Texas Living

Top 12 Holiday Light Displays Across Texas

By Kristy Alpert 12.14.15

In Texas, we bring a whole new meaning to all things big and bright when we get out our holiday lights. Here’s a statewide guide to 12 of the the twinkliest towns in Texas for the 12 days of Christmas.

Now all you need to do is grab a thermos of cocoa and pile the kids in the car for a magical wonderland drive.

37th Street, Austin
A once “wild art form” performed by neighbors in the ’80s has evolved into a brilliant display that’s nothing short of pure magic.

Concho Christmas Celebration, San Angelo
The Tour of Lights displays 3 million of them, twinkling along the Concho River.

Zoo Lights, Houston
Houston Zoo’s ancient oak trees and 15 miles of pathways become a festooned wonderland. Oh, and there’s a talking zebra.

Christmas Light Show Spectacular, Grapevine
The historic Main Street and Town Square Gazebo play host to a sparkling town Christmas tree. We can’t just mention the Christmas Capital of Texas once in this list, so check out the Lone Star Christmas at the Gaylord Texan for snow tubing hills, indoor ice skating, plus milk and cookies with Mrs. Claus. 

Polar Express, Palestine
Bring the classic story to life (at least for an hour). This fairy-tale journey has it all: hot chocolate, cookies, and even magic bells.

Whistle Stop Christmas Lights, Cleburne
More than 3.5 million lights illuminate the 12-acre Hulen Park. 

Gift of Lights at Texas Motor Speedway, Fort Worth
Auto aficionados will love cruising past more than 600 light displays along 1.5 miles of holiday cheer. 

Santa’s Ranch, New Braunfels
This drive-through holiday park features more than 1 million lights.

EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens Trail of Lights, Wimberley
It’s free to walk through the eight acres of trails, but bring money if you want to buy a hot dog to roast over the traditional Yule Log.

Santa’s Wonderland, College Station
This holiday attraction features more than 3 million lights across Santa’s Town, the Texas Christmas Village, and the Trail of Lights.

Twice as Bright Festival of Lights, Texarkana
Carriage rides and live reindeer await guests at this decadent Main Street festival. 

The 12 Days of Christmas, Dallas
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden goes all out for an outdoor display honoring the holiday classic with 12 glittering handcrafted gazebos. This is a sight not to be missed. 

For more holiday fun, check out our Christmas cookie list. 

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