December & January Events Calendar 2023
15 Things We Love This December & January
From holiday light shows to two-step classes to makers’ markets, there’s no shortage of fun in the coming months!
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Dec. 6-11, times vary
Rediscover the zany magic of Dr. Seuss’ classic holiday tale as it comes to life on stage at Bass Concert Hall. This musical romp isn’t just for kids. Broadway Across America wows audiences of all ages with this Christmas classic. Tickets range from $30 to $130.
2350 Robert Dedman Dr. | texasperformingarts.org
A Christmas Carol
Nov. 16-Dec. 31, times vary
This year, A Christmas Carol returns to The Topfer at ZACH! Bringing music, whimsy, and lasting memories to the stage, this unique musical adaptation of the classic Dickens tale is well-suited for ages 6 and up. Prices range from $25 to $105, with discounts available for youth under 17.
202 S Lamar Blvd. | zachtheatre.org
Blue Genie Art Bazaar
Nov. 18- Dec. 24, 10am-10pm
Since 2001, Blue Genie Art Bazaar has promoted the work of talented artists during the holiday season. Today, the Bazaar features the handmade, unique work of over 200 artisans, selected from a talented pool of more than 400 applicants each year. Browse in person or online for that personal, one-of-a-kind gift.
6100 Airport Blvd. | bluegenieartbazaar.com
Peppermint Parkway
Nov. 25-Dec. 30, times vary
See a mile full of immersive holiday displays, lights, and dancing elves during a visit to Peppermint Parkway at Circuit of the Americas in this incredible drive-through holiday experience. Choose from one of four ticket packages starting at $40 per vehicle.
9201 CTOA Blvd. | peppermintparkway.com
Community First! Village of Lights and Holiday Market
Dec. 2-3 & 9-10, 5:30-9:00pm
Search through unique items created by Community First! Village artists and makers to find the perfect gift this holiday season. After shopping, stick around to enjoy a free showing of The Polar Express. While the market is free to attend, visitors are asked to reserve space for the night they wish to attend.
9301 Hog Eye Rd. | mlf.org
The Watchmaker’s Song
Dec. 8-10 & 15-17, times vary
Participate in a whimsically immersive Nutcracker experience at the historic Neill-Cochran House Museum during the fifth annual production of The Watchmaker’s Song. Guests will be plunged into the enchanted holiday tale full of fanciful characters showcasing diverse works in ballet, Egyptian Belly Dance, Spanish Flamenco, traditional Chinese Dance, and drag performance. Tickets range from $36 to $60.
2310 San Gabriel St. | ventanaballet.com
Austin Trail of Lights
Dec. 8-23, times vary
Cruise through more than two million lights during the 58th Annual Austin Trail of Lights. Pass through trail favorites including Candy Land, Santa’s House, Santa’s Workshop, light tunnels, nostalgic favorites, and some new displays. General admission tickets are available starting at $5.
2100 Barton Springs Rd. | austintrailoflights.org
Asmbly Holiday Makers Market
Dec. 10, 12-6pm & Dec. 11, 11-4pm
Asmbly is Austin’s largest nonprofit makerspace, and they are opening their shop for their first annual Asmbly Maker Market this December with a special Holiday Edition. Join them for a weekend full of shopping unique items crafted by Asmbly’s creative members. Entrance to the market is free, and beer, wine, and food will be available for purchase.
9701 Dessau Rd., Ste 304 | asmbly.org
Armadillo Christmas Bazaar
Dec. 17-23, 11am-8:30pm
Shop local and admire the work of over 200 artists and artisans at the 47th annual Armadillo Christmas Bazaar at the Palmer Events Center. This year’s event will feature performances by Ray Wylie Hubbard, Ruthie Foster, Gary P. Nunn, Kelly Willis, Sir Woman, Gina Chavez, and more! Tickets are $12 for a day pass and $47 for a season pass which allows patrons to visit the Bazaar every day.
900 Barton Springs Rd. | armadillobazaar.com
Dancing Austin Two-Step
Jan. 12, 7-8pm
Start the New Year by adding some new moves to your dance arsenal. Grab your boots and scoot on over to The White Horse for a free weekly two-stepping lesson from Dancin’ Austin. Be prepared to look silly, get sweaty, and have fun!
500 Comal St. | thewhitehorseaustin.com
Sweeney Todd
Jan. 28-Feb. 5, times vary
Attend The Tale of Sweeney Todd! Wronged barber Sweeney Todd wreaks havoc in London as he seeks revenge in this macabre, comedic musical from Stephen Sondheim. Featuring performances by Mela Dailey, Mark Diamond, and Raven McMillon, Austin Opera’s production of this classic is set to be a bloody good time. Tickets range from $69 to $149.
701 W Riverside Dr. | austinopera.org
Chess IRL
Every Sunday, 2-4-pm
Who said visiting a brewery couldn’t be an intellectual affair? Join Chess IRL at Central Machine Works for their weekly community-driven chess meetup. Flex your skills, make new friends, and enjoy the incredible atmosphere at a beloved Eastside hang.
4824 E Cesar Chavez St. | cmwbrewery.com
East Austin Comedy Club
Tues.-Sat. evenings, times vary
Head to Tiger Den to see a rotating weekly comedy show featuring local and touring comedians in an intimate setting. Tickets are $20, and the venue is BYOB but offers complimentary wine.
1303 E 4th St. | eastaustincomedy.com
Blue Monday Blues Jam
Every Monday, 7-10pm
Enjoy a music tradition a decade in the making! Every Monday, this fun community event invites musicians and music lovers out to Kenny Dorham’s Backyard for an informal blues jam. Bring your instruments and come jam yourself, or simply enjoy listening or dancing along with friends. Blue Monday is free and open to the public.
1106 E 11th St.
Lessons & Carols
Dec. 24, 4:30pm & 6pm
Everyone is invited to Redeemer Presbyterian Church’s Service of Nine Lessons and Carols, Christmas Eve, at 4:30 & 6:00! The service is patterned after King’s College Choir at Cambridge University. The service will include the Christmas story, the Redeemer Choir, brass, and carols. This event is free and open to the public, with complimentary nursery care available.
RedeemerPres.org | 2111 Alexander Ave.
