Austin's Christmas lights are one of the biggest highlights of the holiday season, with light displays, Christmas tree lighting ceremonies, decorated neighborhoods, and seasonal attractions happening across the city throughout 2026. This guide covers the best places to see Christmas lights in Austin, making it easy to plan a holiday outing with family or friends.
The Best Christmas Light Displays in Austin This Season
Austin is home to everything from city-wide light displays to neighborhood favorites that return every year. Here are the best Christmas lights and holiday displays to visit during the 2026 season.
1. Tree Lighting Ceremony — Bastrop
Bastrop kicks off the Christmas season the day after Thanksgiving with its annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Fisherman's Park, right along the Colorado River. This two hour community gathering features live music and merry activities before the main event, when the city's Christmas tree lights up the night. Free to attend and open to all, it’s a tradition that brings the Bastrop community together to mark the start of the most festive time of year.
- Dates: Friday, November 27th, 2026
- Admission: Free
- Street Address: 1200 Willow Street, Bastrop, TX 78602
- Kid Friendly: Yes
- Pet Friendly: No
- Parking: Free
- Website: visitbastrop.com
Insider Tip: This event runs just 6 to 8 PM, so arrive a little early to snag a good spot near the tree before the crowd builds up.
2. Bastrop River of Lights — Bastrop
The Bastrop River of Lights transforms the half mile June Hill Pape Riverwalk into a glowing trail of holiday light displays each winter season. Winding along the Colorado River, this free community event draws in visitors of all ages for a leisurely evening stroll through hundreds of sparkling installations. Fully accessible and open nightly from dusk to 10 PM, it’s a quintessential Bastrop tradition worth the trip.
- Dates: November 28th, 2026 – January 5th, 2027
- Admission: Free
- Street Address: 1200 Willow Street, Bastrop, TX 78602
- Kid Friendly: Yes
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Parking: Free
- Website: visitbastrop.com
Insider Tip: Access the Riverwalk from the fully accessible entrance at Fisherman's Park on Willow Street for the easiest entry, then head up to Main Street afterward to grab a bite at one of Bastrop's local restaurants.
3. Zilker Holiday Tree Lighting — Austin
Stand beneath a breathtaking piece of Austin history at the Zilker Holiday Tree, an impressive 155-foot structure built around a historic moonlight tower. Composed of 39 glowing light streamers holding an incredible 3,309 multicolored LED bulbs, this towering display is topped by a 10-foot double star featuring 150 frosted lights. Created by skilled city electricians, the unique spiral light pattern forms a mesmerizing centerpiece that draws visitors from all across the state. Families gather on the surrounding lawns to enjoy hot cocoa, Christmas music, and clear night views of the downtown skyline. It remains one of Austin's most cherished and visually striking outdoor holiday traditions.
- Dates: November 29th, 2026 through January 1st, 2027 (Official Tree Lighting Ceremony on Sunday, November 29th, 2026)
- Admission: Free
- Street Address: Zilker Park moonlight tower, 2207 Lou Neff Rd, Austin, TX 78746
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: Yes (Leashed dogs welcome on the open grass lawns)
- Parking: Paid parking available in designated public surface lots throughout Zilker Park
- Website: https://www.austintexas.gov/parks/programs/zilker-holiday-tree
Insider Tip: Walk straight into the center base of the tower, look directly up into the light streamers, and spin around to experience a classic Austin kaleidoscope effect.
Tips for Visiting Christmas Lights in Austin
- Go on a weeknight: Tuesday through Thursday evenings are far less crowded than weekend nights, especially for drive-through and ticketed light experiences.
- Time your visit at dusk: Most light displays are best viewed in the first hour after sunset, when the lights pop against a deepening sky.
- Bring a light layer: Even with mild Texas winters, evenings get cool after sunset. A light jacket keeps everyone comfortable for outdoor displays and walking trails.
- Book ticketed experiences in advance: Popular walk through and drive through experiences sell out on December weekends. Check the schedule and reserve early.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here's what to know before you go to any of the listed Austin lights this season.
When do Christmas lights turn on in Austin?
Most major Christmas light displays in Austin turn on between late November and the first week of December. Tree lighting ceremonies typically take place the weekend after Thanksgiving, and most neighborhood and trail displays run through New Year's Day.
Where can I see free Christmas lights in Austin?
Many of Austin's most iconic light displays are free to view, including tree lightings, neighborhood displays, and public park installations. Some ticketed experiences offer drive through or walk through light trails for a more immersive experience.
Are Austin Christmas lights kid friendly?
Yes! Most Christmas light displays in Austin are family friendly, with activities, food, and entertainment suitable for all ages. Check individual listings for stroller accessibility and kid specific activities.
When is the best time to see Christmas lights in Austin?
Weeknights are typically less crowded than weekends, especially Tuesday through Thursday. Most displays look best from dusk through 9 PM. Avoid the weekend right before Christmas if you want a calmer experience.
Can I add my event to this guide?
We'd love to feature your Christmas event! Simply share your event through our quick submission form and we will get it added to the list!
Christmas Lights Worth the Drive from Austin
Austin isn't the only place worth visiting for Christmas lights this season. Within a couple of hours' drive, you'll find several other cities with their own magical holiday displays worth the trip.
Dripping Springs, Texas — 35 Minutes from Austin
Officially welcome the winter season at the annual Dripping Springs tree lighting. Held at the lovely Veterans Memorial Park, the evening kicks off with live holiday musical performances and seasonal entertainment provided by local community organizations. Once the tree illuminates, the park grounds buzz with small town warmth, offering seasonal treats, hot cider, family photo ops, and a free outdoor family movie screening.
Wimberley, Texas — 50 Minutes from Austin
Plan Your Complete Austin Christmas Experience
Austin's Christmas lights are just one part of the city's incredible holiday season. Explore our guides to holiday shows and performances, Christmas festivals and parades, Christmas markets and holiday shopping, and Christmas attractions and experiences in Austin. Whether you're a local or visiting for the season, our Austin Christmas guide has you covered.
