It’s that time of year again: Temperatures drop to a cool 70º, highway cedar trees become mysteriously bedecked in ornaments and streamers, and Austinites flock to local shops in hopes of finding the perfect gifts for their loved ones.
Sure, you could follow tradition and give some classic wool socks for Christmas — or you could make like a true Austinite, and add a little weirdness to your gift-giving this year.
Here’s your guide to making this holiday the most-Austin one yet.
For the casual fashionistas 👕
A pair of cowboy boots from Allens | $99+
If you’re looking to give an investment piece this holiday, you can’t get more Texan than a pair of boots from Allens, which has been a fixture on South Congress since 1977.
Keep Austin Weird shirt | $19.99
This classic shirt is so Austin, it’s even been on cookies.
For the foodies 🌮
Whataburger Christmas Sweater | $49.99
Santa flies over a north pole that looks an awful lot like a Texas drive-thru in this artful Christmas sweater.
Emmer & Rye Gift Card | $20+
Give the gift of a fancy meal from one of the city’s best restaurant groups — Hestia, Kalimotxo, TLV, and Henbit included.
Antonelli’s Cheese Tasting | $110+
Get a box with cheeses, fruits, and other charcuterie goodies from this local cheese house.
Amy’s Ice Creams Ultimate Sweet Tooth Gift Set | $71.99
No, they don’t just sell ice cream: This set includes locally-made marshmallows, peppermint bark, and a s’mores kit.
Franklin Barbecue Spice Rubs | $35
Bring these famous flavors into your backyard with this trio of brisket, steak, and barbecue spice rubs.
For the artists 🎨
Revolutionary Women of Texas and Mexico Coloring Book | $9.95
This coloring book for children and adults celebrates 500+ years of Latina trailblazers.
Austin Watercolor print | $20+
Support a local artist and get original watercolor paintings of your favorite spots around town.
For the audiophile 🎶
Waterloo Records gift certificate | $10+
This iconic records shop downtown has been a haven for music lovers since 1982.
Willie Nelson Ornament | $18.95
Immortalize the iconic Austin musician on your tree — he’s earned it.
For the reader 📚
Being Texan: Essays, Recipes, and Advice for the Lone Star Way of Life | $29.99
This new book from Texas Monthly editors analyzes one of the most essential questions in modern philosophy: What does it mean to be Texan?
El Arroyo’s Big Book of Signs, Volume One | $25
You’ve definitely laughed out loud at these cheeky downtown signs — why not spread the joy?
Weird Homes: The People and Places that Keep Austin Strangely Wonderful | $24.99
Read about — and ogle at photos of — Casa Neverlandia and other “weird homes” behind the annual tour in Austin.
For the little ones 🧸
Texas Longhorns Checkers Game | $19.99
Move your pieces up and down a football field in this burnt orange twist on a classic game.
Goodnight Austin | $17.95
Instead of bidding good night to a moon and spoon, say goodnight to the Texas Capitol + Hey Cupcake, instead.
For everyone else 🎁
H-E-B Butter Tortilla Scented Candle | $12.36
Yes, you read that right: it’s a candle that smells like H-E-B’s beloved fresh, buttered tortillas. For Texans, this makes total sense.
Texas Longhorns Stadium Pet Bed | $139+
Your pup can fall asleep dreaming of a Longhorns win in this cozy pet bed — large sizes are also available.
“I Love You So Much” Succulent Pot | $12+
Bring the iconic mural indoors with this gift. (Bonus points if you fill it with a cactus from a local succulent shop).
Austin Wallpaper | $40+
This classic-looking wallpaper features hand-drawn depictions of iconic Austin spots, including Home Slice Pizza + Spider House Ballroom.
