How to Spend a Magical Day at River of Lights in Fisherman’s Park

December 17, 2025 5:46 pm Published by

There’s something truly special about the holiday season in Bastrop. From small-town charm to twinkling displays and friendly gatherings, this time of year feels full of wonder. One local favorite that captures all the magic of the season is the River of Lights at Fisherman’s Park. Just minutes from The Colony, this scenic trail transforms into a glowing holiday experience for all ages. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening stroll, a family outing, or a festive neighborhood adventure, here’s how to make the most of your visit.

Start with a Cozy Morning at Home

The perfect day at River of Lights begins with a little prep at home. Mornings at The Colony are peaceful, and with mild winter weather, it’s easy to take your time. Spend the day gathering cozy essentials to make your outing even more enjoyable. Pack thermoses of hot cocoa or cider, a few sweet treats, and some holiday snacks to keep everyone fueled.

Don’t forget warm layers, even if the sun is shining earlier in the day. Texas evenings can still bring a chill, especially near the river. Hats, scarves, and cozy blankets are great for keeping warm while you take in the lights.

Plan Your Visit to the River of Lights

The River of Lights is a glowing trail of holiday magic that winds through Fisherman’s Park along the Colorado River. As the sun sets, thousands of lights illuminate themed displays, arches, tunnels, and festive scenes that delight visitors of all ages.

To make your experience extra special, try visiting on a weekday evening or early in the evening hours to avoid bigger crowds. The walking path is stroller and pet-friendly, so feel free to bring the whole family along. Keep your phone or camera handy for all the photo ops along the way, from classic holiday characters to glowing riverside trees.

Pair It With a Downtown Adventure

After your walk through the lights, head into Downtown Bastrop for even more seasonal charm. Grab a bite to eat at a local favorite like Neighbor’s Kitchen & Yard, or stop in for dessert and warm drinks at one of Bastrop’s cozy bakeries or coffee shops. Many shops stay open later during the holidays, making it a great time to browse for unique gifts or stocking stuffers.

Depending on the night, you might even catch live music, pop-up vendors, or other community happenings nearby. With everything within walking distance, it’s easy to turn your River of Lights outing into a full evening of festive fun.

Make It a Tradition With Neighbors

One of the best things about living at The Colony is how easy it is to connect with others. The River of Lights is the perfect opportunity to plan a group outing with neighbors or friends. Coordinate a few carpools or walk over together if you live nearby, and enjoy the lights as part of a shared experience.

After the walk, invite everyone back to your home for a treat table or hot cocoa bar. Set up a space on the patio or in your kitchen for cookie decorating, board games, or holiday music to keep the fun going. Events like these help turn neighbors into lifelong friends and create holiday memories that your family will look forward to every year.

Make Magical Memories Close to Home

The River of Lights in Fisherman’s Park is more than just a beautiful walk. It’s a celebration of community, tradition, and the joy of the season. Living at The Colony means being just minutes away from one of Bastrop’s most cherished holiday experiences, with all the comfort of home waiting when the night winds down.Ready to find a home that brings the holidays and every season to life? Contact The Colony today to explore available homes and schedule a visit.

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This post was written by katie@bigfishdallas.com