Twinkling lights, velvet-smooth hot cocoa, frosted cookies, and merry melodies. These are some of the senses you will experience in Round Rock during the holidays. We love the warmth and nostalgia that the season brings. Round Rock goes all out during this time, and we deck our city with decor and host events aplenty. Find the festivity during your trip to Round Rock with our “2022 Holiday Happenings Guide.”
Holiday Events
Hometown Holiday– November 30th- December 31st
Downtown Round Rock is drenched with decor for the holiday season and is transformed into a wonderland. Every crevice is covered with garland and lights and our city beams brightly! Our decoration captivates visitors with brilliant holiday lights, oversized ornaments, a Texas-sized tree, and twinkling archways. There will also be a festive music lineup every Wednesday until December 21st.
Light up The Lake– December 2nd & 3rd
The illuminated display at Light Up the Lake will dazzle the whole family this year! Get ready to “ooh” and “ahh” as you stroll through the glistening grounds at Old Settlers Park. You will see inflatables, a light show, and photo-worthy displays. They also have live music, treats, and kid-friendly activities.
Holiday Model Train Exhibit– November 25th- December 31st
See model trains weave through exquisite displays at the free Tinplate Trackers Model Train Show. This is a treasured Round Rock holiday tradition, and it’s happening this year at the Kalahari Resorts and Conventions at the Tom Foolery Event Center (behind the roller coaster). The intricate installations are a delight for guests of all ages! See the enchanting sight from November 25th- December 31st.
Holiday Attractions
Santa’s Jingle House-Make a new holiday tradition with a visit to Santa’s Jingle House at the Owen House. They welcome guests to meet Santa, Mrs. Claus, and elves in their dashing home. They also have a specialty Breakfast with Santa throughout December.
Kalahari Resorts and Conventions– Give your family the ultimate present with a stay at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in Round Rock! The massive resort has a 223,000-square-foot Indoor Water Park and a Tom Foolery Adventure Park with plenty of family fun. They also have a holiday buffet so you can skip the cooking this year.
Christmas Shopping– ‘Tis the season of giving! Give your loved ones something remarkable this year. We have unique boutiques like the Rhae Boutique, Mercantile on Main, and Hometown Gift & Decor. We also have shopping centers like Round Rock Premium Outlets and La Frontera Shopping Center.
Holiday Crafting- The best way to spread holiday cheer is by crafting for those you hold near! We have plenty of spots where you can whip up a custom gift. Check out Painting with a Twist, Ceramic Lodge, and Board & Brush to create a thoughtful present.
Holiday Bakeries– Did the holidays even happen if you didn’t have a slice of pie? Dig into a warm slice of pie at the dessert shops in Round Rock. Papi’s Pies, Pie Jacked, Paige’s Bakehouse, and even Round Rock Donuts serve up festive fares!
Santa Meet and Greet– Santa is flying from the North Pole to Round Rock and will be at a couple of locations this Christmas season! He will be at the Premium Outlets and the Bass Pro Shop through December 24th. Book your appointment for a festive photo-op and meet-and-greet, and make the season memorable. Santa photo reservations are available on the Premium Outlets and Bass Pro websites- book your visit today!
Holiday Craft Fair & Market- Find one-of-a-kind presents for your friends and family at the Round Rock Market Days and Amatuli Market! These recurring markets have holiday goodies and custom crafts.
Christmas Play- Plunge into the Christmas Spirit by enjoying a play from the Penfold Theatre Co and the Sam Bass Theatre! The Penfold Theatre Co is featuring A Christmas Carol Classic Radiocast Dec. 9-18th, and the Sam Bass Theatre is featuring The Man Who Came to Dinner. December 2nd-18th.
Holiday Charities– If you want to give back this season, Round Rock has plenty of ways to donate resources and time! Our Round Rock Police will be hosting their annual Blue Santa Christmas Drive this year, where they collect toys and food for thousands of families in need. Additionally, the Round Rock Serving Center has a variety of volunteer and donation opportunities during this time.
We hope yule visit us this holiday season. There is so much merriment to be had! If you are looking for more holiday festivities. Visit our social media pages at @goroundrock on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day updates!