Don’t let the holiday season pass without a visit to one of these epic Christmas light displays in and around Austin. From holiday parades that light the night to drive-through winter wonderlands, you’ll feel the joy of the season when you visit. Here’s some of the best places to see Christmas lights in Austin.
Austin Trail of Lights
Since 1965, the Trail of Lights has been lighting up the Austin skyline every holiday season. 2019 Austin Trail of Lights visitors will see new displays, interactive spaces and local merchants coupled with local talent of all ages through LIVE at the Trail.
Dates: Dec. 10-23
More info: tinybeans.go-vip.net
Sights n' Sounds of Christmas
Every year this family-friendly Christmas festival brings the holiday spirit to visitors from across Texas and beyond. You’ll find popular carnival rides for all ages, a variety of delicious festival food, live performances and even a visit from Santa Claus.
Dates: Dec. 4-7, 11-14
More info: tinybeans.go-vip.net
Lost Pines Christmas Lighted Christmas Parade
Downtown Bastrop’s famous Lost Pines Christmas Lighted Christmas Parade features more than 100 fanciful floats and local participants lighting up Main Street in this joyful tradition. The annual parade is the pinnacle event of a very merry Lost Pines Christmas season. Join family and friends for a full evening of holiday cheer in Historic Downtown Bastrop. The parade begins at dusk (approximately 6:00 p.m.) and will head south down Main Street.
Date: Dec. 14, 6 p.m.
More info: tinybeans.go-vip.net
Bastrop River of Lights
Take in the River of Lights, numerous lighted displays in a variety of seasonal themes lining Bastrop's scenic June Hill Pape River Walk. To access this one-half mile promenade, come down the stairs west of the intersection of Main and Pine Streets or select the fully accessible entrance at Fishermans Park on Farm Street.
More info: visitbastrop.com
Santa's Ranch
Bring your friends and family and enjoy one of the best holiday light exhibits in the state! You’ll take a drive through over a mile of winding country roads while taking in the beautiful lights, animated Christmas displays, and enjoying homemade hot cocoa, kettle corn and snacks.
Dates: Nov. 8-Jan. 4
More info: tinybeans.go-vip.net
Lakeway Trail of Lights
One of Lakeway's most cherished traditions is the Trail of Lights! Come see thousands of twinkling lights! See amusing tableaus, all accompanied by delightful seasonal music!
Dates: Dec. 1-Jan. 1
More info: tinybeans.go-vip.net
Mozart's Coffee Christmas Lights Show
This Christmas Light Show has become an annual tradition for many Austinites. Every year, they decorate the deck with over one million LED lights and set up a show to favorite holiday tunes. Admission is free.
More info: tinybeans.go-vip.net
—Kate Loweth
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