Mozarts Coffee Roasters

If you haven’t gone to this Austin Christmas hotspot, can you really call yourself an Austinite? The coffee shop is located at 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, Texas. The elaborate lightshow, which has been a tradition since 2009, can be viewed from their expansive outside deck. The coffee shop has an abundance of tables perfect for sipping hot cocoa at with friends or family while viewing the music-coordinated light show that got Mozart’s its local fame. The show runs from 6 -11 p.m. every day. And, despite it being abnormally big for a coffee shop, it gets very crowded, so make sure to arrive early to snag a table.

Trail of Lights

The Trail of Lights is another classic Austin Christmas event which has been attracting thousands of people for 54 years. Before entering the lightshow, check out the massive Zilker tree just across the street from the head of the trail. Complete with light tunnels, sets with classic Christmas characters, a carousel and a ferris wheel, everyone is guaranteed to have a good time. At the end of the trail, food trucks sell hot cocoa and a wide variety of foods to choose from. The trail is downtown at Zilker park. It opens on Dec. 10 and runs through Dec. 23. Bring a group of friends and experience the magic of Christmas!

Whole foods ice skating

If you’re looking for a white Christmas, but can’t seem to escape the Texas heat, check out the ice skating rink at the Whole Foods on 525 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX. The rink is on the top of the store and boasts an excellent view of downtown Austin. It stays open until Jan. 21, which gives the public many opportunities to experience the cold while at home. Skating hours are from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. and the event costs $10 per person.

Armadillo Bazaar

If you’re looking to buy Christmas presents for friends and family, then check out the Armadillo Bazaar which will be held at the Palmer Events Center ( 900 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX) from Dec. 13-24. The event features musical performances from local artists such as Dale Watson and Shinyribs and offers a variety of merchandise perfect for everyone on your list. The only drawback is a required admission fee of $8.  

Santa’s Ranch

If you want a change of scenery from the Austin Christmas staples, check out Santa’s Ranch. Located 40 minutes outside of Austin at 9561, I-35, New Braunfels, this lightshow is a twist on the Trail of Lights drive-thru style. Blast some classic Christmas songs while driving through light tunnels and other light attractions. The light show runs through Dec. 30 and costs $28 per vehicle.

Gingerbread village at Four Seasons hotel

Address At the Four Seasons Hotel in downtown Austin, they have brought back their annual Gingerbread village which is open to the public for viewing at all hours. This year, the theme is “White Christmas” and features a gingerbread City Hall. Drop by anytime between now and Dec. 25 to view the 100% edible artistic masterpieces.