Austin Holiday Festivities Guide 2025
Every year, Austin enters a season where lights glow brighter, the air softens and neighborhoods begin to smell like cedar and cinnamon. This guide gathers some of the best local events for 2025 so you can enjoy the shows, lights, markets and small-town magic that make the holidays in Central Texas feel special.
Holiday Shows and Performances
Austin's stages shine brightest this time of year. These are the performances locals return to year after year.
A Christmas Carol — ZACH Theatre
A modern musical adaptation of Dickens’ classic. Warm, spirited and beautifully produced.
A Charlie Brown Christmas
The sweet Peanuts story brought to life. Simple, nostalgic and perfect for families with young kids.
Ballet Austin’s The Nutcracker
An Austin tradition. Stunning sets, elegant choreography and timeless holiday magic.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra
A dramatic, high-energy mix of rock, classical elements and holiday music.
Holiday Markets and Local Shopping
If you're looking for thoughtful gifts and local finds, these markets are the heart of the season.
Blue Genie Art Bazaar
Over 200 Austin makers under one roof. Handmade gifts, art, jewelry and decor you will not see in big box stores.
A Christmas Affair — Golden Year
One of Austin’s largest holiday markets. Proceeds support local nonprofits, so your shopping does some good too.
Armadillo Christmas Bazaar
A fine art market with national and local artists plus live music and a true Austin holiday vibe.
Light Trails and Outdoor Magic
Mozart’s Annual Light Show
A choreographed light show over Lake Austin, set to music with coffee, cocoa and treats.
Peppermint Parkway
Millions of lights, winter characters, amusement rides and an immersive drive-through experience.
Zilker Holiday Tree Lighting
An Austin tradition since 1967. Spin under the 155-foot tree and take in the first big moment of the season.
Austin Trail of Lights
Light tunnels, displays, food trucks and holiday cheer spread across the park.
Small-Town Holiday Festivals
Holiday Downtown Stroll
Artisan vendors, food trucks, live music and festive photo spots along Congress Avenue.
Christmas on Mercer Street
Live music, holiday activities and a classic small-town setting in the Hill Country.
Light Up the Lake
Lakeside lights, family activities, food, crafts and holiday displays.
Budafest
Hot chocolate, Santa and charming small-town exhibits.
Little Adventures
North Pole Flyer Train Ride
A vintage train ride with cocoa, cookies, holiday decor and a visit from Santa.
The Christmas Wine Affair
A self-guided holiday wine trail through more than fifty Hill Country wineries.
Looking Ahead
However the season unfolds, we hope it brings light, rest and time with people who make you feel at home.
If you are planning a move in the new year, you can begin your search anytime.
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