Wrapping up their studies for Thanksgiving break, students start to head back to their hometowns or pack their bags for vacation. However, for those staying in Austin over the break, The Daily Texan found four local events to attend that resonate with the eclectic atmosphere of the city.
Mozart’s Festival of Lights – Nov. 22 to Jan. 3, 3825 Lake Austin Blvd.
Starting on Nov. 22, Mozart’s Coffee Roasters will showcase its Festival of Lights event, lighting up the cafe and Lake Austin with Christmas-themed decorations. Starting at 7 p.m. and ending at 10 p.m, showtimes for the twinkling lights are at the top of every hour and tables can be reserved on Mozart’s website. Running almost daily, the show will not occur on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
The Front Market – Nov. 22 to Nov. 23, 1401 Trinity St.
The Front Market, hosted at the Moody Amphitheater, highlights small, independent businesses with an exhibition and fair. Free to the public, the market opens from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., displaying a variety of items for purchase, including jewelry, art and clothes; some booths are available on both Nov. 22 and Nov. 23, while some are only available on one of the days. While venturing into the market, students can listen to DJs playing their sets as well as engage in contests and giveaways throughout the amphitheater.
ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot – Nov. 27, 701 W. Riverside Dr.
For those looking to get active this Thanksgiving, ThunderCloud Subs, a local sandwich shop, will be hosting a Turkey Trot. Registration opens on the morning of Nov. 27 at the Long Center from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., with the first 5-mile run starting at 8:30 a.m. Registration fees range from $35 for the 1-mile run to $45 for the 5-mile run. ThunderCloud also offers a virtual version of the trot where attendees can experience the race from the comfort of their own space at their own pace. However, there will be no prize for virtual winners. The proceeds of the Turkey Trot will go to Caritas of Austin, an organization that works to end homelessness for people in the greater Austin area.
Bevo Blvd for UT-A&M Game – Nov. 28, 2139 San Jacinto Blvd.
Following the Thanksgiving celebrations downtown, campus bleeds burnt orange in anticipation of the Lone Star Showdown. For the first time since 2010, before Texas A&M joined the Southeastern Conference, UT will play the Aggies in their home stadium, Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Known for its traditions, DKR’s Bevo Blvd holds several food trucks, carnival games and activities for families and students to enjoy. Featured live entertainment can be found on the LBJ Lawn, as well as community tailgaters along the path to the stadium.
