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Zilker Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
The Zilker Holiday Tree in Austin illuminates the holiday season with its impressive 155-foot structure, featuring 3,309 multicolored LED lights. The annual lighting ceremony kicks off the festive period with live entertainment and community spirit. Visitors can also admire the tree during designated drive-up visitation nights.
What to Expect
Iconic 155-foot holiday tree atop a historic moontower.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: FREE
- Parking: Free surface lot parking is available on-site near the tree on designated drive-up visitation nights. For the Tree Lighting Ceremony, free parking is available on-site first-come, first-served. Carpooling is encouraged. Pre-paid vehicle parking passes are required for the Trail of Lights event, with no on-site parking access from Barton Springs Road.
- Accessibility: ASL Interpretation services are provided for the ceremony.
- Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Other Christmas Events Near Austin
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, holiday enthusiasts, community members
Vibe
Festive, community-oriented, traditional
Energy Level
Low to medium
Budget
FREE
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Medium
Special Events & Promotions
- Drive-Up Visitation Nights
- Annual Youth Art Contest
- Tree Lighting Ceremony with local entertainment
Location
Event Details
Duration
6 pm - 10 pm park curfew
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Zilker Park
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Austin Civic Wind Ensemble
Organizer
City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department
Food & Drink
Food and beverage vendors are available during the Tree Lighting Ceremony. Alcohol and vending are prohibited without permits.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early on drive-up visitation nights or the ceremony night to secure convenient parking, as it's first-come, first-served.
- Dress in layers and wear comfortable, moisture-proof footwear suitable for outdoor conditions, as surfaces can vary.
- Consider using Cap Metro or carpooling to the event to avoid potential traffic and parking challenges, especially on busy nights.
- Check official social media accounts for any weather-related updates or changes to the event schedule.
- Young artists can participate in the annual art contest for a chance to win the honor of lighting the tree.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for visiting the Zilker Holiday Tree?
The park has a curfew of 6 pm - 10 pm. Specific visitation nights have these hours.
Are pets allowed at the Zilker Holiday Tree?
No pets are allowed inside the event area, but trained service animals are welcome.
What should I do if there is inclement weather?
Watch official social media accounts for information regarding weather-related updates or schedule changes.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Alcohol and vending are prohibited without permits from Austin Parks and Recreation. Food and beverage vendors are available during the ceremony.
How can I participate in the art contest?
Submissions for the 2025 Art Contest are accepted by mail or online upload until November 1, 2025. Artwork must be no larger than 8Β½ x 11 inches.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.