Happening Daily
Whole Foods Ice Skating on the Plaza - 10 a.m. – 9 p.m., Tickets are $10 and include skate rental. Whole Foods, 525 N. Lamar Blvd.
Tinplate Trackers’ Holiday Model Train Exhibit (Round Rock) – 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., The Tinplate Trackers is an Austin-based O gauge model railroading club featuring Lionel, MTH, Rail Kind, K-Line, O-27 and O-72 trains. In the past, for a $5 donation, your Junior Engineer could briefly run the trains. Admission is free, but donations are accepted. Round Rock Area Arts Council, 231 E. Main St., Round Rock.
Mozart’s Light Show – 6 p.m., Gather friends and family to watch one of the best light shows in Austin. The 12-minute long celebration happens on the deck and has holiday music to get everyone into the festive spirit. FREE! Mozart’s Coffee Roasters, 3825 Lake Austin Blvd.
Round Rock’s Rock ‘N Lights Holiday Light Tour & Christmas Towne – 6-9 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, 6-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Experience the fourth annual event featuring all new displays and a bigger and brighter Christmas Towne at the Old Settlers Association and Dell Diamond parking lot. Rock’N Lights is a drive-through light show that features thousands of sparkling lights through Old Settlers Park. With 2 million lights, the 1.5-mile path is the must-see event of the season. The 2015 show features a longer light tunnel. Cost: $15 per car. Old Settlers Park, 3300 Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock
Monday, November 30, 2015
Baby Bloomers: Community Helpers (Fire Fighters) – 9-10 a.m., Stop, drop and roll to the Thinkery to learn about fire fighters! Help put out shaving cream fires, make your own fire fighter helmet and explore the tools that fire fighters use to keep us safe! Cost: $2.50 (members) and $4.50 (non-members). The Thinkery, 1830 Simond Ave.
Mr. Will’s Music Class at Whole Foods Kid’s Club (Bee Cave) – 10 a.m., Mr. Will plays classics, covers and original music. Kids can dance and sing to their hearts delight! Come early as seats fill up fast. FREE! Whole Foods, 12601 Hill Country Blvd., Bee Cave.
Storytime with Dr. Candra – 11:00 am. Dr. Candra will captivate your children with stories, songs, dances, and games. FREE! Brilliant Sky Toys and Books, 701 S Capital of Texas Hwy, Ste D-480.
Homeschool Teens: Decorate the TeenSpace (Pflugerville) – 1:30-2:30 p.m., Decorate the library TeenSpace for the holidays, while we watch a movie and eat cookies. Any teens ages 12-18 who homeschool are invited to attend this weekly program. FREE! Pflugerville Public Library, 1008 W. Pfluger Street, Pflugerville.
Rockin’ Kids Club (Round Rock) – 4:30 p.m., It’s Book & Craft Week at the Round Rock Public Library‘s Rockin’ Kids Club for elementary students. Special guest Ms. Susan – from the Girl Scouts of Central Texas – will join us for a superhero themed story and craft. FREE! Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main Street, Round Rock.
Four Seasons Gingerbread Open House – 5-6 p.m., Get a closer look at the amazing gingerbread houses at a FREE open house with complimentary hot apple cider, Wild West-themed treats, photos with Santa and the opportunity to meet the talented pastry chefs behind the Village. Lobby of the Four Seasons Hotel, 98 San Jacinto Blvd.
Night Crafters Junior – 6 p.m., Recommended for ages 5-10. Enjoy kid-friendly crafts based on great picture books. FREE! Faulk Central Library, 800 Guadalupe Ave.
Paws & Read (Pflugerville) – 6-7 p.m., Independent readers share a good book with a canine member of the Austin Dog Alliance. Grades K – 2. Free! Children register for a shared 15 minute slot. Two children can register for the same slot. They take turns reading and petting the dog. Registration begins 9/14. FREE! Pflugerville Public Library, 1008 W. Pfluger Street, Pflugerville.
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
Whole Foods Kid’s Club – 9:30 a.m., Looking for something fun and free to do with the kids? Come to Kids Club every Tuesday at 9:30 am! We’ll have different crafts and/or story time each week.Appropriate for ages 2-5yrs old. Story-time is held in our community room upstairs (to the left of the elevators/stairway) and parental supervision is requested. FREE! Whole Foods Domain, 11920 Domain Drive.
Baby Day at The Alamo Drafthouse – Movies before 2 p.m. The lights are up a bit, the sound is down a bit so moms and dads can head to the movies without the babies even knowing that they were at the movies. Infants are welcome to these shows, and of course, are allowed in for free. Take some time for yourself, pack up the kids, and head out to the Alamo Drafthouse for some much needed entertainment! Regular admission applies. Please note: Baby day is only on Tuesdays at the Alamo Village, Alamo South Lamar, Alamo Lakeline and Alamo Slaughter Lane.
Free Admission to Contemporary Austin at Laguna Gloria - 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Visit the exhibits and the grounds of the Contemporary Austin at Laguna Gloria for FREE! The Contemporary Austin, Laguna Gloria, 3809 West 35th Street.
Bears, Bears, and More Bears Storytime – 10:30 a.m., Forget lions and tigers. Bears are the kings of the forest in our book, whether they’re of the Grizzly, Brown, or Teddy persuasion. It’s true that they scare us a little (and we should probably keep our distance), but we just wish we could cuddle up with one and eat blueberries all day long. That’s why we’re reading Mother Bruce and other stories all about our beautifully burly bearish friends. FREE! BookPeople, 603 N. Lamar Blvd.
Pottery Barn Kids Storytime: Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas - 11-11:30 a.m., Join Pottery Barn Kids for a FREE weekly storytime! This week, kids will learn all about Grinch-mas and how to grow their hearts three sizes. Children will enjoy reading, games and activities. Pottery Barn, Barton Creek Square, 2901 S. Cap. Tx. Hwy.
Community Helpers Club (Round Rock) – 4:30 p.m., Attention tweens & teens looking to become a Round Rock Community Hero! The Round Rock Public Library welcomes you for an afternoon of volunteering, crafts, and fun. Community Helper participants will have the opportunity to gain volunteer experience making rope dog toys for the Williamson County Animal Shelter. FREE! Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main Street, Round Rock.
Lego Club (Pflugerville) – 4:30-5:15 p.m., Use your imaginations to build Lego creations. Blocks are provided by the library. Please leave your own at home. The theme this month is “Skyscraper Challenge.” Recommended for ages 4-12. FREE! Pflugerville Public Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St., Pflugerville.
Four Seasons Gingerbread Open House – 5-6 p.m., Get a closer look at the amazing gingerbread houses at a FREE open house with complimentary hot apple cider, Wild West-themed treats, photos with Santa and the opportunity to meet the talented pastry chefs behind the Village. Lobby of the Four Seasons Hotel, 98 San Jacinto Blvd.
Lego Lab – 5:30 p.m., Recommended for ages 5 and up. With Legos, you can build anything you can imagine and tell any story you can dream up. Come to the Lego Lab to hear, see, make, and create different stories, all while building with Legos provided by the Library! FREE! Austin Public Library, Ruiz Branch.
Tree Lighting at the Driskill – 6 p.m., Enjoy choral performances and seasonal music from the Arundel Ensemble String Quartet in celebration of the annual Lighting of The Driskill Tree. FREE! The Driskill Hotel, 604 Brazos Street.
10th Annual Mueller Tower Lighting – 6-8 p.m., Join the Mueller community for the 10th Annual Tower Lighting Ceremony! The FREE, family-friendly event will feature live music from the Reagan High School Drumline and the Huston-Tillotson Jazz Band. The event will also include free coffee, hot chocolate, and holiday treats as well as activities for children. Austin City Council Member, Ora Houston, will be counting down the moments until the Noel sign is lit across the Control Tower, honoring a tradition that dates back to the 1960s. To celebrate 10 years, there will be 10 tons of snow brought in to play in, too! Mueller Control Tower, Berkman Drive.
Handel’s “Messiah” - 8 p.m., The Austin Symphony once again presents its Christmas tradition, Handel’s Messiah, accompanied by Chorus Austin for you and your family at Hyde Park Baptist Church. This night of musical magic will comfort you through its familiarity and fill you with the joy of rediscovery. Let us begin your winter celebrations with a performance full of rejoicing! Hyde Park Baptist Church, 3901 Speedway.
Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Storytime at Whole Foods – 9-10 a.m., Bring the little ones, it’s story time! Each week we will feature a different story, interactive craft and healthy snack. FREE! Whole Foods, 4301 W. William Cannon.
Music with Mar (Round Rock) – 9:15 – 10:15 am. Music with Mar. is a class where a caregiver and child (ages birth through preschool)participate together in musical activities. These classes are focused on the four main areas of development – cognitive, social, motor and language. Classes are drop-in. Baby Earth, 106 East Old Settlers Blvd., Round Rock.
Whole Foods Kid’s Club – 9:30 a.m., Join us each Wednesday for Kids Club with Kiely! She’ll be reading a different story and hosting crafts each week. FREE! Whole Foods, 525 N. Lamar Blvd.
Preschool Playdate – 10:15 a.m., Recommended for children aged 18 months to 5 years. Enjoy exploring and playing with duplos, castle blocks, puppets and more. FREE! Austin Public Library, Howson Branch.
BookPeople Puppet Show Players Storytime - 10:30 a.m., This morning we have our practically perfect and positively preposterous puppeteers here to perform a very special surprise story! Don’t be late for this wonderful performance! FREE! BookPeople, 603 N. Lamar Blvd.
Story Time with CJ the Explorer – 12:30 p.m., Join CJ. the Explorer for her Award Winning Story Time, featuring songs and sign language. Then stay and play in our free Play Zone full of hand-picked toys from around the world! FREE! All Things Kids @ The Domain, 3220 Feathergrass Court.
Cartoon & Manga Drawing Workshop with The Astonishing Mr. Pitts (Round Rock) – 2:30-3:30 p.m., It’s Round Rock ISD early release and The Astonishing Mr. Pitts is coming to the Round Rock Public Library! The library will host a cartoon & manga drawing workshop where participants will learn basic cartooning/drawing tricks plus some Manga techniques. Class size is limited to 25 students ages 8-15. Online preregistration is required. Tickets will be available after November 2, 2015 at 9 am. FREE! Round Rock Public Library, 216 E. Main Street, Round Rock.
Lego Lab - 3 p.m., Recommended for ages 5 and up. With Legos, you can build anything you can imagine and tell any story you can dream up. Come to the Lego Lab to hear, see, make, and create different stories, all while building with Legos provided by the Library. FREE! Austin Public Library, Southeast Branch.
Smart Opera Presents: The Great Poochini – 3:30 p.m., The Great Poochini by Gary Clement: By day Signor Poochini is a dog, lying peacefully in his master’s living room and listening to music. But by night he is the Great Poochini, the most acclaimed singer in all opera — dog opera that is. One evening, when Poochini is ready to leave home and the opera hall is filling with dogs excitedly awaiting his performance, Poochini’s master leaves the window locked, and Poochini cannot get out. He is in despair, until suddenly a cat burglar appears, and what might have been a disaster becomes an opportunity. Smart Opera performances includes operatic singing by the performer, and some may include participation by the children. These programs are recommended for ages 3 and up. FREE! Austin Public Library, North Village Branch.
Community Night at The Thinkery - 4-8 p.m., Admission is by donation only. Entry is based on a first come, first served basis. The Thinkery, 1830 Simond Avenue.
Krispy Kreme Family Night – 6-8 p.m., Kids can decorate one FREE doughnut each, plus enjoy crafts and more. Krispy Kreme, 701 E Stassney Lane and 12586 Research Blvd, Austin.
A Christmas Carol at ZACH Theatre – 7:30 p.m., The most popular show in ZACH’s history returns to rock in the holidays! ZACH’s fresh take on A Christmas Carol features three soulful Ghosts making a joyful noise, while moving our hearts with the Cratchit family’s love and Ebenezer Scrooge’s miraculous transformation. New hit songs and reimagined carols create an infectious spirit that has you dancing in the aisles. ZACH’s inspired adaptation of Charles Dickens’ beloved classic juxtaposes a traditional Victorian setting and gorgeous period costumes, with a modern musical score that spans genres and eras. ZACH Theatre, 202 S. Lamar Blvd.
Thursday, December 3, 2015
The Signing Connection: Baby Sign and Play (Round Rock) – 9:30 am. Baby Sign & Play Classes provide an interactive learning session for child and parent to begin the path to learn basic sign language communication skills. Research has shown how pre-verbal children, who learn ASL, have reduced frustration and stress by being able to convey their needs and feelings. Learning Sign Language is a fun way for the whole family to learn a second language. Baby Sign & Play is designed for children ages 0-3. Cost: $7 per class. Baby Earth, 106 East Old Settlers Blvd., Round Rock.
Free Admission at The Blanton – 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Thursdays are free to the public. FREE! Blanton Museum of Art, 200 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Austin.
Play, Read, Grow!: Early Literacy Training for Parents and Caregivers – 2 p.m., Babies are born learning, and you can help prepare your child for success! Learn how to use play every day to get your children ready to read and succeed with this hands on workshop for parents and their little ones! Find out how to support your child’s early learning with Storytime Connection. This free workshop will give you an overview of the basics of early literacy, and show you how to incorporate five simple practices into every day that will help ensure your child’s success. Then, you’ll have plenty of hands-on time to practice what you’ve learned at our five early literacy stations where you and your child can learn together through playful literacy activities, and make some fun literacy toys to take home with you! FREE! Children welcome. Austin Public Library, Hampton Branch at Oak Hill.
Book Circle: Perler Beads – 3:30 p.m., Recommended for ages 5 and up. Join us for stories, crafts, games and more. FREE! Austin Public Library, Yarborough Branch.
Explorer’s Club: Crafty Kids (Cedar Park) – 3:30 p.m., Kids in grades K-5 will enjoy craft time at library. FREE! Cedar Park Public Library, 550 Discovery Blvd., Cedar Park.
Family Holiday Bash with music by Slider Lee (Pflugerville) – 6-7:30 p.m., Enjoy holiday music, desserts and crafts for all ages. Plus, take fun holiday pictures at our green screen photo booth! Wear your finest holiday attire (or your ugliest holiday sweaters). All ages are welcome. FREE! Pflugerville Public Library, 1008 W. Pfluger St., Pflugerville.
Pajama Storytime – 6:30 p.m., Recommended for children 5 and under. Feel free to wear pajamas to this family storytime in the evening featuring stories, songs, rhymes, games, crafts, and other activities. FREE! Austin Public Library, Manchaca Road Branch.
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas (Round Rock) – 7:30 p.m., “‘Twas the night before Christmas when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.” But wait! A mouse IS stirring – because Santa missed his house last year. Before you can say, “Merry Chirstmas!” you’re off on the wild adventures of a mouse, an elf and a spunky little girl who just won’t take no for an answer. Don’t miss this joyful tribute to the holiday season! Tickets: $13. Sam Bass Community Theatre, 600 N. Lee Street, Round Rock.
A Christmas Carol at ZACH Theatre – 7:30 p.m., The most popular show in ZACH’s history returns to rock in the holidays! ZACH’s fresh take on A Christmas Carol features three soulful Ghosts making a joyful noise, while moving our hearts with the Cratchit family’s love and Ebenezer Scrooge’s miraculous transformation. New hit songs and reimagined carols create an infectious spirit that has you dancing in the aisles. ZACH’s inspired adaptation of Charles Dickens’ beloved classic juxtaposes a traditional Victorian setting and gorgeous period costumes, with a modern musical score that spans genres and eras. ZACH Theatre, 202 S. Lamar Blvd.
Friday, December 4, 2015
Storytime Art – Owls - 10:45 a.m., Storytime Art, or StArt! is a great opportunity for your young child to experience art! Storytimes are geared to the 3 – 5 year old preschooler, but some projects could easily translate into a Mommy and Me project for those a little younger. And, of course, anyone older is welcome, as well! Storytimes always include at least one book and a related art project, but often include surprises like songs, poems, and coloring pages. This week, we’ll read about owls and other nocturnal animals, learn about the owls we have in Texas and color a cute owl coloring project Our painting project is a cute owl ornament for the tree. Cost is $12 per child, or buy a punch-card and get 6 classes for $60! The Art Garage, 11190 Circle Drive.
Music with Mr. Will - 12-12:30 pm. His sing-along style incorporates equal parts of teaching and performing for energetic young audiences. Infectious melodies combined with upbeat lyrics make him beloved among pre-schoolers and early-elementary students, who clap, march, jump and dance along to their favorite songs. Plus, the entire family can enjoy the music. FREE! Brilliant Sky Toys and Books, 701 S Capital of Texas Hwy, Ste D-480.
Story Time with CJ the Explorer – 12:30 p.m., Join CJ. the Explorer for her Award Winning Story Time, featuring songs and sign language. Then stay and play in our free Play Zone full of hand-picked toys from around the world! FREE! All Things Kids @ The Domain, 3220 Feathergrass Court.
Wild and Wacky Weather - 2 p.m., Literature Live! puppet shows are performed at various Library locations throughout Austin. If you don’t like the weather in Texas, just wait a few minutes and it will change! Take a stroll through sunny songs, breezy stories, and wintry puppetry when Literature Live! presents their new show, Wild and Wacky Weather! FREE! Austin Public Library, Hampton Branch at Oak Hill.
Jedi Training Camp – 4 p.m., Recommended for ages 5 and up. Join us for crafts and activities as we celebrate the epic saga of Star Wars. FREE! Austin Public Library, Manchaca Road Branch.
Lakeway’s Lights On! – A Holiday Celebration - 6-8 p.m., Happy Holidays from the City of Lakeway! The Lights On! event marks the beginning of the holiday season in Lakeway with the first lighting of the Trail of Lights behind City Hall. We invite you to join us for fun in the parking lot at City Hall (at the corner of Sailmaster and Lohmans). Enjoy some hot chocolate and marshmallow roasting! We will be collecting donations of non-perishable food items to benefit Lake Travis Crisis Ministries. Santa, Mrs. Claus and Rudolph will be nearby to “plug in” the Trail of Lights display and to speak to all of the good little boys and girls of Lakeway. No dogs, please. No bicycles, scooters, skateboards or motorized vehicles on the trail, please. Parking is available at the Lakeway Activity Center, 105 Cross Creek. The Trail of Lights may be accessed by the stairway at the bottom of the parking lot. Parking is also available at Village Plaza, 100 Lakeway Drive (near Café Lago). Take the walkway between the buildings. Lakeway City Hall, 1102 Lohman’s Crossing Road.
35th Annual Georgetown Christmas Stroll – 5–9 p.m., The Magic of the Stroll is real and will bring memories on this 35th Annual Celebration. The Georgetown Square will be transformed into a genuine Christmas card come to life. It’s a magical setting of a multitude of trees outlined with twinkling white lights , old fashioned lamp poles, Santa in the Christmas tree farm waiting to hear from both naughty & nice. It’s the place to journey back in time as you wonder through Bethlehem Village. You can also find the Grinch and his characters in Whoo-Village. FREE! Downtown Georgetown.
Lights of Love 5k – 6-9 p.m., Set against a backdrop of twinkling lights, the 8th Annual Lights of Love 5K and Family Fun Run kicks off the holiday season. The fun begins in the Mueller Hangar with holiday festivities for everyone — family, friends, organizations, schools and even four-legged friends. Strollers, walkers, joggers and runners don their best holiday outfit and enjoy a holiday inspired course in the Mueller neighborhood. Kids’ crafts, photos with Santa Claus, festive music, hot chocolate and more round out an evening of fun for everyone! FREE! Mueller Hangar, 4550 Mueller Drive.
Cedar Park’s Holiday Tree Lighting & Santa’s Workshop – 6:30-9 p.m., On this magical night, join us in the tradition of lighting the tree. Over 65,000 lights illuminate the largest Live Oak Tree in Cedar Park. Santa’s Workshop will kickoff immediately following the tree lighting ceremony. Enjoy live music, carriage rides, games & prizes, inflatables, photos with Santa (bring your own camera), and arts & crafts projects. Bring the whole family for what promises to be a festive evening. FREE! Heritage Oak Park, 875 Quest Parkway, Cedar Park.
Christmas Family Night (Round Rock) – 6:30-10 p.m., The City of Round Rock rings in the season with the annual FREE Christmas Family Night celebration. During Christmas Family Night, the Old Settlers Association and Dell Diamond parking lot is decorated with small wooden houses which host various games and activities. The event kicks off with a welcome from Round Rock Mayor Alan McGraw, followed by the illumination of holiday lights. Then Santa makes his grand entrance. This free event includes activities for the entire family including live music, dancers, candle making, game booths, Frosty the Snowman, full-scale Carnival rides, light maze, pedal go kart rides, holiday food, photos with Santa Claus and more. Children should bring their “wish lists” for Santa Claus and parents are encouraged to bring their own cameras for pictures with Santa. Plus, enjoy free hot dogs, popcorn, hot chocolate, and other refreshments, activities and snacks. Enjoy performances throughout the evening. Old Settlers Association and the Dell Diamond parking lot at Christmas Towne at the exit to Rock’N Lights Holiday Light Tour, 3300 Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock.
Polar Express Storytime (Round Rock) – 7 p.m., In celebration of the 30th anniversary of The Polar Express, we will be hosting a pajama party. FREE! Barnes & Noble, 2701 Parker Road, Bldg A Suite 700, Round Rock.
Ebenezer’s Journey: A Dickens’ Christmas Story – 7–10 p.m., This special interactive program based on Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” will recreate various scenes of Dickens’ classic 1843 tale on four nights in December. Bring the family to Pioneer Farms this holiday season for a most unusual event, “Ebenezer’s Journey.” Watch the village come to life with carolers and colorful characters that step out of history. Then experience the classic Dickens tale like never before, as our actors take you into the story with an interactive theatrical presentation staged in the historic old buildings at Pioneer Farms. Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future will come to life as you witness the joys the sorrows and the chills of the unforgettable experience. Of course, you have an important role to play as well, for you are Ebenezer Scrooge! Pioneer Farms, 10621 Pioneer Farms Drive.
A Christmas Carol at ZACH Theatre – 7:30 p.m., The most popular show in ZACH’s history returns to rock in the holidays! ZACH’s fresh take on A Christmas Carol features three soulful Ghosts making a joyful noise, while moving our hearts with the Cratchit family’s love and Ebenezer Scrooge’s miraculous transformation. New hit songs and reimagined carols create an infectious spirit that has you dancing in the aisles. ZACH’s inspired adaptation of Charles Dickens’ beloved classic juxtaposes a traditional Victorian setting and gorgeous period costumes, with a modern musical score that spans genres and eras. ZACH Theatre, 202 S. Lamar Blvd.
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas (Round Rock) – 7:30 p.m., “‘Twas the night before Christmas when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.” But wait! A mouse IS stirring – because Santa missed his house last year. Before you can say, “Merry Chirstmas!” you’re off on the wild adventures of a mouse, an elf and a spunky little girl who just won’t take no for an answer. Don’t miss this joyful tribute to the holiday season! Tickets: $18. Sam Bass Community Theatre, 600 N. Lee Street, Round Rock.
Saturday, December 5, 2015
35th Annual Georgetown Christmas Stroll – 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., The Magic of the Stroll is real and will bring memories on this 35th Annual Celebration. The Georgetown Square will be transformed into a genuine Christmas card come to life. It’s a magical setting of a multitude of trees outlined with twinkling white lights , old fashioned lamp poles, Santa in the Christmas tree farm waiting to hear from both naughty & nice. It’s the place to journey back in time as you wonder through Bethlehem Village. You can also find the Grinch and his characters in Whoo-Village. FREE! Downtown Georgetown.
German Christmas Market – 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., The German-Texan Heritage Society offers shoppers hand-made, imported crafts including plenty of Christmas themed decorations such as nutcrackers and ornaments. It is a festival atmosphere with traditional German Christmas music, tables full of handcrafted items direct from the Erzgebirge region of Germany, a visit by both our historic American Santa Claus and the traditional German Sankt Nikolas with gifts for the children, a hospitality serving of Glühwein (hot spiced wine), coffee, apple cider/juice and gingerbread cookies and plenty of German style baked goodies for purchase. All purchases are Sales Tax Free on this special day. German Free School of Austin, 507 E. 10th St.
Violet Crown Arts Festival – 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Expect to find unique artwork from talented sculptors, potters, and fiber artists, painters, jewelers, glass artists, woodworkers and metal smiths. Shop for hand made gifts and great quality art, and support local cottage businesses. It’s always FREE admission for the whole family! Brentwood Elementary School, West Parking Lot at 6700 Yates.
Pflugerville’s Holiday Stroll, Christmas Parade and Pfestival of Lights – 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., At 10 a.m., shop downtown Pecan Street for special holiday items on sale, until 5 p.m. Then stick around for the annual Knights of Columbus Christmas Parade and the city’s Pfestival of Lights, starting at 5:30 p.m. on Main Street. Downtown Pflugerville.
Winnie the Pooh at ZACH Theatre - 11 a.m., Winnie-the-Pooh finds himself involved in all sorts of frantic adventures, assisted by such friends as the dismal Eeyore, Piglet and Rabbit. Pooh’s intentions are always the best, but his passion for honey and condensed milk keeps getting him into trouble. Come see A.A. Milne’s beloved characters in this charming musical adaptation. Tickets: starting at $15. ZACH Theatre, 1510 Toomey Road.
A Long Winter’s Night – 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., Laura Freeman’s original musical is a distinctively Texas tale with echoes of Dickens. Suzi longs for snow in Texas until the night of the Winter Solstice when she gets more than she bargained for. Featuring live music and outrageous performances by Laura Freeman, Robert Deike, Megan Ortiz, and Robert King in Austin’s oldest and dearest theater! Scottish Rite Theater, 2017 W. 18th Street.
Giving Tree Storytime – 11:30 a.m., Women’s Storybook Project is a non-profit organization that helps children connect with their incarcerated mothers through books. Mothers read a short story or a chapter of a book, and volunteers record the mothers as they read. The books and recordings are then mailed to the children. Representatives from Women’s Storybook Project will be here to read stories and share with us how we can help with this project this holiday season through our Giving Tree Program. FREE! BookPeople, 603 N. Lamar Blvd.
2nd Street District 5th Annual Deck the District Window Walk – 1-7 p.m., It’s that time of year again! Join us for the 5th Annual Deck the District Holiday Window Walk! Enjoy the best shopping and dining in the heart of downtown Austin while viewing dazzling window displays by The University of Texas at Austin and St. Edward’s University students competing to win scholarship prizes. There will be in-store specials and as well music featuring Aunt Ruby’s Sweet Jazz Babies. Two hour parking validation will be available in the AMLI garages from 10am -5pm. 2nd Street District, Downtown Austin.
Univision Noche Navidena – 3 p.m., Univision and ESB-MACC present a Christmas event featuring Posada, Ornament making, musical acts with Latin American music traditions, folkloric ballet and Mariachis. This event will be videotaped and portions will be aired on Christmas Eve on Univision TV. Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center, 600 River Street.
Holiday Sing-Along and Downtown Holiday Stroll – 6 p.m., The annual Holiday Sing-Along and Downtown Stroll is a FREE, family-friendly event that celebrates the arrival of the holiday season and the joy it brings. The evening starts at 6 p.m. when crowds gather on the south steps of the Capitol to sing the songs of the season during KUTX 98.9 “Eklektikos” host John Aielli’s Holiday Sing-Along. As the clock strikes 7 p.m., the countdown to the lighting of the Capitol Christmas tree begins, featuring a programmed light show at the top and bottom of every hour, set to holiday songs of local Austin musicians. From 7 to 9 p.m., Congress Ave. will be abuzz with holiday cheer during the Downtown Stroll. Shops, restaurants, galleries and museums will be open late and will feature special activities and offers. Additional Stroll activities include classic holiday cartoons, photos with Santa, live music, a special holiday Farmers’ Market with the Sustainable Food Center, and much more. Support fellow members of the community by bringing non-perishable food or cash donations to the Capitol Christmas tree for the Capital Area Food Bank. Downtown Austin.
Ebenezer’s Journey: A Dickens’ Christmas Story – 7–10 p.m., This special interactive program based on Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” will recreate various scenes of Dickens’ classic 1843 tale on four nights in December. Bring the family to Pioneer Farms this holiday season for a most unusual event, “Ebenezer’s Journey.” Watch the village come to life with carolers and colorful characters that step out of history. Then experience the classic Dickens tale like never before, as our actors take you into the story with an interactive theatrical presentation staged in the historic old buildings at Pioneer Farms. Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future will come to life as you witness the joys the sorrows and the chills of the unforgettable experience. Of course, you have an important role to play as well, for you are Ebenezer Scrooge! Pioneer Farms, 10621 Pioneer Farms Drive.
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas (Round Rock) – 7:30 p.m., “‘Twas the night before Christmas when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.” But wait! A mouse IS stirring – because Santa missed his house last year. Before you can say, “Merry Chirstmas!” you’re off on the wild adventures of a mouse, an elf and a spunky little girl who just won’t take no for an answer. Don’t miss this joyful tribute to the holiday season! Tickets: $18. Sam Bass Community Theatre, 600 N. Lee Street, Round Rock.
A Christmas Carol at ZACH Theatre – 7:30 p.m., The most popular show in ZACH’s history returns to rock in the holidays! ZACH’s fresh take on A Christmas Carol features three soulful Ghosts making a joyful noise, while moving our hearts with the Cratchit family’s love and Ebenezer Scrooge’s miraculous transformation. New hit songs and reimagined carols create an infectious spirit that has you dancing in the aisles. ZACH’s inspired adaptation of Charles Dickens’ beloved classic juxtaposes a traditional Victorian setting and gorgeous period costumes, with a modern musical score that spans genres and eras. ZACH Theatre, 202 S. Lamar Blvd.
Sunday, December 6, 2015
Violet Crown Arts Festival – 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Expect to find unique artwork from talented sculptors, potters, and fiber artists, painters, jewelers, glass artists, woodworkers and metal smiths. Shop for hand made gifts and great quality art, and support local cottage businesses. It’s always FREE admission for the whole family! Brentwood Elementary School, West Parking Lot at 6700 Yates.
A Long Winter’s Night – 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., Laura Freeman’s original musical is a distinctively Texas tale with echoes of Dickens. Suzi longs for snow in Texas until the night of the Winter Solstice when she gets more than she bargained for. Featuring live music and outrageous performances by Laura Freeman, Robert Deike, Megan Ortiz, and Robert King in Austin’s oldest and dearest theater! Scottish Rite Theater, 2017 W. 18th Street.
DeSTEMber Fest at Bullock Museum – Noon – 3 p.m., Join Girlstart for a FREE, frosty DeSTEMber Fest Extravaganza! Explore winter constellations in our portable planetarium, connect the circuit to make fun holiday stickers, and learn how seal pups stay warm in cold weather. The whole family will discover the mysteries behind this magical time of year with snowflake chemistry, train construction, fluffy snow and more hands-on fun! Enjoy FREE exhibit admission all day during Free First Sundays, held the first Sunday of every month. Families can explore the Story of Texas through three floors of exhibits that showcase artifacts from around the state. Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 Congress Avenue.
A Christmas Carol at ZACH Theatre – 2:30 p.m., The most popular show in ZACH’s history returns to rock in the holidays! ZACH’s fresh take on A Christmas Carol features three soulful Ghosts making a joyful noise, while moving our hearts with the Cratchit family’s love and Ebenezer Scrooge’s miraculous transformation. New hit songs and reimagined carols create an infectious spirit that has you dancing in the aisles. ZACH’s inspired adaptation of Charles Dickens’ beloved classic juxtaposes a traditional Victorian setting and gorgeous period costumes, with a modern musical score that spans genres and eras. ZACH Theatre, 202 S. Lamar Blvd.
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas (Round Rock) – 7:30 p.m., “‘Twas the night before Christmas when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.” But wait! A mouse IS stirring – because Santa missed his house last year. Before you can say, “Merry Chirstmas!” you’re off on the wild adventures of a mouse, an elf and a spunky little girl who just won’t take no for an answer. Don’t miss this joyful tribute to the holiday season! Tickets: $18. Sam Bass Community Theatre, 600 N. Lee Street, Round Rock.
The holiday shopping season is upon us! If you are looking for that perfect local, handmade gift for your special someone, check out all of the Holiday Craft Fairs and Markets happening from now until Christmas Eve.
If you need a little more inspiration for the loved ones on your shopping list, check out Nicole’s ideas on gifts in LiveMom’s 2015 Buy Local Gift Guide.
There are many local nonprofits who need your help to make the holidays happy for everyone. If you have some spare time to give, or some spare funds, here’s a list of 2015 Holiday Volunteer Opportunities in Central Texas.
Looking for a little more fun? Sign yourself and your kids up for a Gingerbread Workshop today!
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