Top (Socially-Distanced) Christmas & Holiday Events to Enjoy in and Around Austin

We might be experiencing a very different holiday season this year with so many closings and restrictions, but don’t fret! There are still many wonderful and socially-distanced ways to get in the festive spirit and enjoy the magic of the holidays. Keep reading for some of our favorite (and safe) things to do, see and enjoy in and around Austin this holiday season!

Peppermint Parkway

It’s time to get into the holiday spirit because Peppermint Parkway is back! Enjoy a fun one-mile drive-thru holiday spectacle with grand décor pieces, a six-story light show tree and more. Festive performers will guide cars along through Candy Cane Lane, Gingerbread Alley, ATXmas and Frozenland, and the last stop will feature more socially-distanced entertainment! Nov. 27-Jan. 3. Get your tickets here.

Austin Trail of Lights

The 56th annual Austin Trail of Lights looks a bit different this year, but it’s still going to be tons of fun! Enjoy a spectacular drive-thru experience in the park with over 2 million illuminating lights and 70+ other holiday displays and lighted tunnels! It’s a must-see attraction. Open until Jan. 3. Get the full details here. 

Georgetown’s Historic Town Square Presents Holiday Lights

Georgetown knows how to transform itself into a Hallmark-worthy setting for the holidays! Take a drive out to Georgetown’s main square to see the city center lit up with festive decor and picture-perfect holiday displays all around. The lights at the Square will remain until Jan. 2. 

Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol

Grab some holiday treats and get comfy on the couch as the Austin Playhouse presents a one-actor virtual performance of A Christmas Carol. Award-winning actress Bernadette Nason will bring the story to life with amazing storytelling full of magical, cheery wonder. Each show includes a post-performance discussion with Nason and other special guests. Dec. 18-21. Check it out here. 

A Very Merry Symphony

A free virtual holiday community concert you can enjoy at any time during the holidays? Sign us up! Whenever you need a festive pick-me-up, head over to Austin Symphony Orchestra’s website to enjoy a pre-recorded 2020 holiday concert that will certainly bring you and your family so much joy! The video is available until Jan. 6. Click here to watch.

The Watchmaker's Song: A Drive-In Nutcracker Experience

Experience a special Nutcracker performance from the safety of your car! Ventana Ballet will be performing “The Watchmaker’s Song,” a creative and unique twist on the traditional Nutcracker story, in a drive-thru style setting at 2400 E. Cesar Chavez Street. Dec. 11, 12, 18 & 19. Get the full details and tickets here!

Ballet Austin’s Nutcracker 

Ballet Austin has created a full, on-going virtual Nutcracker experience this season! Enjoy daily online Nutcracker content including on-demand access to The Nutcracker digital film, bonus material, cast and crew interviews, holiday recipes, decorating ideas and holiday-themed dance lessons or fitness classes. There will also be contests and games! Perfect for the entire family. Get access to all of the virtual festivities here.

Miracle on 5th Street

Immerse yourself into a winter wonderland at The Eleanor’s Christmas-themed pop-up cocktail bar! The pop-up includes multi-room Christmas-filled spaces with over-the-top decorations that are perfect for photo-ops. You can enjoy tasty bites and holiday-inspired cocktails while sitting at safe and socially distanced tables around the venue, or you can take your holiday drinks to go! Open until Dec. 27. Get the full scoop here.