Austin Insider Blog

This blog, written and curated by Visit Austin staff, shares the things that visitors love and locals can't get enough of.

2025 Austin Event Guide

Preview the fun to come in 2025 and mark your calendar with Austin's biggest festivals and events, from food to fine arts and, of course, live music. For dates and the latest updates about each event, please check visitaustin.org/events or visit the event's website. January 1/3-4/25 Free Week Red…

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Where to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Austin

2025 is quickly approaching, and Austin knows how to celebrate in style. From live music to exclusive dinners, Austin has a range of events so you and your loved ones can ring in the new year the right way. Check out some of the events we’ve highlighted so you can start planning your New Year’s Eve…

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Armadillo Christmas Bazaar 2024

It's the most wonderful time of the year and time for a new rendition of one of Austin's favorite old holiday traditions, the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar. Taking over the Palmer Events Center from December 14-23, 2024, stop by to do some holiday shopping or just come and kick back by the stage. Shop…

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Where to See Holiday Lights in Austin

There are so many things that make the holiday season fun. Whether you're in town for a convention or to celebrate the season with loved ones, visiting one of Austin's spectacular light shows should be on the agenda. Here are some of the top places to check out holiday lights in Austin this winter…

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Visiting Peppermint Parkway at COTA

This time of year Austin is dazzling with light displays and holiday cheer. During the holiday season, Circuit of The Americas transforms into a holiday extravaganza as it's lit up by millions of lights through a one-mile driving route. Here's everything you need to know about the 2024 Peppermint…

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Austin Holiday Shopping Guide

Whether you’re ready or not, it’s time to start thinking about your 2024 holiday gift list. If you’re looking for something really special or even one-of-a-kind for your friends and family, look no further than these local, handmade shopping events and markets in Austin, running from Black Friday to…

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The Ultimate Guide to Holidays in Austin

Spending the holidays in Austin? Celebrate like a local and join in some of our city’s most beloved holiday traditions, from over-the-top holiday lights displays to shopping markets and live performances of Christmas classics. It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Holiday Light Displays…

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Visiting Austin's Trail of Lights

The holidays are here, and one of the best ways to celebrate in Austin is by visiting the city’s Annual Trail of Lights taking place December 10-23, 2024. Celebrating it's 60th anniversary in 2024, this iconic Austin event transforms Zilker Park into a winter wonderland as it's lit up by more than 2…

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Austin Studio Tour 2024

The free, self-guided Austin Studio Tour – an annual Big Medium program – invites visitors to discover new artistic talent, see working studios, learn about artists' tools, techniques and inspirations, and explore galleries. A combination of the popular East Austin Studio Tour and West Austin Studio…

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Austin Food + Wine Festival 2024

Indulge in artisanal food, wine, beer and spirits from hundreds of purveyors at the Austin Food + Wine Festival. This indulgent event will return to Austin for its 13th anniversary in November 1-3, 2024. Attend interactive demos and tasting sessions, mingle with chefs and learn their kitchen…

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