Austin Trail of Lights 2026
Dates checked 4 Nov 2026
Austin's best-known holiday tradition, begun in 1965, is a 1.25-mile walking trail through Zilker Park with more than 2 million lights, about 90 lighted trees and more than 70 displays and tunnels. Half of its 14 nights are free to enter.
| Dates | December 10 to 23, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Open Days | Every night of its run |
| Hours | Every night 7 pm to 10 pm ZIP and Platinum pass holders may enter from 6 pm. A Night Lights preview party is on Dec 4 and the Fun Run on Dec 5. |
| Tickets | Free general admission Dec 10, 11 and 13 to 17; $8 per person aged 12 and up on Dec 12 and 18 to 23; children 11 and under always free with a ticketed adult; ZIP passes $20 to $25, parking passes $25 to $35 (2026) |
| Type | Walk-through light show |
| Length | A 1.25-mile trail; more than 2 million lights, 90 lighted trees and over 70 displays and tunnels |
| Where | Zilker Park, southwest of downtown, 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704 |
| Transit | The organizers point to bus routes 3, 30 and 803 and the 550 rail line; a paid shuttle runs from Toney Burger Center on Dec 12 and 18 to 23. |
| Dogs | No pets; only service animals. |
Checked on Austin Trail of Lights (Trail of Lights Foundation), November 4, 2026. Buy tickets from the organizer's own site.
Where Is Austin Trail of Lights?
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Questions About Austin Trail of Lights
When is Austin Trail of Lights open in 2026?
December 10 to 23, 2026. Hours: Every night 7 pm to 10 pm.
How much are tickets for Austin Trail of Lights?
Free general admission Dec 10, 11 and 13 to 17; $8 per person aged 12 and up on Dec 12 and 18 to 23; children 11 and under always free with a ticketed adult; ZIP passes $20 to $25, parking passes $25 to $35 (2026). Prices as published by the organizer for 2026.
Is Austin Trail of Lights a drive-through?
No: it is a walk-through show that you see on foot.