Start the new year in Llano County

Enjoy the transition from a bustling December to a slower-paced January on a visit to Llano County. Don’t worry: There’s still plenty of fun to be had.

You can kick off 2023 by jumping into the Llano River with several other brave souls or tap your toes to 1950s rockabilly music at the historic LanTex Theater. Also on January’s agenda are classic car shows, a Native American intertribal dance, and weekend farmers and crafts markets.

Don’t leave without visiting the area’s galleries to view some of the absolutely stunning local artwork or sitting down to world-class barbecue that draws carnivores from all over.

Begin the new year with a visit to Llano County.

Polar Bear Plunge

9-10 AM SUNDAY, JAN. 1

Castell General Store, 19522 RR 152 in Castell

At this traditional New Year’s Day event, “plungers” meet up at the local watering hole — the Castell General Store — before walking to the actual watering hole — the Llano River — and jumping in. January temperatures in Llano County range from 31-60 degrees. Happy plunging!

Llano Country Opry

2:30-4:30 PM SATURDAY, JAN. 14

LanTex Theater, 301 W. Main St. in Llano

Jerry Lee Lewis’ younger sister, Linda Gail Lewis, attacks the ivories with the same piano-pounding gusto as The Killer himself.

Llano Farmers and Crafters Market

9 AM-1 PM SATURDAYS, JAN. 7 & 21

Llano County Courthouse Square, 801 Ford St. in Llano

Be it fresh vegetables, locally harvested honey, homemade jellies and jams, or unique handcrafts, you’re bound to find something special at this market.

Oldies But Goodies Car Show & Social Club

6:30-8:30 PM FRIDAYS, JAN. 6, 13, 20 & 27

Llano County Courthouse Square, 801 Ford St. in Llano

For classic car fans, downtown Llano on Friday evenings is the place to be. That’s when the courthouse square takes on an “American Graffiti” look as auto enthusiasts display their vintage cars, trucks, and motorcycles at the weekly show.