Texans are finally moving away from shorts and sandals, to pants and sweaters. Winter is coming, and it’s time to have some fun. Although Texas does not have the snow you’d find in the Northern states which means you won’t be seeing any down jackets and ear muffs but families can still get into the holiday spirit with fun activities around Austin. Whether you want to take a stroll to soak in the pretty Christmas lights, or you are looking for a more structured activity, there is something for everyone this December.
A few activities that you and the family can enjoy are:
Austin Trail of Lights
Each year Zilker Park is taken over by millions of colorful, bright lights. With good food, festive music and some of your favorite TV and movie characters, the people of Austin flock to the park to join in on the holiday spirit. Running from December 10th through the 23rd, enjoy the lights of Austin. Tickets to the trail are $3, but on the nights of December 10th, 13th, 15th, and 16th admission is free. Grab the family and light up the holiday!
Ice Skating
This favorite winter activity is gliding around (or falling) on slippery man-made ice. You can lace up your skates at two locations. Whole Foods Market and Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa both offer indoor skating for the public. At Whole Foods, skate for $10 on a small, roof-top rink located under a lit up tent, or skate indoors while looking out over the Texas Hill Country for $25-30 at Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa. Either option is a great way to laugh and have fun with the whole family.
Holiday Sing Along & Downtown Stroll
On Saturday, December 3rd, join the city of Austin outside the Capitol Building for the annual lighting of the city Christmas tree. This free event is something the whole family can enjoy. Gather at the steps of the Capital and sing along to your favorite Christmas songs with Austin radio icon, John Aielli. From 7-9 join in on the downtown stroll where you can hear live music and shop at the local stores that provide fun activities for everyone.
Ballet Austin’s “The Nutcracker”
The classic ballet is back in Austin for its 54th year. Watch your favorite Christmas characters dance elegantly across the stage as they tell their story. With prices ranging from $20-$80 per night, this can be a family outing that everyone will remember.
Mozart’s Christmas Light Show
The beloved coffee shop on the edge of Lake Austin always has a wonderful Christmas-themed light show. At the top of every hour, join fellow families and coffee drinkers as they watch the large lit up screen dance along with your favorite holiday tunes. This free show is fun for everyone and will amaze you as the synchronized lights flash in time with the beat.
Multitask at the Domain
As a little bonus, don’t forget to stop by the Domain Mall for a chance to see santa and ride on a horse drawn carriage. What better way to get your holiday shopping done and also get into the holiday spirit?!
Join in on these Austin favorites this year and spend some quality time with your loved ones.