Austin Trail of Lights
Courtesy Damon RushingAustin Trail of Lights
Courtesy Damon Rushing

The best holiday light shows in Texas

Must-see shows to ring in the holidays

Kayla Hui
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Texans might get the occasional eye-roll from out-of-state relatives when they announce they’re celebrating the holidays in the Lone Star State. Sure, Texas isn’t exactly known for wintry snowflakes or puffer jacket weather, but holiday cheer? There’s plenty to go around. From free community events to extravagant ticketed experiences, these holiday light shows prove that Texas knows how to sparkle.  

The best holiday shows in Texas

  • Things to do

Hook ‘em, holiday style! The University of Texas at Austin will be hosting its second annual Longhorn Lights show. Starting November 19, you can catch bright burnt orange and white lights twinkling to classics like “Texas Fight” and “The Eyes of Texas.” Catch the show nightly starting at 5pm along Guadalupe Street. 

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Experience the magic of Christmas at the Dallas Zoo. The entire grounds are bathed in over two million twinkly lights, animal lanterns and holiday-themed photo opportunities to create memories that’ll last beyond the holiday season. Don’t miss the live musical performances or a selfie moment with Santa. 

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  • Things to do

Blast off to the holidays at Space Center Houston’s Galaxy Lights. This intergalactic light show features space-themed displays—think space ships and UFOs—and family-friendly activities, including s’mores and hot cocoa. 

  • Things to do

San Antonio’s iconic River Walk turns up the holiday charm with 100,000 colorful, twinkling lights. The best part? It’s free and open to the public daily. The best way to see the lights is by walking the riverbanks or catching a boat tour. 

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  • Things to do

San Antonio Botanical Garden is beautiful during the day, but some might argue it’s even prettier at night. Thanks to Tianyu Arts and Culture, the garden glows with handcrafted lanterns, from sparkling fishes to fluorescent flowers, making it a holiday dreamscape. 

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