Austin Trail of Lights 2023 – Your Guide to Zilker Park Holiday Displays, Tickets, Parking, & More!

Experience the Magic of the 59th Annual Austin Trail of Lights!

The Austin Trail of Lights is a beloved Austin tradition that has been bringing joy to families and friends for over 50 years. This year, the event returns to Zilker Park from December 8th to 23rd, 2023, and it promises to be bigger and brighter than ever before.

With over two million lights illuminating the park, the Trail of Lights is a truly magical sight. Stroll along the winding paths and take in the dazzling displays, from towering trees dripping with lights to whimsical scenes from your favorite holiday stories.

In addition to the lights, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy at the Trail of Lights. Hop on the Zilker Zephyr train for a ride through the park, take a spin on the carousel, or roast marshmallows over an open fire. There are also plenty of food and drink vendors on-site, so you can make a night of it.

Whether you’re a longtime Austin resident or just visiting for the holidays, the Austin Trail of Lights is an event you don’t want to miss. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.

Also, check our posts on Ice Skating Austin, Winter Camp Austin 2023, and Austin Christmas Lights 2023!

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Austin Trail of Lights 2023 – Live at the Trail & The Trail of Lights

2023 ZILKER STAGE LINEUP Presented by Texas Music Scene

• December 16, 2023: Texas String Assembly
• December 17, 2023: The Mellows
• December 19, 2023: Ian Stewart
• December 20, 2023: Csardas Hungarian Dancers
• December 21, 2023: Ephraim Owens
• December 22, 2023: Cool Yule Jazz Orchestra
• December 23, 2023: Tomar & The FCS

The Trail now features more than 2 million lights illuminating the park, 90 lighted holiday trees and more than 70 other holiday displays and lighted tunnels.

As is tradition, the Trail hosts private nights allowing limited free entry through the STARS at the Trail program for over 40 non-profit partners in the community, as well as providing thousands of passes to eligible families throughout the Austin Independent School District.

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Austin Trail of Lights 2023 – Tickets, Parking, and more!

Austin Trail of Lights 2023 Dates & Location

Austin Trail of Lights for 2023 will open on Friday, 8th of December and the closing night will be on Saturday, 23rd of December.

Where: Zilker Park: 2100 Barton Springs Rd. Austin, TX 78704

Zilker Trail of Lights Austin 2023 – Tickets

Ticketing is straightforward as well. There are three ticket types depending on the day:

• General Admission: General Admission ranges from $0 – $8 depending on the night and includes access to the Trail of Lights, free photos with Santa, and more! Children 11 and under are always free to enter with a ticketed adult.
  • 6:00pm Early Access + Exclusive Entrance
  • ZIP guests also receive access to the ZIP Lounge Area in Candy Cane Lane near the beginning of the Trail. At the Lounge you will find complimentary holiday cookies, cocoa, comfortable seating, heated washrooms, a bar, and ideal proximity to the first group of food trucks.
• ZIP passes: ZIP passes, presented by Perry Homes are $25 and are a favorite of families and small groups, especially on busier nights at the Trail. Children 5 and under receive free ZIP access with a ticketed ZIP adult.
• Platinum Passes: Platinum Passes range from $95 – $435 depending on your group size. Discover a VIP experience with our Platinum program, presented by Northern Trust.
  • Valet parking for one vehicle
  • Platinum concierge customer service on-site
  • 6:00 pm early access
  • Golf cart shuttle access to Trailhead
  • Access to a private, heated Platinum Lounge with comfortable seating and exclusive bar
  • One drink ticket
  • One ride ticket for expedited entry to the Ferris wheel or carousel per Platinum Pass

  Children 5 and under receive free Platinum access with a ticketed Platinum adult.

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Zilker Park Trail of Lights 2023 – Transportation & Parking

• Parking Passes: A limited number of parking passes are available every night and must be purchased online in advance. Parking passes are $25. Get one before they’re gone!
• Shuttle Passes: The Shuttle will operate from two locations on select nights. Shuttle Passes are $8 and include your General Admission entry fee.

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