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.