If you are wondering where the year has gone you are not alone. November is here folks. And, on that note, the holidays are literally just around the corner. The month of November includes two important holidays: Veterans Day and Thanksgiving Day. But, as we all know Christmas is knocking at the door. And, it’s no surprise that just as you are gobbling down your turkey leftovers Christmas festivities heat up the next day. So, as we welcome the month of November and the holidays with open arms here’s seven events you won’t want to miss. We’re advising that you mark your calendars now so that you have plenty of time to attend all of these great festivities.
Dig in at the 28th annual Fossil Fest
Kids will have a blast discovering and unearthing the hidden secrets of fossils at the Paleontological Society of Austin’s two-day festival the weekend of Nov. 3-4. The event takes place at the Old Settlers Heritage Association in Round Rock. Meet scientists, dig for fossils, and learn how to start a fossil collection. Hands-on exhibits, hourly door prizes, and fossil identification.
Pay tribute to our veterans
Attend the city of Cedar Park’s Veterans Parade and Ceremony on Nov. 10. This annual tribute honoring local veterans takes place at Veterans Memorial Park in Leander. The parade starts at 9:30 a.m. A ceremony following the parade begins at 11 a.m. The city’s Parks and Recreation Department hosts this event and invites all to participate in the parade for free. However, you must register by downloading the official parade entry form.
Celebrate wine in the French tradition under the stars in Round Rock
Hats off to the French who take their wine drinking so seriously that they dedicated a world renowned holiday around one of their most famous vintages. Beaujolais Nouveau Day is an annual French tradition that takes place every year to celebrate the first harvest of the season. And, what could be more fun than uncorking the first bottles from this year’s Beaujolais Nouveau harvest while thousands of others around the world are doing the same thing? Frankly, not much. Join the city of Round Rock for Beaujolais Nights, Nov. 15 as they unveil this year’s Beaujolais Nouveau with a four-hour free festival. The Copa Kings Swing Jazz Band, free wine, and starry views.
Take a train ride to the North Pole
Well, sort of. The Austin Steam Train Association’s version of the Polar Express pulls out of its Cedar Park station starting the weekend of Nov. 17 through Dec. 9. The North Pole Flyer takes visitors on a two-hour train ride through the Texas Hill Country. Prizes and sweet surprises. Photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, hot cocoa, cookies, seasonal decorations, and a special reading of the association’s very own Christmas story. Dates, times and fees vary. Reservations are required.
Run a Turkey Trot
Start the holiday season off on the right foot by signing up to run a turkey trot. It’s an excellent way to get the family involved in a healthy activity before you consume massive amounts of mouth-watering food. On Thanksgiving Day the Austin metro area holds a variety of community-oriented fun runs. One such event is the ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot. This year marks the 28th anniversary of this downtown Austin tradition that attracts thousands of runners. By signing up you are also giving back to the community. And, that’s because ThunderCloud donates 100 percent of the proceeds to Caritas of Austin. Choose to run either 5 miles or 1 mile. There’s also a Kids K. If you’re not feeling up to driving downtown head to Round Rock for the 2018 Round Rock Turkey Trot. Check out your HOA or other local municipalities for additional scheduled runs.
Celebrate Christmas in November
Marble Falls Walkways of Lights uses over 2 million lights to put on one great holiday lighting extravaganza. You’ll have a holly, jolly ole time during this annual Hill Country tradition starting Nov. 16 in the city’s Lakeside Park. The event runs nightly from 6-10 p.m. through Dec. 26. And, it’s an easy 30-40 minute drive from Travisso down FM 1431. The Marble Falls Chamber of Commerce sponsors the event. Photos with Santa, food, a parade, and fundraisers by local nonprofit organizations, too!
Follow the twinkling lights to the Johnson City Lights Spectacular
Here’s one of those many events that start the day after Thanksgiving. And, that’s because it’s a great way to get into the spirit of the holidays. Johnson City is all aglow during its 29th annual Lights Spectacular, Nov. 23 through Jan. 6, 2019. As the boyhood home of President Lyndon B. Johnson, this Texas Hill Country town is setting out the welcome mat. This holiday celebration brims with old-fashioned family-friendly Christmas cheer and fun. The town kicks-off the event at 6:30 p.m. on Friday with the official courthouse lighting ceremony. The season-long celebration offers a multitude of activities throughout the month including events at the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site. So, check out their website weekly for a list of great things to do. Food, horse drawn carriage rides (fee required), the Lighted Hoofs and Wheels parade, and oh so much more.
Fall in love with Travisso today
Travisso is a place to explore; a place to relax; a place to call home. With over-the-top amenities, fabulous home designs, natural beauty, and the backdrop of the Texas Hill Country, what’s not to love? Visit Travisso for more details on Travisso homes available now and throughout the year. Or, contact our information center at 512-243-8583.
