Although the coronavirus pandemic has changed many plans to celebrate New Year’s Eve, many Austin-area businesses and institutions are offering virtual and live activities that mark the end of 2020 and welcome 2021, from streamed concerts to virtual cheese tastings. Also, a number of ongoing winter activities such as lights displays across the Austin area can still be attended through the new year. A list of winter activities can be found here. The following list is not comprehensive, and events are subject to change due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Watch Austin’s all-virtual New Year’s celebration
Eight local bands will perform a virtual New Year’s Eve concert in a presentation hosted by the city of Austin and the Austin Convention Center. The event can be viewed on the city’s YouTube, Facebook and Instagram accounts, as well as on cable Channel 6 and www.atxn.tv. Viewing times have not yet been posted but will be announced by Dec. 28. www.austintexas.gov/department/austins-new-year
Support ACL Live with a livestreamed concert
Recording artist Lucinda Williams will be performing a livestreamed show playing Rolling Stones tribute covers to raise funds for independent music venues around the country, including ACL Live in Austin. The Dec. 31 show is the final one in a series Williams put on this year. 7 p.m. $25-$40. 877-534-9849. www.acl-live.com
