Consider yourself fully booked for the next several days thanks to this well-balanced roundup of jolly experiences and entertainment. Visit the Austin Trail of Lights during its 60th anniversary year, or shop for everyone on your list at the Holiday Vibe Market. Our signature event The Tailgate is on the agenda, too! Check out the top seven things to do in Austin this weekend. For a complete list of events, visit our calendar.
Thursday, December 12
CultureMap Austin presents The Tailgate
Immerse yourself in the Texas tradition of tailgate culture at this signature CultureMap event hosted at Distribution Hall. Tickets include premium cocktails, sports-inspired snacks, and the chance to bid on legendary sports memorabilia. Guests can also mix and mingle with some of Austin’s top athletes during the VIP meet-and-greet. Secure your spot on Eventbrite.
60th Austin Trail of Lights
Austin’s premier holiday lights activation plugs back in for the 60th year of illuminated, winter-inspired wonder. Visitors can stroll through and enjoy more than 65 light displays and lighted tunnels, snack at 30 onsite food trucks, explore two entertainment stages, and enjoy various interactive experiences throughout the park. The Austin Trail of Lights is open at Zilker Park through December 23.
St. John Social Club presents Holy Night of Smoke! featuring Aaron Franklin
Local barbecue genius Aaron Franklin hosts an evening of pre-holiday, live-fire cooking as part of the St. John Social Club launch. Highlights include craft cocktails and live music by Georgia Parker and DJ Manny. A limited number of tickets are available now.
Broadway in Austin presents Peter Pan
Escape to the world of the forever-young Peter Pan at Bass Concert Hall. This musical production will bring audiences along the adventurous journey of Peter Pan and his mischievous sidekick Tinker Bell in a modern adaptation of this timeless classic. The setlist features songs like “I Won’t Grow Up” and “Neverland.” Shows are scheduled through December 25.
Friday, December 13
Home Builders Association of Greater Austin presents Parade of Homes
Explore and marvel at some of the Austin area’s most innovative homes featuring design and luxury curated by the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin. This self-guided experience features nearly 20 homes, which showcase work by regional builders including AHA Dream Homes, Toll Brothers, and Tri Pointe Homes. The Parade of Homes is open through December 15.
Saturday, December 14
The Austin Trail of Lights returns to Zilker Metropolitan Park for the 60th year this weekend.
Vibe Artisan Markets presents Holiday Vibe Market
Shop and discover more than 115 local artists and makers at Distribution Hall. This two-day event will feature cuisine prepared by guest chefs, Rivian demo drives, a Topo Chico lounge with free sparkling water, complimentary cocktails, and dozens of local artists, vendors, and creatives. Market admission is free and open to the public.
Sunday, December 15
Beerthoven presents Hoppy Holidays featuring the Tinsel Singers
Holiday caroling and ice-cold beer return at this special Neill-Cochran House Museum event. The evening’s programming will include a live performance by the Tinsel Singers on the museum’s front steps, as well as cocoa and beer offerings. Tickets are available now. Shows are scheduled through December 22.
A map of all the attractions at this year's Festival of Lights.Photo from Mozartscoffee.com