Our Top 5 Places in Austin to See Holiday Lights

It seems we could all use a bit more holiday spirit this year than in year’s past.  Not to worry, there is nothing quite like the sparkle and glitter of holiday lights to brighten and ‘illuminate’ your spirit!  So, we’ve highlighted our top five Holiday Light venues in and around Austin.  Pick one or see them all this season but each is a great opportunity for your family to get into the spirit of things….

#1. AUSTIN TRAIL OF LIGHTS
2207 Lou Neff Rd, Austin, TX 78746

The Austin Trail of Lights has become a city tradition.  Just seeing the giant tree being strung with lights from Mopac gives you a warm happy feeling because you know the trail is coming.  November 28-January 3rd, over 2 million reasons to head to Zilker Park will shine along its paths and roadways.  This year, instead of strolling among the installations, you’ll drive through.  During your tour you can tune your car radio to programed holiday music and sing until your heart’s content. Vehicle ticket prices vary according to night, time and tier. Go to austintrailoflights.org for more information and to purchase tickets.

#2. PEPPERMINT PARKWAY
9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd, Austin, TX 78617

The Circuit of the Americas hosts Peppermint Parkway from Nov. 27 to Jan. 3. The mile long attraction at COTA features a multitude of lights and installations,  as well as a variety of other activities priced separately.  Like the Austin Trail of Lights, this is a drive-thru venue. Tickets are $35 per vehicle and other options are available for purchase as well. Tickets on sale at peppermintparkway.com.

#3. LAKEWAY TRAIL OF LIGHTS
105 Cross Creek, Lakeway, TX 78734

One of Lakeway’s most cherished traditions is the Trail of Lights! Come out and see thousands of twinkling lights with your friends and family. See amusing tableaus, all accompanied by delightful seasonal music! . The City of Lakeway requests that you please follow social distancing guidelines, wear a mask and please limit your groups to less than 10 people.  For more information visit https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/721/Trail-of-Lights.

#4. MOZART’S CHRISTMAS LIGHT SHOW
3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703

If you fancy a giant cup of hot chocolate, thousands of orchestrated lights, and singing your favorite holiday songs with fellow Austinites, then Mozarts is your venue. Visitors to Mozart’s annual Christmas light extravaganza will see thousands of dazzling lights that have been sculpted into giant iconic objects; which evoke Austin’s culture and the Christmas season. The light show will be placed on Mozart’s lakeside deck. Mozart’s acclaimed coffee and hot chocolate can be purchased at the coffee house and kiosks outdoors. Special holiday goodies from Mozart’s bakery will also be available. The best part is that the light show is free! https://mozartscoffee.com/

#5. LIGHTS SPECTACULAR IN JOHNSON CITY
Johnson City, Texas

Just a short drive from Austin, this Hill Country razzle-dazzle lives on for its 31st season from Nov. 27 to Jan. 3. Face coverings and social distancing are required to go see the light displays outside in the Johnson City square off Main Street. Head over to lightsspectacular.com for more information, including a helpful driving tour map.