Austin Trail of Lights: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go Enjoy This Holiday Tradition
The Austin Trail of Lights is celebrating 61 years in Zilker Park this season, and you won't want to miss the magic
Ride the Ferris Wheel. Spin under the iconic Zilker Tree. Take a dozen selfies. Whether you’re taking your family, out-of-towners or going with friends, a visit to the Austin Trail of Lights at Zilker Park is a beloved Central Texas holiday tradition. Enjoy the spectacle of more than 2 million lights, glowing Christmas trees and other holiday scenes that illuminate the park. The Trail of Lights is open nightly from Dec. 10-23.
Early Access Opportunities
Night Lights, the 12th Annual Preview Party will take place on Dec. 5, and the Annual Trail of Lights Fun Run will take place on Dec. 6. Both of these special events require advanced tickets, which you can purchase online here.
Trail Admission
The Austin Trail of Lights Grand Opening kicks off on Dec. 10, when General Admission is free starting at 7 p.m. General Admission is free Dec 10-12 & 15-18, with children under 12 receiving free General Admission on all nights. To see which nights charge an admission fee and to learn all about early entry opportunities, parking and other perks, visit austintrailoflights.org/calendar.
New in 2025:
New Installations: This year’s Trail of Lights will feature two brand-new installations including the the Neon Zoo by Ion Art and the Texas Tunnel, a walk-through lighted tunnel inspired by a classic Texas sunset.
Holiday Gift Guide
Musical Entertainment Every Night: Attendees can enjoy “Live at the Trail” performances featuring a wide range of Austin-based musicians on the Texas Music Scene Stage in Donner’s Depot. Featured performers include Pedal Steel Noah, The Soul Supporters, Poet Hawkins, Nakia, Sherita Perez, Dave Madden, Wilson Marks, Jennifer Foster & The Audacity, BandAid School of Music, Los Coast, Ruby Dice, Midnight Snack, Nagavalli, Bluesqueezebox, Golden Hour, Oliver Steck, The Last Jimenez, Denis O’Donnell, Linda Gail Lewis, Libby & the Loveless, JaRon Marshall, LA 45 (La Quarenta y Cinco), and Jeska & The Vanity Project. The program also features swing lessons with Kari Kron and two-step dance lessons with Dancin’ Austin.
Check out the full lineup of entertainment – from movie night to live music – happening at the Austin Trail of Lights each night.
More Details to Know Before You Go
There are a few other options to keep in mind when planning your visit to the Trail of Lights this year. All of which can be purchased by using the event calendar.
ZIP Passes
This is a great option for small groups or families. Guests with ZIP Passes can enter the Trail of Lights an hour before general admission gates open, starting at 6 p.m. There’s a special ZIP entrance and lobby where you can enjoy hot cocoa before starting your visit. Inside you’ll have access to a cozy ZIP Lounge with free holiday cookies and more complimentary cocoa as well as seating and heated restrooms.
Platinum Pass
If you want to see the Trail of Lights like a VIP, this is your chance. In addition to early access at 6 p.m. through a special entrance, Platinum Pass holders can enjoy valet parking, a golf cart shuttle to the Trailhead, a private, heated Platinum Lounge with seating, two bars and heated washrooms, a drink ticket, and a ride ticket for the Ferris wheel or carousel.
Parking
There are two parking options with a pre-paid parking pass, however each lot has a limited number of spots available each night. All parking passes must be purchased in advance, online. Parking lots open at 5:30 p.m.
- Zilker Tree (Polo Field) Parking: Grass polo field lot near the Zilker Tree and across from the Trail’s Grand & ZIP Entrances.
- Austin High (Surface Lot) Parking: Located at 1715 W Cesar Chavez Street.
Shuttle Pass
Take a shuttle from South Austin directly to the front gate of the Austin Trail of Lights. Shuttles will begin departing at 5:30pm. You must purchase your Shuttle pass online, in advance.
Shuttles operate from Toney Burger Event Center (3200 Jones Rd, Austin, TX 78745) where free parking is available.
- Shuttle riders access the Trail through an expedited general admission entrance starting at 7 p.m.
- Shuttle fare is $10 per person and includes General Admission access. Children 2 and under on a lap and infants ride free.
- ADA accessible shuttles are available.
Learn more about the Austin Trail of Lights history, and purchase your tickets at austintrailoflights.org.
