A Christmas play, the Trail of Lights and 6 other things to do in Central Austin this weekend, Dec. 1-3
November 29, 2017
Article By: Emma Freer, Community Impact Newspaper
Austin is getting into the holiday spirit with these festive events.
Nov. 27-Dec. 31
Zilker tree on display
Austin continues its annual tradition of lighting the 155-foot-tall Zilker Holiday Tree, which is decorated with a total of 3,309 lights. 6 p.m.-midnight. Free. Zilker Metropolitan Park, 2100 Barton Springs Road. 512-974-6700. www.austintexas.gov/zilkertree
Dec. 1-2
Play celebrates diversity
The city of Austin presents “People of Color Christmas,” an original play set at an annual white elephant gift exchange party. 8 p.m. Free. Asian American Resource Center, 8401 Cameron Road. www.eventbrite.com/e/people-of-color-christmas-aarc-show-1-opening-night-tickets-39295939212
Dec. 2
War monument set for unveiling
“The Price of Liberty” monument, honoring Texans who have fought in the Global War on Terror, is unveiled at the state Capitol. 11 a.m.-noon. $10 (barbecue lunch included). East Capitol Lawn, 12th and San Jacinto streets. 512-236-1001. www.priceoflibertyevents.com
German imports sold at Christmas market
Attendees can shop for authentic Christmas merchandise imported from Germany, including nutcrackers, smokers and handmade ornaments. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. German-Texas Heritage Society, 507 E. 10th St. http://germantexans.org
Revelers sing and stroll on Congress for the holidays
Revelers convene along Congress Avenue in downtown Austin for a night of festivities. 5-9 p.m. Free. Congress Avenue from Ninth to 11th streets (stroll begins). 512-479-8834. http://downtownaustin.com/holidays
Trail of Lights fun run returns
The 53rd annual Trail of Lights is the path for this 2.1-mile fun run presented by St. David’s HeatlhCare. Eight thousand participants are anticipated. First race begins at 6:30 p.m. $20-$37 (general admission), $35-$75 (VIP), $15 (parking), $12 (Finish Line Festival). Zilker Metropolitan Park, 2100 Barton Springs Road. www./austintrailoflights.org/2017-fun-run. info@austintrailoflights.com
Concert raises money for Austin musicians’ health care
Heart of the City hosts its annual fundraiser featuring performances by James Petralli, Kelley Mickwee and Rosie Flores, among others. It benefits the SIMS Foundation, which provides mental health and addiction recovery services to Austin musicians and their families. 8 p.m. (doors open). $35 (general admission), $125 (VIP). Emo’s, 2015 E. Riverside Drive. 512-472-1008. www.simsfoundation.org
Dec. 2-3
Annual art market features homeless artisans
The Art From the Streets Show and Sale takes place over two days as homeless and formerly homeless people display and sell artistic wares. 11 a.m. $5 (suggested donation). Austin Convention Center, 500 E. Cesar Chavez St. http://artfromthestreets.org