderson. đïž Tickets are $60 / $65 / $70 and include: âš Reserved seating đ NYE party goodies â noisemakers, fun hats & more đ„ A glass of champagne to toast 2026 đ« A festive, high-energy night in the heart of downtown Austin Whether youâre looking for an early laugh or want to ring in the New Year with a bang, Estherâs Follies is the place to be.
The Red River Cultural District's coolest annual winter music fest officially returns on January 9-10, bringing together some of the cityâs best local music talent and venues with no cover for fans!
Celebrate Daniel Johnston and mental health awareness. This yearâs headliner is the incomparable Nathaniel Rateliff, whose soul-stirring performance will honor Danielâs legacy and inspire connection through music.
Celebrate 40 years of SXSW in clubhouses, XSW is 850+ total conference sessions, 600+ mentor and networking events, 4,400 musicians performing over 300 live showcases, 460 films and tv show screenings and 450 brands activating. 7 days in Austin to connect, discover and create whatâs next.
Moontower brings a TWO-WEEK comedy onslaught to the heart of downtown Austin every April. Say whaaa? That means over 150 of the worldâs top and emerging comedians performing everywhere
On Saturday 2nd May 2026 your Saturday evening has the potential to be truly special. Rhiannon Giddens is finally coming back to Austin for what would be the greatest Blues concert in Texas for all of 2026. This band has a history of performing infront of sold out crowds with their unique sound and blend of raw live music talent and a stunning atmosphere, treat yourself to see this award-winning concert. Taking place in May, you can expect a surreal evening with this groups ultimate songs and compositions including a few special surprises!
See Downtown Holiday Deals, Gift Guides, Events, Experiences & more!