Austin is perhaps best known for its live music scene and star-studded nightlife, but you’ll be dazzled by the night lights of Christmas time in Austin as the city decks its halls, homes, and public venues with boughs of holly, jolly Christmas lights. From lighted boat parades to fabulous tree lighting, you’ll enjoy the sights and sounds of Christmas when you head toward these sparkling events in and around Austin.

Santa’s Ranch

Santa will help you enjoy holiday fun when you hit the trail to Santa’s Ranch through January 1, 2024. Located in New Braunfels, the ranch is open for all merry-makers weekly Sunday through Thursday from 6 p.m to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Enjoy hot cocoa, kettle corn, and the 1.5 million lights that make up their wonderland of animated Christmas displays. Visit their site for ticket purchases and event info. 

Mozart's Coffee Shop Christmas Light Show

For a million reasons to enjoy the holidays, stop by Mozart's Coffee Roasters for their annual one-million-light Christmas show from November 9, 2022, through January 6, 2023. Take a break from your regular holiday routine with your family as you enjoy a hot chocolate or coffee and the sights and sounds of the Christmas light show on the patio deck overlooking beautiful Lake Austin.

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Peppermint Parkway at the Circuit

Peppermint Parkway at the Circuit of the Americas is a magical drive-thru holiday experience for families and couples. You can enjoy one mile of immersive holiday displays, millions of lights, dancing elves and more between November 25, 2023, to December 30th, 2023. In addition to the main adventure, guests can take a parade lap on COTA’s signature track with a Candy Cane Cruise ticket and visit Peppermint Plaza to meet Pepper and Mint, enjoy holiday treats and experience new rides and attractions.

Lakeway Trail of Lights

Come to Lakeway for its annual Trail of Lights holiday extravaganza from December 2, 2023, through January 2, 2024. The timings are from 6:00 p.m. to midnight. You’ll be dazzled as you walk through this festive downtown venue of musical Christmas light displays.

Annual Trail of Lights at Zilker Park

Santa is heading for Austin, the Lone Star State’s capital city, and bringing the festivities to life! Follow Santa to the downtown area and the two million sparkling lights that lead the way to Zilker Park's annual Trail of Lights festival, running December 8 to 23 from 6 p.m. to10 p.m. Enjoy 12 days of family-friendly fun with arts and crafts, food venues, interactive displays, a giant Christmas tree lighting, live entertainment, and much more!

Related content: Your Go-To Guide For Holiday Events in Austin

With so many Christmas lights to see in Austin, you're certain to find more ways to enjoy the holiday and make memories with loved ones. 

Find more ideas for Christmas in Austin by registering on 512area, your free guide to everything going on in the Austin area.

 

Cover photo courtesy of Unsplash