Armadillo Christmas Bazaar 2026

The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar takes place December 12–21, 2026, at the Palmer Events Center in Austin, Texas. This indoor holiday arts festival brings together nearly 200 artists, handmade gifts, and daily live music.

Established in 1976, the bazaar has roots in Austin’s Armadillo World Headquarters music venue. Visitors can meet the artists, browse original work, and enjoy performances while shopping for Christmas gifts.

Art, Shopping, and Live Music

The curated market features original art and handmade work at a range of prices. Live music accompanies the shopping experience throughout the ten-day event.

The 28th Annual International String-Off Competition takes place on December 21 at approximately 3:00 PM. Participants compete in a one-handed knot-throwing contest using the official string supplied for the activity. Contest entry is free.

🕒 Opening Hours

• Saturday, December 12: 11:00 AM–9:30 PM. VIP First Look begins at 10:00 AM.
• Sunday, December 13: 11:00 AM–8:00 PM.
• Monday, December 14: 11:00 AM–8:00 PM.
• Tuesday, December 15: 11:00 AM–8:00 PM.
• Wednesday, December 16: 11:00 AM–8:00 PM.
• Thursday, December 17: 11:00 AM–8:00 PM.
• Friday, December 18: 11:00 AM–9:30 PM.
• Saturday, December 19: 11:00 AM–9:30 PM.
• Sunday, December 20: 11:00 AM–9:30 PM.
• Monday, December 21: 11:00 AM–8:00 PM.

🎟 Tickets

• One-day admission: $15 plus tax, valid on any one day.
• Season ticket: $75 plus tax, allowing admission on all ten days. Available online through December 12, 2026.
• Children ages 12 and under: free admission; no ticket required.
• VIP First Look: $25 plus tax, including entry at 10:00 AM on December 12 and admission for the remainder of opening day.

VIP First Look includes a dedicated entrance, an Armadillo shopping tote, and a goody bag for the first 100 VIP guests.

Online and box-office admission prices are the same, with no additional hidden fees. Tickets can be shown on a phone or printed. Same-day re-entry is permitted with a wristband. Sales are nonrefundable.

Purchase admission through the official ticket page. The box office and concessions accept cashless payments; most artists also accept cash.

For other seasonal outings, explore events in December 2026 and the calendar of Christmas festivals.

Food and Drinks

Food options include vegetarian, vegan-friendly, and gluten-free choices. Bars serve beer, wine, cocktails, and nonalcoholic drinks, while a coffee stand offers coffee and espresso.

📍 Location and Parking

Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX 78704.

The adjacent parking garage costs $10 per vehicle, with entrances from Barton Springs Road and Riverside Drive. Accessible parking spaces are available near elevators on each level.

The front circle driveway accommodates passenger drop-offs and pickups. Visitors can also arrive by Capital Metro bus or bicycle; bike racks are available at the entrance.

Approximate Road Distances

Approximate driving distances to Austin depend on the route and starting point:

• Round Rock: 20 mi.
• Georgetown: 28 mi.
• San Marcos: 31 mi.
• New Braunfels: 49 mi.
• Killeen: 68 mi.
• San Antonio: 81 mi.