Things to Do
5 Hill Country Christmas Light Shows Still in Full Swing
Christmas traditions bind generations of families together like a big red bow brings together a perfectly wrapped Christmas gift. Part of your tradition may include gathering with friends and family for a walk or a drive through beautifully decorated neighborhoods, town squares, and community parks. And though the days are few between now and Christmas, spectacular light displays throughout the Texas Hill Country guarantee that your holiday spirit will continue to glow into the New Year. Check out the list below of five holiday light shows available through Christmas.
1. EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens 2016 Trail of Lights
Photo: Facebook/EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens
Should you find yourself down Wimberley way, don’t miss the light show at EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens. Wander trails through eight acres of lighted displays, snap silly photos at one of the many character cutouts, grab a hotdog and hot chocolate, and don’t forget to stop by and chat with a visiting princess and wish Santa Claus a safe journey. EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens, 1101 FM2325, Wimberley; Sun. – Thurs. 6 p.m. – 9 p.m., Fri. & Sat. 6 p.m. – 10 p.m., now through December 29. EmilyAnn Trail of Lights
2. Walkway of Lights
Photo: Facebook/Walkway of Lights
Stroll along the shores of Lake Marble Falls through this improvised winter wonderland which includes 400 lighted sculptures, over two million lights, and a multitude of photo opportunities. Make next year’s Christmas card tonight. Concessions and photos with Santa help raise money for community organizations. Lakeside Park, 307 Buena Vista Drive, Marble Falls; 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. now until January 1. Walkway of Lights
3. Lights Spectacular
Photo: Flickr/jmtimages
Johnson City plays host to some of the best lights around. “Southern Living” magazine once called Johnson City “the twinkliest drive in the U.S.” and you’ll see why with over 100 thousand lights wrapped around the courthouse, and over 1 million lights hugging the trees in around PEC headquarters. It’s a sight to behold. Be sure to check out all the dazzling displays including the Courthouse Lights Display, the City Park Lighted Display, and the PEC Grove of Lights. Johnson City Town Square; 5:30 p.m. – Midnight, now until January 1. Lights Spectacular
4. Starry Starry Nights
Photo: Facebook/Starry Starry Nights in Llano
Yet another magnificent display of lights brings the Llano River alive in Badu Park in Llano. Amble through the park with your kids and visit with Santa on Friday and Saturday nights. The light display is double the fun as you walk along the river and take in the sparkling reflections. Hot chocolate is available and marshmallow toasting will take place nightly around the fire. Starry Starry Nights, Badu Park, Llano; 6 p.m. – 9 p.m., now until December 31. Starry Starry Nights
5. Holiday Lights on the River Walk
Photo: Flickr/Jeff W. Spencer
Maybe one of the best known Hill Country area light shows happens along the River Walk in San Antonio. But just because it’s well known doesn’t make it any less spectacular. Choose to wander your way by foot taking in bits at a time. Explore the businesses around you as they spread the smells, sounds, and sights of the holidays. Or cruise the river by boat for a different, more intimate experience. For additional Christmas light viewing, head to the Pearl District just north of downtown. San Antonio River Walk, San Antonio; 6 p.m. – 9 a.m., now until January 17. Holiday Lights on the River Walk
