Recess Roundup: Winter & Holiday Fun in Austin
Winter in Austin doesn’t mean hiding indoors — it means gliding, strolling under sparkling lights, and soaking up cozy vibes with friends and family. Here are some of our favorite holiday-season events around town that feel like a little magic break from day-to-day life.
❄️ Lace up & Chill: Ice Skating & Winter Rinks
Ice Rodeo at Four Seasons Hotel Austin
Glide over ice with a gorgeous view of Lady Bird Lake, surrounded by festive décor and holiday energy. It’s a classic “winter-in-Texas” vibe starring chilly air, holiday socks, and good vibes.
Ice Skating at the Long Center
A downtown-friendly option for skating + holiday feels. It’s a great way to swap screen time for skate time, and maybe laugh a little when someone slips (it’s all part of the charm).
Chaparral Ice
Austin’s year-round rink turns extra festive with themed skates and family-friendly holiday programming. Perfect for beginners, confident skaters, and anyone who just wants to sip cocoa from the sidelines.
✨ Lights, Trails & Holiday Magic
Check out our curated list of Austin’s best light shows, trails, and holiday magic that you won’t want to miss this year!
🛍️ Markets, Art, & Holiday Shopping Vibes
Armadillo Christmas Bazaar at Palmer Events Center
A long-standing Austin tradition of local art, handmade gifts, and live music, perfect for finding that special something for friends, family, or yourself.
Blue Genie Art Bazaar
One of Austin’s biggest and most beloved holiday markets, featuring 200+ local artisans and makers. It’s the easiest way to shop local, avoid big-box chaos, and find gifts that feel personal and Austin-y.
There are also tons of local shops, boutiques, and seasonal pop-ups around town. Winter in Austin is a great time to explore and support small businesses, swing by South Congress or downtown after a lights show, and soak up holiday energy.
🎭 Performances, Pop-Ups & Cozy Nights Out
Ballet Austin: The Nutcracker
From December 5–23 at The Long Center for the Performing Arts, this timeless ballet + live orchestra pairing is a great dose of classic holiday magic (and possibly tradition for your crew).
The Paramount Theatre’s Holiday Film Series
Snuggle into a historic velvet seat and watch classics like White Christmas, Die Hard, and It’s a Wonderful Life on the big screen. It feels nostalgic and special in a way Netflix never quite captures.
🚗 Worth the Drive: Just Outside Austin
Johnson City Lights Spectacular
About an hour from Austin, this lights display is a peaceful (and slightly magical) detour if you’re up for a mini-road trip. Ideal for switching up the scenery and getting into full holiday road-trip mode.
Light Up the Lake – Round Rock
Just outside Austin, this two-night festival offers lakefront holiday vibes that make for a relaxing (but festive) group outing with friends or family.
Wimberley Trail of Lights (EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens)
About 45 minutes from Austin, this walk-through light trail winds through gardens, hillside paths, and glowing installations. It’s slower-paced and peaceful, a great option for families wanting something less commercial but still full of sparkle.
🎉 Recess’s Holiday-Ready Tips
- 🎟️ Plan ahead for the busy nights. Events like the Trail of Lights and the big light-shows tend to book up fast — it’s worth grabbing tickets early so you’re not stuck watching lights from your car tailgate.
- 🧥 Layer up. Even though Austin winters are mild, evenings around lakes or downtown can get a bit brisk. Pack a cozy jacket (and maybe gloves) — especially if you’re skating.
- 🎁 Mix it up. Combine a light-show walk with a market trip, or pair ice skating + cocktails + live music. Holiday vibes come in many flavors (literally).
- 🤝 Bring your friends (or make new ones). So much of Austin’s holiday spirit happens in community — whether that’s a stroll down a neighborhood street, a crowded pop-up bar, or bundled-up friends laughing while skating.
Whether you’re a local trying to soak up all the good things about winter in ATX or you’re just passing through — there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the season. Grab a scarf, maybe a hot cocoa (or toddy), and go find a little magic.
Looking for something else? You can find more recommendations on the Recess events page!
