✨ Updated for 2025 ✨
Welcome to Austin's most comprehensive guide to Christmas lights and holiday displays! Whether you're a local looking for new displays to explore or visiting Austin for the holidays, this guide will help you find the perfect festive experiences.
I've been covering Austin's Christmas light scene for over a decade, and each year I'm amazed by the creativity and spirit our community brings to the season. From the iconic Trail of Lights at Zilker Park to hidden neighborhood gems like 37th Street, Austin transforms into a winter wonderland every December.
This guide includes everything from free neighborhood displays to ticketed events, drive-through experiences to walkable trails. I've covered Austin proper as well as day trips to nearby cities like Georgetown, New Braunfels, Round Rock, and Johnson City. Each listing includes practical details like dates, times, parking tips, and what makes each display special.
If you're looking to avoid the crowds, discover something new, or just want to make the most of your holiday light adventures, I hope you'll find this guide helpful. If anything is missing or incorrect, please let me know through the Austin Events calendar contact form!
Quick Answers
When do Austin Christmas lights start?
Most displays begin in late November, with major events like the Trail of Lights typically starting in early December. Neighborhood displays like 37th Street usually light up around mid-December.
What are the best free Christmas light displays in Austin?
The Zilker Holiday Tree, 37th Street Lights, Longhorn Lights on The Drag, and downtown Georgetown's Square are all free and spectacular. The Capitol Tree Lighting is also a beautiful free event.
Are dogs allowed at Trail of Lights?
Service animals are always welcome. Pet policies vary by event, so check each listing for specific details. Many neighborhood displays are perfect for walking with your furry friends!
What's the biggest drive-through light display near Austin?
Santa's Ranch in New Braunfels features over 3 million lights along a mile-long drive. The Light Park in Georgetown also offers a drive-through experience with over 1 million LED lights synchronized to music.
⭐ View All 20+ Confirmed Events for 2025 ⭐ 🌟 Featured Displays 🌟
37th Street Lights
Watch Video Get ready for a whimsical stroll down 37th Street! This beloved Austin tradition is back and brighter than ever. From mid-December until Christmas, the residents along this quirky street turn their homes into a dazzling display of lights and creative decorations. It's a true DIY wonderland that captures the heart of Austin's unique spirit. You'll want to walk through this enchanting neighborhood after sunset to soak in all the fun details—trust me, driving just won't do it justice!
Learn More & View Details → Trail of Lights
Watch Video The Austin Trail of Lights is the holiday highlight that everyone looks forward to! For over 60 years, Zilker Park has been transformed into a magical wonderland filled with over 2 million twinkling lights and festive displays. This year, join in the fun from December 10-23 as you wander through the trail with family and friends. Don't miss the chance to participate in the Fun Run for a little extra holiday cheer before the main event kicks off. It's a classic Austin experience that will fill your heart with joy!
Learn More & View Details → Official Website → Zilker Tree Lighting
Watch Video You can't miss the Zilker Holiday Tree—it's truly one of Austin's shining stars! Standing tall at 155 feet, this beautiful Moontower is adorned with 3,309 colorful LED bulbs that light up the night sky. From December 1 through January 1, you can walk beneath this stunning tree and take in its magical spiral design. The tree lighting ceremony is a festive kickoff to the season, bringing together friends and families for some holiday magic. Be sure to stop by and snap some photos!
Learn More & View Details → Official Information → Downtown Holiday Sing-Along, Stroll & Tree Lighting
Join in on the fun at the Downtown Holiday Stroll! This free event around the Texas State Capitol kicks off at 3 PM with artisan vendors, tasty food trucks, and even photos with Santa. The highlight? A heartwarming community sing-along followed by the countdown to lighting up the Capitol Christmas Tree at 7 PM. It's a wonderful way to embrace the holiday spirit with loved ones while enjoying all that downtown Austin has to offer. Come share in the joy!
Learn More & View Details → Official Website → Mozart's Lake Austin Festival of Lights
Watch Video If you're looking for a cozy holiday experience, head over to Mozart's Coffee Roasters on Lake Austin! Their Festival of Lights runs from November 29 to January 4 and is an absolute delight. Picture this: over a million twinkling lights dancing to festive music while you sip on delicious hot chocolate. It's the perfect spot to gather with friends or family and enjoy live performances in a beautiful lakeside setting. You won't want to miss this enchanting celebration!
Learn More & View Details → Official Website → Longhorn Lights
Watch Video ⚠️ Dates TBD for 2025 - Check official website for updates Experience the festive spirit at Longhorn Lights, a delightful display brought to you by the University of Texas! This enchanting light show features 24 majestic oak trees along Guadalupe Street, illuminated with burnt orange and white lights that dance to the music of the Longhorn Band. It's a free event open to the public every evening, making it a perfect stop for UT fans and families alike. Stroll along The Drag and soak in the holiday cheer!
Learn More & View Details → Official Website → 🗺️ Explore the Interactive Map 🗺️
Planning your route? Our interactive map shows you exactly where every light display, event, and festive attraction is located around Austin and nearby cities!
Click on any marker to see photos, dates, times, and get directions. Perfect for planning your holiday lights road trip!
View Interactive Map → 🎁 Free Neighborhood Displays 🎁
Community First! Village of Lights
Watch Video Join the magic at Community First! Village of Lights, happening on select nights in December (December 5 & 6, and December 12 & 13). This heartwarming event features thousands of lights choreographed to festive music, creating a truly immersive experience. While you're there, explore the holiday market filled with unique, handcrafted gifts made by local artists. Enjoy food and drinks while watching classic Christmas movies and don't forget to say hi to Santa! It's a wonderful way to celebrate the season while supporting a great cause.
Learn More & View Details → Official Website → Mueller's Annual Tower Lighting
Watch Video Head over to Mueller Lake Park for the beloved Mueller's Annual Tower Lighting ceremony. This festive event kicks off the holiday season with a beautiful tree lighting ceremony that brings the community together. Enjoy live music, delicious food options, and plenty of family-friendly activities. The park will be aglow with lights throughout the holiday season, making it a lovely spot for an evening stroll or a cozy gathering with friends.
Learn More & View Details → Official Website → Domain Northside Holiday Display
Watch Video If you're looking for some holiday fun at The Domain, check out their Holiday Tree Light Show! Running from November 24 to December 25, this charming display features a stunning tree that lights up every hour between 5 PM and 9 PM on weekdays and noon to 9 PM on weekends. It's a great excuse to grab some shopping done while enjoying the festive atmosphere. Plus, it's free to attend—what's not to love?
Learn More & View Details → Official Website → 🎅 Nearby Cities 🎅
Cedar Park - Heritage Oak Tree Lighting
Watch Video Get ready for a magical evening at Heritage Oak Park! On Wednesday, December 3rd, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., join the community as over 50,000 lights illuminate Cedar Park's largest live oak tree. Enjoy the tree lighting ceremony, festive holiday music, cookie decorating, community performances, and photos with Santa beneath the glowing Oak Tree. It's a free event that'll surely get you in the holiday spirit!
Learn More & View Details → Official Website → Cedar Park - Tail of Lights
Watch Video Bring your furry friends to Veterans Memorial Park on December 13, 2025, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. for a paw-some holiday celebration! Dress your pups in their best holiday outfits and stroll down a beautifully lit path. Take pictures with "Santa Paws," enjoy holiday music, and check out pet-friendly vendors. There's even a "Yappy Hour" with treats for both humans and pets. It's a free event that's sure to get tails wagging.
Learn More & View Details → Official Website → Georgetown - Shady Oak Christmas Display
Head over to 107 Shady Oak Drive for a dazzling synchronized light show set to music. This home display is a local favorite and a must-see for Christmas light enthusiasts.
Georgetown - Lighting of the Square
Watch Video Mark your calendars for November 29th at 5:30 p.m. when downtown Georgetown transforms into a winter wonderland. Thousands of twinkling lights illuminate the historic square, creating a magical atmosphere. Enjoy various activities and events around the square, with the festive display continuing through January 1st.
Learn More & View Details → Official Website → Round Rock - Hometown Holiday
From December 1-31, 2025, downtown Round Rock becomes a festive wonderland. Enjoy nightly light displays, including larger-than-life ornaments, gorgeous oversized gift boxes, and twinkling archways. Live music events happen five nights a week (Tuesday-Saturday) from December 3-21, featuring local musicians at East Main Street parklet or Prete Plaza stage.
Learn More & View Details → Official Website → Round Rock - Christmas Dreams & Snowy Things
On December 21st, head to the CHASCO Family YMCA for the 10th annual Christmas Dreams and Snowy Things. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., enjoy 90,000 pounds of snow, a giant snow slide, holiday games, food, music, and a visit from Santa Claus. It's a free, family-friendly event that's sure to create lasting memories.
Buda Trail of Lights
Take a stroll through this charming trail at Historic Stagecoach Park, featuring animated light scenes along a half-mile path. The winter wonderland includes Santa's Village, concessions, and plenty of festive fun for the whole family. It's a delightful way to experience the magic of the season in Buda.
Learn More & View Details → Official Website → 🚗 Drive-Through Experiences 🚗
Santa's Ranch - New Braunfels
Watch Video Get ready for a magical drive through over a mile of twinkling wonderland at Santa's Ranch! This beloved New Braunfels tradition has been dazzling visitors for over 20 years with 3 million lights and charming animated displays. As you wind through the country roads, don't forget to stop for some homemade hot chocolate and kettle corn. The 50-foot Christmas tree at the entrance is a sight to behold! Open nightly from November 1, 2025, through January 4, 2026. While there's a fee, it's an unforgettable holiday experience for the whole family.
Learn More & View Details → Official Website → The Light Park - Georgetown
⚠️ 2025 Dates TBA - Check official website for updates For a unique experience, drive through The Light Park featuring over one million LED animated lights synchronized to festive music. It's a fun adventure for all ages that you can enjoy from the comfort of your car.
Learn More & View Details → Official Website → 🌟 Day Trips from Austin 🌟
Johnson City Lights Spectacular
Watch Video Prepare to be amazed by the Johnson City Lights Spectacular, featuring over 2 million LED lights so bright that NASA has reportedly spotted them from space! This free, family-friendly event runs nightly from November 29, 2025, through January 4, 2026. Don't miss the kickoff on November 29th with a grand lighting ceremony and fireworks, followed by the famous Lighted Hooves & Wheels Parade on November 30th. Enjoy weekend activities like photos with Santa, carriage rides, and hayrides through the glowing wonderland.
Learn More & View Details → Official Website → Lockhart - A Christmas to Remember
Join the festive fun in Lockhart starting Friday, December 5th at 7pm with the magical lighting of the Courthouse Tree. On Saturday, head to the Dr. Eugene Clark Library for free family activities, then line the streets for the dazzling lighted parade in the evening. It's Lockhart's favorite holiday tradition - a weekend full of small-town charm and holiday spirit!
Learn More & View Details → Event Facebook Page → Bee Cave - Hill Country Galleria Holiday Market
Experience holiday magic at the Hill Country Galleria Holiday Market! This three-weekend pop-up market features a rotating lineup of local Austin makers offering unique, handmade goods perfect for holiday gifts. Families can enjoy the holiday ice skating rink, pictures with Santa, face painting, and lots of fun holiday activities. Open Fridays 4 PM - 9 PM and Saturdays 12 PM - 7 PM from December 5-20.
Learn More & View Details → Official Website → Lake Travis Holiday Boat Parade
Watch Video ⚠️ Dates TBD for 2025 - Check Lake Travis events calendar Witness the magic of Christmas on the water at the Lake Travis Holiday Boat Parade! This dazzling spectacle features boats decked out in their holiday best with lights and decorations, creating a floating light show you won't forget. It's a must-see (or participate in) event for boating enthusiasts and holiday lovers alike.
Learn More & View Details → Lake Travis Events Calendar → Lakeway Lights On!
Join us for Lights On!, Lakeway's annual holiday and Christmas celebration at City Hall on Friday, December 5th from 6-9 PM! This festive kickoff event includes the official lighting of the Trail of Lights, photos with Santa, Mrs. Claus and their elves, live music, delicious s'mores, food from local vendors, and family-friendly activities. Parking available at Lakeway Activity Center and Justice Center.
Learn More & View Details → Official Website → 📅 Never Miss an Austin Event! 📅
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🎄 From the Editor: I started this site because I love exploring Austin's holiday displays with my family. Each year, I personally visit these locations and update the information. This isn't just a directory—it's a guide from someone who genuinely loves the Austin Christmas lights scene!
