Holidays

Toys are important, and let’s face it—super fun!

The best ones ignite a child’s imagination, boost creativity, and make learning feel like playtime.

But let’s be real—many toys are just flashy packages waiting to be torn open on Christmas morning, a birthday, or any gift-giving occasion. They bring a quick thrill, then get tossed aside, forgotten, and eventually end up in a landfill.

Luckily, Austin is an amazing place to raise kids, and it’s packed with fantastic gift alternatives that go beyond toys. These options aren’t just fun—they’re meaningful, memorable, and perfect for the whole family to enjoy!

The holiday season is typically associated with joy, love, and generosity. However, for many children in foster care or residing in homeless shelters, this time serves as a stark reminder of the difficulties they face. It is in these moments that acts of kindness and generosity shine the brightest. 

Here is a list of local organizations that are looking for Holiday sponsors this year.

Life Is Better With Friends, founded by a local mom and author in the Austin area, is teaming up with the North Pole to deliver pure holiday magic to families across Texas. The mailbox is about to get a glow-up—because this year, something cheerful, sparkly, and straight from Santa’s desk is headed your way.

Santa’s got his cocoa, the elves are on glitter patrol, and the reindeer are doing warm-up laps—because this year’s mail is packed with praise, giggles, and a little North Pole mischief. Whether your kid rescued a bug, shared their snack, or asked if snow tastes like marshmallows, they’ve earned a moment of magic.

Hurry, spots are limited—request your child's free Santa letter and Nice List certificate now!

She leads, she listens, she multitasks like a magician—and this season, she deserves gifts that reflect every role she plays. Whether she’s chasing toddlers, building empires, or just trying to drink her coffee while it’s still hot, this holiday gift guide for moms is here to celebrate her with intention, beauty, and a little extra sparkle.

From cozy comforts to everyday luxuries, these handpicked favorites are designed to support her, surprise her, and remind her she’s seen. Scroll down to find gifts that go beyond the expected—and wrap her in joy this holiday season.

The holidays are almost here—and so is the hunt for the perfect gifts. 🎁 Skip the stress and dive into our Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide: From Tots to Teens, packed with playful, thoughtful picks for every age and stage.

From squishy baby favorites to big-kid brain boosters, we’ve rounded up toys, games, and creative surprises that spark joy (and maybe a little quiet time). Whether you're shopping for toddlers, preschoolers, kindergarteners, or tweens, there's something magical waiting to be wrapped.

Let’s make their holidays unforgettable—and yours blissfully easy. ✨

Want to support local businesses without braving the holiday hustle and bustle? We’ve got you covered!

Shop last-minute gifts from the comfort of your couch at the Barrels & Burlap Virtual Pop-up Market! Featuring a delightful variety of small business vendors from the Texas Hill Country, you’ll find self-care goodies, stylish clothing, yummy baked treats, children’s books, and so much more.

The holidays are here, and so is the hunt for the perfect gift! But, don’t stress, we’ve put together "The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide: From Tots to Teens" to make give you some ideas. Whether it’s toys, games, or creative picks for every age, our guide has something for all the kids on your list. Let’s make their holidays unforgettable (and yours a little easier)!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Get into the holiday spirit by visiting the most authentic German Christmas Market in Texas.

The German Free School and its gardens transform into a festive winter wonderland, offering a truly German Christmas experience. Discover unique Christmas decorations imported straight from Erzgebirge, an East-German region internationally celebrated for its Christmas traditions. Sip on our famous German Glühwein (hot spiced wine), a must-have for any Christmas Market visit. The event is family-friendly, with activities for kids and St. Nick himself strolling around, passing out gifts.

Who needs the icy North Pole when you can experience the electrifying vibes at The Light Park? Charge up your holiday spirit as you cruise through millions of dazzling lights, synced perfectly to the rhythm of our festive tunes, courtesy of their very own DJ Polar Ice.

Amp up the fun with some tasty treats and zappy beverages, and get ready to be shocked by the sheer brilliance of it all.

Join KidStrong for their exciting Trunk or Treat events this month!

There will be local vendors offering delicious treats and fun goodies for everyone to enjoy. Both athletic floors will be open for kids ages 11 and under to enjoy free play, with coaches on hand to supervise the fun.

Don’t miss out on this festive, family-friendly event filled with treats, giveaways, play, and community fun!

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