Austin Christmas is a magical time of year, with the city coming alive with holiday events, lights, and festivities. If you're planning to visit Austin in 2026, you won't want to miss out on the fun. From the iconic Trail of Lights to the stunning Zilker tree, there's something for everyone to enjoy. In this guide, we'll take you through the top holiday events and lights displays in Austin, so you can plan your Christmas stay in the city.
Austin is home to a wide range of holiday events, from festivals and parades to markets and fairs. One of the most popular events is the Austin Trail of Lights, which takes place in Zilker Park from December 10 to 23, 2026. This festive event features over 2 million lights, 96 holiday trees, and more than 70 festive displays, including twinkling tunnels and iconic holiday figures. Tickets start at $8, with select dates offering free admission.
The University of Texas at Austin also gets into the holiday spirit with its annual Longhorn Lights display. From November 18 to January 1, 2026, the campus will be adorned with orange and white lights, adding a festive glow to the heart of the Forty Acres. The iconic Tower will be illuminated from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. every night, making it a must-visit spot for holiday photos.
In addition to the Trail of Lights, Austin is home to several other light displays and festivals. The Lights on the Lake walk-thru event takes place at Volente Beach Resort & Waterpark from November 14 to January 4, 2026. This new holiday tradition features a festive walk-thru experience with thousands of lights and decorations. Another popular event is the Light Up the Lake festival, which takes place on December 6 and 7, 2026, at Old Settlers Park.
Stay at Avon22 in West Campus -- a 3BR apartment within walking distance of UT Austin. Book direct and save 15% compared to Airbnb.
Austin is a shopper's paradise, with a wide range of unique boutiques, markets, and malls. During the holiday season, the city comes alive with festive markets and shopping events. The Holiday Shopping Passport is a great way to explore the city's best shops and restaurants, with exclusive discounts and offers at participating businesses. When it comes to dining, Austin is famous for its food trucks, and during the holiday season, you can find many of them serving up festive treats and drinks.
The best neighborhood to stay in Austin for holiday events is West Campus, which is within walking distance of UT Austin and many of the city's top attractions. Our 3BR apartment at Avon22 is the perfect base for your holiday stay, with free parking, 1 Gbps WiFi, and flexible terms.
The Trail of Lights is located in Zilker Park, which is about 5 minutes from downtown Austin. You can easily get to the park using public transportation or ride-sharing services.
The Longhorn Lights display at UT Austin takes place from November 18 to January 1, 2026. The lights are illuminated from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. every night.
Austin is a vibrant and festive city during the holiday season, with something for everyone to enjoy. By staying at Avon22 in West Campus, you'll be close to all the action, with easy access to UT Austin, downtown Austin, and many of the city's top attractions. Book your stay now and save 15% compared to Airbnb. With our direct booking option, you'll get the best rates and a personalized service from our locally owned and operated team. We look forward to welcoming you to Austin for the holiday season!
Aman & Vasanthi
Vantura Stays Hosts
Austin locals and UT Austin alumni who have hosted 48+ groups at their West Campus apartment. They love sharing hidden gems, local tips, and the best of their city with guests from around the world.
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