Angela visits holiday attractions in Austin that uplift Christmas spirit

Tis the season in warm Austin, Texas. Still with the air getting colder by the minute, there are so many winter activities to do in the city. If you or your family are ever in need for an event to celebrate the Holidays, Austin is surely the right place for you. From Mozarts Light Show to Luminations, Austin has it all.

Trail of Lights

Starting off with the most prominent holiday activity in Austin, the Trail of Lights. This light show will take you throughout Zilker seeing various light shows. A perfect, romantic idea for a date or even with the family.

This year, just like the last, it will be a drive through event. This is to ensure COVID protocols and safety.  The general admission starts at $30 per vehicle. You must reserve and buy your tickets before going to the attraction.

Sadly, the amusement rides such as the carousel and ferris wheel will not be open this year. However, concessions will be available for purchase as you wait in the queue but feel free to bring your own drinks and food. For more information you can go to austintrailoflights.org.

Luminations

Apart from Trail of Lights, there’s also Luminations at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower center. Taking place all of December and January, you can get tickets up to $25, free for ages up to four.

What makes this place different is that this is actually a walk through event where you can look at all the different sights of light and sculptures. Their path goes around the whole wildflower center with a cafe too. You can find the map and more important information on their website at wildflower.org/luminations.

Peppermint Parkway

The Peppermint Parkway is another light show that takes place at the Circuit of Americas. This is also a drive through event just like Trail of Lights, however they have activities such as a kissing booth, go-karting, small amusement rides, delectable treats, and even a zip-line.

The parkway hours are from 6:30-9:30 pm with the Peppermint Plaza open from 5:30 pm-10:30 p.m. Each ticket is per vehicle (up to eight people) starting at $40.

During peak hours, wait times can last between 45-65 minutes. To avoid the rush, come early right at 6:30 pm or purchase a Twilight Ticket for entry between 8:30-9:30 p.m. Twilight Tickets are $5 less than the standard ticket. Traditionally, this is the time when The Parkway has minimal wait.

Whole Foods Ice Skating

Looking for the perfect winter activity? Ice Skating at Whole Foods on Lamar Blvd is that and so much more. They have an ice skating rink on the top floor, only during the winter, where you can show off your ice skating moves.

They also serve hot chocolate as well if you’re parched after skating. The tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door per person. The rink is open from 10 am-10 pm daily however they have special hours on holidays.

Mozarts Coffee Roasters

Last but not least, Mozarts Coffee Roasters on Lake Austin Blvd in Oyster Landing. With the winter season coming along they’re hosting light shows with live music.

It’s best if you reserve a table ahead, four-person tables are $20 and six-person tables are $30, to get the best view and experience because it gets really packed.

They serve warm treats and have a hot chocolate stand that is always packed. For information and to reserve a table go to their website mozartscoffee.com.

Gallery • 5 Photos

Angela Le

TOWERING ABOVE: Mozarts’ iconic pink tree sparkles in the sky. Mozart’s serves hot chocolate and lots of snacks to enjoy at the light show.