It’s beginning to look a lot like string lights. Austin was recently rated the most festive city in the US for the fourth year in a row, and we have to say, that’s a high honor.
So grab a pair of earmuffs, a warm cup of hot cocoa, a light jacket, and your loved ones — we’re stepping out to enjoy some of the best holiday light displays in the Austin area.
Bastrop River of Lights | Now-Monday, Jan. 5
Enjoy this free light display along the scenic June Hill Pape River Walk at Fisherman’s Park. Psst — don’t forget to check the calendar for special activities, like visits from Santa and karaoke.
37th Street Lights | Friday, Dec. 12-Thursday, Jan. 1
This DIY neighborhood light show has been shining and creating some of the weirdest displays in Hyde Park since the 1980s.
Longhorn Lights | Now-Thursday, Jan. 1
The third annual Longhorn Lights brings festive nostalgia and twinkling lights to 24 Heritage Oak trees to Longhorns past, present, and future along the South Mall.
Luminations | Now–Saturday, Jan. 3
This glowing exhibition at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is inspired by artistry in nature. Tickets are $30 for adults.
Marble Falls Walkway of Lights | Now-Saturday, Jan. 3
Walk through more than two million lights and 350+ sculptures at Lakeside Park in Marble Falls. Tickets run $2 per person at the door.
Mozart’s Annual Light Show | Now-Thursday, Dec. 11 + Sunday, Dec. 21-Saturday, Jan. 3
The beloved local coffee shop’s annual holiday tradition includes a marketplace, holiday pastries, donut boat rides, cozy igloos, and live music. Tickets start at $3 and kids under 11 are free.
Peppermint Parkway | Now-Sunday, Jan. 4
Cruise down the Circuit of the Americas to see a plethora of drive-thru installations, plus holiday photo ops, a mini golf course, cookie decorating, COTA go-karting, rides, and a market at Peppermint Plaza. Admission for one car starts at $35.
Sights and Sounds of Christmas | Thursday, Dec. 11-Saturday, Dec. 13
Enjoy free entertainment, a glowing lights display, candle making, turkey legs, and a visit from Santa at San Marcos Plaza Park after the 5K Jingle Bell run.
Trail of Lights | Now-Monday, Dec. 23
For over 60 years, this Austin tradition has graced Zilker Park with the same twinkling lights displays you know and love. Pro tip: check out the event calendar for themed and free nights.
