This year, like most things, Celebrating the holidays looks a little different. (P.S. we’re ready to stop using that phrase already!) But, we think that means it’s even more important to find ways to spread holiday cheer without, you know, spreading anything else! We needed a little help, so our Volume 8 members weighed in too! Keep reading for 15 ways to have a very merry, very healthy holiday season in Austin this year…

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VERY MERRY, VERY HEALTHY

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A Sleigh (or Car!) Ride Together

In between holiday commissions, Erin Donahue Tice of Erin Tice Fine Art is hopping in a carriage to view neighborhood’s holiday decorations. Bonus points for bringing along a seasonal cocktail (Psst! Here are 12 of our favorite festive cocktails)

Home Alone (and Watching Movies)

Andy Cardwell of A Custom House suggests snuggle up with cozy blanketsand binge your favorite Christmas movies. Take it to the next level with an outdoor viewing courtesy of Loot Rentals.

A Miracle on 37th Street

Taking in the 37th street lights is high on the to-do list for Kali Andrews of Petticoat Fair. Upgrade the cozy factor and hop into holiday loungewear and view from your car!

Walkin’ Through a Winter Wonderland

When not working on commissions, Kelsey Livingston of Livingston Made is heading to Luminations this year. To ensure social-distancing, Luminations now features a one-way path, timed admissions and extended viewing.

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas at Mozart’s

Between Holiday Mini Sessions, Paige Newton of Paige Newton Photography and Head Shot Happy Hour will be grabbing a coffee and taking in Mozart’s famous lights. To ensure social-distancing and safety, Mozart’s has implemented a reservation system with tables of up to 6.

All I Want for Christmas Is… At a Christmas Market

It may not look like Christmas past, but the German Christmas Market is still taking place this year! Shop authentic German Christmas decorations from Erzgebirge when you sign up for a membership! And, don’t forget to head to the famous Blue Genie Art Bazaar, a fixture of the AUstin holiday season with in-person and virtual shopping alternatives.

Head Down to Santa’s Ranch

The famous Santa’s Ranch was made for social-distancing! Purchase your pass and don’t forget to stock up on sweet treats from 2Tarts Bakery to munch on while you take in the Christmas cheer!

Trim the Tree

Go all out this year with a real Christmas tree selected from one of Texas’s many Christmas Tree farms! Don’t forget to stock up on special ornaments from local shops!

It’s a Christmas Miracle (on 5th Street)

The famous Miracle on 5th Street is back with reservations for seated, dine-in service for a socially-distanced, safe holiday cocktails and wall-to-wall Christmas decor. Not ready to venture out? Grab a Miracle-To-Go, like a Christmapolitan or Snowball Oldfashioned

Strolling Through a Downtown Wonderland

This year’s Downtown Holiday Stroll will be a month-long celebration with free, family-friendly activities. Finish your stroll at the Capitol to leave a donation for Central Texas Food Bank.

Rockin’ Around the Zilker Tree

At over 150 feet tall, Kelly of The Cathedral ATX reminds us that the lighting of Zilker’s famous Christmas tree can be viewed safely from a distance.

Peppermint Parkway

‘Tis the season for drive-thru’s! Head out to Austin’s Circuit of The Americas for Peppermint Parkway, a mile of holiday decor including Candy Cane Lane, Ornament Station and a Grinch Zipline!

Toys For All the Little Girls & Boys

Join the Austin Police Department in Operation Blue Santa, which makes sure Santa makes it to all of Austin’s homes (around 15,000 children!).

Dashing Through the Park

This year, taking part in one of our (and Smile 360’s Dr. Ip’s) favorite traditions looks a little bit different. While you won’t get your steps in, you will get all the holiday cheer driving through the Trail of Lights!

It’s Lovely Weather

It may not be lovely weather for a sleigh ride together, but you can hit the trails for hikes or sidewalks for viewing your neighborhood’s lights as Kelly Medanich of Pink Champagne Designs will be doing!