Austin Holiday Traditions Return: Dec. 5 Events Include 45-Foot Tree Lighting
The Downtown Austin Alliance and radio partners organize a free public gathering on Congress Avenue featuring a sing-along, artisan market, and capitol grounds illumination.
By Luana Sato ·
A free public holiday event will close the Congress Avenue corridor between 10th and 11th Streets on Saturday, Dec. 5, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
The annual gathering is organized by KUT News, KUTX 98.9, and the Downtown Austin Alliance. The program begins at 5:00 p.m. with the opening of an artisan market and local food vendors. Attendees can pose for photographs with Santa at a location called the Topo Chico Trailer. More than 40 vendors will offer food, gifts, and seasonal items throughout the three-hour window.
The central musical segment is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. When John Aielli started this tradition in the 1980s, it established the format for the current gathering. KUT News and KUTX 98.9 personnel will lead the crowd in seasonal songs. Participants will receive a keepsake songbook containing the lyrics for the performance.
At 7:00 p.m., a countdown will precede the lighting of a 45-foot tree located at the intersection of 11th Street and Congress Avenue. This site sits on the south edge of the Capitol grounds. Christmas carolers and a CapMetro Holiday Bus will also be present during the stroll.
Organizers provided specific logistics for transportation and accessibility. State parking garages near the site, including Capitol Visitors Parking Garage at 1201 San Jacinto Blvd. and Garage F at 1311 San Jacinto Blvd., offer free parking for the first two hours. The cost rises to $1 per half hour after that period, with a daily maximum charge of $12. Bike parking is available on-site. ADA parking is reserved at the corner of 11th and Congress, and attendees can secure a spot by emailing communication@downtownaustin.com in advance. Accessible restrooms and paved routes suitable for mobility devices will be available.
The event is supported by a list of local sponsors. These organizations include CASA of Travis County, Austin Water, Trinity Episcopal School, and the Mothers’ Milk Bank at Austin. Other supporters are Maudie’s Tex-Mex, Tomlinson’s Feed, Central Texas Food Bank, Baylor Scott & White Health, Whole Earth Provision Company, and Blue Genie Art Bazaar.
