History
The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar has a 40+year history that originated in the very roots of Austin's now-legendary music scene. The Armadillo World Headquarters (AWHQ) was considered the premiere 'third coast' concert venue for live music in the 1970s, and a vibrant community center. Over the next 40+ years the Armadillo Bazaar grew in 6 different locations. After AWHQ closed, other venues included Cherry Creek Plaza, Austin Opera House, later called The Terrace, Austin Music Hall, Austin Convention Center before finding a home at the Palmer Event Center in 2010. Along the way the Armadillo Bazaar grew in size from 8,000 to 44,000 sq. ft., starting with a few brave artists to more than 180 artists today.
Specialties
December 13 - 24, 2018 | 11am - 10pm Daily Admission: $10 for adults, free for kids 12 and under Parking in the Palmer Events Center garage is $8 The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar treats Texans and tourists to a festive, holiday shopping experience for art and live music lovers. This 12-day iconic cultural event features 180+ contemporary touring visual artists and local favorites showcasing their work while the Armadillo Bazaar stage entertains shoppers with national touring acts, award-winning bands, and Grammy nominated musicians. The 43rd annual tradition is one of Austin's longest running art and music festivals attracting around 35,000 shoppers each year. With lights down low, spirits high, and the music just right, the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar makes holiday shopping fun. Find an exciting variety of upscale art, handmade gifts, heirloom pieces and stocking stuffers for everyone on your list. This family-friendly environment is the place to find gifts from the heart, build an art collection year by year, personally meet the artists and commission custom pieces. Enjoy at least three bands per day on the Armadillo stage with set times for any lifestyle. Armadillo's intimate stage allows you to experience Texas music all-stars in a rare holiday setting. You'll find shoppers dancing merrily in the aisles with gifts in one hand and a cold beer in the other. It all adds up to a fun authentic Austin experience.