60th annual Austin Trail of Lights including Zilker Eagle mini-train this year

AUSTIN, Texas - Tuesday was the first night of Austin’s Trail of Lights, the longest-running holiday tradition of its kind in the capital city. 

Three million lights are illuminating the Austin sky at the annual Trail of Lights.

The event at Zilker Park in its 60th year is put on by the Trail of Lights Foundation and features 90 holiday trees and numerous holiday displays along the nearly one-mile stretch with activities and entertainment.

"We have 50 displays. We have your Ferris Wheel, we have your carousel, food vendors from all around Austin. We have live music every night from local Austin musicians. It's there's kind of something for everybody," said James Russell, executive director of the Trail of Lights Foundation.

Russell says 350,000 Austinites are expected to enjoy the Trail of Lights during the 14-day spectacle. Through the years, Russell says the event has evolved with more interactive displays.

"Not a lot of things last 60 years in Austin. And we're proud to be one of those things that has and will continue to last and for hopefully another 60 years," said Russell.

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Austinites were eager to get in the holiday spirit.

"I really do like the trees that are covering lights. Just looks really nice to me," said one attendee.

"The Ferris wheel. I really want to get a closer look at that. It looks awesome. All the big flashing lights in the different colors," said another attendee.

This year the Zilker Eagle is also taking part in the holiday fun. The mini-train is offering special holiday hours to coincide with the Trail of Lights. Beginning Dec. 10 through Dec. 23, the Zilker Eagle will run nightly between 6 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

Ticket prices will remain the same, but they're sold on a strictly first-come, first-served basis. Hours are subject to change based on the weather, but you can stay up to date through the Zilker Eagle’s social media.

"If you're here at the trail of lights, head down to the eagle, hop on it and you get a view of the trail lights from a different angle," said Russell.

The Trail of Lights lasts till December 23rd with weekend ticket prices starting at eight dollars. Admission is free on weekdays.

Russell says you won’t want to miss it.

You can find more information here.