Austin's Best Holiday Light Displays and Parades

 

 

The city is wrapping up the year with a festive flair—lights twinkling, music playing, and good times all around. From the dazzling Trail of Lights to the soul-stirring beats resonating through parades and music, Austin is a December delight.

 

Santa's Ranch

November 3 – December 31, 2023 | 9561 I-35 North, New Braunfels, TX, 78130

As the holiday season approaches, families across Austin are eagerly anticipating the return of one of their favorite Christmas traditions: Santa's Ranch. This enchanting drive-thru light park has delighted visitors for over two decades, transforming a picturesque Texas ranch into a dazzling winter wonderland.

Over two million twinkling lights illuminate the winding country roads, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that will leave you breathless. As you slowly cruise along the path, you'll encounter a captivating array of animated displays, each one crafted with meticulous detail to capture the essence of the holiday season.

 

Mozart's Lights Show

November 9 – January 6, 2024 | 2100 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX, United States, Texas

Immerse yourself in a mesmerizing spectacle of lights and music as Mozart's Coffee Roasters' sprawling patio becomes a canvas for over a million twinkling lights. Each year, the lights are meticulously choreographed to create a captivating dance that aligns perfectly with a selection of festive holiday tunes. The result is a symphony of light and sound that will leave you mesmerized.

 

Domain Northside Holiday Display

November 19 – December 25, 2023 | 11821 Rock Rose Ave, Austin, TX 78758

The Domain Northside Holiday Display is an enchanting spectacle of lights and festive décor that has become a beloved tradition, attracting families and friends from near and far to experience the magic of the season. Capture the perfect holiday memories with your loved ones against the backdrop of the dazzling lights, or pose for a selfie with one of the many festive characters.

 

Luminations

November 24, 2023 – January 6, 2024 | Fisherman's Park - Farm Street, Bastrop, TX 78602

Austin's Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center transforms into a shimmering wonderland with its annual luminations event. You can also indulge in delicious treats from local vendors, making your walk through the illuminated meadows even more enjoyable.

As your journey through the illuminated meadows comes to an end, you'll be greeted by a breathtaking finale. The Wildflower Center's iconic Zilker Hillside Garden is transformed into a sea of twinkling lights, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that will leave you awestruck.

 

Peppermint Parkway

November 24 – December 30, 2023 | 9201 Circuit of The Americas Blvd. Austin, TX, 78617

Peppermint Parkway is a drive-thru light park that features a captivating array of animated displays. Cheerful characters, including dancing elves, mischievous gingerbread men, and jolly snowmen, greet visitors along the route, adding to the festive atmosphere.

After your enchanting drive-thru adventure, be sure to visit Peppermint Plaza, where you can enjoy a variety of holiday activities, including amusement rides, holiday treats, and special performances. You can also meet Pepper and Mint, the mascots of Peppermint Parkway, for a photo opportunity.

 

The Annual Lighting of the Square – Georgetown

November 24, 2023 – January 1, 2024 | 103 W 7th St, Georgetown, TX 78626

Kick off the festivities with the annual Lighting of the Square that turns the town's historic square into a dazzling display of Christmas lights. The event's origins can be traced back to the early 1980s when a group of local residents decided to decorate the town square with lights to spread holiday cheer. Over the years, the event has grown in popularity, becoming an integral part of Georgetown's holiday traditions.

 

Bastrop River of Lights

November 25, 2023 – January 2, 2024 | Fisherman's Park - Farm Street, Bastrop, TX 78602

The charming town of Bastrop, prepares to transform its scenic riverwalk into an enchanting spectacle of lights with its annual Bastrop River of Lights event. This beloved tradition, held from November 25 to January 2, invites visitors to embark on a magical journey through a half-mile promenade adorned with twinkling lights, festive displays, and the enchanting sounds of the season. This sparkling celebration of the holiday season is sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.

 

Zilker Holiday Tree

November 26 – December 31, 2023 | 2100 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX, United States, Texas

For over 50 years, this majestic 155-foot structure, adorned with 3,309 twinkling lights, has served as a beacon of holiday cheer, attracting visitors from near and far to marvel at its brilliance.  The Zilker Holiday Tree is more than just a dazzling display of lights; it's a symbol of Austin's vibrant holiday spirit. Its presence has become synonymous with the season, bringing joy and warmth to the hearts of everyone.

The Zilker Holiday Tree is not alone in its splendor. Zilker Park, the expansive green space that houses the tree, is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Twinkling lights adorn the trees and walkways, creating a magical ambiance.

 

Cedar Park - Tree Lighting Ceremony

December 1, 2023 | Heritage Oak Park - 875 Quest Pkwy, Cedar Park, TX  78613

Held on the first Friday of December, the Heritage Oak Tree turns into a dazzling spectacle of lights, marking the beginning of a magical season filled with joy, cheer, and community spirit. The Tree Lighting Ceremony brings together families and friends from all corners of Cedar Park, creating a sense of community and shared joy. The event features a variety of live entertainment, including local performers and musicians, filling the park with festive sounds and happenings.

 

Lakeway Trail of Lights

December 1, 2023 – January 1, 2024 | 105 Cross Creek, Lakeway, TX 78734

The Lakeway Trail of Lights is a community-driven event, with local businesses and organizations participating in the creation of the displays. The slow-paced drive-thru format allows everyone to take in the enchanting sights and sounds at their own pace, ensuring that no detail is missed. Everyone will be captivated by the dazzling lights and the whimsical characters along the trail. The warmth of the holiday season fills the air, creating an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling joyful and inspired.

 

42nd Annual Georgetown Christmas Stroll

December 1, 2023 | Downtown Georgetown TX

The 42nd Annual Georgetown Christmas Stroll is a festive and fun-filled event that is perfect for the whole family. The event features a variety of activities and attractions, including live entertainment, shopping, dining, and a photo booth with Santa. There is also a festive parade on Saturday at 10 a.m. that is sure to delight everyone. So mark your calendars and head to historic downtown Georgetown, Texas to experience the magic of the Christmas Stroll.

 

Downtown Holiday Stroll

December 2, 2023 | Congress Avenue, between Ninth Street & 11th Street

Join the festivities on Congress Avenue between 9th and 11th streets, where you'll find artisan vendors, food trucks, and even photos with Santa. Let the spirit of the season fill you as you enjoy the enchanting atmosphere, twinkling lights, and heartwarming melodies of the holiday sing-along. Don't miss out on this magical experience that promises to create lasting memories.

 

Christmas on Mercer in Dripping Springs

December 2, 2023| Veterans Memorial Park - 151 E Mercer St, Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Mercer Street, the heart of the community, comes alive with a magical display of twinkling lights, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Community engagement is at the heart of Christmas on Mercer, with various events and activities bringing people together. Local shops and boutiques participate in the seasonal merriment, offering special holiday promotions and unique gifts that capture the essence of the festivities. Families and friends gather for tree-lighting ceremonies, creating cherished moments that define the joyous season.

 

Budafest Parade

December 2, 2023 | Main Street in Downtown Buda

The Budafest Parade is a beloved tradition that transforms the streets into a winter wonderland. This festive procession features a colorful array of floats, each adorned with twinkling lights, tinsel, and holiday decorations. Marching bands fill the air with cheerful tunes, and costumed participants wave to the crowd, spreading joy and holiday cheer. Food vendors may offer seasonal treats, adding to the overall enjoyment of this joyful event.

 

Austin Trail of Lights

December 8-23, 2023 | Zilker Park: 2100 Barton Springs Rd. Austin, TX 78704

Welcome to the Austin Trail of Lights, an annual spectacle that transforms Zilker Park into a breathtaking winter wonderland. In the heart of the city, this enchanting event has become a beacon of holiday magic, drawing in crowds from near and far.

The Trail of Lights is more than a visual feast; it's an immersive experience that engages all the senses, from the melodic tunes of seasonal music to the tempting aroma of festive treats all around the place.

 

37th Street

December 9, 2023 | 507 W 37th St, Austin, TX 78705

Known for its annual holiday tradition that lights up the night with a whimsical display of creativity, 37th Street has become a must-see destination. Witness a neighborhood that has become a living canvas for artistic expression, quirkiness, and an unwavering sense of community. A collection of twinkling lights adorn the trees, rooftops, and porches, transforming the neighborhood into a shimmering wonderland.

The 37th Street Lights serve as a heartwarming reminder of the spirit of the season and the power of community.

 

2023 Lost Pines Christmas Lighted Christmas Parade

December 9, 2023 | Downtown Bastrop, Main St, Bastrop, TX 78602

Welcome to the 2023 Lost Pines Christmas Lighted Parade, a dazzling display of festive floats, twinkling lights, and the joyous spirit that defines this time of year. Experience over 130 captivating entries, ranging from imaginative floats and fire trucks to unicycles and vintage cars. Witness the Main Street night come alive with a dazzling display featuring dancing Honey Bears, esteemed dignitaries, Santa's helpers, and the man of the hour himself. Don't miss the annual parade as it illuminates the heart of the city in a spectacle of lights and holiday cheer.

 

As the holiday season draws to a close, we hope this events has inspired you to explore the enchanting holiday light displays and parades that Austin has to offer.

Wishing you a joyous and unforgettable holiday season filled with love, laughter, and the enchanting glow of holiday lights.