big and bright in atx
2 million lights and festive runners hit the trail for Austin's favorite holiday tradition
The Trail of Lights announced its 2023 return and opened registration for a Fun Run.
Update: (September 28) Tickets for the 59th Annual Trail of Lights are on sale now at austintrailoflights.org.
---
The stars might be bigger and brighter in Texas, but it's Austin's Trail of Lights that shines the brightest every December. The Christmas-themed display, now in its 59th year, just announced its returning dates for 2023: Friday, December 9, through Saturday, December 23.
The walk-through tradition at Zilker Park tallied up its total lights this year at 2 million, in 96 trees and more than 70 other displays. Visitors can choose to visit in cars or on foot for different types of holiday fun, including some live performances. One of Austin's favorite seasonal events, it raises funds on some nights for more than 40 non-profit partners.
The Trail of Light Foundation aims to keep the annual tradition accessible to all community members, so general admission for adults will be free to the public for seven out of 14 total nights. Children under the age of 12 can also enjoy free general admission.
"Over the last decade, the Foundation’s goal has remained the same, to deliver an enduring holiday experience to the entire city," said Trail of Lights Foundation executive director James Russell in a release.
Some of us are reticent to believe a "fun run" is actually all that enthralling, but this Chuy's-sponsored event should actually live up to the promise. The 12th annual Austin Trail of Lights Fun Run will take place on December 2, the day after the lights open for a preview party.
"As part of our partnership, we will collect toys and monetary donations for Operation Blue Santa, who needs our help more than ever this holiday season," said Chuy's chief marketing officer Ashley Ingle. The program works with Austin Police Department to distribute the goodies and food to "families in need."
Thousands of runners (and walkers) are expected to attend in holiday attire, enjoying the lights along the two-mile course. They'll be met at the end by Santa himself, who is ready for photos. Participants will receive a commemorative long sleeve T-shirt, a race bib, and a complimentary beer or cocoa.
Local food trucks will be ready for the hungry exercisers, who will have a change to burn even more energy in a DJ dance party and gather inspiration at the "fitness expo." Visitors who need a chance to sit down (relatable) may consider riding the Ferris wheel or carousel.
New for this year's fun run are four different "waves" of start times so participants can choose the best slot that suits their schedules and needs. The "Runner Wave" (for participants who prefer to maintain a runner's pace), will begin at 5:45 pm, and the three additional waves will begin at 6 pm, 6:45 pm, and 7:45 pm.
More information about the Austin Trail of Lights and early bird registration for the fun run are available at austintrailoflights.org.
DIIV's set was moody, but propulsive thanks to strong bass lines.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Zachary Cole Smith can always be counted on for a nostalgic 'fit.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Starcleaner Reunion singer Jo Roman keeps the beat.Photo by Brianna Caleri
From the looks of it, no one had a better time onstage than Wayne Coyne, frontman of the Flaming Lips.Photo by Brianna Caleri
The tinsel whip was one of many props.Photo by Brianna Caleri
The Flaming Lips are known for touring with huge inflatables.Photo by Brianna Caleri
A joyful crowd reacts to being blasted with confetti during the Flaming Lips' set.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Ty Segall was king of the guitar jams.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Segall's painted jeans were probably the most unique fashion statement all weekend.Photo by Brianna Caleri
The Psych Fest uniform: Earthy shorts and calf tattoos.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Thomas Attar Bellier of Al-Qasar plays a beautifully adorned electric saz.Photo by Brianna Caleri
The more mics, the better for Al-Qasar.Photo by Brianna Caleri
A closer look at the saz.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Lyrics in Arabic brought extra gravitas to the set.Photo by Brianna Caleri
How's that for a desert hallucination?Photo by Brianna Caleri
New Candys guitarist Emanuele Zanardo puts a physical flourish in his playing.Photo by Brianna Caleri
A portal opens...Photo by Brianna Caleri
The Black Angels interrupted the technicolor parade for a largely black-and-white set.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Black Angels bassist Misti Hamrick-French basks in the cold glow of a strobe light.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Dumbo Gets Mad reminds us that Italians just get fashion.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Guitarist Luca Bergomi gets in on bassist Ivan Torelli's shot.Photo by Brianna Caleri
LA LOM bassist Jake Faulkner captures the sun.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Guitarist Zac Sokolow danced for the whole set, which happened to be on his birthday.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Faulkner's grandstanding added flavor to the show, which ultimately didn't need psychedelic visuals.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Faulkner's howls cut through the air, hardly amplified.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Trish Toledo paid homage to mothers and couples in her romantic set.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Not a practical shoe for a rainy weekend. We salute her sacrifice for fashion.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Thee Sacred Souls closed out the festival with a brass section.Photo by Brianna Caleri
This backup singer was exquisitely styled in blue.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Singer Josh Lane snapped a photo of an adoring audience. See you next time, Josh.Photo by Brianna Caleri