Austin Trail Of Lights 2025 – Dates, Tickets & Zilker Park Guide

Last Updated On – 4th December, 2025

The holiday magic of the Austin Trail of Lights is back! With more than two million bulbs strung across Zilker Park, the Austin Trail of Lights beams like a beacon of holiday joy, a glowing ribbon of magic that draws families, friends, and travelers from near and far.

Every year, people return to relive that moment when the park transforms into a glowing kingdom of festive trees, tunnels of color, and whimsical holiday scenes. And this year promises another season of Christmas celebration like no other.

Below, we’ve laid out the key details, including dates, tickets, and must‑see displays that will help you plan an unforgettable visit to Austin’s brightest holiday tradition.

Still planning your weekend? Before you go (or after you grab hot cocoa), browse Things to do in Austin this Weekend for new events, hidden gems, and fun things happening around town.

Editor’s Note: We do our best to keep listings up to date, but details may change. Always verify with event organizers or participating locations before heading out.

This article may contain affiliate links. Purchases made through them may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Also, check out our recent articles on Georgetown Square Holiday Lights, Pemberton Heights Christmas Lights, and 37th Street Lights Austin.

What is the Austin Trail of Lights?

Image credit: Austin Trail of Lights

The Austin Trail of Lights transforms Zilker Metropolitan Park into a sparkling wonderland each holiday season. Visitors can wander a 2.5-mile path lined with more than 2 million twinkling lights, 90 lighted holiday trees, and over 70 festive displays.

There are also lighted tunnels, giant holiday icons, and a towering tree crafted from one of Austin’s historic moonlight towers that create magical moments at every turn. More than that, visitors can also enjoy food trucks, live entertainment stages, interactive experiences, and classic amusement rides like the Ferris wheel and carousel.

The Trail began in 1965 as “Yule Fest,” a small community gathering featuring the lighting of a Yule log. Over the years, it evolved into the Trail of Lights and earned its official name in 1992. Today, it draws roughly 400,000 attendees each season, making it one of Austin’s most beloved holiday traditions.

2025 Dates, Ticket Info & What’s New

Image credit: Austin Trail Of Lights

The 2025 Austin Trail of Lights runs from December 10 through December 23, giving visitors two full weeks to experience the city’s most dazzling holiday tradition. Tickets are available online, and planning ahead ensures the best time slots to enjoy the park without long waits.

Tickets:

Ticket prices vary by date, but there are plenty of days when you can enter the attraction for free. Please check their calendar for the full schedule.

Here are the ticket options you can avail of:

General admission: $8 | Free for kids 11 and under
ZIP Pass: $32.88. Kids 5 and under receive a free ZIP pass with an adult’s ZIP pass ticket
- Early access (6 pm) to the Trail of Lights
- Entrance through the exclusive ZIP entrance
- Access to the ZIP lounge area
- Get complimentary holiday cookies, cocoa, seating, heated washrooms, a bar, and ideal
PLATINUM Pass: $116 for individual | $180 for 2-pack | $270 for 3-pack | $360 for 4-pack | $450 for 5-pack | $540 for 6-pack | Children 5 and under receive free Platinum Lounge access with a ticketed Platinum adult.
- Get valet parking for one vehicle
- 6:00 pm early access to the Trail through a private, dedicated entry
- Golf cart shuttle access to Trailhead
- A private, heated Platinum Lounge with seating, two bars, and heated washrooms
- One drink ticket is valid at bars throughout the park per person
- One ride ticket for premium entry to the Ferris wheel or carousel per person

Please take note, pets are not allowed.

What’s New

This year brings exciting new features that promise to make the trail even more unforgettable.

The Neon Zoo, created by local studio Ion Art, offers an immersive walk-through celebrating Austin’s vibrant art scene, with glowing animals and colorful installations that invite you to step inside the magic.

The Texas Tunnel, inspired by the warm hues of a Texas sunset, guides visitors into a special section honoring the Lone Star State, combining stunning visuals with playful, interactive elements.

Location & Getting There (Zilker Park)

Address: 2100 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX 78704.

Zilker Park lies just south of downtown Austin, adjacent to Lady Bird Lake, making it easily accessible from the city center.

Parking and Shuttles

Image courtesy: Austin Trail of Lights

Arrive smoothly and start your Trail of Lights experience without delay by planning your parking and shuttle options.

Parking Options
Two convenient pre-paid parking lots are available for visitors. But, take note, all parking passes must be purchased online before the event, and lots open at 5:30 p.m.

Zilker Tree (Polo Field) Parking: This grassy lot sits near the iconic Zilker Tree and across from the Trail’s Grand Entrance. Follow the driving route provided with your ticket, as street closures are in effect and GPS directions may not work.
Austin High (Surface Lot) Parking: Located at 1715 W Cesar Chavez Street, this hard-surfaced lot sits about a mile from the Trail’s entrance. Guests can walk along Cesar Chavez Street to reach the Trail.

ADA Parking
Accessible parking is available at the Zilker Tree (Polo Field) lot for guests with a state-issued placard or license plate. Like all other parking, passes must be purchased online, and lots open at 5:30 p.m.

Shuttles
Shuttles depart from Toney Burger Event Center (3200 Jones Rd) beginning at 5:30 p.m. Riders enjoy expedited General Admission entry starting at 7 p.m.

A shuttle ticket costs $10 per person, and children 2 and under ride free on a lap.

Guests seeking early ZIP access must purchase both a shuttle ticket and a separate ZIP Pass. Arrive early at the shuttle lot to secure a seat near the front.

Foldable strollers also fit easily on shuttles, and ADA-accessible shuttles accommodate guests who need them.

What to Expect Inside the Event

Image Credit: austintrailoflights.org

The two-mile trail winds through Zilker Park, illuminated by over 2 million lights, 96 holiday trees, and more than 70 festive displays, from twinkling tunnels to iconic holiday figures. Every corner offers a new moment to marvel and capture memories. Here’s what to expect:

Neon Zoo by Ion Art – Immerse yourself in Austin’s creative energy with a dazzling installation that celebrates local art in bright, playful ways.
Texas Tunnel – Step through a glowing tunnel inspired by a sunset and discover vibrant Texas-themed tributes along the path.
Fan-Favorite Displays – Experience beloved spots like Candy Cane Lane, the North Pole area, KXAN Stegosaurus, and the giant Zilker Holiday Tree crafted from a historic moonlight tower.
Classic Rides – Enjoy Ferris wheel and carousel rides that offer stunning skyline views and timeless holiday charm.
Live Music and Performances – Catch local talent on the H-E-B Stage and Donner’s Depot, with nightly performances from artists such as Pedal Steel Noah, Nakia, and Los Coast.
Dance Lessons – Join swing and two-step dance sessions to add movement and fun to your evening.
Family Activities – Snap photos with Santa, visit crafting stations, and explore the children’s book stand for interactive experiences for all ages.
Festive Food and Drinks – Savor local seasonal treats and beverages from food trucks stationed along the trail, enhancing the holiday atmosphere.

Photo Tips & Ideal Viewing Times

Image credit: Austin Trail of Lights FB Page

Visit at twilight for magical light – Arrive just after sunset to catch the soft evening glow. The sky adds a beautiful backdrop to the lights, making everything feel more festive and photogenic.
Plan around your favorite displays – Popular spots like Candy Cane Lane, the North Pole area, and the giant Zilker Holiday Tree get busy. Try visiting them earlier in the evening or toward the end of the night for easier photos without crowds.
Take your time walking the trail – Pause at tunnels of lights, festive sculptures, and holiday trees. Even a casual snapshot captures the magic when you take a moment to frame it in the light.
Use benches and quiet corners – The trail has spots to pause and enjoy the lights. These locations also make perfect places for casual group photos or candid shots.
Even short exposures work – Smartphones or small cameras capture most displays well. Focus on holding steady, framing the display, and smiling, no complex settings required.
Keep moving and enjoy the moment – Stop too long in one spot, and lines may form. Walk through the trail at a relaxed pace, enjoy the lights, and snap photos along the way to naturally capture the best moments.

Nearby Holiday Displays if You Want More

If the Trail of Lights sparks your holiday spirit, Austin offers several other festive displays to continue the magic:

Peppermint Parkway at Circuit of The Americas – Take a drive-through adventure featuring thematic zones like Candy Cane Lane and The North Pole. Over 2 million lights dazzle along the route, and guests can enjoy holiday ziplining and go-karting for an extra dose of excitement.
Mozart’s Coffee Roasters Festival of Lights – Sip hot chocolate while wandering through more than a million synchronized lights at this downtown Austin favorite. Running from late November through early January, it combines festive ambiance with lakeside charm.
Community First! Village of Lights – Wander through thousands of lights choreographed to holiday music. Explore handcrafted gifts from resident artists, festive food and drinks, mini train rides, Santa photo opportunities, and even a Christmas movie screening.
Lights on the Lake – Stroll along the shores of Lake Travis and enjoy a walk-through Christmas display. Capture photos with holiday lights, meet Santa on Saturdays, encounter the Grinch, and take part in family-friendly activities.
Zilker Holiday Tree – Return to Zilker Park to experience the iconic 155-foot tree, adorned with thousands of lights and festive music. Visitors can enjoy community activities, seasonal treats, and picture-perfect moments around this beloved centerpiece.

Want to turn your lights tour into a full night out? Before you go (or right after), browse Things to do in Austin this Weekend for seasonal markets, live music, and can’t-miss holiday happenings.