It’s the most wonderful time of year here in Austin, and this year, even the weather reflects the time of year (for once)! I couldn’t help but think of all the fun things to do here during winter-time… and I’m sure this list isn’t comprehensive.
In no particular order, your Austin Christmas bucket list. (Comment if I missed something crucial!)
- Trail of Lights at Zilker Park
- Yes, there will be traffic getting there, but spinning under the big tree is worth it! Zilker even offers zip passes if you want to pay for parking and to be able to “zip” to the front of the line.
- Coffee at Spider House
- Why wouldn’t you hit up Spider House and their year-round backyard of lights? It’s one of the most eccentric Austin spots and their awesome outdoor patio space can certainly be enjoyed during Austin’s generally 70-degree winter.
- Lights on 37th Street
- Most of the houses on this street, which is right off the Drag in the UT campus area, go above and beyond decorating even with lights strung across the streets from house-to-house. It’s a must-do.
- Walk down Congress, enjoying the lights and the view, to Halcyon for s’mores
- Visit the Capitol and see the Capitol Christmas Tree
- Go ice skating and drink wine on the Whole Foods rooftop
- Visit Alamo Drafthouse for any seasonal delight:
- Master Pancake (if you don’t already know, a Master Pancake event is where the hilarious staff of Alamo makes fun of a popular, embarrassing-to-like movie)
- Elf, Bad Santa or Christmas Vacation Quote-a-long
- Christmas Sing-alongs
- Girlie Night: Love Actually
- Home Alone Pizza Night
- Watch the Christmas Light show at Mozarts
- The amazing light show, which really is reminiscent of a Trans-Siberian Orchestra, happens every night; it starts at 6 pm and runs every hour until they close.
- See the Nutcracker Ballet at the Long Center
- There aren’t many opportunities for a gal to get to dress up and be fancy with her friends, so seize this moment! The Nutcracker Ballet is an incredible story, and always danced beautifully. Have a few cocktails, see the ballet and end the night with a white elephant gift exchange with your friends.
- Watch the Longhorns win a bowl game
- This year, support the Horns at the Alamo Bowl (practically next door in San Antonio) against the Oregon Ducks. Might I suggest stepping up your tailgate game with the adorable “Ooh La La” tee? Or, we could overwhelm the Ducks with Texas-pride in the “Y'all” tee?
