Johnson City Christmas Lights Spectacular 2025 – Dates, Parking, Tickets & Map (Verified Guide)

Last Updated On – 21st December, 2025

The Johnson City Christmas Lights Spectacular is one of the most dazzling holiday displays in all of Texas. Known for its breathtaking PEC headquarters lighting, often called “Meteor Shower Alley,” the event attracts families from Austin, the Hill Country, and beyond.

Here, you’ll also see Johnson City transform into a glowing holiday village, with millions of lights stretching across downtown, Memorial Park, and the Pedernales Electric Cooperative campus.

This 2025 guide includes all the details you need to know, including dates, parking info, PEC display updates, and local tips to help you plan the perfect visit.

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.

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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 Christmas Lights Austin, Lakeway Trail of Lights, Peppermint Parkway Christmas Lights Austin, 37th Street Lights Austin, Pemberton Heights Christmas Lights, Austin Trail of Lights, and Georgetown Square Holiday Lights.

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Johnson City Christmas Lights Spectacular 2025 Dates & Hours

For 2025, the event runs from November 28 or 29 through January 4 or 5, with the lights shining bright every night from dusk (around 5:45-6:00 PM) until midnight.

Are Tickets Required?

No tickets are required. The entire event is free and open to the public.

Directions

Driving from Austin to Johnson City, Texas, for the Lights Spectacular takes about 55 minutes covering 48 miles via US-290 West, the most direct and scenic route through Hill Country.

Head to the downtown area around the courthouse at 101 E. Pecan Drive for the main displays.​

Step-by-Step Directions

Start in central Austin and follow these turns:

• Take US-290 West toward Johnson City (about 45 miles).

• Continue straight on US-290 W/US-281 N through Oak Hill and Dripping Springs.

• In Johnson City, turn right onto US-281 N/FM 1323 toward downtown.

• Arrive at Pecan Drive for parking and lights.

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Parking Guide

You’ll find street parking along non-residential downtown streets near 101 E. Pecan Drive (the courthouse area). First-come, first-served spots are available at the courthouse and surrounding blocks, including Johnson City Park at Avenue G & Main Street.

There are additional free parking spots at intersections like:

• Seventh and Rock Streets

• Austin Avenue and Fifth Street

• Martin Luther King Jr. Street near Seventh and Eighth Streets

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Things to Do at the Johnson City Christmas Lights Spectacular

The Johnson City Christmas Lights Spectacular offers something for everyone, from stunning light displays to festive activities and local traditions. Here’s a list of the key attractions to enjoy while you’re there:

Viewing the Lights

The heart of the event is the breathtaking display of millions of LED lights that illuminate the Blanco County Courthouse, downtown buildings, Memorial Park, and the PEC headquarters.

Stroll the streets from dusk to midnight, capturing photos and enjoying the glow.

Lighted Hooves & Wheels Parade

Kick off the holiday season with the Lighted Hooves & Wheels Parade, which takes place on the Saturday of opening weekend. The parade starts around 6:30 PM and features glowing floats, classic cars, horse-drawn carriages, tractors, and costumed entries. 

Carriage and Hay Rides

For a cozy and magical experience, hop on a horse-drawn carriage ride departing from the courthouse yard. These rides offer a twinkling tour of the beautifully lit streets and parks.

Hayrides are also available, especially on weekends, providing a fun, bumpy alternative that’s a hit with families.

Living Nativity Pageant

A beloved 50-year tradition, the Living Nativity Pageant is produced by the local Methodist Church on the first two weekends of December (Fridays and Saturdays at 6:30 PM). This half-hour live reenactment features real animals, nativity scenes, and bleacher seating for the audience.

After the show, enjoy free refreshments and explore global nativity displays inside.

Christmas at LBJ Boyhood Home

The National Park Service offers special lamp-lit tours and holiday events at Lyndon B. Johnson’s boyhood home in downtown Johnson City. These tours run on weekends and include historical insights, seasonal decorations, and exhibits that tie into the Christmas Lights festivities.

Garden Club Booth and Shopping

Head to the Johnson City Garden Club’s booth inside the decorated courthouse on weekends until 9:00 PM. The booth offers handmade ornaments, gifts, and decorations, with all proceeds benefiting the event. You can also enjoy holiday music in the yard while you shop.

Outdoor Movies

Enjoy a cozy outdoor movie experience as part of the weekend festivities. Watching a film under the stars, surrounded by holiday lights, adds a perfect cinematic touch to your evening.

Garden Club Crafters Booth

For more shopping, check out the Garden Club Crafters Booth at the Old Annex Market. Open on weekends from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM, it features handmade holiday items, crafts, and treats from local vendors.

Local Food, Beer, and Wine Booths

Don’t miss the food, beer, and wine booths scattered throughout downtown. You can grab holiday-themed drinks, fudge, cookies, and other treats while browsing crafts and enjoying the festivities.

Clickety Cloggers Performance

On opening Saturday, don’t miss the Clickety Cloggers tap-dancing performance around 5:30 PM at the courthouse square. The colorful costumes and lively holiday tunes will surely get you in the festive spirit!

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Main Viewing Areas

The Johnson City Christmas Lights Spectacular offers several key spots where you can enjoy the best of the holiday displays. Here are the top viewing areas to check out:

Historic Downtown Square

The heart of the event is centered around Main Street and the Blanco County Courthouse at 101 E. Pecan Drive. This historic square dazzles with draped lights on the buildings, a laser light show, and sparkling lighted ornaments on the courthouse lawn, despite ongoing renovations.

Memorial Park

Located just off Avenue G and Main Street, Memorial Park is a spacious, family-friendly area ideal for those looking for a more relaxed experience. With colorful themed displays and massive, light-wrapped oak trees, this park offers a quieter space for photos and enjoying the lights away from the busier crowds.

PEC Headquarters

At 201 S. Avenue F, the Pedernales Electric Cooperative (PEC) headquarters is one of the event’s top highlights. Over 1 million lights adorn sprawling Hill Country oak trees, creating a stunning glowing canopy. It’s the perfect spot for peaceful walks under a breathtaking display.

Additional Spots

The lights extend beyond these main areas, reaching surrounding streets, the LBJ Boyhood Home (where you can enjoy lamp-lit tours), and nearby city parks. The entire trail of lights connects these spots, providing a seamless experience that ties together the best of Johnson City’s holiday offerings.

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Tips for Visiting

• Arrive Early for Parking
  The downtown area can get crowded, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure a good parking spot, particularly near the Blanco County Courthouse or Memorial Park. Weeknights tend to be less busy and offer easier access.

• Wear Comfortable Shoes
  Since you’ll be walking around the historic downtown area and various parks, it’s important to wear comfortable shoes. Expect to stroll through a few different locations to fully experience the light displays.

• Check the Weather
  December nights in Texas can get chilly. Dress in layers, wear a warm coat, and bring gloves or scarves, especially if you plan to stay out after dark.

• Visit on Weeknights for Less Crowding
  If you prefer a more relaxed experience without the crowds, visit on a weeknight when the displays are still stunning but less crowded than on weekends.

• Plan to Enjoy Multiple Viewing Areas
  Don’t just stay in one spot! Explore Memorial Park, the PEC Headquarters, and the Historic Downtown Square to see the full extent of the light displays. Each area offers a unique experience and a different perspective on the holiday magic.

• Bring Snacks or Drinks
  While there are food and drink booths in the area, bringing your own snacks and warm beverages (like hot cocoa) can keep you energized and cozy as you walk through the displays.

• Check the Schedule for Special Events
  Don’t miss out on unique events like the Lighted Hooves & Wheels Parade and the Living Nativity Pageant! Check the schedule ahead of time to plan your visit around these special activities.

• Respect the Local Community
  The Johnson City Christmas Lights Spectacular is a community event, so make sure to respect the area by staying on designated paths and keeping noise levels low. Keep your space tidy and be considerate of others enjoying the displays.

• Support Local Vendors
  Stop by the Garden Club Booth or other local vendor booths to purchase handmade decorations or treats. It’s a great way to take home a special souvenir and support the local community.

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More Christmas Lights Near Johnson City

If you’re looking to extend your holiday light adventures beyond the Johnson City Christmas Lights Spectacular, several nearby attractions offer even more festive fun. 

The Light Park 

This drive-thru light show is a must-see, featuring millions of synchronized LED lights set to holiday music. Enjoy the spectacular displays from the comfort of your car as you cruise at 3 mph along a mile-long route.

Premium bundles with light wands and snacks are available, making it a perfect family outing.

The Jones Christmas Ranch 

With over 4 million lights, the Jones Christmas Ranch offers a drive-thru experience with music that adds to the festive atmosphere. On weekends, there are also indoor experiences, Santa visits, and family-friendly activities. 

Prairie Lights

Texas’s largest drive-thru light show, Prairie Lights, features over 5 million lights along a 2-mile loop at Lynn Creek Park. After the drive-thru, enjoy a walkable Holiday Village complete with rides, treats, and photo opportunities. 

Santa’s Ranch

Located on winding country roads, Santa’s Ranch is a mile-long drive-thru with 3 million lights. It’s one of Texas’s longest-running holiday traditions, offering plenty of family-friendly magic along the way. 

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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.