Victorian Christmas Festival
Austin, Texas

When: late November

Where: Events take place along 6th Street in downdown Austin, Texas.

A stroll down Sixth Street, Austin's haven for hipsters, becomes a walk down memory lane each November as the present day melts away, replaced by the innocent idyll of the Victorian era. The symbiotic harmonies of a barbershop quartet and Christmas carols being sung by a choir serenade the over 125,000 festival-goers who get a jump start on the holiday season as they go in search for the perfect present among over 150 arts and crafts booths. A festive treat for the entire family, this free festival, which has grown since its launch in 1994 to become the city's second largest downtown event, is Austin's holiday gift to its citizens.

While shopping is the main event at this holiday happening, attendees can also enjoy an entertaining mix of eclectic attractions. Ballerinas in tutus tiptoe through a performance in one area, while cloggers stomp their feet to the beat of a Highland reel on another stage. As vendors in 19th century fashions tend to their stalls, buccaneers brandish their swords for an appreciative crowd on one street corner, and spur-wearing gunslingers duel in a showdown, much to the delight of an audience gathered at a spot further down the street.

Children's Activities: A brightly-painted, Liliputian-sized locomotive lazily chugs along the street as it takes little ones on a short trip, the train's whistle blast joining the squeals of joy from the kids taking turns on the various carnival rides. Pint-sized cowboys can saddle up for a pony ride, while animal lovers can hug a cuddly critter at a petting zoo.

TexasTripper Video

For more information:

• visit www.victorianchristmasfestival.com