The holidays in Central Texas are kind of magical. From iconic Austin light displays to cozy small town parades, almost every corner of the Hill Country has something glowing, sparkling or singing.
If you take any photos at this year’s events, send them to us here so we can celebrate your favorite Central Texas holiday moments too.
Scroll down to see the full list of events:
Thinking About Buying Or Selling While You Explore?
Holiday events are actually one of the best ways to get a feel for a community. As you stroll through lights in Austin, shop at a market in Bastrop, or watch a parade in Georgetown or Round Rock, you are basically test driving the neighborhood.
If you are considering:
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Buying a home in Austin, Round Rock, Bee Cave, West Lake Hills, Dripping Springs or any of the surrounding suburbs
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Trading up for more space in places like Leander, Liberty Hill, Hutto, Kyle or Buda
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Finding a hill country getaway in Wimberley, Marble Falls, Horseshoe Bay, Lakeway, or Llano
Reach out to your trusted local real estate professional for guidance on neighborhoods, prices and timing. A quick conversation about your goals can help turn a favorite holiday town into your next address.
Now on to the events by city.
Austin
37th Street Lights: The classic neighborhood light display will shine nightly from sunset to 10 p.m. between Friday, Dec. 12 and New Year’s Day.
Armadillo Christmas Bazaar: Art, music and holiday shopping come together at the Palmer Events Center from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. between Saturday, Dec. 13 and Sunday, Dec. 21.
Austin Trail of Lights: Austin’s famous holiday light trail at Zilker Park is open to the public from Wednesday, Dec. 10 through Tuesday, Dec. 23.
Austin’s New Year: Ring in the New Year at Auditorium Shores with live music and fireworks. Event time details are still to be announced.
Blue Genie Art Bazaar: This Austin shopping tradition runs from Friday, Nov. 14 through Wednesday, Dec. 24, featuring local artists and makers.
German-Texan Christmas Market: Hosted by the German-Texan Heritage Society, this market is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
Holiday Sing-Along & Stroll: From 5 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6, gather downtown for carols and festivities. The tree in front of the Texas State Capitol is lit at 7 p.m.
Longhorn Lights: The holiday tree lighting on the South Mall at the University of Texas begins at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 18. Lights stay on nightly from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. through Thursday, Jan. 1.
Luminations: Wander through glowing installations at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center most nights between Friday, Dec. 5 and Saturday, Jan. 3.
Miracle on 5th Street: A Christmas themed pop-up cocktail bar set on 5th Street, open from Thursday, Nov. 13 through Sunday, Dec. 28.
Mozart’s Lake Austin Festival of Lights: Enjoy a lakeside light show every hour on the hour from 7 to 10 p.m. from Saturday, Nov. 22 through Thursday, Dec. 11 and again from Sunday, Dec. 21 through Saturday, Jan. 3, excluding Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Mozart’s will also host “He Rules the World,” a Nativity rock concert, from Friday, Dec. 12 through Saturday, Dec. 20.
The Nutcracker: Ballet Austin’s 63rd annual production, with live music by the Austin Symphony Orchestra, offers 15 performances between Friday, Dec. 5 and Tuesday, Dec. 23.
Oh What Fun! Austin Holiday Market: Shop local retailers and enjoy live performances and a cocktail lounge on select days from Thursday, Nov. 20 through Wednesday, Dec. 24.
Peppermint Parkway: A festive walk-through experience at Circuit of the Americas, open from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. between Friday, Nov. 21 and Sunday, Dec. 28.
Who-Liday Holiday: The Grinch takes over the Domain Northside Lawn starting at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 22, followed by a tree lighting at 6 p.m.
Zilker Holiday Tree: The city lights the iconic tree at 6 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 30. It will remain lit through Thursday, Jan. 1.
Thinking about making Austin your home base while you enjoy these events? From downtown condos near the Trail of Lights to family neighborhoods in Circle C, North Austin and beyond, the Austin real estate market offers options for first time buyers, move up buyers and investors.
Bastrop
Bastrop Christmas Tree Lighting: Head to Fisherman’s Park for the tree lighting at 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28.
Bastrop River of Lights: Hundreds of displays brighten the June Hill Pape Riverwalk nightly from dusk to 10 p.m. between Friday, Nov. 28 and Monday, Jan. 5.
Lost Pines Lighted Christmas Parade: The annual lighted parade runs from 6 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 10.
Merry on Main: Enjoy a festive downtown atmosphere at this free Bastrop Main Street Program event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
Bastrop has that small town riverfront charm plus new neighborhoods growing across the area. If you are drawn to its historic downtown and Christmas parade, it may be the right place to start a home search.
Bee Cave
Bee Cave Holiday Market: A pop up market open across three weekends from Friday, Dec. 5 through Saturday, Dec. 20.
Bee Cave on Ice: Lace up skates behind City Hall from Friday, Nov. 14 through Monday, Jan. 19. A silent disco takes place every Wednesday night.
Bee Cave Tree Lighting: The tree next to the ice rink will be lit during a ceremony from 5 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 29.
Bee Cave offers upscale shopping, neighborhoods with hill country views and quick access into Austin. Holiday events are a perfect excuse to explore Bee Cave real estate options if you want suburban living close to the city.
Bertram
Bertram Country Christmas: A hometown parade and festival from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
North Pole Flyer: Ride a vintage train through the Texas countryside, complete with holiday cheer. Trips run three weekends in a row from Friday, Nov. 29 through Sunday, Dec. 14, with four departure times each day.
Blanco
Blanco Christmas Parade: The annual parade rolls from 4 to 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 20.
Christmas Market in the Courtyard: Shop local vendors and small businesses from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 29.
Courthouse Christmas Lighting: The courthouse lights up at 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28.
Brushy Creek
Holiday in the Park & Craft Fair: Celebrate at Cat Hollow Park from 12 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Santa Parade: Santa tours Brushy Creek neighborhoods starting at 10 a.m. on the first three Saturdays in December.
Buda
Buda Holiday Lights: Historic Stagecoach Park transforms into a walk through winter wonderland from 6 to 9 p.m. on select days between Wednesday, Dec. 10 and Saturday, Dec. 20.
Buda Tree Lighting: The tree lighting begins at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5, complete with an ornament market and carnival.
Budafest Lighted Parade: The lighted parade through downtown begins at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
Budafest Vendor Market: Shop the market portion of Budafest on Saturday, Dec. 6 and Sunday, Dec. 7.
Buda combines a historic downtown, parks and growing neighborhoods. If you picture yourself living just south of Austin with easy access to I 35, Buda homes for sale are worth a closer look.
Burnet
Burnet’s Lighting of the Square: The historic courthouse square lights up from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 29.
Christmas at Fort Croghan: Walk candlelit paths through the historic site from 5 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Christmas on the Square: An arts and crafts market open from 12 to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Holiday Trail of Lights: Drive or walk through downtown Burnet’s lights from Sunday, Nov. 30 through Thursday, Jan. 1.
Inks Lake Holiday Festival of Lights: Campers at Inks Lake State Park decorate their sites from 6 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 20.
Main Street Bethlehem: A living history experience where “the ancient city comes alive” from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on select nights between Friday, Dec. 5 and Sunday, Dec. 14.
Cameron
Cruisin’ into Christmas Americana: The annual parade and festival starts at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 4, featuring ships, planes, trains, boats, motorcycles, ATVs, automobiles and rockets in red, white and blue. The parade begins at 6:30 p.m. and is followed by fireworks.
Carmine
Carmine Christmas Fest: The 41st annual celebration runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 7.
Cedar Park
A Jolly, Bright Lakeline Night: A holiday market at Lakeline Park from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 12.
Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland: Acrobatics, aerial acts, musicians and singers perform at H E B Center at Cedar Park at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 24.
Heritage Oak Tree Lighting: More than 50,000 lights illuminate the city’s largest live oak in a ceremony starting at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 3.
Tail of Lights: Bring your pup for a dog friendly walk through Lakeline Park with “Santa Paws” from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Cedar Park is a popular suburban choice for buyers who want good schools and quick access to Austin and the Hill Country. Exploring lights and markets here is a great way to get to know neighborhoods if you are thinking about a move.
Cottonwood Shores
Annual Merry Market: A holiday market open from 2 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Coupland
Coupland Country Christmas: Enjoy a “festive evening of small town cheer” starting at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 21.
Dripping Springs
Christmas on Mercer: The city’s annual Christmas festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
‘Tis the Season Holiday Market: Shop handmade vendors from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Tree Lighting: Dripping Springs hosts its tree lighting at dusk on Saturday, Nov. 29.
Western Wonderland: Dripping Springs Ranch Park transforms into a trail of lights with ice skating and a holiday market from Friday, Nov. 28 through Sunday, Jan. 4, excluding Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Dripping Springs real estate combines small town charm, acreage properties and newer master planned communities. If you fall in love with the Western Wonderland vibe, you might like living here year round.
Elgin
Holiday by the Tracks: Elgin’s Christmas festival features a hot cocoa stroll and lighted parade starting at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
Winter Luna Market: Downtown Elgin hosts an evening market from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5.
Winter Wonderland: Visit the Elgin Recreation Center for photos with Santa, cookie decorating and games from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Fayetteville
Fayetteville Country Christmas: The 28th annual event offers arts and crafts booths and a parade from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Flatonia
Lighting of the Christmas Village: A Christmas parade and lighting event from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 3.
Merry Market & Cookie Carnival: The market begins at 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5 and continues until 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
Wonderful Winter Wine Walk: Sip and stroll from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5.
Florence
Christmas on Main Street: The city’s Christmas festival and parade runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Fredericksburg
Chanukah Celebration: Chabad of Boerne presents a celebration at Marktplatz, including lighting a giant Menorah, starting at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 15.
Christmas Nights of Lights: A lighting ceremony at Marktplatz starts at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 25. The lights remain on nightly through Tuesday, Jan. 6.
Christmas Starfest at Enchanted Rock: Texas Parks and Wildlife hosts a big star party with telescopes, holiday activities, a star tour and introductory astronomy from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Countdown to 2026: Enjoy a family friendly afternoon celebration from 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 31, including a ball drop at 6:30 p.m.
Eisbahn Outdoor Ice Skating: Ice skating at Marktplatz is open from Saturday, Nov. 22 through Sunday, Jan. 4.
Kinderfest: Crafts, music and living history demonstrations at the Pioneer Museum from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
Light the Night Christmas Parade: The illuminated parade begins at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5.
Fredericksburg is known for wine, German heritage and a walkable downtown. If you want a second home or short term rental opportunity, this is a key Central Texas real estate market to explore.
Georgetown
Candyland Christmas Stroll: The 44th annual event features a parade, live entertainment and family activities from Friday, Dec. 5 through Sunday, Dec. 7. The parade begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
Lighting of the Square: The historic Williamson County Courthouse square lights up starting at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28.
Georgetown combines a charming square with master planned communities and active adult neighborhoods. If you love the Christmas Stroll, you might love living here too.
Granger
Granger Hometown Christmas & Tree Lighting: The sixth annual Christmas festival runs from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 29.
Granite Shoals
Hometown Christmas Parade: The celebration takes place from 3 to 6 p.m., with the tree lighting at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 22.
Horseshoe Bay
Christmas on the Lawn: Horseshoe Bay Resort hosts carolers and karaoke from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5.
HoliDaze: The city’s Christmas tree lighting begins at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 2.
Winter Wonderland: The 50 foot Christmas tree at Horseshoe Bay Resort lights up during an event from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 29.
Waterfront homes, resort style living and golf courses make Horseshoe Bay a unique part of the Central Texas real estate landscape.
Hutto
Hippo Claus Crawl: Enjoy festive beverage stops throughout downtown Hutto from 6 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Hutto Holiday Market: This annual market, including a seasonally themed drone show, takes place at Brushy Creek Amphitheatre from 5 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
Light Up Your Night: An interactive walking trail of light displays is open until 9 p.m. most nights between Wednesday, Dec. 10 and Tuesday, Dec. 23.
Tree Lighting with Cocoa & Carols: Hutto’s tree lighting runs from 5 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 29.
Jarrell
A Very Merry Jarrell Christmas Festival: The city’s festival runs from 3 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Johnson City
Lights Spectacular: Opening weekend for this massive display of more than 2 million lights runs from 1 to 10 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28. The lights stay on nightly through Sunday, Jan. 4.
Lights Spectacular Holiday Parade: The annual downtown parade begins at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 29, followed by fireworks.
Kempner
Christmas in the Park: The city’s Christmas festival begins at 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5, with a tree lighting at 6:30 p.m.
Kyle
25 Days of Christmas: Nightly holiday lights and Christmas music at Mary Kyle Hartson City Square Park are featured on select nights from Monday, Dec. 1 through Thursday, Dec. 25. Lights are on every day from 5:30 p.m. until 7 a.m. through Thursday, Jan. 1.
A Very Merry Tejano Christmas: Enjoy music, food and holiday shopping with a Tejano twist from 5 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 12.
The Gingerbread House: At 285 McGarity, this Gingerbread House kicks off opening night from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28.
Grinch on the Green: Watch the Grinch try to steal Christmas at La Verde Park from 5:30 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Holly Jolly Market: A Christmas market featuring local vendors from 5 to 9 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 21.
Santa’s Arrival: Santa helps Kyle start the season with a Christmas festival from 4 to 9 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 1.
Kyle and nearby San Marcos are popular with buyers who want I 35 access and more space for the money.
La Grange
Schmeckenfest: The city’s Christmas festival features nearly 30 types of wassail and a tree lighting at the Fayette County Courthouse from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 4.
Trail of Lights: Lighted displays at the Kreische Brewery and Monument Hill State Historic Sites are open from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 12 and Saturday, Dec. 13, and from Wednesday, Dec. 17 through Tuesday, Dec. 23.
Lago Vista
Christmas Tree Lighting: The annual tree lighting runs from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 1.
Lakeway
Lights On: Lakeway’s Christmas celebration and official lighting of the Trail of Lights takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5.
Trail of Lights: The walk through light display is open nightly from 6 p.m. until midnight, Friday, Dec. 5 through Thursday, Jan. 1.
Lakeway and nearby waterfront communities are favorites for buyers who want lake access, golf and hill country views.
Lampasas
Carol of Lights & HoliDazzle Christmas Parade: Start at the farmers market at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6, then enjoy Christmas carols at 5:30 p.m., the lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. and the parade at 6:30 p.m.
Christmas on the Creek: Santa’s village, a Nativity scene and lights along Sulphur Creek are open on Saturday, Dec. 13. Park displays and lights run from Thanksgiving through New Year’s.
Leander
Old Town Christmas Festival: From 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6, enjoy Leander’s festival with a 5K Rudolph Run, Christmas marketplace, parade at 1 p.m. and tree lighting at 6:30 p.m.
Lexington
Christmas on the Square: The Christmas market is open from 3 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6. The lighted parade starts at 6 p.m., followed by the tree lighting.
Liberty Hill
Liberty Hill Christmas Festival: Downtown Liberty Hill turns into a winter wonderland from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13, with a Christmas parade at 6 p.m.
Liberty Hill Christmas Stroll: Local boutiques open their doors for a Christmas Stroll from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
The Market LHTX Christmas Market: A market with local vendors from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 29.
Liberty Hill has become a hot spot for new construction and larger homes on generous lots while keeping a small town feel.
Llano
A Dickens of a Christmas in Llano: The fourth annual festival includes a Christmas market, carriage rides and carolers from Friday, Dec. 5 through Sunday, Dec. 7.
Farmers & Crafters Market Christmas Show: The market is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6 and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 7.
Llano Lighted Christmas Parade: The city’s lighted parade runs from 6 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
Starry Starry Nights: The lights along the Llano River in Badu Park shine nightly from 6 to 9 p.m. between Friday, Nov. 28 and Wednesday, Dec. 31.
Lockhart
A Christmas to Remember in Lockhart: The city’s Christmas festival runs from 6:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5 through 9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
Luling
Cookies & Carols: The festival with hayrides and photos with Santa runs from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5.
Gingerbread Lane Arts and Crafts Show: The annual holiday market in Luling is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 22.
Manor
Deck the Park: Manor’s tree lighting ceremony runs from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5.
Holidays in Manor: The city’s Christmas market takes place from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
Marble Falls
A Very Merry Mile: Run or walk a one mile route through Walkway of Lights starting at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Light Up Christmas Parade: The annual parade kicks off at 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5.
Walk Parade: Join Santa, the Grinch, Buddy the Elf and Ms. Lollipop for a stroll to Lakeside Park at 4 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 21.
Walkway of Lights: The walk through display of lights is open nightly from 6 to 10 p.m. from Friday, Nov. 21 through Saturday, Jan. 3.
Winter Ice Rink: The city’s ice rink is open from 5 to 10 p.m. on select nights between Friday, Nov. 21 and Saturday, Jan. 3.
Marble Falls is a gateway to the Highland Lakes and a great place to explore lakefront and hill country properties.
Mason
Light Up Our Town: Mason’s “Western Wonderland” event features a parade of lights and tree lighting from 5 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 29.
McDade
Sherwood Celtic Yuletide Festival: Sherwood Forest Faire hosts Highland games, archery, mead and more from Friday, Dec. 12 through Sunday, Dec. 14.
Mountain City
A Small Town Christmas: A “Great Holiday Kickoff” from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 22.
Pflugerville
Menorah Lighting: The third annual Menorah lighting takes place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 14.
Pfestival of Lights & Parade: Pflugerville’s annual festival and tree lighting runs from 4 to 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
Pfreeze Pflop: Start the New Year with a plunge into Scott Mentzer Pool at 9 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 1.
Pflugerville offers suburban neighborhoods, parks and easy access to major employers. If you like the community vibe at these events, it is worth exploring homes for sale here.
Richland Springs
Richland Springs Christmas Market: A holiday market from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 29.
Rockdale
Cowboy Christmas Parade: The parade begins at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
Rockdale Christmas Tree Lighting: The tree lighting runs from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 20.
Winter Wonderland: The city’s Christmas festival, complete with a tamale eating contest, runs from 5 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
Round Mountain
Tree Lighting Concert: Enjoy a Christmas festival and walkway of lights from 7 to 10 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5. The tree lighting takes place at 8:30 p.m.
Round Rock
Hometown Holiday: Downtown Round Rock shines with lights and live music most nights from Monday, Dec. 1 through Wednesday, Dec. 31.
The Light Park: A drive through light display open on select nights from Friday, Nov. 7 through Sunday, Jan. 4.
Light Up the Lake: A two day holiday festival at the lake from 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5 and Saturday, Dec. 6.
Round Rock is one of the most in demand Austin suburbs, known for schools, parks and major employers. If you enjoy Hometown Holiday, you might enjoy owning a home here too.
Round Top
Round Top Lighted Christmas Parade: Festivities begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6, with a lighted parade at 6:15 p.m.
San Marcos
Merry on the Squarey: A Christmas market on the square from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
Sights & Sounds of Christmas A large festival open from 5:30 to 11 p.m. from Thursday, Dec. 4 to Saturday, Dec. 6 and again from Thursday, Dec. 11 to Saturday, Dec. 13.
San Saba
Mill Pond Dancing Light Display: A drive through light display starting at 6 p.m. nightly from Friday, Nov. 28 through Tuesday, Jan. 6.
Sip ‘n Stroll & Lighted Christmas Parade: A Christmas festival begins at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13, followed by the parade at 6 p.m.
Smithville
Festival of Lights & Lighted Holiday Parade: Smithville’s 34th annual festival runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6, with the parade at 7 p.m.
Stonewall
Lyndon B. Johnson State Park Annual Tree Lighting: The tree lighting runs from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 21.
Stonewall Christmas Parade: The parade begins at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 10.
Sunset Valley
Jingle Bell Trail: Upper Cougar Creek Trail becomes a winter wonderland from 5:30 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Taylor
Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting: Taylor’s Christmas festival runs from 3 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6, with the parade at 6 p.m.
Thorndale
Christmas Inflatable Display: The community is invited to set up inflatables at Main Street and Salty Street on Saturday, Nov. 22.
Christmas Lighting Presentation: The city’s tree lighting is at 6 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 30.
Thorndale Christmas Parade: The annual parade starts at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.
Thrall
Christmas in the Park: The city’s Christmas festival runs from 5 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 7.
Volente
Lights on the Lake: A walk through light display at Volente Beach Resort on select nights from Friday, Nov. 14 through Sunday, Jan. 4.
Wells Branch
Luminary Festival: A walk through luminary display from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 12 and Saturday, Dec. 13.
West Lake Hills
Westlake Wonderfest: A Christmas carnival and holiday market from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 7.
West Lake Hills offers luxury homes, tree covered lots and quick access into central Austin.
Wimberley
New Year’s Eve Party: Celebrate with live music and entertainment from 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 31, including a family friendly ball drop at 7 p.m.
Polar Bear Plunge & 5K: Run a 5K from Blue Hole, then take a chilly plunge into Cypress Creek. The run starts at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 3.
Trail of Lights: Walk through lighted exhibits from 6 p.m. between Saturday, Nov. 29 and Friday, Dec. 26.
Wishes for Wimberley Parade & Tree Lighting Celebration: The Christmas festival starts at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 29, with the parade at 6 p.m. and tree lighting at 7 p.m.
Wimberley is a favorite for hill country cabins, weekend homes and quiet retreats among the cypress trees.
Ongoing Events
These are the season long or multi week events that are already running as of Nov. 24, 2025.
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Austin: Blue Genie Art Bazaar
Open daily from Nov. 14 to Dec. 24 at 6100 Airport Blvd with more than two hundred Central Texas artists. -
Austin: Longhorn Lights
UT’s South Mall is illuminated nightly from Nov. 18 to Jan. 1 with orange and white lights leading up to the Tower. -
Austin: Miracle on 5th Street: Christmas themed pop up cocktail bar in downtown Austin, open throughout the holiday season.
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Austin: Oh What Fun! Austin Holiday Market: Outdoor holiday market at Republic Square running Thursday through Sunday from Nov. 20 to Dec. 21.
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Bee Cave: Bee Cave on Ice: Seasonal ice rink behind Bee Cave City Hall from Nov. 14, 2025 to Jan. 19, 2026.
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Marble Falls: Walkway of Lights: Lakeside Park’s huge light display along Lake Marble Falls from Nov. 21, 2025 to Jan. 3, 2026.
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Round Rock: The Light Park:Drive through light show at Dell Diamond, open nightly through Jan. 4.
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Volente: Lights on the Lake: Walk through light experience at Volente Beach on Lake Travis with multiple dates from mid November into early January.
Ready To Talk Real Estate In These Central Texas Towns?
If one of these communities feels like home while you are out enjoying lights, parades and markets, that is your gut telling you something. Whether you are curious about:
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What your current home could sell for in Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Pflugerville or Cedar Park
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Moving to a quieter town such as Bastrop, Liberty Hill, Hutto, Taylor or Elgin
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Finding a lake or hill country retreat in Wimberley, Marble Falls, Lakeway, Horseshoe Bay, Lago Vista or Llano
Connect with a local Central Texas real estate expert for a no pressure conversation. Together you can look at recent sales, neighborhood trends and upcoming listings in any of the towns on this list and turn a favorite holiday destination into your next address.
