I know we just sent kids off to school, but Tuesday, The Trail of Lights announced the dates for the 54th running of the Christmas lights spectacular.
The official grand opening will be Monday, Dec. 10 and will be free that day.
The famous Trail of Lights tunnel of lights will shine again in December. American-Statesman
The lights will continue 7-10 p.m. Dec. 11-23 in Zilker Park. Children younger than 12 are always free. Seven out of the other 14 nights also will be free. The Trail will offer fast passes, and parking and shuttle passes for an extra fee and available in advance. Ticket availability will be released in October at austintrailoflights.org.
What will be new this year?
- A 13-foot lighted carriage
- 12 7-foot lighted guitars
- A 25-foot spiral holiday tree
The Trail expects to feature 2 million lights, more than 65 displays, 30 food trucks and three stages. It also will host interactive experiences and 50 private holiday parties.
The Trail of Lights season begins on Nov. 25 with the lighting of the Zilker Holiday Tree.
The Austin Trail of Lights Fun Run is planned for Dec. 1. It’s a way to see the lights before the trail officially opens. It’s a 2.1-mile run.
The fundraising preview night will be Dec. 8 and will include activities such as food tastings not available during the rest of the Trail’s nights.
Once again, the Trail of Lights Foundation Board is hosting STARS at the Trail, private viewing of the trail by local nonprofit organizations’ clients Dec. 2, 3 and 4, as well as during the public nights. Organizations can apply by Sept. 18 to be considered at austintrailoflights.org/stars-application.
Heroes Night on Dec. 11 will honor first responders and current military and veterans and their family.
The Trail is also looking for entertainment for its stages. You can apply at www.austintrailoflights.org/performer-application by Sept. 28.