Driving around to look at Christmas lights is an old American pastime, and one Austin neighborhood makes sure passersby enjoy the show. West 37th Street is famous nationwide for its weird and wacky holiday decorations like aliens, massive spiderwebs, and multicolored strands draped from tree to tree across the road. You’ve never seen a holiday display like this before, and that’s exactly why it’s one of the best Christmas lights in Texas.

Ever since the mid-1980s, West 37th Street has been keeping Austin weird during the holiday season. Strands of lights are strung haphazardly across the road, creating a cacophony of sights and sounds that pull your attention every which way.
Flickr/jmtimages
It may be unconventional, but it's definitely one of the best Christmas lights in Texas.
Participation had been on a downward trend over the years until finally, the annual tradition was called off entirely. It made a grand comeback last holiday season when more than 16,000 people expressed interest in attending.
Flickr/jmtimages
You'll see aliens, dinosaurs, spiderwebs the size of a house, and - more than likely - a few inappropriate decorations. While the display varies from year-to-year, one thing has never changed: nothing here belongs on a front lawn at Christmastime (or any time, really.)
Flickr/mirsasha

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Speaking of inappropriate: we present to you, Exhibit A. Points for creativity, right?
Flickr/mirsasha
In typical Austin fashion, Santa is chilling on a hammock with a drink in hand. Someone better cut him off before he has to drive the sleigh!
Flickr/mirsasha
Believe it or not, a kitchen sink isn't even close to the weirdest thing you'll see. Last year, a local brass band called Blowcomotion came galavanting down the street with clashing cymbals and blaring trumpets.
Flickr/jmtimages
The lights begin at the intersection of 37th and Guadalupe.
Flickr/austins_only_paper
Make sure you carve out some time this holiday season to see this light show. It's without a doubt one of the most best Christmas light displays in Texas!

Have you ever been to West 37th Street? If so, what’s your favorite display? Be sure to give them a follow on Facebook so you can stay up to date on the progress of this year’s display!

Christmas in Texas isn’t complete without checking out some of the other incredible Christmas light displays in Texas. Make it your mission to see them all this year!

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Christmas in Texas

Jackie Ann | October 21, 2022

What are the best drive-thru light shows in Texas?

Once you’ve witnessed the 37th Street display, you’ll want to see the other drive-thru displays in the Lone Star State. Luckily, there are several drive-thru light shows in Texas, and most of them are much more traditional than what you’ll see driving down 37th Street. The Lights Alive! Display in San Antonio is one of the best in the entire state. Everything is 100% computer-controlled and synchronized to music and it’s sure to amaze all ages. 

Where can I see the best light displays in Texas?

We love a quick and easy drive-thru light show, but sometimes you just want to bundle up and put boots on the ground to experience the Texas Christmas lights with your loved ones. The River Walk in San Antonio is a great spot to spend some time strolling around admiring the twinkling lights, and you’ll also have the added benefit of strolling past shops and restaurants, perfect for taking a break and enjoying some hot chocolate and sweet treats. And if you’ve never seen it in person before, the Johnson City Lights Spectacular is one of the most impressive Christmas light displays in Texas. Boasting more than a million lights, this display is so bright that NASA reported seeing it from the International Space Station!

Can I ride the Polar Express in Texas?

You sure can! The Texas State Railroad presents The Polar Express Train Ride every year, and it’s a magical journey where the passengers get to relive the magic of the iconic book and movie. There will be hot chocolate, cookies, storytime, and sing-a-longs as you make your way to the North Pole where you’ll meet Santa who has a very special gift for the youngest of believers. 

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West 37th Street, W 37th St, Austin, TX, USA