Round Rock is officially twinkling, glowing, sparkling, and possibly showing off a little, and honestly, it should. This week brings some of the best holiday events of the season, and they’re perfect for anyone who enjoys a good time without fighting crowds, battling mall parking lots, or explaining for the 47th time why they don’t need another scented candle.

The big headline is Light Up the Lake, taking over Old Settlers Park on December 5 and 6. Picture a peaceful lakeside walk… if someone handed the lake a giant string of lights and told it to go wild.

Trees wrapped in warm LEDs, reflections dancing on the water, families bundled up like cheerful burritos; it’s charming, festive, and surprisingly relaxing. Plus, it’s free, which may be the most magical part of all.

Meanwhile, Downtown Round Rock is doing what it does best: keeping things lively without requiring anyone to stay up past their bedtime. The Hometown Holiday Parklet Shows run every evening from December 5 to 12, turning Main Street into a stroll-and-listen holiday runway.

Early evening performances at the parklets ease you in, and later sets at Prete Plaza give you just enough excitement to feel like you’ve “been out on the town,” even if you’re home by 9 with your slippers on.

Expect music, lights, good people-watching, and the irresistible temptation to say, “Let’s just pop into one more shop,” even if you promised yourself you weren’t buying anything today.

It’s the perfect week for savoring small joys: the glow of the lights, the energy downtown, and the simple pleasure of being out in a community that still knows how to gather and celebrate. And none of it requires elbowing tourists, finding a babysitter, or pretending that peppermint-flavored everything is a personality.

So bundle up, grab someone you enjoy, and let Round Rock entertain you, gently, festively, and with just enough sparkle to remind you that the season is meant to be enjoyed, not survived.

Round Rock is bursting with holiday cheer as fresh restaurants and festive gatherings offer a wide range of vibrant dining experiences for locals and visitors alike.

Grey Orchard prepares to open this winter, pairing modern American cuisine with inventive twists on favorites from chef Cole Fitzgerald and owner James Sun. The elegant yet approachable venue aims to be a top choice for special occasions and casual evenings.

Meanwhile, the newly opened Round Table Pizza brings family-friendly warmth and handcrafted pizzas to University Blvd, perfect for pre-event gatherings.

Adding spice to the season, Island Riddim Jerk & BBQ Grill debuts its bold Caribbean menu, bringing comfort and celebration to chilly nights.

Beloved local spots like Blue Corn Harvest offer seasonal specials and cozy cocktails, while Urban Rooftop remains a favorite for spirited holiday drinks and conversation.

Highlights also include the extravagant Christmas Buffet at Kalahari Resorts and the lively Hometown Holiday Parklet Shows with music and lights in downtown.

This season, Round Rock invites all to savor new tastes and joyful traditions together.

📚 Library Programs – Round Rock Public Library

Local Shelters & Adoption Info

Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter (WCRAS)
📍  1855 SE Inner Loop, Georgetown, TX  (serving Round Rock)
📌 Open daily 12 PM–6 PM (closed holidays)
🌐 Handles local lost and abandoned animals—rehome listings and in-shelter pets available.

Central Texas SPCA (Leander)
📍 909 S Bagdad Rd, Leander, TX
📅 Open Fri–Mon, 11 AM–6 PM
📄 Pulls from high-kill shelters, offers a personalized force-free adoption process, and provides spacious, low-stress care.

Austin Pets Alive! & Austin Humane Society
📍 Austin-area non-profits with robust adoption platforms
🌐 Large catalogs of dogs and cats available for adoption or rescue; many are foster-based listings near Round Rock.

How to Adopt or Apply
📌 Visit each shelter's website for current available animals and online application forms (e.g., AdoptAPet listings for dogs and cats near Round Rock)
📌 Bring photo ID, proof of residence, and references if required.
📌 Fees vary by pet—many shelters reduce adoption costs through seasonal specials.