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.

Where to Ice Skate in Austin This Winter

For some, gliding over a smooth ice surface on steel-bladed skates is a form of exercise or recreation but for others it’s a highly competitive sport. No matter the reason, the feeling you can get from the activity is adrenaline rushing! This seasonal winter activity is the perfect way to get into…

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How to Experience Free Week 2024

Looking to shake off those post-holiday blues? Red River Cultural District’s Free Week has your cure. This year’s festivities will take place January 5-6, 2024 and will feature over 60 local bands in nearly 20 venues around the city. With so many performances to hear and venues to see, here’s an…

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2024 Austin Event Guide

Preview the fun to come in 2024 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 1/5-6/24 Free Week Red…

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Visiting Peppermint Parkway at COTA

This time of year Austin is dazzling with light displays and holiday cheer. From November 24 - December 23, 2023 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 2023…

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Guide to Austin's Holiday Pop-Up Bars

Although warm Texas temps may not make it feel like December, Austin is ready to celebrate the season big. Light shows illuminate the city skyline and holiday markets are all over town to help you find the perfect gift for loved ones. Even Austin’s nightlife scene gets festive with a number of…

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Where to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Austin

2024 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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Top Holiday Concerts & Shows in Austin

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and Austin is bringing back some festive traditions featuring amazing live music and spirited performances. If you haven’t experienced the holidays in Austin, see below for some of this season’s can't-miss events! "A Christmas Carol." Courtesy of ZACH…

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Armadillo Christmas Bazaar 2023

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 for 6 days, from December 15-23, 2023, stop by to do some holiday shopping or just come and kick back by the…

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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 59th Annual Trail of Lights. From December 8-23, 2023 (closed Mondays), Zilker Park transforms into a winter wonderland as it's lit up by more than 2 million lights, 90 lighted holiday trees and more…

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Austin Holiday Shopping Guide

Whether you’re ready or not, it’s time to start thinking about your 2023 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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