December is just around the corner, and it’s just barely socially acceptable to put up Christmas lights. Naturally, the Austin Metro area is already abundant with jolly displays that capture the spirit of the season. For those staying in the area over break, there are multiple places to enjoy this classic Christmas pastime — you just probably won’t get to build a snowman.
Willis Littlefield’s House
A few miles from campus, off the corner of West 12th Street and West Lynn Street, lies the house of Willis Littlefield. Since 1998, 73-year-old Littlefield and his wife have been decorating their house with rooftop lights and multiple installations across the yard, making their modest West Austin home a beloved Christmas destination for years. You can find Littlefield outside greeting spectators and handing out candy canes, but don’t head down to the Littlefield residence just yet: The light show doesn’t start until Dec. 15.
Round Rock Rock’N Lights Tour
Just north of Austin lies the city of Round Rock. The city’s Rock’N Lights Tour provides some much needed spice every holiday season. The attraction historically held at Old Settlers Park will now take place for the first time in downtown Round Rock off Main Street on Dec. 1. Lined with local bars and shops, there will be multiple places to grab some hot cocoa while you enjoy the display and the city’s newly renovated downtown streets.
Mozart’s Christmas Light Show
Enjoy a warm drink and delectable dessert while you are entertained by Mozart’s annual light show. Lights mask the canopy of trees and the dock, illuminating the entire coffee house as the lights dance to iconic Christmas songs. The spectacle, free to the public, is open now and will continue every night from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. until Jan. 1, 2018. The earlier you go to see the show, the better the experience, as bigger crowds gather closer to Christmas.
Georgetown’s Downtown Square
At the tip of the Austin Metro area, Georgetown’s downtown square is lit up with holiday lights. From now until the end of December, spectators can get the experience of a Texas town square Christmas while not having to travel all the way to far out towns like Fredericksburg. Lights line the town’s historic courthouse as well as its surrounding trees and buildings. With plenty of restaurants and coffeeshops around every corner, Georgetown’s square can be the perfect December
date destination.
The Trail of Lights
A celebrated Austin tradition for the past 53 years, the Trail of Lights at Zilker Park is arguably the city’s most anticipated and cherished holiday tradition. Running from Dec. 9 to Dec. 23, the trail showcases more than 40 displays with themes from multiple holidays, children’s books and stories, as well as live performances by local artists showing the community’s talents. General admission to the trail is free until Dec. 14, and after, it will cost $3 per person. Pro tip: See the lights as early as possible. The closer to Christmas, the more chaotic the trail gets.
