Omni Barton Creek Resort Debuts Holiday Festivities for the Whole Family in Austin’s Hill Country

This article is promoted/partner content and not produced by the editorial staff.

The holiday season is quickly approaching, faster than we realize. And it’s important this year, more than ever, to create treasurable memories with loved ones. What holiday tradition is complete without Santa Claus, dazzling Christmas lights and fireside stories? In honor of the season, Omni Barton Creek Resort and Spa launched “Holiday in the Hills,” which is as close to the North Pole as one can get in Texas.

But regardless of time of year, this Austin Hill Country resort recently unveiled a grand renovation, embracing a nature-inspired design, with the entire vision curated by Texas artists. This destination, 10 miles from Austin’s buzzy downtown, is a tranquil gem of an escape. With activities and amenities for all tastes and preferences, this travel experience is ideal for girls weekends, staycations, celebrations or family-friendly escapes. 

Perhaps one of the most anticipated must-sees is the famous Mokara Spa, which is water-inspired with a rooftop pool. This 13,000-square-foot sanctuary is the premier spot to recharge with a strong dose of self-care. Renowned for its innovative approach to wellness, one of the most popular treatments is the Espresso Mud Body Scrub and Wrap. Also, outdoor lovers are flocking to the newly-revamped golf and tennis experiences, taking in picturesque Hill Country views.

Families are already snagging their stays for the highly-anticipated “Holiday in the Hills,” which will make December sparkle a bit more than usual this year. Not to give all the holiday surprises away, but Omni Barton Creek guests should expect to be surprised and delighted with a magic snow show, fireside stories with Cowboy Santa, live caroling from local Austin musicians and more.

Here’s a complete list of what to expect, without revealing all of the Hill Country magic in store.

Holiday in the Hills Light Trail

December 1 through January 3, 5 pm to 9 pm

Starting on Lady Bird Lawn, guests can experience the beauty of the Texas Hill Country infused with sparkling lights and holiday cheer. Omni Barton Creek’s lighted holiday trail ends with a family-friendly game of glow-in-the-dark miniature golf at Santa’s Magical Toy Shop. 

Holiday in the Hills Snowdown

December 1 through 31, select dates

Also taking place on Lady Bird Lawn, this experience boasts a magical production of lights and a flurry of snowflakes, celebrating the wonderment of the season. There will be plenty snowy Texas photo opportunities. 

Cowboy Santa Stories from the North Pole

December 4, 11, 18 and 24, 4 pm to 6 pm

Gather around the fire pits on Lady Bird Lawn for a down-home holiday experience with Cowboy Santa at this family-friendly holiday story experience. This is a true Texas spin on the classic Santa Claus.

Caroling and Cocktails

December 3, 10 and 17, 4 pm to 6 pm

The time-honored tradition of carolers is alive and thriving at Omni Barton Creek. Get in the holiday spirit with a handcrafted holiday cocktail from Jim Bob’s Lobby Lounge and caroling performed by local Austin musicians.

Letters to Santa

December 1 through 24

The resort is ensuring Santa receives all letters from its young guests via priority North Pole magic with Santa letter writing kits. The season isn’t complete for a child until that letter is safely delivered to Santa and his elves. 

Golf Fore Good

December 1 through 31

Green isn’t just for Christmas trees. Omni Barton Creek is taking to the links to spread holiday giving this year. After a day on the course, guests can turn in their scorecard at the pro shop, and for every birdie or eagle scored on the course, the resort will donate meals for a family of four to the Central Texas Food Bank. Score a hole-in-one and they will donate 20 meals in your name.

Winter Wonderland Game Room

December 1 through 31, 10 am to 6 pm

Escape the cold and warm up with friendly competition in the Winter Wonderland game room with air hockey, arcade games, Pop-A-Shot and more. Classic holiday movies that are decked with nostalgia will be playing daily as well.