Austin is no stranger to bustling nightlife. And this time of year, it's the soft shine of twinkling Christmas lights that really steals the show. From the local neighborhoods to the decked-out storefronts and massive Christmas trees, these displays help celebrate the holiday season like nothing else. Christmas in Austin is truly a sight to behold! Here are the 8 light displays around Austin you won't want to miss this year:

1. Downtown Holiday Stroll

For anyone who loves the idea of caroling, now’s your chance for a holiday sing-a-long with the entire city of Austin. This weekend event takes place in the heart of downtown just outside of the iconic capital building. The Holiday Stroll also features the Christmas Tree Lighting, an event you won’t want to miss.

2. The Driskill Hotel Tree

You'll find this magnificent Christmas tree in the lobby of the Driskill, Austin's grand hotel. The tree lighting takes place early in December, and you'll want to keep your eyes out for other holiday events happening here throughout the season.

3. Lake Austin's Boat Trail of Lights

Beautiful all year-round, Lake Austin truly transforms during the holiday season. During a special event known as Lake Austin’s Boat Trail, residents of Lake Austin come together with their decorated boats to create nothing short of a spectacle. Whether you’re participating in the actual boat decorating or simply watching from afar, the event will make for an enchanting evening.

4. 37th Street

Located in Hyde Park, 37th Street has become rather famous for its incredible display of Christmas lights. If you’ve yet to experience Austin’s "weirdness" in the best possible way, this is a great place to start. Tacky light displays, props, and holiday scenes make for one of the best pedestrian walks in town.

5. Austin Trail of Lights

Anyone who’s been in the Austin area for the past few years has come to know and love the Austin Trail of Lights. Zilker Park opens from 6:00 - 10:00 PM every evening to allow visitors to walk through this winter wonderland. And the best part? The event is free! If you can’t walk, be prepared to pay $10 cash for parking.

6. The Domain

Who needs the Rockefeller Christmas Tree when we've got one right here in Austin? The Domain's Christmas display is equally impressive and also features Santa Claus himself, at the ready for a photo op.

7. Lala's Christmas Bar

Just as the slogan says, "it's always Christmas at Lala's!" This year-round Christmas themed bar is all the more fitting this time of year. From the rooftop reindeer to the indoor lights, Lala's is an off-the-beaten-track spot that'll put you in the spirit.

8. Rock N' Lights Holiday Light Tour

For one of the biggest volumes of Christmas lights in town, be sure to check out the Rock’N Lights Holiday Light Tour. No less than 2 million lights will dazzle a 1.5-mile driving path. Get a group of family and friends together for this most memorable night out.

You can see why we consider these to be the best Christmas lights near Austin! Have you been to any of these events or spectacles in Austin? Did any of your favorites miss the list? We'd love to hear from you! For more holiday celebration, be sure to check out the 12 Best Christmas Light Displays in Texas.