Tree Lighting Ceremonies Around Austin
Kick off the holiday season with some of Austin’s best-loved traditions! Tree lighting ceremonies are a festive way to celebrate with family, friends, and the local community. From the iconic Zilker Holiday Tree to charming events in Georgetown, Round Rock, and more, these tree lighting ceremonies bring holiday cheer and stunning light displays to the Austin area. Here’s your guide to all the must-see tree lighting ceremonies in and around Austin this holiday season.
1. Zilker Holiday Tree
Local entertainment, food, novelties, and live music at Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Road (on the south side of the park). Zilker Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony is on Dec 1, 2024 at 6 p.m. (music starts at 5:15 p.m.)
2. Hill Country Galleria Light Up The Plaza
The Hill Country Galleria goes all out for the holidays. Watch their tree lighting on Friday, November 29th from 5pm-9pm. The Tree Lighting Ceremony will feature live music, ice-skating, giveaways, face painting and refreshments for guests beginning at 5 p.m. Free admission and parking.
3. Annual Lighting of the Square (Georgetown)
Celebrate the holiday season at the annual Lighting of the Square event on the day after Thanksgiving, Friday, Nov. 29. The event will be held on the east steps of the historic Williamson County Courthouse, 710 S. Main St. The festivities include entertainment from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
4. The Driskill
The Driskill Hotel’s free annual tree lighting ceremony is a sophisticated holiday event with a historic twist. The lobby of this famous Austin landmark is decked out with holiday decor, and guests can enjoy live music and holiday treats as the grand tree is illuminated. Friday December 6th From 5 – 7PM.
5. Fairmont Austin
Fairmont Austin’s Annual Tree Lighting & Holiday Showcase is on December 6 from 5:00-8:00pm. The Fairmont Austin hosts a luxurious and family-friendly tree lighting ceremony in its grand lobby, with festive treats, holiday music, and photo opportunities. Families can enjoy the holiday ambiance, meet Santa Claus, and marvel at the beautifully decorated tree. Photos with Santa will be offered from 6:00-8:00pm (New, unwrapped toy donation requested in support of Dell Children’s Holiday Village), along with complimentary cookies, hot chocolate and cider. Enjoy live music and festivities all around.
6. Domain Northside Tree Lighting & Grinchmas
From November 23, 2024 to December 25, 2024, stop by the NORTHSIDE Holiday Tree and enjoy a beautiful Holiday Tree Light Show every hour on the hour! The Holiday Tree is located next to The Lawn, across the street from Apple. The Tree Light Show Schedule is as follows: Official Tree Lighting: Nov. 23rd at 5:45 PM.
Grinchmas is Nov 23 at 3pm and includes pictures with the Grinch, face painting, balloon twists, music, and more.
7. Tree Lighting Ceremony at Heritage Park in Cedar Park
On Dec 6 from 6:30-9 p.m., join Cedar Park Parks and Recreation in the tradition of lighting the tree at Heritage Oak Park. Over 50,000 lights illuminate the largest live oak tree in Cedar Park. The holiday festivities include live music performances, holiday movie classics, food and sweet treats from local vendors, photo ops (bring your own camera), and Santa’s grand arrival to his sleigh. Create memories and ring in the season with holiday cheer!