Austin's All-New Walk-Through Holiday Lights Spectacle at COTA
Austin is always buzzing with something new and the holiday season is no exception. For 2025, the annual celebration at the internationally renowned Circuit Of The Americas is getting a magnificent remix. Peppermint Parkway has been reimagined as an all-new, walk-through experience, inviting travelers to fully immerse themselves in the holiday magic.
Forget driving through. The 2025 Peppermint Parkway transforms the track grounds into a dazzling wonderland where guests wander through a spectacular parkway, surrounded by millions of twinkling lights, enchanted villages, and whimsical characters.
Courtesy Peppermint Parkway.
Dates, Tickets, and Location for Your 2025 Austin Holiday Trip
This signature Austin Christmas lights event is back nightly from November 21 through December 28, 2025. The event is held at Circuit Of The Americas (COTA) , the premier destination for world-class motorsports and entertainment in the United States. COTA is set on 1,500 acres in the rolling hills just outside Downtown Austin.
Hours: Open nightly from 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM, with a special Christmas tree lighting ceremony daily at 6:00 PM.
Tickets: Admission for the 2025 walk-through experience is sold per person, rather than per vehicle. Add-ons like a Track Lap are also available. Be sure to purchase your tickets in advance.
Courtesy Peppermint Parkway.
The Walk-Through Wonderland: Interactive Attractions & Thrills
The new format means every step along the dazzling light trail is filled with holiday cheer and activities. As you wander the parkway, look out for these unique experiences:
- Thrills and Games: Get your adrenaline rush on the brand new Circuit Breaker roller coaster, or enjoy family fun on the Peppermint Express train ride and a festive game of putt-putt.
- Festive Photo Ops: Capture the season with charming vignettes, including a classic mistletoe kissing booth and photo opportunities with Santa and his racing elves.
- Holiday Keepsakes: Kids can drop their personal wishes in the mailbox at the official Letters to Santa station.
- Treats and Drinks: Warm up with hot cocoa and other delightful holiday treats available throughout the walkable area.
- Racing Fun: Get behind the wheel at the permanent COTA Karting facility, open during the event hours for an extra dose of competitive fun.
Race fans can also inquire about the Track Lap add-on, an exclusive opportunity that allows guests to take their own cars for a parade lap on COTA's world-famous Formula 1 track. This is a unique way to experience a 3.41-mile racetrack designed to challenge the world’s most exacting competitors.
The holiday season in the Live Music Capital of the World® is always memorable, and the all-new Peppermint Parkway is a perfect way to experience the best of winter in Austin.
