Article by: Sierra Juarez, austin360.com

It’s that time of year again. Lights are strung, trees go up and the city kicks into high gear. Austin thrives during holidays, and the winter holidays are no exception. From elaborate light shows to nonstop showings of Christmas movies, Austin is teeming with ways to celebrate this winter.

Trail of Lights: People come from all over Texas to take experience Zilker’s Trail of Lights. You won’t want to miss the opportunity to celebrate winter in the most Austin-esque way.

Lala’s year-round Christmas bar: You can’t overlook the Austin bar that has year-round holiday decor. Lala’s also offers spiked holiday drinks like eggnog and warm apple cider. Keep this in mind next time it’s July and all you can think about is the winter holiday.

Ugly Christmas Sweater Party: Yes, there are actually Austin partiesfor both dressing up in and decorating Christmas sweaters. You know the drill, make it as ugly as possible. We recommend cheesy ornaments and tassel.

Mozart’s: Sip on a coffee and enjoy the holiday light show. It’s a great option for a cute date or a solo holiday treat. Every night, Mozart’s has an elaborate light show that’s complete with one-million lights and live choir singing.

Donn’s Depot: The little piano bar goes all out during the holiday season. They deck the country-looking bar in multi-colored lights and Christmas decorations. Enjoy a beer (maybe a holiday-exclusive brew) and enjoy the decorative bar.

Holiday flea market shopping: Buy those last-minute presents you forgot about, or hog all of the good buys for yourself. Either way, holiday flea markets are a must this season.

Holiday movie showings: What’s better than watching a holiday classic movie? Watching the holiday classic with a bunch of other people who love it just as much as you do. We recommend going with a classic like “Elf.”

Holiday pub crawl: Austin will use any excuse to throw a pub crawl. But you won’t want to miss the holiday crawls. Dress up in your ugly holiday sweaters and meet some new friends. (Some holiday crawls donate their proceeds to charity.)

Ice Skating: Because ice skating is the epitome of winter holiday celebrations. On top of the N. Lamar Whole Foods, there’s a large skating rink. It’s $10 per person and includes skate rentals.

Christmas tree farm: Ditch the plastic, pre-lit trees for real evergreen trees. Not only do they smell and look amazing but it’s also a fun experience. Visit Elgin Christmas Tree Farm or Evergreen Farms Christmas Tree Farms for a family-friendly event.

Original Link: http://www.austin360.com/news/local/holiday-activities-you-should-austin/YwfBeZJCoXFSO2SCzPxA5O/