At a Glance
- Central Texas brims with New Year’s Eve fireworks, polar bear plunges, and family events from Austin to Wimberley.
- Austin’s 2026 New Year celebration returns to Auditorium Shores with a countdown and fireworks.
- Save Our Springs Alliance hosts the annual polar bear plunge at Barton Springs Pool.
- Why it matters: It offers a wide range of free and paid celebrations for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Central Texas is gearing up for a festive weekend, offering everything from polar bear plunges to fireworks and dance parties. Whether you’re in Austin, Wimberley, or San Marcos, there’s an event to suit every taste.
New Year’s Eve Highlights
Central Texas towns are lighting up the night with fireworks, ball drops, and music. Each venue offers unique experiences for families and friends.
- Austin – Auditorium Shores: Gates open at 7 p.m., countdown at 11:55 p.m., free fireworks.
- Austin – Brisket Eve 2025: Starts at 7 p.m., early tickets $20, day-of $25.
- Austin – Mozart’s Festival of Lights: Live piano 9 p.m.-midnight, free after 11 p.m., optional table reservations.
- Blanco – Twin Sisters Dancehall: 8 p.m.-midnight, adults $15, kids $5.
- Fredericksburg – Countdown to 2026: 3-6:30 p.m., family-friendly, ball drop at 6:30 p.m..
- San Marcos – Roughhouse Brewing: Fireworks at 6 p.m., lasts ~10 min, free.
- Wimberley – Ball Drop: 11 a.m.-8 p.m., ball drop at 7 p.m., free.
New Year’s Day Activities
The celebrations continue into the new year with plunges, runs, and light shows.
- Austin – Polar Bear Splash: 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., group jump at 9:30 a.m., coffee, donuts, t-shirt.
- Johnson City – Lights Spectacular: Free lights through Jan. 4, hayrides 6-9 p.m. through Jan. 3.
- Kyle – Polar Bear Splash: 10 a.m., splash at 10:30 a.m., register online.
- Leander – Polar Plunge: 10 a.m., $10 entry, warm drinks, prizes.
- San Marcos – Day One Kid’s Run: 1 p.m., 1.1-mile, free, optional woodland-creature costumes.
- Pflugerville – USA FIT Resolution Race: Jan. 4, 7:30 a.m., 10 K or 5 K.
Key Takeaways
- Central Texas offers a wide array of free and paid New Year events across multiple towns.
- Polar bear plunges and fireworks are highlights in Austin, Wimberley, and San Marcos.
- Families can enjoy music, dance, and light shows from Austin to Johnson City.
The weekend’s festivities showcase the region’s vibrant community spirit and promise a memorable start to 2026.
