8 Ideas for a New Home Gift
Updated November 2022
It’s no secret that winter in Texas can be a challenge sometimes. From mild, dry winters to arctic freezes and 6 inches of snow, keeping the family entertained can be difficult.
We have compiled a list of some of the things that make Austin great when the temperature drops! From family fun to date night, there is something for everyone in this list.
Go Ice Skating at Rooftop Plaza at Whole Foods
Every year, Whole Foods’ headquarters hosts an ice-skating event on their Rooftop Plaza that is open to the public. Tickets usually range from $10-15. Visit Whole Foods Downtown for more info about opening dates and hours of operation.
Take in the Amazing Trail of Lights
As Austin’s biggest wintertime tradition, you can’t miss this annual Trail of Lights hosted in Zilker Park. This year you can enjoy the display from the comfort and warmth of your car, as the trail will be drive-thru only.
Grab a cup of hot chocolate, play some holiday tunes, and let the family bask in the comforting glow of over 2 million lights!
Enjoy a Christmas Themed Cocktail at Miracle on 5th Street
This is the Christmas bar of your dreams! This pop-up bar brings a whole lot of Christmas spirit to the adults of Austin with its holiday themed cocktails and décor in the most nostalgic setting in the city.
The 6th annual Miracle on 5th Street is located at The Eleanor.
Don’t wait! The bar will only be open through December 27th. They do not accept reservations and run on a first-come-first-serve basis. You can, however, skip the line with their tickets.
Sip on a Hot Cocoa and Shop SoCo
The perfect place to get all your holiday shopping done! Swing by Jo’s Coffee and pick up a hot cocoa then walk around Austin’s beloved South Congress Avenue, home to tons of unique and local shops and restaurants.
Check out a list of some of SoCo’s most popular stores. While you’re at Jo’s, don’t forget to take a picture with the famous “I Love You So Much” mural!
Catch A Christmas Carol at ZACH Theatre
Located just south of downtown, ZACH theatre is the perfect place to watch your favorite holiday play! Tickets for A Christmas Carol range from $25-$95 depending on date and age.
Attend Mozart’s Annual Light Show
Mozart’s Coffee Roasters on Lake Austin puts on a wonderful Christmas light display on their deck for guests to enjoy each year. You can select your day and time to reserve a table for one hour to enjoy their beautiful light show and a cup of coffee or cocoa.
Plan a Family Fun Day at Peppermint Parkway at COTA
Circuit of the Americas is hosting their Annual Peppermint Parkway event again! Enjoy a drive on the track through the holiday spectacle that is sure to wow you. COTA’s event will feature dancing elves, an enchanted forest, a 60-foot Christmas tree, and much more.
Take a Day Trip to See Lights Spectacular in Johnson City, TX
If you’re up for a drive, head over to Johnson city to see the breathtaking Lights Spectacular event. Guests can expect to be blown away by the over 2 million twinkling lights in their historic square off Main Street. The lights can be viewed every night of the week until midnight, and the best part: it’s completely free!
Have a Staycation at Lone Star Court and Make S’mores in the Courtyard
Need a break from all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season? Take a staycation right here in Austin to the Lone Star Court in the Domain and hang out by their adorable firepit to make some s’mores!
Their retro style rooms with a western flair make the perfect setting for a change of pace. Get more information and book your stay at the Lone Star Court.
Watch a Holiday Movie at the Drive-In Theatre
Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-in Theatre offers the perfect place for a movie night. With locations downtown, in Mueller, and in Round Rock, it’s easy to bring the family along to a holiday movie showing. Cuddle up in your car with snacks and drinks and enjoy a Christmas movie or two!
Ring in the New Year With Fireworks Over Lady Bird Lake
Every year on New Year’s Eve, an amazing firework show takes place just over the beautiful Lady Bird Lake that runs through Downtown Austin. Grab some blankets and head down to Auditorium shores for the best seat in the house!
There are so many great things to do this holiday season in Austin, so no matter how you choose to take in the festivities in this flourishing town, you’ll make plenty of holiday memories. What’s your favorite holiday event in Austin?
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