Christmas is a special time of year for many reasons: cold weather, hot cocoa, warm scarves, time with family and friends, holiday parties, candy canes, Christmas decorations, the scent of pine needles… But one of the best parts about this time of year is all the special events that occur in December. Whether you are a native Austinite or just moved to this “weird” city, you won’t want to miss out on these awesome events.
Trail of Lights (Dec. 8-22)
The Trail of Lights is one of the most iconic ways that Austinites celebrate the holiday season. The lines of cars entering Zilker Park during December attest to the popularity of this attraction. There are several events centered around the Trail of Lights, including the Zilker Tree Lighting (Dec. 1) and the Trail of Lights 5K (Dec. 7). Don’t let the crowds discourage you from taking part in this spectacular event. This year there are special ZiP Parking Passes and ZiP Fast Passes available for purchase.
Trail of Lights 5K (Dec. 7)
Another way to get around the Trail of Lights crowd is by participating in the Trail of Lights 5K or Family Mile. Not only will you be supporting the event itself, but each course concludes with a stretch through the Trail of Lights.
The Nutcracker – Ballet Austin (Dec. 7-23)
Austin is known for its laid-back attitude and corresponding dress code, but Ballet Austin’s “The Nutcracker” at The Long Center is one of the few occasions every year when you can get dressed to the nines. This classic ballet is a tradition for many families.
Bastrop Holiday Homes Tour (Dec. 14)
The Bastrop Holiday Homes Tour is technically outside of Austin, but the short 30-mile drive east of the city is worth it! Once a year, owners of historic homes in Bastrop will open up their doors to the public. Visitors can support the local historical society while touring amazing homes decorated to the hilt for the holidays.
Weihnachtsmarkt German Christmas Market (Dec. 7)
For a cultural Christmas experience, visit the German Texan Heritage Society’s Christmas Market. Not only will you enjoy German music, food and crafts, but both the American Santa Claus and the traditional German Sankt Nikolas will visit!
Four Seasons Gingerbread Village (Nov. 26-Jan.1)
The theme for this year’s Gingerbread Village at the Four Seasons Hotel in Austin is “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” The gingerbread “WhoVillage” will include a total of ten edible structures with landmarks such as Mt. Crumpet, Cindy Lou Who’s House and a Town Center Christmas Tree. Each house can take the pastry chef up to 30 hours to complete.
Does your family have any Austin Christmas traditions? The Square Cow Movers team would love to hear them!
Image Source: www.flickr.com/photos/elchupacabra/8369919572
Original Source: https://squarecowmovers.com/the-square-cow-movers-guide-to-christmas-in-austin