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Yule Love It: Austin's Top 5 Christmas Happenings in 2023

The holiday season in Austin, Texas, is a time of festive celebration, community spirit, and unforgettable memories. In 2023, a variety of exciting Christmas events will be lighting up the city, offering something for everyone to enjoy.

Wide shot of Austin City Skyline at night with the Christmas tree spotlight
Source: austintexas.org

From dazzling light displays and artisan markets to ice skating and live music, Austin's holiday calendar is filled with joyful experiences. Let's dive into the top 5 Christmas events you won't want to miss this winter season!

Austin Trail of Lights

Location: Zilker Park

Date & Hours: 12/8/23 – 12/23/23 (closed on Mondays) | 7pm – 10pm

More info here: austintrailoflights.org

A child pointing up the trail of lights tunnel
Austin Trail of Lights

Experience the Magic! The 59th annual Austin Trail of Lights, presented by the Trail of Lights Foundation, is back in December 2023! This cherished tradition in Zilker Park celebrates the vibrant Austin spirit, drawing guests from near and far to experience over 2 million dazzling lights, 90 holiday trees, and 70+ festive displays. Join the fun!

​Downtown Holiday Stroll

Location: Congress Avenue, between Ninth Street & 11th Street

Date & Hours: 12/2/2023 | 5 PM – 9 PM

More info here: downtownholidaystroll.com

Four friends wearing Christmas sweaters, laughing at each other
Downtown Holiday Stroll

Get ready for a festive time at the Downtown Holiday Stroll! Congress Avenue will be the place to be with free family fun, including holiday shopping, pop-up surprises, Mr. & Mrs. Claus, dazzling window displays, and the stunning 45-foot downtown tree. Don’t miss it! 

Armadillo Christmas Bazaar

Location: Palmer Events Center

Date & Hours: 12/15/23 – 12/23/23

More info here: armadillobazaar.com

The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar, a holiday shopping staple for over 45 seasons, offers an exceptional fine art shopping experience. Featuring both national and local award-winning artists, this event combines art and live music in a lively, festive atmosphere. In 2023, the Armadillo Bazaar Outside will host a multi-day shopping event, providing a family-friendly fine-art scene. Discover a curated selection of artists with works to delight art lovers, collectors, and first-time visitors alike. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season with live local music while enjoying the sights of the city.

Mozart’s Light Show

Location: Mozart’s Coffee Roasters

Date & Hours: Oct 29 | 11 AM – 3 PM

More info here: mozartscoffee.com

Woman and child posing under the Mozart's Christmas lights
Source: Mozart's Coffee Roasters

At Mozart’s Coffee Roasters, you can enjoy a cozy evening sipping on a cup of hot chocolate while marveling at a dazzling lights display choreographed to lively music. This captivating light show runs nightly from November through January, providing a festive and heartwarming experience for visitors of all ages. For more information, visit mozartscoffee.com.

Miracle on 5th Street

Location: The Eleanor, 307 W 5th Street, Austin, TX 78702

Date & Hours: 11/16/23 – 12/28/23 

More info here: miracleon5thst.com

Quirky holiday mugs and cups from the Miracle on the 5th Street
Miracle on 5th Street

Austin’s favorite Christmas cocktail pop-up bar at Miracle on 5th Street transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with festive wall-to-wall decorations, holiday cocktails, and a cheery social atmosphere. Don’t miss out on this jolly, seasonal gathering spot filled with Christmas spirit and good cheer!

As the holiday season gets closer, round up your folks, soak in that festive vibe, and make some unforgettable memories at these Christmas shindigs right here in Austin. It’s all about spreading the cheer, being together, and soaking in that awesome Austin spirit that makes our city so special.

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