Experience the magic of the holidays in Austin with our roundup of the best holiday lights displays in the city. Whether you’re looking for a festive drive-through experience or a walkable wonderland, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Trail of Lights
One of the most iconic holiday events in Austin is the Trail of Lights at Zilker Park. This dazzling display features millions of lights, interactive experiences, and festive food and drink options. Visitors can stroll through a variety of themed light displays, including a tunnel of twinkling lights and a giant lighted tree. Plus, there are nightly live performances and entertainment to add to the festive atmosphere.
Mozart’s Coffee Roasters
For a more low-key but equally charming experience, head to Mozart’s Coffee Roasters for their annual holiday light show. Located on the shores of Lake Austin, this cozy coffee shop transforms into a winter wonderland with thousands of lights synchronized to holiday music. Grab a warm drink and a tasty treat while you enjoy the twinkling lights and festive atmosphere.
Peppermint Parkway
New to Austin’s holiday lights scene is Peppermint Parkway, an immersive drive-through experience at Circuit of The Americas. This mile-long journey features synchronized holiday displays, a giant inflatable Santa, and even a lighted tunnel. Visitors can tune in to a special radio station to enjoy synchronized music as they drive through the festive displays. Plus, there are plenty of photo opportunities along the way, making it a great option for capturing holiday memories.
Shopping Markets
In addition to holiday lights displays, Austin offers a variety of shopping markets where you can find unique gifts and festive decorations. From artisan markets to traditional holiday bazaars, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Blue Genie Art Bazaar
For a truly local shopping experience, don’t miss the Blue Genie Art Bazaar, a beloved Austin tradition for over 20 years. This annual holiday market features handmade gifts from over 200 local and regional artists. From jewelry and pottery to paintings and clothing, you’ll find a wide range of one-of-a-kind treasures to choose from. Plus, there are often live music performances and food trucks to enjoy while you shop.
Armadillo Christmas Bazaar
Another must-visit holiday market in Austin is the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar, which has been delighting shoppers for over 40 years. This unique shopping experience showcases an eclectic mix of handmade art, jewelry, and gifts from over 160 artists and makers. In addition to the shopping, visitors can enjoy live music from local musicians and indulge in delicious food and drinks from the on-site bars and food vendors.
Live Performances
No holiday season is complete without a visit to the theater for a live performance of a Christmas classic. In Austin, you’ll find a variety of options for enjoying live entertainment, from traditional ballets to comedic twists on holiday favorites.
The Nutcracker
One of the most beloved holiday traditions is attending a performance of The Nutcracker, and Austin is home to several productions of this classic ballet. From traditional renditions to modern interpretations, there’s a Nutcracker performance for every taste. Bring the whole family and experience the magic of this timeless holiday tale brought to life on stage.
A Christmas Carol
For a different take on a holiday classic, catch a performance of A Christmas Carol at one of Austin’s local theaters. This timeless tale of redemption and the spirit of Christmas is brought to life through dramatic storytelling and captivating performances. It’s a heartwarming and entertaining way to celebrate the holiday season with loved ones.
Conclusion
With so many festive holiday traditions to enjoy in Austin, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate this special time of year. From dazzling light displays to unique shopping markets and live performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, gather your loved ones and make the most of the holidays in Austin this year!
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