Experience the Holidays Around Lake Travis
The Lake Travis area transforms during the holiday season, offering festive events, sparkling lights, family traditions, and plenty of seasonal activities for travelers. From outdoor walk-thru displays to classic holiday performances and unique lakeside celebrations, winter is one of the most memorable times to visit the Texas Hill Country.
Below is your complete guide to 2025 Lake Travis holiday events, including what to expect, where to go, and how to plan your visit.
Quick Overview
- Free holiday events throughout December
- Lakeway Trail of Lights (Dec. 5–Jan. 1)
- Family favorites: Lights On!, Cookies with Santa, Elf Movie Night
- Special experiences: Lights on the Lake Walk-Thru, Holiday Boat Parade
- End-of-year events: Polar Bear Plunge & NYE Boots & Bubbly
- Perfect for visitors planning a winter trip to the Lake Travis area
Lakeway Trail of Lights (Dec. 5, 2025 – Jan. 1, 2026)
Time: Nightly, 6 PM – Midnight
Cost: Free
Locations:
- Lakeway Activity Center (105 Cross Creek)
- Lakeway City Hall (1102 Lohmans Crossing Rd)
A long-standing local tradition, the Lakeway Trail of Lights is one of the most popular holiday attractions in the Lake Travis area. The self-guided trail winds through glowing displays, sparkling tunnels, and festive scenes that create a magical nighttime walk for families and visitors.
Good to Know:
- Stroller & wheelchair access available from the City Hall entrance.
- No vendors on-site—feel free to bring your own warm drinks.
- Parking available at both access points.
Lights On! – The Annual Lighting Celebration
Date: Friday, Dec. 5, 2025
Time: 6 PM – 9 PM
Location: Lakeway City Hall
Cost: Free
Kick off the season with Lights On!, the official lighting ceremony that marks the opening of the Trail of Lights. This family event includes live music, s’mores, food vendors, activities for kids, and meet-and-greets with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
This is one of the best early-December gatherings for visitors looking to soak in the start of the holiday season in Lake Travis.
Holiday Movie Night: Elf
Date: Friday, Dec. 12, 2025
Time: 6 PM
Location: Lakeway City Hall Parking Lot
A cozy outdoor movie night featuring a holiday favorite—Elf. Families can enjoy hot cocoa, write letters to Santa, and settle in for a festive evening under the winter sky. Bring blankets and chairs for a comfortable setup.
Cookies with Santa
Date: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
Time: 10 AM – 12 PM
Location: Lake Travis Financial Center (Bee Cave)
Cost: Free
A simple, family-friendly stop for visitors with kids. Enjoy cookies, photos with Santa, and a warm community atmosphere perfect for a relaxed morning outing.
Lights on the Lake at Volente Beach (Nov. 14 – Jan. 4)
A brand-new lakeside holiday walk-through experience offering glowing displays, themed nights, festive cocktails, photo ops, cartoon screenings, and s’mores by the fire. Visitors can enjoy:
- Christmas light tunnels
- Santa & Grinch appearances
- Holiday crafts and games
- Special events like Princess Party (Dec. 6) & Whoville Party (Dec. 20)
- Optional Jingle Boat Ride around Starnes Island
A great pick for travelers wanting a full evening of lights, food, and lakeside entertainment.
The Nutcracker – Ballet Austin
Location: Long Center, Downtown Austin
A beloved holiday classic for visitors looking to add arts and culture to their winter trip. Featuring Tchaikovsky’s iconic score performed live, Ballet Austin’s The Nutcracker is a perfect indoor event for a festive family outing or a holiday date night.
Holiday Lights Parade on Lake Travis
Date: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Watch decorated boats light up the lake during the annual Holiday Lights Parade, a unique lakeside tradition. Visitors can join Texas Sailing’s viewing cruise or watch from select shoreline areas for one of the most distinctive holiday scenes in the region.
Polar Bear Plunge – Lakeway Swim Center
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025
Time: 9 AM – 10 AM
Close out the year with a chilly slide and splash at the Lakeway Polar Bear Plunge! Participants ride down the giant slide into the cool water, then warm up with hot cocoa and post-plunge camaraderie. Great for adventurous travelers and families.
Boots & Bubbly New Year’s Eve Celebration
Date: Dec. 31, 2025
Time: 8 PM – 1 AM
Location: The Terrace at Highland Lakes
The Boots & Bubbly New Year’s Eve Celebration is a high-end New Year’s Eve experience with live entertainment, Texas-inspired elegance, casino games, open bar, and a champagne toast to welcome 2026. A memorable night for couples, groups, and visitors looking for a stylish holiday celebration.
Planning Your Winter Trip to Lake Travis
Winter is one of the best times to visit the Lake Travis area thanks to cooler weather, festive events, and beautiful lake views. Before you go, here’s what to bring:
Packing Tips
- Layers (Hill Country temps can change quickly)
- Warm jacket for outdoor light displays
- Portable blankets for outdoor movies
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera or fully charged phone
Travel Tips
- Parking at popular events may fill up—arrive early.
- Weekdays are less busy for the Trail of Lights and walk-through displays.
- Book holiday stays early (December weekends fill quickly).
Experience the Best of Winter Around Lake Travis
Whether you’re exploring sparkling holiday lights, catching a seasonal performance, or ringing in the New Year lakeside, the Lake Travis area offers unforgettable ways to celebrate the season. Use this guide to plan your December trip and enjoy the magic, memories, and festive fun that make winter in the Texas Hill Country so special.
Ready to book your stay? Check out these accommodations and plan your dream getaway to Lake Travis today!