The most beloved, and longest running holiday tradition of its kind in Texas’ capital city, Austin Trail of Lights powered by H-E-B, welcomes hundreds of thousands of guests from Central Texas and around the world each year for its jubilant displays of lights.
Our city's longest running holiday event, the annual Austin Trail of Lights event in Zilker Park showcases more than 2 million lights, 96 lighted holiday trees and 70 displays and tunnels.

After you pass through the iconic entry tunnel and make your way to Candy Cane Lane, grab a bite from one of Austin’s best food trucks. Then head to the North Pole for free photos with Santa! Roast s'mores at different stops along the Trail, ride the carousel, and enjoy local entertainment at the Zilker Stage. There's something for everyone at this year's event.

Schedule of Events

December 01, 2023

06:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Austin Trail of Lights: Night Lights Preview Party

The Most Exclusive Night at the Austin Trail of Lights
The 10th annual Austin Trail of Lights Night Lights Preview Party, presented by Broadway Bank, is an exclusive evening kicking off the holiday season in style. Enjoy Austin's favorite holiday event with a little extra sparkle. Gain an all-access VIP experience complete with gourmet bites, festive drinks, and more. Plus, your support of the Trail of Lights Foundation contributes to the longevity of the Austin Trail of Lights.

Night Lights Preview Party Pass Includes:

An exclusive sneak peek of the Trail before Grand Opening
Complimentary bites from favorite Austin restaurants
Complimentary beverages
Complimentary Ferris Wheel and Carousel rides all night
An evening of live music with Tameca Jones, Lance Lipinsky, Big Wy’s Brass Band & Sarah Hall

Featured Restaurants:

Loro, Sway Thai, Quality Seafood, Cabo Bob's, Churro Burro, Dirdie Birdie, Dovetail, Honey Moon Spirit Lounge, Paperboy, Paris 13, La Pera, As Good As It Gets, Uncle Nickys, W Austin, Zucchini Kill and Museum of Ice Cream

Tickets are required for ages 6+. Children under 6 are free with an adult.

December 02, 2023

05:45 PM - 10:00 PM: Austin Trail of Lights: Fun Run

Walk or Run & Have Some Fun!
The Fun Run in Zilker Park throughout the Austin Trail of Lights in back! Be among the FIRST of the season to see the lights on Saturday, December 2, 2023.

Stroll, jog or run an untimed, 2 mile course – starting at the iconic Zilker Holiday Tree and moving through the beloved Austin Trail of Lights. Stick around for the ultimate Finish Line Festival – located in the heart of Zilker Park.

The Fun Run Experience

4 starting waves to fit your schedule
Runner Wave - 5:45pm start time
Wave 1 - 6:00pm start time
Wave 2 - 6:45pm start time
Wave 3 - 7:45pm start time
-One (1) FREE beer or cocoa after crossing the finish line
-Finish Line Festival and Expo access with fun activities and swag
-FREE photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, courtesy of Chuy's Tex-Mex
-Unique holiday photo ops
-Ferris Wheel and Carousel rides
-D.J. entertainment
-Food and beverages from food trucks and bars, available for purchase
Commemorative long-sleeve 2023 Fun Run shirt included with registration!
-VIP Lounge access for VIP registrants including access to any wave, complimentary food, drink tickets and more!
Must be 21+ to consume alcohol

December 8, 2023

06:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Grand Opening

December 9, 12-16, 17, 19-23, 2023

06:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Austin Trail of Lights: Grand Opening

December 10, 2023

06:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Austin Trail of Lights: UT Night

Date:
December 1-23, 2023

Location: Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX 78704

Click here for More Information