As much as you may raise an eyebrow at Christmas decorations hung the day after Halloween, November will be a blur that leaves you tearing around the Lake Travis area come December, searching in vain for that most perfect of gifts.
One joyous sign that the holiday season is officially upon us (and it’s time to get in gear) is the 9th Annual Tree Lighting & Santa’s Arrival at the Hill Country Galleria, a fantastic family event that’s a must for kids of all ages.
Activities commence this Thursday, November 19th at 6pm with performances from the Lake Travis High School Cavalettes and The Red Rubies and a later evening show by Chicago’s The White T’s.
Don’t worry though if you’ve got little ones less eager to sit still for a song — the Galleria has you covered with enough face painting and balloon twisting to keep all scrooges at bay. It’s also a serious bonus that all shops and restaurants will be open for the event — so order up some real egg nog and enjoy the shows.
While estimates are still out, the tree itself promises to tower over any Charlie Brown sapling you could imagine, with enough twinklers to delight all.
Welcoming Santa to the stage this year for the lighting is local KXAN 512 host, Amanda Tatom. Afterward, wave to the big guy as he hightails it North to get to work — but have no fear little tykes — word has it Santa has made special arrangements to be at the Hill Country Galleria for Meet & Greet pics throughout the holiday season.
With the bevy of opportunities to chat him up, we’re thinking the man is running on extra hot cocoa this year! After the lighting you’ll be treated to a fireworks display and more music — so be sure to hang out a bit.
If holiday events generally send you running for cover, remember — the Hill Country Galleria’s Tree Lighting boasts none of the madness to come with Black Friday. This family-geared event is popular for its great live music, Santa-mingling and genuine good will towards men. Hope to see you there!
If you can’t make it to the tree lighting, there’s a sleigh-full of events sure to please your entire family. Below is just a taste of what to expect — see the Hill Country Galleria calendar for a complete list or call the concierge desk at 512-263-0001 for details.
Meet and Greet Santa
Be sure to bring your camera, as no professional photographers will be on site for family (and pet) meet & greets with the big man.
Santa will be at the Hill Country Galleria every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from November 20th to Christmas Eve with extra opportunities from the week before Christmas and Christmas week itself.
Basically the man will be living there when not checking his list, but do see Santa’s hours as times vary.
Snow Days!
With a light cardigan barely needed most days, Austin’s mild weather come winter rarely allows for a good snow-ball fight. Giving everyone the chance to enjoy some real powder, the Hill Country Galleria will embrace a serious cold front every weekend in December until Christmas with snow!
While local weather reports say there won’t be enough to don skis, this will be the real deal folks so put on a warm hat, grab your camera and come on out to play in the white stuff.
Snow Dates:
Saturday, December 5th noon – 4pm
Sunday, December 13th noon – 4pm
Saturday, December 19th noon – 4pm
