Bastrop River of Lights

Celebrate the Season

The holiday festivities begin with Bastrop's Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, November 28, 2026, the Friday after Thanksgiving. Families gather in Fisherman's Park as the community officially welcomes the Christmas season with the lighting of the city's Christmas tree, holiday entertainment, and plenty of festive cheer.

After the tree is illuminated, visitors are invited to continue the celebration with a stroll through the River of Lights, where thousands of sparkling displays line the beautiful half-mile riverwalk along the Colorado River.

The display remains open nightly through Monday, January 4, 2027, giving visitors plenty of opportunities to experience the magic throughout the holiday season.

A Holiday Tradition for the Whole Family

From the moment you step onto the trail, you'll find yourself surrounded by glowing holiday scenes, festive displays, and the peaceful sounds of the river flowing beside you. Every turn offers another picture-perfect backdrop for family photos, holiday selfies, and unforgettable memories.

The River of Lights is perfect for:

• Family holiday outings
• Date nights
• Weekend getaways
• Multigenerational gatherings
• Evening walks with friends
• Holiday photography

Best of all, admission is free, making it one of the most beloved holiday traditions in Bastrop.

Make It a Holiday Getaway

Turn your evening at the River of Lights into a complete holiday escape.

Spend the day shopping Historic Downtown Bastrop's locally owned boutiques, enjoy dinner at one of the city's restaurants, warm up with hot chocolate or coffee, then head to Fisherman's Park as the sun sets and the lights begin to sparkle along the river.

With charming accommodations throughout Bastrop, it's easy to extend your visit and experience everything the season has to offer.

Plan Your Visit

Location: Fisherman's Park
Trail: June Hill Pape Riverwalk
Season: November 28, 2026 – January 11, 2027
Hours: Nightly at dusk until approximately 10:00 p.m.

Visitors can access the Riverwalk from various ways: 

• Enter by visiting the fully accessible main entrance at Fisherman's Park
• Parking at the Bastrop Public Library and enter down the stairs from the parking lot
• The stairs near Main and Pine Streets (near Neighbor's Kitchen & Yard) in Historic Downtown Bastrop
• The stairs near Ferry Park on Main Street

Experience Christmas in Bastrop

There's no better place to slow down, reconnect with loved ones, and experience the joy of the holidays than beneath the glowing lights of Bastrop's River of Lights. From opening night through the final evening in January, this cherished tradition brings together the beauty of nature, the charm of Historic Bastrop, and the spirit of Christmas into one unforgettable experience.

Bundle up, gather the family, and discover why the Bastrop River of Lights has become one of the area's must-see holiday attractions. We can't wait to welcome you to this enchanting Christmas tradition.