From twinkling lights and train rides to live music, ice skating, and plenty of cocoa and cookies, Austin is packed with ways for families to celebrate the season. We’ve rounded up a mix of longtime favorites and new holiday happenings that are sure to make special memories with the kids.
Best Holiday Family Events in Austin
— Western Wonderland
November 28 through January 4
Dripping Springs turns into a holiday dream now through January 4 as Ranch Park becomes Western Wonderland. Families can stroll a magical trail of lights, browse a cozy holiday market, catch festive performances, and even try real ice skating on the largest outdoor rink in Central Texas. Ice skating tickets are sold on site, and families can register in advance online for special micro-events and themed activities. It is a great option for parents looking for a festive outing that feels a little bit magical and a little bit Hill Country.
— Mozart’s Holiday Light Show
November 22 through January 3
Each winter, Mozart’s Coffee Roasters transforms its Lake Austin patio into a glowing wonderland of lights, music, and over-the-water performances. This year’s theme, Heaven and Nature Sing, brings something new to see each night, from live music and an LED flyboard version of The Nutcracker to cozy igloos, donut boats, and lakeside treats like hot chocolate and warm desserts. Families can stroll through the twinkling light displays, visit the Bavarian-style marketplace, or catch a special concert on select nights. Reserve your spot here.
— Marble Falls Annual Walkway of Lights
November 21 through January 3, 2026
The City of Marble Falls will host their annual Christmas celebrations featuring the Walkway of Lights and Light Up Parade. You can also enjoy the Winter Ice Skating Rink in Lakeside Park. Additional events throughout the season include Snow Night, Christmas Market on Main, Downtown Sip N’ Shops, and much more. Get the full schedule of events here
— Johnson City’s Annual Lights Spectacular
November 29 – January 4
Go see “The twinkliest town in Texas”, with more than two million Christmas lights. It’s so big, NASA reported seeing it from space! Head to Johnson City before sundown to stroll through the historic district and savor local cuisine, craft beer, wine, and fun-filled festivities in a family-friendly atmosphere. The holiday lights glow from dusk til midnight. Get more details here.
— Peppermint Parkway @ COTA
November 21 – December 28
Peppermint Parkway is back at Circuit of The Americas with a brand-new walk-through experience. Families can stroll through millions of lights, holiday displays, and festive zones filled with dancing elves, roller-skating snowflakes, and plenty of photo ops along the way. After exploring the trail, head to Peppermint Plaza for amusement rides, live entertainment, food, drinks, and more. View ticket options here.
— Austin Steam Train’s North Pole Flyer
Weekends from Nov. 29 through Dec. 14
Children of all ages can experience their own Polar Express-inspired moments when they go for a real train ride with Santa and Mrs. Claus and enjoy storytime, hot cocoa, sing-alongs with elves, and Christmas cookies along their journey. Tickets start at $48+ fees, and you can book online here or by calling 512-477-8468.
— Austin Trail of Lights
December 10 – December 23
Austin’s famed Trail of Lights will welcome us back into twinkly tunnels and merriment throughout Zilker Park this winter as a walk-thru experience, allowing you to take your time as you walk under the lights in the park. For tickets and full details, visit AustinTrailofLights.org.
— Zilker Holiday Tree
Tree on display Nov. 30 – January 1
The Zilker Holiday Tree is an Austin tradition on a very grand scale! Standing at 155 feet high, the tree has more than 3,300 lights, and its special pattern was designed in a unique spiral pattern by Austin electricians. Part of this special tradition is to spin under the tree, and you can check out the drive-up visitation nights (and Trail of Lights Nights with prepaid parking) here.
— Light Up the Lake
December 5 and 6
Round Rock’s Light Up the Lake festival is back for two glowing nights of holiday fun at Old Settlers Park. Stroll along the lakeside paths and enjoy live music on the new Lakeview Stage, featuring Elevation Band on Friday and the Austin Symphonic Band on Saturday. Families can take in the dazzling light show, watch giant illuminated balloons hover over Bright Lake, and enjoy festive food, crafts, and kids’ activities. This is a walking event, so wear comfy shoes and get ready to soak in the holiday cheer! More info here.
— A Christmas Carol at ZACH Theatre
November 19 – January 3
Get into the holiday spirit at ZACH Theatre‘s most popular show! This family-friendly, upbeat version of Charles Dickens’s classic is anything but traditional, with plenty of upbeat music and dancing. Ticket prices vary, and can be purchased online here or by calling the Box Office at 512-476-0541 x1.
— The Nutcracker by Ballet Austin
December 5 – 23
Ballet Austin’s annual production of The Nutcracker at the Long Center is one of Austin’s favorite holiday traditions! Hundreds of dancers perform Stephen Mills’ enchanting choreography to Peter Tchaikovsky’s magical score with live accompaniment from the Austin Symphony Orchestra. Tickets range from $20 to $125, available here.
— Downtown Holiday Stroll & Capitol Tree Lighting
December 6 | 5 pm – 8 pm | on Congress Avenue between 9th and 11th streets
The community is invited to join this free annual Holiday Sing-Along and downtown tree lighting at the Texas State Capitol. Now in its 31st year and hosted by KUT, KUTX, and the Downtown Austin Alliance, ring in the holidays at this event featuring artisan vendors, food trucks, photos with Santa, and more. This event is free and open to the public. Get more info here.
*Header image via Domain Northside
There’s so much more Holiday Family Fun in store this season in Austin and the surrounding area! We’re working on more listings of seasonal events, like Where to Visit Santa!
