As the holiday season approaches, it's time to get into the festive spirit and enjoy the magic of Christmas lights. Whether you're in town for a convention or to celebrate with your loved ones, a visit to one of Austin's spectacular light shows should be on your agenda. From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center's Luminations to the Trail of Lights in Zilker Park, there are plenty of options for those looking to get into the holiday spirit. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center hosts an annual event called Luminations, which features thousands of luminaries and Christmas lights scattered around the gardens. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens while enjoying the beautiful Christmas lights.
The illuminations usually take place in mid-December and tickets are required to enter. Inaugurated in 1965 as the Christmas Festival, the Trail of Lights has expanded and evolved over the years to become the popular community celebration it is today. Virtually every home and business in the town square joins in on the action, making it one of the most charming and picturesque places in the state to enjoy a Christmas light show. For more popular and quirky Christmas lighting, head to 37th Street in the Hyde Park neighborhood. During the Christmas season, Zilker Park offers a spectacular light display and has an outdoor ice skating rink. As every good Austin resident knows, it's not Christmas until you've taken a leisurely stroll through the city's Holiday Lights Bonanza 2.0, also known as the Trail of Lights in Zilker Park.
Gather your team and take the time to wander between the two million lights and forty screens. Don't drink eggnog or drink too much hot chocolate with spikes before taking a walk under the Zilker tree. If you prefer to have the kids holed up in the car while watching the Christmas lights, Santa's Ranch in New Braunfels is your best bet. This ranch offers a mile-long trail that can be traveled by car and includes a hundred exhibits and animations. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll through gardens or a drive-through light show, Austin has something for everyone during this festive season. So make sure you plan your visit accordingly and don't miss out on all these amazing light displays!.
