TRIBEZA’s Favorite Local Holiday Traditions

As the holiday season approaches, the TRIBEZA team reflects on the local traditions that fill us with joy year after year. From dazzling light displays to cozy hotel hangs, Austin really knows how to do the holidays right. Between festive performances, seasonal sips, and gathering with loved ones, these experiences make an Austin holiday feel like home.

A Christmas Carol at ZACH Theatre

Favorite by: Heidi Okla, Editor-in-Chief

Attending ZACH Theatre’s annual, spirited production of A Christmas Carol brings me the utmost joy year after year. In fact, I love it so much I try to see it twice each season. A departure from the traditionally serious Dickens’ tale, ZACH’s re-imagined musical version is full of contemporary pop songs, dazzling choreography, disco balls and whimsical surprises. The cast is always tremendously talented, and every seat in the theater provides a great view of the stage. You can find me there grinning ear to ear, just trying to hold myself back from singing along to every tune.

Holiday Hotel Happenings

Favorite by: Georgie Miller, Brand Strategy Director

Nothing gets me in the spirit in Austin more than visiting Austin’s grand hotels like Commodore Perry Estate, The Driskill, and Four Seasons Austin for seasonal cocktails and stunning holiday decor. The festive lights and elegant settings are a cozy, chic backdrop for celebrating the season in style.

Ice Skating

Favorite by: Cassie Butterfield, Senior Digital Editor

Though Austin’s winters are usually mild, one of the best ways to embrace the holiday season is by ice skating with friends and family. There’s a special magic in gliding across a chilly rink, then warming up with hot chocolate and festive music—a quick return to that childlike holiday wonder. While I don’t have a single favorite rink, a few go-to spots for holiday skating include the Four Seasons’ Ice Rodeo and the Long Center’s Ice Rink.

Zilker Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony

Favorite by: Morgan Seminaro, Media Coordinator

December 1 marks the start of the holiday season in Austin with the iconic Zilker Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony. Standing 155 feet tall and wrapped in over 3,000 lights, the tree brings a festive glow to the Zilker area and sets the tone for a season of joy. Complete with local food and entertainment, this beloved tradition is the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.

Ballet Austin’s The Nutcracker

Favorite by: Krissy LittleStar Hearn, Publisher

Ballet Austin’s The Nutcracker is an eagerly anticipated tradition for me each year. My mom, sister, daughter, nieces, and I dress up for the occasion, stopping by pop-ups and photo ops before finding our seats—the same ones we’ve chosen for years. We enjoy the performance, and at intermission, the little ones let loose, dancing in the hallway. Our tradition wraps up with pancakes at Kerbey Lane, adding a sweet touch to a day filled with magic and joy.

KUT, KUTX, and the Downtown Austin Alliance’s Holiday Stroll

Favorite by: Ashley Sauls, Account Executive

Each year, the Holiday Stroll on Congress, hosted by KUT, KUTX, and the Austin Downtown Alliance, has become a beloved tradition for my family. We enjoy browsing artisan vendors, sampling treats from food trucks, and joining the crowd for the tree lighting in front of the Capitol. And, of course, photos with Santa are a must! It’s a magical evening that kicks off the holiday season in the heart of our favorite city.

Mozart’s Annual Holiday Light Show

Favorite by: Liz Harroun, Contributing Editor

One of my favorite holiday traditions is meeting up with friends on bikes at Mozart’s for the annual holiday light show. We kick things off with a cozy drink, then pedal through the charming neighborhoods of West Austin to admire the beautiful lights adorning the homes. It’s especially festive on those chilly nights when bundling up adds to the magic of our ride!