Surprise Show

Gary Clark Jr. surprises Austin with impromptu show at iconic venue

Photo by Chad Wadsworth

July 14 marked another milestone show in the storied history of Antone’s. Celebrating its 41st anniversary, the venue hosted a surprise family get-together featuring Gary Clark Jr. and Barbara Lynn, as well as Don Leady and his Rockin’ Revue featuring Jack Montesinos.

A sold-out crowd shared an intimate evening with Texas music greats and Susan Antone at the new space on East Fifth Street. Halfway through his set, after commenting on how damn hot it was, Clark recognized the uniqueness of the night — both points agreed upon by all in attendance.

Photo by Chad Wadsworth

A sell-out crowd shared an intimate evening with Texas music greats and Susan Antone at the new space on East Fifth Street.

In the Igloo

Austin cafe Mozart's adds luxe igloos to its sprawling light festival

Photo from Mozart's Coffee Roasters Facebook Page

Euro Igloos are decked out and cozy, providing a refuge for up to 10 guests for 1.5 hours.

Every year, Mozart's Festival of Lights seems to get bigger and this year is no exception. In addition to "over a million twinkling lights," according to the website, this year's light display will include holiday markets, live entertainment, boat cruises, and for the first time ever, private "Euro Igloos."

The Euro Igloos are a more VIP way to experience the light show at Mozart's Coffee Roasters, which runs through January 4, barring Christmas Day. These clear and domed structures will act as literal bubbles around groups of up to 10 people.

The two igloos sit on the Overlook Deck just next to Mozart's Steinway grand piano, above regular deck seating, and include customized food and beverage options.

An igloo ticket will cover up to 10 guests and starts at $300, with the option to add on snacks and other goodies. This ticket includes general admission access as well, meaning guests will be able to wander around and experience the light show, holiday market, and activities, but will have the refuge of an igloo for an hour and a half.

Mozart's Festival of Lights Map A map of all the attractions at this year's Festival of Lights.Photo from Mozartscoffee.com

Other VIP experiences at Mozart's Festival of Lights this year include private Lake Austin boat cruises for up to 44 guests ($600-1,200) and a guided donut boat for up to 10 guests ($150). And of course, regular General Admission tickets are always available for $6.

For nearly 20 more holiday light show experiences in and around Austin, check out our list here.

holidays festivals