A cutout of a festive town with reindeer flying (above) is one of at least 46 displays to be featured in the Buda Trail of Lights, which opens Thursday and is free to the public. (Photos by Sean Kimmons)
by SEAN KIMMONS
Nancy Brinkley and Lori Beckers were in the Christmas spirit as they adorned their holiday display, one of at least 46 displays to be showcased in the Buda Trail of Lights, starting Thursday to Dec. 22 from 6-10 p.m.
“We didn’t hear about the event until it was too late last year,” said Brinkley, of the B&B Quilting shop. “We’re excited to do it this year.”
The displays, each sponsored by businesses, organizations and churches, can be seen for free along a one-kilometer trail inside Stagecoach Park. This is the second year that Buda has hosted the event and expectations are high, especially after the City of Austin axed its trail of lights event at Zilker Park.
“We’re expecting up to 10,000 people to come through the trail this year,” Buda Parks and Recreation Director Jack Jones said. Last year, between 3,000 and 5,000 visitors showed up, he said.
The city will spend roughly $29,000 for the event, after it received around $15,000 in donations from the local community, he said.
“It’s a free family event,” Jones said. “The economy is still tight out there and this gives families a chance to walk around and check out displays.”
There will also be free parking and shuttle service from Cabela’s to the park.
