Austin Trail of Lights
Austin's most beloved holiday tradition. A 1.25-mile walk through Zilker Park featuring more than 2 million lights, 90 lighted holiday trees, and more than 70 other holiday displays.
When
Runs annually from early December through December 23rd. The Zilker Tree is usually lit on the Sunday following Thanksgiving.
Tickets
Check the schedule closely — up to half the nights in December offer free general admission. Other nights require purchased tickets online in advance.
Parking
Pre-paid parking passes are required if you want to park at Zilker. Alternatively, use the shuttle from Republic Square or take a ride share to the designated drop-off zone.
A Texas Tradition Since 1965
It began in 1965 as the "Yule Fest," a small gathering with a single yule log and a modest lighting ceremony. It was a gift to the city of Austin from its Parks and Recreation Department.
Today, the Austin Trail of Lights is an extravagant community-wide celebration that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors from Central Texas and around the world. The event is deeply rooted in local culture, featuring local food trucks, Austin musicians, and community groups.
The centerpiece of the park during the season is the Zilker Holiday Tree — a stunning temporary "tree" built around one of Austin's original moontowers. Standing 155 feet tall, the tree is composed of 39 streamers holding thousands of multi-colored LED bulbs in a dizzying spiral pattern. Spinning under the Zilker Tree is a rite of passage for every Austinite.