Even when we set a budget for the holidays, we find it’s tough to stick to it.  From gifts and parties, to holiday travel and events, we know how nice it is to find festive activities that don’t cost a dime.  Have some family fun at one of these on-going events this season.

— Mozart’s Holiday Light Show
The awesome light display set to music is a holiday experience the whole family can enjoy! Since this has become one of the most popular winter events in Austin, the team at Mozart’s is offering their light show viewing in different ways — reserved ticketed tables on the patio as well as FREE reserved admission to their Bavarian Marketplace in the parking lot. Read more about making your reservation.

Photo Credit: Mozart’s Facebook Page

— Winter Wanderland at Austin Motel
Wander the courtyard and enjoy festive activities Thursdays through Sundays through Dec. 26.  Your family can catch kid friendly movies by the pool at 7pm on Fridays — check the schedule here.   All ages are welcome, entry is free, and no reservation is needed.

Winter Wanderland; photo by Heidi Okla.

— Holiday Model Train Show
The Tinplate Trackers of Austin are hosting their annual Holiday Train Exhibit at Kalahari Resort.  This free train exhibit is open to kids of all ages Wednesdays through Sundays from 2 -7 pm through December 31.

Photo from the Tinplate Trackers’ Facebook page

— Zilker Holiday Tree
The tree is illuminated each night at 6pm through Jan. 1. Visiting the tree is free and open to all. Parking is available on site (first-come first-served) but you can expect higher traffic on weekends and for the pre-ticketed drive-through Austin Trail of Lights visitors.

Spin under the tree! photo by Roger Ho.

— Domain NORTHSIDE Holiday Experiences
This North Austin shopping and dining destination is offering free family-friendly programming all month long.  You can also check out the holiday tree light show next to The Lawn. (Click here for the light show schedule.). While you’re there, be sure to visit Santa’s House by Culinary Dropout to drop off your Letters to Santa by December 24th (printable letter here). For every letter submitted, Domain NORTHSIDE will donate $1 to The SAFE Alliance, an Austin-based charity serving the survivors of child abuse, sexual assault and exploitation, and domestic violence. You can also find beautiful holiday decorations at various spots around the center including a Season’s Greetings Selfie Wall.

Photo Credit: Domain Austin Northside Facebook Page

— 37th Street Lights
37th Street has been displaying the weirdest lights in town since the 1980s. The community on 37th is continuing the tradition by presenting quirky displays every night in December from sun down to 10pm.  Check out their FAQ here.

Photo Credit: 37th Street Lights Facebook Page

Austin Homes Dressed Up for a FREE Drive-By:

Photo from the Diagon Alley ATX Facebook page

Amazing holiday experiences just outside of Austin that are FREE to attend:

Johnson City is quite a beautiful sight! Photo by Heidi Okla.

Places to snap pics with Santa for FREE:

Let us know your favorite FREE festive traditions in the comments below.

Looking for more holiday events?  Check out our full calendar here.