Announced today: The 58th annual Trail of Lights will start with a bang on Friday, Dec. 2 with the Night Lights Preview Party, an annual fundraiser and sneak peek at the more than 2 million lights that make up the beloved Austin holiday tradition.
This year, visitors will be able to be on foot and up close again after the pandemic forced the Trail of Lights to pivot to drive-through only access.
In addition to an early look at 70 lighted displays and tunnels, The Night Lights Preview Party – the official fundraiser for the Trail of Lights Foundation – offers guests complimentary drink offerings; rides on a Ferris Wheel and carousel; a performance by Western swing band Asleep at the Wheel; and small bites from local eateries including:
[image-1-right] • Juliet Italian KitchenThe Night Lights Preview Party takes place Dec. 2, 6-10pm, at Zilker Park. Tickets can be purchased in advance online.
Following the event, the Trail of Lights will be open from Dec. 8 to 23 (not including Mondays) for the general public at a $5 entry free for any attendees 12 and up. Entry is free to anyone on select nights.
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