Lake Travis in Texas is the perfect place to immerse yourself in holiday cheer this December! With twinkling lights, classic holiday entertainment, and family-friendly fun, there’s something magical for everyone. Here’s your guide to the best festive events happening around Lake Travis this holiday season.
1. Lights On!
- Date: Friday, December 6, 2024
- Time: 6 PM
- Location: Lakeway City Hall Parking Lot
- Cost: Free
Kick off the holiday season with Lakeway’s annual Lights On! celebration. This free, family-friendly event officially lights up the Trail of Lights, a dazzling display of holiday decor. Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their cheerful elves will be on hand to meet kids, listen to their holiday wishes, and pose for photos.
Enjoy live holiday music, delicious s’mores, and tasty bites from local vendors. Don’t forget to snap some memorable photos with your loved ones in front of the twinkling displays. It’s the perfect way to start your December festivities!
- Trail of Lights
- Dates: December 6, 2024 – January 1, 2025
- Time: Nightly, 6 PM – Midnight
- Cost: Free
One of Lakeway’s most cherished traditions, the Trail of Lights is a must-see. This self-guided holiday walk features thousands of glowing lights and festive decorations. Accessible from the Lakeway Activity Center and City Hall parking lots, the trail is open nightly for families to enjoy at their own pace.
Accessibility: Handicapped and stroller access is available from the City Hall parking lot. Follow the designated paths to experience the trail comfortably.
3. A Christmas Story Movie Night
- Date: Friday, December 13, 2024
- Time: 6 PM
- Location: Lakeway Activity Center Parking Lot
- Cost: Free
Enjoy a cozy evening under the stars with a special outdoor screening of the holiday classic A Christmas Story. Bring your blankets, chairs, and a love for nostalgic holiday cheer. Indulge in hot chocolate and treats from local vendors while participating in fun pre-movie activities, including writing letters to Santa.
After the movie, take a stroll through the Trail of Lights for the full holiday experience.
4. Polar Bear Plunge
- Date: Tuesday, December 31, 2024
- Time: 9 AM – 10 AM
- Location: Lakeway Swim Center
- Cost: Free
Start the new year with a splash! The Polar Bear Plunge invites brave souls to slide into the chilly waters of the Lakeway Swim Center’s leisure pool. Warm up afterward with refreshments and snacks in a cozy gathering area. Whether you’re diving in or cheering from the sidelines, this unique tradition is a fun and invigorating way to welcome 2025.
5. Lake Travis Holiday Light Parade
- Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
- Location: Lake Travis (Parade starts at Crosswater)
- Cost: Free with a toy donation for Brown Santa
Lake Travis lights up with the annual Holiday Light Parade! Boats decked out in stunning holiday decorations will sail past Lakeway Resort and Rough Hollow, creating a magical display on the water. Guests are encouraged to bring a new, unopened toy for Brown Santa to support local families in need.
6. Cookies with Santa
- Date: Friday, December 6, 2024
- Time: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
- Location: Frost Bank, Bee Cave, TX
- Cost: Free
Bring the kids for an afternoon of cookies, holiday cheer, and a visit with Santa Claus at Frost Bank in Bee Cave. Capture unforgettable memories with photos and enjoy complimentary treats in this festive and welcoming setting.
7. Ballet Austin’s The Nutcracker
- Dates: December 6 – 23, 2024
- Location: Long Center for the Performing Arts, Austin TX
- Cost: Tickets available at balletaustin.org
Experience the magic of Ballet Austin’s 62nd annual performance of The Nutcracker, accompanied by the Austin Symphony Orchestra. This iconic production is a beloved holiday tradition for all ages, offering an elegant evening of music, dance, and timeless storytelling.
From sparkling lights to cherished traditions, Lake Travis is bursting with holiday spirit. Whether you’re exploring the Trail of Lights, cozying up for a holiday movie, or diving into the new year at the Polar Bear Plunge, these events are sure to make your December unforgettable.
Gather your loved ones, mark your calendars, and celebrate the magic of the season at Lake Travis! Book your stay and plan your next Lake Travis getaway!