Top Picks in ATX: Your Guide to Austin’s Best Events (Dec 1–7)

As we welcome the first week of December, Austin is buzzing with holiday magic, live entertainment, community events, and the kind of energy that reminds us why this city shines brightest during the festive season. Here’s a curated look at the can’t-miss happenings each day—perfect for planning a week full of connection, laughter, and local adventure.

Monday, December 1

Austin starts the week strong with a mix of festive fun, brain-teasing competition, and island-inspired nightlife:

• Rudolph’s Road House at Lefty’s Brick Bar – A full-on tinsel explosion awaits as Lefty’s transforms into a holiday pop-up filled with themed cocktails, immersive décor, and merry mayhem.
• Meridian Trivia – Monday nights mean bragging rights at this wildly popular—and free—Austin trivia showdown.
• Uptown Mondays at Canje – Set the tone for your week Caribbean-style with DJs, late-night vibes, and exclusive drink specials.

Tuesday, December 2

From romance and laughter to adventure and classic Disney magic, Tuesday brings variety:

• Lez Be Friends: Comedy + Blind Dating Show – A hilarious mix of queer comedy and unexpected blind-date pairings makes for an unpredictable, electric night.
• Disney’s Beauty and the Beast – This 30th anniversary production brings the timeless tale to life with spectacular sets, beloved music, and Disney enchantment.
• Laser Tag Competition at Pinballz Lake Creek – High-energy, fast-paced, and adrenaline-filled—this tournament crowns the sharpest shooter of the night.

Wednesday, December 3

Midweek in Austin blends classic holiday traditions with rock-inspired fun:

• Music on Main at Hometown Holidays – A free, family-friendly outdoor concert series in Downtown Round Rock that brings community together.
• A Christmas Carol at ZACH Theater – Austin’s favorite holiday musical returns with charm, new songs, and heartwarming festive spirit.
• Prince of Darkness Karaoke – Celebrate Ozzy’s birthday by rocking out to your favorite metal tracks—free and 21+.

Thursday, December 4

Game night? Comedy? Drag hoedown? Thursday has it all:

• Board Game Night at Pinballz Lake Creek – A laid-back gathering for tabletop fans, from casual players to seasoned strategists.
• The Feature at East Austin Comedy – BYOB, intimate, and packed with top local comics delivering sharp stand-up.
• Neon Rainbows’ HO HO Hoedown – Drag shows, line dancing, cowboy go-gos, and festive chaos take over Elysium.

Friday, December 5

Live music takes center stage across multiple venues and genres:

• The Next Stage: Ghostland Observatory at Central Machine Works – A free, all-ages concert supporting local nonprofits in a newly renovated outdoor beer garden.
• Spaceflight Records Annual Holiday Party – Heartless Bastards, The Point, and DJ Jake Garcia headline this all-ages celebration supporting Austin’s nonprofit record label.
• Keep Austin Cheer’d! – A retro-Austin holiday extravaganza at The Continental Club benefiting Casa Marianella, featuring Me Nd Adam and local Texas artists.

Saturday, December 6

Lace up, laugh out loud, and enjoy Texas-sized holiday spirit:

• Austin Trail of Lights Fun Run – Runners and walkers illuminate Zilker Park in this festive nighttime fun run.
• Big Texas Comedy Showcase – One of downtown’s biggest weekly comedy shows, featuring top talent and big energy.
• A Tuna Christmas – Two actors play 22 outrageous small-town Texans in this hilarious holiday comedy classic.

Sunday, December 7

End the week with community, creativity, and comedy:

• Light it Up! Community Caroling & Holiday Concert – A joyful mash-up of caroling, trivia, a 150-voice concert, and a festive outdoor gathering at Central Machine Works.
• Dungeons & Dragons Night at Pinballz Kingdom – Adventurers unite for immersive campaigns, themed drinks, and chaotic fun.
• Live at Sunset Strip Comedy Show – A high-energy Sunday showcase to close out your week with big laughs.

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Your Austin Holiday Guide 2025: Shows, Lights, and Festive Fun