50th Annual Zilker Tree Lighting Sets Mood For Holiday Spirit

EAST AUSTIN, TX — Even Ebenezer Scrooge would get in the holiday spirit with the Zilker Tree Lighting Ceremony, the 50th iteration scheduled Sunday.

The event is scheduled on Nov. 27 from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Local entertainment, food, novelties and live music will be on tap to delight and inspire those in attendance. There will be Prelude Music by the Austin Civic Wind Ensemble, conducted by Robert Laguna. Additional event music will be provided by the Barton Hills Choir.

The Zilker tree stands 155 feet tall and is composed of 39 streamers, each holding 81 multicolored, 25-watt bulbs for a total of 3,309 lights, according to city officials. At the top of the tree, a double star measures 10 feet from point to point and the double star displays 150 frosted bulbs.

"This unique spiral pattern of lights was created by City of Austin electricians," city officials note on the municipal website. "At its circumference, the tree measures 380 feet. The diameter is 120 feet. The base of the tree is made up of 19 utility poles, each 14 feet tall, arranged in a circle around the Moonlight Tower."

The first tree was lighted on Dec. 10, 1967, by former Mayor Pro Tem Mrs. Emma Long according to infomration on the city's website. In subsequent years, this honor has been awarded to the young winner of a city-wide tree art contest, officials noted.

The 50th Zilker Holiday Tree presentation is supported by Austin Energy, and the Trail of Lights Foundation.

After the lighting, the tree will be on display nightly from Nov. 28 to Dec. 31.

The city reminds those wishing to attend that the surrounding Trail of Lights Nights starting Dec. 10 will result in area road closures. Thousands of people visit the annual Trail of Lights attraction. Those planning on attending should consult the event schedule of events by clicking here.

>>> Photo from City of Austin Parks & Recreation Department via Facebook