The Holiday season for me runs from Halloween to New Years. It’s the best time of year as there is SO much to do and so much joy to be had. I especially love it the most, when I see the sparkle in my daughters’ eyes when we experience holiday magic. Getting out into the community and experiencing all the Austin area has to offer makes the season even more festive. However, with the rising costs of gifts, that holiday meal and gas …sometimes it’s hard to justify spending all the cash on a light show. Enter FREE Holiday Fun in Austin!
There are some amazing light shows and experiences in the Austin area….some free, some require admission….and some you can do a little bit of both. Stay with me, while I tell you about my family’s favorite local, holiday things to do for FREE!
Zilker Park Trail of Lights has dazzling displays, to light up the night. At Trail of Lights, you can meet Santa and experience a winter wonderland. The Trail of Lights runs December 8th – 23rd, 2022 (CLOSED MONDAYS) from 7:00pm to 10:00 pm. General Admission access to the Trail is FREE for all ages December 8, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 19, from 7:00-10:00 pm nightly.
The Texas State Capitol always has grand holiday decorations, a splendid sight that won’t cost you a penny. Don’t miss the holiday sing-along on the steps of the Texas State Capitol; it’s a joyous event that brings the community together. The annual Holiday Sing-Along takes place at the state capitol building on December 2, 2023. Join hundreds of other families to belt out your favorite Christmas carols! The sing-along precedes the capitol’s tree lighting ceremony, complete with a light show set to holiday music.
Mozart’s coffee roasters light show is a fun time to grab a cup of cocoa, listen to Christmas music and watch a coordinated light show. Purchasing tickets for a table is a requirement; however, general admission standing room tickets are free. You can grab your GA tickets online or in person at the event. (cocoa and cookies are an additional cost) The Light Show will be on display nightly from November 9, 2023 – January 6, 2024.
The Peppermint Parkway is a fun way to see holiday lights at the Circuit of the Americas. Peppermint Parkway runs from 11/24-12/30. There is an admission cost to drive the parkway and the COTA track; however, there are other FREE things to do at the Circuit of the Americas. The Peppermint Plaza is FREE and will get you in the holiday spirit. Peppermint plaza has a holiday lights, photo opps, pics with santa, a petting zoo and even head to the top of the COTA observation deck(concessions and rides for purchase).
So grab your Santa hats and head out for some FREE fa-la-la-la-fun!
For more, check out our Ultimate Guide to Holiday Events in Austin!
