AUSTIN, Texas – The 56th annual Austin Trail of Lights is one of the rare events not canceled this year due to the pandemic; however, it will have a different look for 2020. Event organizers have changed the layout to make it a drive-through event in keeping with safety over concerns about the transmission of COVID-19.
The Austin Trail of Lights, sponsored by H-E-B and hosted by the Trail of Lights Foundation, is the longest running holiday tradition of its kind in Austin, according to the Austin Trail of Lights website. Thousands from around the area have in past years walked through Zilker Park amidst the various holiday displays of more than two million lights on displays, such as sleighs, holiday trees and lighted tunnels. The event is open from November 28, 2020 through January 3, 2021.
Private nights with free entry are scheduled for more than thirty non-profit organizations along with free passes to families identified by Austin Independent School District who are unable to purchase tickets.
During the drive-through, guests will be able to listen to holiday music and highlights and history of the Trail via car radio.
There are three types of tickets available for purchase.
- Premiere Night entry on November 28 is $95 per vehicle. The ticket includes a box of cookies, a commemorative ornament and ATX Lights Savings Card which provides discounts at participating restaurants and retail partners. Passes for opening night are limited.
- Prices per vehicle for other dates range from $25 to $35, based on the day of the week. Access per car begins at 7 p.m. with timed entry.
- A Dash Pass for $60 allows entry between 5:45 to 7 p.m. and includes a free box of cookies and an ATX Lights Savings Card. This pass is sponsored by Northern Trust.