The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar is an Austin Christmas staple featuring music, food, unique gifts and amazing art. Daryl Howard is one of the artist featured, and we got a chance to visit her awesome studio and learn more. Art for you, gifts for them, music for everyone. The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar, an iconic Texas cultural event, showcases award-winning artists of local and national recognition. This art and music festival features an intimate stage, two full bars and new food offerings that come together to create a lively atmosphere that makes holiday shopping fun. The 11-day authentic Austin experience celebrates 42 seasons as a beloved tradition for generations of Texans and visiting tourists. Armadillo Christmas Bazaar runs December 14-24, 11am to 10pm daily at the Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road, Austin, Texas 78704.

This year’s featured art was created by nationally recognized artist Robert Hurst. The official Sports Hall of Fame artist explains why the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar is so important to him. “My first year at the Armadillo was quite the learning experience. Although I had attended many times as a patron – before my first year as an artist I had no idea the professionalism, stamina, dedication, and commitment the show requires. Founder Bruce Willenzik and many other artists offered suggestions that helped me better present my art and ease the transition from a wannabe Armadillo artist to one in fact. What I learned, affected every subsequent show I did (do) in a positive way. This is the biggest show I do and has been for 15 years. It was an honor to be chosen to participate and now to be part of the family.”

Creating fine art using glass and copper, first-time artist Deb Wight is thrilled to be a part of the Armadillo this year, “It is a great group of artists that get together as a family and share their gift.” The Armadillo makes holiday shopping fun in a cozy, family-friendly environment with a dazzling selection of cutting-edge, one-of-a-kind fine art and artisan crafts; from collectible pieces to modestly priced stocking stuffers, from stylishly smart to wonderfully weird.

Art lovers and fine art buyers flock to the Armadillo from across the country to meet and buy from over 160 locally and nationally acclaimed artists. This year the festival boasts nearly two-dozen carefully curated newcomers. New additions include local favorites such as Dan Grissom and Mark Puente alongside an exciting mix of select artists from across the country. For example, Artifacts by Nomad, a husband and wife team from Missouri who specialize in one-of-a-kind furniture and lighting made from architectural and industrial salvage, Florida kinetic metal sculptor Frank Strunk III and Deborah Dupont of Agave Sky who creates artistic boots and handbags. Armadillo Christmas Bazaar veteran artists returning this season include Japanese wood blocking artist Daryl Howard, National Geographic Creative Photographer Greg Davis, jewelers Fred Tate and Janis Tate and master wood worker Craig Timmerman with Armadillo Woodworks.

The Armadillo is the best place to build your art collection and cross off everyone on your shopping list with perfect gifts in every price range. An extensive photo gallery of Armadillo artists work is available at ArmadilloBazaar.com. Obsidian Wind chime artist Richard Bloom travels from Oregon to participate in the Armadillo. Bloom explains, “The enthusiasm for art and music is really special in Austin and particularly in the cool environment that is Armadillo. The customer base is sophisticated and savvy and their love of our work is evident! It is valuable to have to be part of a successful show each year, and as any artist will tell you, that impacts our careers!”

At least three bands per day perform on the iconic Armadillo stage, creating a joyful and truly Austin holiday setting. Featured musicians range from new and emerging stars, to local legends and Grammy winners. You’ll find shoppers dancing merrily in the aisles with gifts in one hand and a cold beer in the other. Music Lineup to be announced at a later date.

Tickets are $8 for a single-day pass; available at the door, or in advance beginning September 26. For best value, purchase a season pass, which allows for entry throughout the duration of the show. Free admission for children 12 and under. More information at ArmadilloBazaar.com.

Sponsored by The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar. Opinions expressed by guests on this program are solely those of the guest(s) and are not endorsed by this television station.