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The Austin Trail of Lights is celebrating 60 years in Zilker Park this December. What began in 1965 as a small gathering dubbed “Yule Fest” has evolved into a communitywide celebration boasting two million twinkling lights, illuminated tunnels and holiday trees.
Speaking of which, the 155-foot tall Zilker Holiday Tree has roots stretching back to 1967 when Mayor Pro Tem Emma Long first lit the strands draped from a moonlight tower.
As for the 37th Street Lights: In 1979, they illuminated but a single home (that of Jamie Lipman). Seven years later, they stretched through the neighborhood – and shine on.
– Hannah Van Sickle, The Austin 100