Article by: SouthernLiving.com

If you’re spending Christmas in Austin, head to these five spots to get into the holiday spirit. Despite its warm climate, Austin transforms into a winter wonderland over the holidays, largely thanks to elaborate and festive lights displays.

Austin Trail of Lights at Zilker Park

Of all of the Austin Christmas events, the Trail of Lights is one of the largest and the most well known. A local tradition since 1965, the Trail of Lights has grown to more than 40 displays, two million lights, and countless holiday activities for people of all ages. Each year, the display kicks off with the Christmas tree lighting of the Zilker Tree, a huge 155-foot tall tree of lights draped from a Moontower in the Park.

Luminations at the Wildflower Center

With more than 3,000 luminarias and 5,000 twinkle lights, the Wildflower Center gardens are a magical place to spend your holiday season. The light display is set to holiday music, and the gardens host a food collection for the Capital Area Food Bank.

Mozart’s Coffee Roasters

The deck at Mozart’s Coffee Roasters is a favorite hangout for Austinites. During the holiday season, in addition to a good cup of coffee, it is known for having one of the best Christmas Light shows in town, with views of Lake Austin in the background.

Christmas Tree Cookies

Green coconut adds fluffy "evergreen leaves" to these festive 3-D Christmas Tree Cookies. If you're short on time, trying substituting pre-made sugar cookie dough into the recipe.

Lights Spectacular, Johnson City

Johnson City may not be exactly within city limits, but it’s worth the drive to see one of the largest lights displays in Texas. The hallmark of the event is the opening night (usually Friday after Thanksgiving), with the lighting of the Blanco County Courthouse. The display features more than a million lights across three city blocks.

Rock N’ Lights Holiday Tour

Every year the City of Round Rock fills Old Settlers Park with more than 2 million lights and a 1.5-mile Christmas Light tunnel that will not disappoint.

Lala’s Christmas Bar

If you want to see Christmas lights [in] Austin year-round, head to Lala’s, where you can indulge in holiday cheer even in the dead of July.

Original Link: https://www.southernliving.com/christmas/christmas-lights-austin