December: Events Around Austin
It’s that time of the year when decorations and lights go up all over the town. From Christmas shows to New Year’s Eve celebrations, Austin has a lot of events that are sure to get you in the holiday mood.
December 2022 events in Austin are not limited to the Christmas season but also include holiday parties, concerts, cultural celebrations & much more.
THEATRE and CONCERT
Ballet Austin – The Nutcracker
December 3-23, 2022 | Dell Hall – Long Center for The Performing Arts, 701 W Riverside Dr., Austin, TX 78704
A traditional ballet of the Nutcracker story rendered with delicate fairy-tale touches, this bittersweet fairytale is as masterful as it is comic. This classic tale revisits an enchanting story to delight dancers and audiences alike, with a cast including many of the younger students from Ballet Austin Academy. This show is a treat for all ages and is sure to be a great way to celebrate Christmas.
How The Grinch Stole Christmas
December 6-11, 2022 | Bass Concert Hall – Texas Performing Arts Center, 2350 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
See how the Grinch plans to steal Christmas from the Whos in this heart-warming holiday classic. The fiendish plan of the Grinch unfolds, but the Grinch soon learns that there’s more to Christmas than he bargained for. This is a great family time to get into the holiday spirit.
Austin’s Jingle Jam
December 11, 2022 | H-E-B Center at Cedar Park
Experience the excitement and joy of Austin’s Jingle Jam, a celebration of Christmas music with two of the genre’s most accomplished artists. Ja Rule and Ashanti will headline on December 11th at 7pm. The event will benefit the Sammy Wallace Memorial Scholarship. Do not miss this spectacular show!
Daddy Yankee
December 15, 2022 | Moody Center ATX – Robert Dedman Drive 2001, Austin, TX 78712
Despacito was the most played song in 2018. With more than 44 million YouTube views and over 1 billion streams, Daddy Yankee continues to break boundaries with his infectious collaborations and songs. Get ready to dance the night away to his latest hits
A Christmas Carol
November 16, 2022 – December 31, 2022 | The Topfer at ZACH Theatre
Dickens’ tale of a miserly old man transformed by three spirits is brought to life for the holidays. This one-of-a-kind musical theatre event combines traditional musical genres and storytelling to create a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
David Archuleta
December 19, 2022 | Antones – 213 West 5th St, Austin, TX 78701
Here’s your chance to hear David Archuleta perform his popular songs. The star has now hit the road for his latest tour and as part of the road trip, He’s going to perform one of his latest single “Paralyze”, here in Austin.
Sesame Street Live! Make Your Magic
December 22-23, 2022 | H-E-B Center at Cedar Park
Join Sesame Street friends Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird and more on an amazing journey in Sesame Street Live! In partnership with Sesame Workshop, this all-new one-of-a-kind live show has the Muppet gang exploring the “power of yet”. There’s also plenty of audience participation—just be sure to stay seated during this theatrical spectacular!
SHOWS AND FESTIVITIES
Mozart’s Light Show
November 10, 2022 – January 6, 2023 | 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
Mozart’s Coffee Roasters is the place to be this holiday season. Whether your holiday season revolves around Santa, or you’re looking to enjoy some Christmas cheer with family and friends, Mozart’s will be sure to have something for everyone. Mozart’s is hosting a stunning light display that will help make your holiday special.
Miracle on 5th Street
November 17, 2022 – December 17, 2022 | The Eleanor – 307 W 5th Street, Austin, TX 78702
It’s Christmas, and you’re ready to get your holiday drink on! You know what that means? It’s time to stop in at Miracle on 5th Street. At this festive pop-up cocktail bar, you can enjoy seasonal cocktails in the most festive setting in the city. Featuring wall-to-wall Christmas décor, multiple bars, cheery social experiences, and a whole lot of Christmas spirits!
Blue Genie Art Bazaar
November 18, 2022 – December 24, 2022 | Blue Genie Art Bazaar – 6100 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78752
Blue Genie Art Bazaar is a community event that supports local artists and brings people together for fun shopping in town. With in-person and virtual shopping alternatives, shoppers can browse thousands of original works. Whether you’re looking for something unique for your home or office, or just want a great gift for someone special this season, we’ve got it covered.
Peppermint Parkway
November 25, 2022 – December 30, 2022 | Circuit of The Americas – 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd, Austin, TX 78617
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like a kid again, Peppermint Parkway is the place for you. The parkway is an experience unlike any other—a one-mile driving attraction that immerses visitors in millions of holiday lights synchronized to joyful holiday classics.
Holiday Model Train Exhibit
November 25, 2022 – December 31, 2022 | Kalahari Resorts’ Tom Foolerys Adventure Park – 3001 Kalahari Blvd. Round Rock, TX 78665
The Holiday Model Train Show is an annual event where people can come out and enjoy a day of model trains, music, food and more. This will be a great opportunity to see all kinds of trains, including large layouts, with dozens of trains on several levels. The exhibit will also have areas where guests can learn about the history of railroads and model trains.
Driskill Grand Lobby Tree Lighting
December 1, 2022 | The Driskill Hotel – 604 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701
The Driskill will be hosting its annual Tree Lighting event accompanied by live music and cocktails. This year’s event is going to have all things Christmas – gifts, decorations, and food – and it’s sure to be a fun night for all!
Light Up the Lake
December 2 & 3, 2022 | Old Settlers Park – Round Rock, TX United States
Join the annual Light Up the Lake event! This year, there will be SPECTACULAR giant balloons hovering over Bright Lake, amazing light show, LIVE music, holiday displays, holiday food and refreshments, crafts, family activities, yule log and more!
Downtown Holiday Stroll
December 3, 2022 | Congress Avenue, between Ninth Street & 11th Street
The Holiday Stroll is free and open to the public. It’s a great opportunity for you to get out and explore the downtown area while enjoying holiday-inspired treats and activities. It features artisan vendors, food trucks, a children’s play zone, Fika celebration with interactive muralist, photos with Santa and more.
German-Texan Christmas Market
December 3, 2022 | German Texans Heritage Society – 507 East 10th Street Austin, TX 78701
The annual Christmas market offers handmade, imported crafts, decorations, ornaments, and more. Listen to traditional German Christmas music and make some holiday memories with your family while you shop!
Ventana Ballet’s “The Watchmaker’s Song”
December 8-17, 2022 | Neill-Cochran House Museum – 2310 San Gabriel St, Austin, TX 78705, USA
The Watchmaker’s Song is a jazzy and interactive re-imagination of the classic story of The Nutcracker. This rendition of The Nutcracker will not only appeal to patrons who are familiar with its story line; but anyone who loves to dance or listen to music will love this production as well! Bring the whole family out for this one-of-a-kind experience!
Austin Trail of Lights
December 8-23, 2022 | Zilker Park – 2100 Barton Springs Rd. Austin, TX 78704
This year’s Trail of Lights event is bigger and better than ever before! The Drive-Thru option lets you drive through miles of lights for an unforgettable experience that’s sure to be a great way to spend time with your family this holiday season!
Siena Today’s 7th Annual Brown Santa Toy Drive!
December 11, 2022 | Siena South Pool and Pavilion – 5826 Carrara Pass, Round Rock, TX 78665
Be part of Siena’s 7th annual toy drive benefiting Williamson County’s Brown Santa Charity. We are collecting toys and books for the needy children of the community while giving out treats, cookies, hot chocolate, and more!
Austin Foodie Fest
December 11, 2022 | Republic Square – 422 Guadalupe Street Austin, TX 78701
This is an opportunity to see the best of Austin’s local foodie scene in one place, and celebrate all things food. There will be over 50 different vendors, including some of Texas’ best-known chefs and restaurants. It’s also going to be a great night for music lovers, with live performances by some of Texas’ most talented bands. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience all the best local eats has to offer—you’ll be glad you came!
Operation Blue Santa
December 17, 2022 (Delivery Day) | Circuit of The Americas – 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd, Austin, TX 78617
It’s the season of giving, and we here at Blue Santa makes sure that everyone who wants to help out has a way to do so. Every year, Blue Santa aims to provide food for families and toys for children around the holidays. There will be a 2022 Zilker Fun Run where families can participate, donate or bring a toy for Blue Santa. You can also make the difference by signing up to be a volunteer at our warehouse, having your business sponsor the event, and by collecting toys and donating dollars to help make thousands of families and children of Austin have a SPECIAL Holiday Season.
Armadillo Christmas Bazaar
December 17-23, 2022 | Palmer Events Center
Over the years, the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar has gained renown as a place to buy art and enjoy live music. This year, it’s a three-day in-person event to create a safe, family-friendly fine-art scene. Grab your friends and reserve your spot now!
Austin’s New Year
December 31, 2022 | Auditorium Shores
It’s time to ring in the new year with a bang! This year, Austin celebrates the diversity and creativity of the city with an all-new lineup of art installations and performances. Featuring visual art installations, jugglers, storytellers and fire dancers, this is an alcohol-free event you don’t want to miss.
2023 Austin New Year’s Eve Party – Gatsby’s House
December 31, 2022 | Hilton Austin – 500 E 4th St, Austin, TX
If you’re in the mood for a New Year’s Eve party with panoramic views, hours of prepaid drinks, and surprises throughout the night, then join the most upscale NYE party in Austin at the Hilton Austin Hotel. The event offers a festive atmosphere and complimentary party favors that guarantees a good time for all!
Fredericksburg New Year’s Eve Weekend and Hot Air Balloon Fest
December 31, 2022 | Fredericksburg Polo Club – 8142 Old San Antonio Road, Fredericksburg, TX, United States, Texas
With live Jazz performances and fireworks galore, you’ll enjoy a weekend of cocktails and revelry with your friends and family at the Fredericksburg New Year’s Eve Weekend and Hot Air Balloon Fest. You can also take in aerial rides through the sky on hot air balloons or helicopters, or get in on the camping action at one of several nearby state parks. It’s time to stop the countdown and start the fun!
SPORTS
Rio Grande Valley Vipers vs. Austin Spurs
December 1, 2022 | H-E-B Center at Cedar Park
The Rio Grande Valley Vipers and Austin Spurs are ready to make their mark on the NBA G League Showcase Cup! The teams with the best winning percentage in each regional pod, along with the next four teams across the league with the best win percentages, will advance to compete for the Showcase Cup. This is an opportunity for both teams to get a head start on the season and put themselves in position to win a championship!
Mistletoe Madness
December 10, 2022 | Round Rock Sports Center – 2400 Chisholm Trail Road, Round Rock, TX
AP Volleyball is bringing the best of Austin to you. This event has the biggest, most diverse tournament in town, and the age divisions are sure to keep you on your toes. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or just starting out, you’re surely to enjoy the game sets.
The American Open DanceSport Championships
December 13-18, 2022 | Austin Marriott Downtown 304 East Cesar Chavez Street Austin, TX 78701
The American Open DanceSport Championships is a cross-section of the world’s best dancers, judged and officiated by the best judges, and awarded in all ballroom styles. This is a culmination of elite champions, industry-leading experience in the ballroom dance industry, and over $150,000 in total prizes and earnings. The largest event of its kind in America! You don’t want to miss out on this one!
AEW Presents DYNAMITE-RAMPAGE
December 10, 2022 | Round Rock Sports Center – 2400 Chisholm Trail Road, Round Rock, TX
The biggest name in professional wrestling today, AEW will bring its flagship show, Dynamite-Rampage, to Austin, Texas this December. The show will feature the best matches and most entertaining moments in professional wrestling today.
Oklahoma City Blue vs. Austin Spurs
December 29, 2022 | H-E-B Center at Cedar Park
The Spurs will begin regular season play on Thursday, Dec. 29, hosting the Oklahoma City Blue at the H-E-B Center at Cedar Park. All team records reset following the conclusion of the Showcase Cup, so it’s time to start thinking about what this new season will bring.
Tucson Roadrunners vs. Texas Stars
December 30 & 31, 2022 | H-E-B Center at Cedar Park
This season, every one of the AHL’s 32 teams will play 72 regular season games. You’ll have the opportunity to see some amazing plays from both teams on the ice. The Texas Stars, American Hockey League affiliate of the NHL’s Dallas Stars, is scheduled to play 72 games during the 2022-23 season including 36 at home and 36 on the road.
With all the hard work throughout the year, this month is a great time to spend relaxing with people we care about. This list will make sure that you have plenty of options to do just that. We hope that you have a wonderful time with everyone over the holiday season.
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