Last Updated On – 21st December, 2025
The Lakeway Trail of Lights is one of Austin’s most charming holiday traditions, attracting families, couples, and Christmas-light lovers from all around Central Texas. Set along the scenic Lakeway City Park Trail, this free walk-through experience features thousands of sparkling lights, themed displays, and festive touches that make it one of the most beloved holiday attractions near Austin.
This guide has everything you need to know for you to make the most of your visit to the Lakeway Trail of Lights Austin, including dates, parking, map, directions, nearby dining, and helpful tips.
Looking ahead to the weekend? Don’t miss our complete guide to events & activities in Austin this weekend, including free festivals, live music, and hidden gems.
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.
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Also, check out our recent articles on Christmas Lights Austin, Johnson City Christmas Lights Spectacular, Peppermint Parkway Christmas Lights Austin, 37th Street Lights Austin, Pemberton Heights Christmas Lights, Austin Trail of Lights, and Georgetown Square Holiday Lights.
Lakeway Trail of Lights Austin 2025 Dates & Hours
Image credit: Dave Rodarte
The Lakeway Trail of Lights is set to dazzle visitors from December 5, 2025, to January 1, 2026, this holiday season. You can enjoy the stunning light displays every night from 6:00 PM to midnight.
This event is also self-guided, so visitors can walk the trail at their own pace.
Is the Lakeway Trail of Lights Free?
Yes, admission to the Lakeway Trail of Lights is completely free.
Address, Directions, and Parking
The Lakeway Trail of Lights is located at the heart of Lakeway, Texas, at 1102 Lohmans Crossing Road, just a short drive from Austin.
Directions from Austin
Hop onto TX-71 W toward Bee Cave, take the exit for Lohmans Crossing Road, and follow it straight to the parking lot at 1102 Lohmans Crossing Road.
Parking
When you head out to the Lakeway Trail of Lights, you’ll find plenty of free parking options, making your visit both easy and stress-free.
Primary Parking Areas
The most convenient place to park is at the City Hall parking lot located at 1102 Lohmans Crossing Road. This lot gives you direct access to the trail behind the building, so you’ll be just steps away from the twinkling lights.
You can also park at the lower parking lot of the Lakeway Activity Center at 105 Cross Creek. From here, a short stairway leads you up to the trail, adding a little extra holiday magic on your way in.
For those with strollers or mobility concerns, access is a breeze. From the City Hall parking lot, follow the sidewalk near the dumpster cage and go around to the back entrance for an accessible route.
Additional Options
If these lots fill up, there’s plenty of space at the Lakeway Justice Center parking lot. It’s just a short walk over to City Hall, where you can catch the trail entrance.
Best of all? Parking is completely free, and there’s no need to worry about making a reservation.
Things to Do at Lakeway Trail of Lights
Image credit: Lakeway Trail Of Lights
Lakeway Trail of Lights 2025 offers a simple, festive walking experience focused on holiday lights, with no on-site vendors or rides. But here are the highlights you can expect:
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Tunnel of Lights
One of the most iconic features of the Lakeway Trail of Lights, the Tunnel of Lights immerses you in a canopy of bright, twinkling lights. -
Themed Light Displays
Enjoy a variety of themed light displays along the trail. These include classic holiday scenes such as snowflakes, reindeer, and sleighs. These installations add a whimsical touch to your stroll and are a photographer’s dream. -
Santa Meet & Greet
Families can visit Santa for photos and a brief chat. -
Twinkling Trees and Gardens
The trail features beautifully lit trees and gardens, adding a peaceful, serene atmosphere to the event. -
Holiday Music
While there are no live performances or food vendors on-site, holiday music is often played along the trail, enhancing the festive atmosphere as you walk through the lights. -
Photo Opportunities
Throughout the trail, there are plenty of photo spots with illuminated displays. Whether it’s a giant wreath, glowing arches, or light sculptures, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to capture the holiday spirit in your photos.
Tips for Visiting the Lakeway Trail of Lights Austin 2025
Image credit: Lakeway Parks & Recreation Department
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Arrive early to avoid crowds
To make the most of your visit, consider arriving early in the evening, especially on weekends. The lights are on from 6:00 PM to midnight, but arriving earlier means you’ll enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere and avoid peak crowd times. -
Dress warmly and comfortably
Even in Austin, the evenings can get chilly during the winter months. Dress in layers, wear comfortable shoes (since you’ll be walking), and bring a jacket to stay warm while strolling through the trail. -
Check the weather forecast
Check the weather forecast before you go. If there’s rain or extreme cold in the forecast, you may want to bring an umbrella or rain jacket to stay comfortable. -
Plan for parking
While parking is free, spaces can fill up quickly on busy nights. Plan ahead by checking out the City Hall parking lot (1102 Lohmans Crossing Rd.) and Lakeway Activity Center parking (105 Cross Creek). If these fill up, the Lakeway Justice Center is a good additional option. -
Bring snacks & drinks
Since there won’t be food vendors on-site this year, it’s a good idea to pack some snacks or drinks in advance. Hot cocoa, cider, or a small thermos with your favorite drink can keep you cozy as you explore the lights. -
Respect the environment & other visitors
Remember to keep noise levels low, avoid blocking the path with large groups, and pick up after yourself. Being courteous ensures that everyone can enjoy the magic of the event. -
Bring Cash for Donations
The event is free, but they may accept donations for local charities or the city’s holiday events. Keep some small bills on hand if you’d like to contribute to a good cause while supporting this local tradition.
Other Christmas Lights Near Austin
Image credit: City of Lakeway Government
Trail of Lights Austin
This iconic holiday event features millions of lights along a 2-mile trail, complete with live music, food vendors, and kid-friendly zones. The event runs from late November through December and requires timed tickets. It’s a holiday classic and just a 20-minute drive from Lakeway!
Zilker Holiday Tree
The stunning 155-foot Zilker Holiday Tree is decked out with 3.2 million lights, creating a mesmerizing sight. The tree is also surrounded by vendors, festive photo ops, and additional light displays.
It’s open nightly through early January and located just a short distance from the Trail of Lights.
Mozart’s Festival of Lights
Enjoy a lakeside light show at Mozart’s, which features floating light displays and LED flyboard performances on Lake Austin. There’s also a Christmas village with tasty treats, hot chocolate, and live music every night through January 3.
Bee Cave on Ice
Lace up your skates and enjoy outdoor ice skating at Bee Cave on Ice, located at the Hill Country Galleria. The rink offers a fun, festive atmosphere with skating sessions for all skill levels.
It’s open daily from mid-November to mid-January, so you can add some winter fun to your holiday plans.
Lights on the Lake
Head to Volente Beach Resort on Lake Travis for a beautiful beachside Christmas walk-through. Enjoy stunning light displays, meet Santa and the Grinch, visit singing snowmen, and indulge in s’mores, holiday games, and festive food and drinks.
This family-friendly experience runs from mid-November to early January and is perfect for those looking to combine lights with holiday crafts and fun activities.
Want to round out your night after the lights? Head to our Austin weekend guide for can’t-miss markets, holiday shows, and cozy seasonal activities.
