Last Updated On – 4th December, 2025
Each winter, Georgetown carries on a tradition that fills the historic Square with a warm and steady glow. Strings of lights wrap the courthouse and stretch across the surrounding streets, giving the entire area a bright and inviting look.
You and your loved ones can admire decorated windows, grab a warm drink, take photos under trees lined with sparkling light, or recreate the simple traditions the Square holds.
If you’re planning a visit this season, check out the full details of the Georgetown Square holiday lights below.
Looking ahead to the weekend? Don’t miss our complete guide to Things to do 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 Austin Trail of Lights, Pemberton Heights Christmas Lights, and 37th Street Lights Austin.
Georgetown Square Holiday Lights (Nightly Through January)
Image Credit: austinot.com
The Square is known as one of the most beautiful in Texas, and the season brings an extra layer of charm as historic buildings, towering trees, and the Williamson County Courthouse shine with festive displays.
The celebration begins with the annual “Lighting of the Square,” which kicked off the celebrations last November 28, 2025. From there, the Georgetown Square Holiday Lights will continue to light up every night at dusk until January 1, 2026.
Best photo spots at the Georgetown Square Holiday Lights
Williamson County Courthouse (710 S. Main St.)
This is the heart of the holiday display. The courthouse offers a stunning backdrop for photos, especially when its columns and roofline light up. It’s also the top spot to capture carolers and other upcoming events of the season.
Center of the Square (Main St. & Austin Ave.)
The center gives you a full 360-degree view of the trees and surrounding buildings. The lights shine brightest after 6 p.m., creating a beautiful setting for wide shots.
Main Street between 6th and 9th Streets
This stretch provides a calmer photo experience with fewer crowds. Storefronts and draped lights make it a great place for close-up shots and more intimate holiday scenes.
Austin Avenue bridge edges (near 6th–9th St.)
From here, you can capture higher-angle views of the entire Square shimmering at once. These elevated spots offer some of the most dramatic photos of the season.
Intersections at 7th and 8th Streets
These corners give you creative angles of light-strung trees and quieter moments of the Square. They also frame the courthouse nicely in the distance.
Historic homes along Main Street
The homes near the Square add a warm, classic touch to your photos. Their decorations blend beautifully with the larger display and show off Georgetown’s small-town charm.
The Best Walking Route to Take
This short 0.5-mile loop takes about 15–20 minutes and offers the best views once the lights turn on after 6 p.m. It’s pedestrian-friendly and easy to follow even during busy nights.
1. Courthouse east steps (Start)
Begin by facing west for a full view of the courthouse lights and ceremony space.
2. Walk south along Main St. to 9th St.
This portion is filled with glowing storefronts, decorated trees, and several historic homes dressed up for the season.
3. Head west on 9th St. to Church St.
You’ll get a side angle of the Square from here and a quieter section of tree displays.
4. Go north on Church St. to Austin Ave.
The slight elevation along this stretch gives you great panoramic photos of the twinkling Square.
5. Walk east on Austin Ave. to 6th St.
This is the best place to frame the full Square from a distance. Look for the giant lighted bulb near Kilwins. It makes a fun photo stop.
6. Return south along Main St. and 6th St. back to the Courthouse
Finish the loop with views of the courthouse corner tree and the center of the Square glowing from every direction.
The 44th Annual Candyland Christmas Stroll
Kick off your holiday season with festive, family-friendly fun at the 44th Annual Candyland Christmas Stroll in Georgetown!
Running from December 5–7, 2025, this beloved event transforms the Square into a candy-coated wonderland full of lights, music, and seasonal cheer. From photo ops with Santa to hundreds of artisan vendors, the Stroll has something for every sweet-toothed visitor.
Schedule of Events
Friday, December 5 – Sweet Start to the Stroll (4:00–9:30 p.m.)
The Stroll kicks off with the Groovin’ with the Grinch celebration at the Silver Bell Stage from 6:00–8:00 p.m., followed by the Grinch After-Party at the Wish Well House from 8:00–9:00 p.m.
You’ll also get a first look at the over 200 Candyland-themed vendor booths, offering unique gifts and early holiday finds. So, take a stroll through the Square’s beautifully decorated storefronts and enjoy the twinkling lights while checking out what’s new for this year.
Saturday, December 6 – Stroll, Sweets & Parade Fun (10:00 a.m.–9:30 p.m.)
The day begins with the Candyland Parade at 10:00 a.m., bringing colorful floats and lively performances to downtown Georgetown.
Afterward, you can stop by Santa’s Village for a photo with Santa, enjoy Whoo Hair and face painting, or explore the Candy Cane Kids Zone with games, crafts, storytime, and more. Don’t miss Candyland Snow in the Park, where falling “snow” adds extra magic to the sweet-filled experience.
Throughout the day, live performances will take place on two stages, showcasing local talent and community groups.
Sunday, December 7 – The Sweet Finale (10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m)
Shop for last-minute gifts at artisan booths, enjoy local treats, and let the kids explore interactive activities one more time. The Stroll will close with final performances and a farewell celebration, leaving visitors with a seasonally sweet memory to carry home.
Parking, Street Closures & Best Times to Visit
Image credit: Visit Georgetown, Texas
A little planning makes your visit to Georgetown Square’s holiday lights smooth and enjoyable. Parking fills quickly during busy nights, and some streets close for seasonal events, so knowing the options and timing helps you make the most of your evening.
Parking Options
Free Public Lots
These lots are conveniently located for quick access to the Square and are especially useful when nearby roads close during events.
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Seventh & Rock Streets
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Austin Avenue & Fifth Street
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Martin Luther King Jr. Street & Seventh and Eighth Streets
Parking Garages
Garages provide covered parking and extra space during crowded nights.
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Sixth & Main Streets
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Fourth & Rock Streets
Valet & Handicapped Parking
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Valet service operates at the northwest corner of Church Street & 8th Street during peak events.
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Handicapped parking is available at Ninth & Main Streets with specific access.
Arrive early, as spaces fill quickly, and be ready to take alternate routes due to occasional bridge construction.
Street Closures
Most street closures happen only during major events.
On the 44th Annual Candyland Christmas Stroll on December 5 – 7, Austin Avenue, Main Street, and surrounding roads will be closed for the weekend to make room for vendors, lights, and visitors.
Best Times to Visit
The best time to experience Georgetown Square’s holiday lights is in the evening, after 6 p.m., when the courthouse, trees, and surrounding buildings shine in their full festive glow. If you prefer a quieter visit, weeknights after 10:30 p.m. offer minimal crowds and a peaceful stroll through the sparkling streets.
More Holiday Events Near Georgetown Square (2025)
Image credit: Visit Georgetown, Texas
If you want to extend your holiday adventures beyond the Square, the Georgetown area offers plenty of festive events and displays to explore.
Sweet Eats Christmas Festival
Located on a large farm along Highway 29, this winter wonderland offers a variety of fun Christmas activities. You can visit a giant gingerbread house, take photos with Santa, see live reindeer, and participate in games and holiday activities.
Round Rock “Light Up the Lake”
Just a short drive away, Old Settlers Park in Round Rock hosts this annual lakefront light festival. Enjoy dazzling displays, synchronized light shows, live music, food, and giant balloons.
Wolf Ranch Christmas Tree & Lights
This Georgetown display features a large, music-synchronized Christmas tree. It’s ideal for photos and a festive evening stroll.
Rancho Sienna Neighborhood Lights
Drive through the Rancho Sienna Loop to see stunning home displays that light up the neighborhood. This recurring yearly tradition makes for a cozy, scenic experience from the comfort of your car.
Williamson Museum Lawn Displays
Located near downtown Georgetown, the museum’s lawn features holiday arches and seasonal décor. It’s a charming spot for portraits and adds a historic touch to your holiday outing.
Local Tips for Enjoying Georgetown Square Holiday Lights
Image credit: Visit Georgetown, Texas
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Bring a small flashlight or use your phone’s light — for navigating after dark. Even though the Square lights up beautifully, sidewalks or alleys may be dim. A light helps you avoid uneven surfaces, curbs, or other trip hazards.
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Wear visible or reflective clothing — especially if you go with kids or in a group. This helps drivers and other pedestrians notice you, especially in darker or crowded areas.
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Plan a fallback route or exit strategy early. During events or peak nights, some roads or paths may close. A backup walking/parking plan helps avoid stress if you get delayed or crowded.
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Watch the weather and sidewalk conditions. Even in Texas, damp or cool weather can make sidewalks slick. Loose stones or uneven pavement around older buildings might also pose a hazard, so be attentive while walking.
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Supervise children closely — especially near streets or crowded spots. With crowds, lights, and other distractions, it’s easy for children to wander off or step into unsafe zones.
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Bring a small bag instead of a bulky backpack if you plan to browse shops or vendor booths. It keeps things lighter in crowded spots and makes it easier to move around and take photos.
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Consider public transport or rideshare if available to avoid parking drama and crowded lots. If lots fill up or roads are closed, this can be a convenient, stress-free option.
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Be mindful of decorations and display elements. Avoid touching lights, wiring, or props. It’s safer and ensures displays stay intact for everyone’s enjoyment.
- Bring cash for local vendors – Many shops, food trucks, and holiday stands accept cash only or have limited card processing.
Keep the holiday magic going! After your stroll around Georgetown Square, check out Things to Do in Austin This Weekend for the latest festivals, live music, and seasonal pop-ups.
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