Free Events in Austin This Weekend

If you’re on the hunt for wallet-friendly fun, Austin is packed with free happenings that’ll keep your weekend buzzing—no ticket required. Whether you’re out with the whole crew or just soaking up the city’s good vibes solo, here are some standout free experiences to check out:

• Outdoor Concerts & Live Music: Tap your feet along South Congress or swing by Zilker Park for pop-up performances and open-air concerts. Local favorites often play day and night, so you’re never far from a show.

• Art Walks & Gallery Nights: Meander through the city’s creative corners with free gallery openings and public art walks, especially around the East Austin Studio Tour and the Canopy complex.

• Family Movie Nights: Bring a blanket and catch a classic film under the stars at community parks like Mueller Lake Park and Republic Square. It’s BYO popcorn.

• Trail Hikes & Greenbelt Explorations: Lace up those sneakers and explore the Barton Creek Greenbelt or Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail for fresh air adventures without spending a dime.

• Comedy Open Mics: Need a laugh? Several downtown spots host free stand-up nights—just bring your sense of humor and maybe a snack.

• Markets & Festivals: Stroll through local farmers’ markets or weekend street fairs, like the HOPE Farmers Market, for live music, free samples, and creative browsing.

• Interactive Arts Events: Don’t miss community mural-painting days or pop-up improv theater performances in public squares—they’re a quirky twist on a typical Saturday.

Of course, these are just the beginning. With so many free things to discover, your only challenge is fitting them all into one weekend.

Ongoing & Recurring Events in Austin

If you’re after something that keeps the city buzzing all season long, you’re in luck—Austin’s calendar is packed with recurring events and ongoing exhibitions you can drop into any week.

Music & Theater Under the Stars

• Zilker Summer Musical
  Spread a blanket at Zilker Hillside Theater and catch the annual summer musical, with performances lighting up the park Thursday through Sunday evenings until mid-August. Perfect for a group outing or an easy evening under the Texas sky.

• 90's Night at Speakeasy
  Put on those retro threads and dance the night away! Every Friday, Speakeasy turns back the clock for a jam-packed night of ‘90s hits, themed cocktails, and pure nostalgia.

Art & Culture Highlights

• Acts of Faith: Religion and the American West
  The Bullock Texas State History Museum hosts this thought-provoking exhibition through late August. Wander at your own pace and explore the stories shaping the cultural landscape of the American West.

• Form Works
  Celebrate local creativity at Women & Their Work, where this engaging art exhibition welcomes visitors Tuesday through Saturday, right through the dog days of summer.

History Brought to Life

• Ain't No Daylight in Vietnam: March 1968
  Step inside the LBJ Presidential Library for an immersive look back at a defining moment in American history. This special exhibit explores the Vietnam War’s complexities, open through August next year.

Wellness in the Wild

• Fitness in the Park: Summer Series
  Swap the gym for the great outdoors with free fitness classes each Friday at Zilker Metropolitan Park. Whether you’re into yoga, bootcamps, or just want to stretch your legs in the sunshine—there’s a session to fit every level.

Austin’s ongoing events mean there’s always something new to discover, whether you’re a local or just passing through. So, mark your calendar, gather your crew, and dive into an Austin experience that never stops.

Museum Exhibitions Happening This Weekend in Austin

If you’re looking to pair your BBQ and wine adventure with a bit of culture, you’re in luck—Austin’s museum scene is serving up some fascinating exhibitions this weekend.

On View Now:

• Acts of Faith: Religion and the American West

  • Step into the Bullock Texas State History Museum for a thought-provoking exploration of the role religion played in shaping the American West. Expect artifacts, compelling stories, and plenty of opportunities to reflect on history’s wildest frontiers.

• Ain’t No Daylight in Vietnam: March 1968 Vietnam War Exhibit

  • Head over to the LBJ Presidential Library for a powerful look at the Vietnam War era. This exhibit pays tribute to a pivotal month in 1968, featuring rare photographs, personal accounts, and immersive displays that bring history to life.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply in search of air-conditioned inspiration, these exhibitions offer a perfect way to round out your Austin weekend plans.

Comedy & Improv Shows in Austin This Weekend

Ready to laugh until your sides ache? Austin’s comedy and improv scene never disappoints, serving up everything from high-energy improv battles to stand-up showcases hosted by nationally touring comics. Whether you’re a stand-up aficionado or looking for a night of unscripted fun, there’s something for every kind of comedy-lover this weekend.

Here are a few you won’t want to miss:

• Hideout Theatre – Step into downtown’s beloved home of improv for a Friday or Saturday night mainstage show, where seasoned and up-and-coming troupes spin hilarious scenes from audience suggestions. Family-friendly matinees and late-night acts are part of the fun.
• ColdTowne Theater – Dive into creative chaos as ColdTowne’s local legends deliver quick-witted longform improv and weekly sketch comedy. Grab a seat early; these audience-packed shows often sell out.
• Cap City Comedy Club – A stand-up institution, Cap City brings some of the brightest names in comedy to its Austin stage. Expect national headliners, local showcases, and open-mic surprises every weekend.
• The Velveeta Room – Historic and endearingly offbeat, the Velv’s late-night stand-up and alternative comedy lineups always pack in the laughs, from witty one-liners to wild character acts.
• The Fallout Theater – Indie improv troupes, experimental sketch shows, and variety nights make Fallout a hotspot for those seeking something unexpected—and likely ridiculous.

Insider tip: Many venues offer BYOB or have quirky concessions, so check ahead. Arriving early or securing tickets online is a smart move—Austin’s comedy crowds love to fill up fast.

Looking for more ideas to make your weekend memorable? Keep exploring below for unique group adventures, music crawls, and out-of-the-box experiences you won’t want to miss.

Performing Arts & Theater Events in Austin This Weekend

If you're searching for a dose of live performance to round out your Austin adventure, you're in luck! The city’s arts scene is just as lively as its music and food. Here are a couple of standout shows happening this weekend:

• 66th Annual Zilker Summer Musical: Bring It On
  Get ready to cheer! Head out to the Zilker Hillside Theater to catch an energetic outdoor production that blends high-flying routines, catchy songs, and all the fun of a summer night under the stars. The musical runs Thursday through Sunday evenings, so there’s plenty of opportunity to snag a spot on the lawn.

• Flamenco at the Rosette featuring Carlos Piñano and Miguel Ángel
  Experience a night of fiery footwork, intricate guitar, and passionate rhythms as renowned flamenco artists take the stage. It’s the perfect chance to be swept away by Spanish tradition, whether you’re a longtime fan or just curious to try something new.

Make sure to check performance times and snag tickets early—these shows are popular, and a night out at the theater always adds a little extra magic to your weekend plans.

Catch Some Action: Sports & Fitness Events This Weekend in Austin

Looking to get moving or cheer on some local talent this weekend? Austin is buzzing with energy—from friendly competition to sun-soaked group workouts.

What's Happening:

• Volleyball Tournaments: Whether you're a sand court superstar or just want to catch a game, local volleyball leagues are spiking into the weekend at Cedar Park and other lively venues around town.
• Outdoor Fitness Classes: Grab your mat and soak up the Austin sun! Join free group classes like yoga or bootcamp-style workouts at Zilker Park and Barton Springs. These all-level sessions are perfect for breaking a sweat amid lush greens and urban cool.

Who Should Join In?

• Fitness enthusiasts ready to try something new
• Friends looking for an active outing
• Anyone curious about local sports scenes

Whether you want to participate or just watch, Austin’s sports and fitness scene makes for a fun, energizing weekend.

Upcoming Annual Festivals & Special Events in Austin

Ready for something big? Austin’s event calendar is packed with can’t-miss experiences—whether you’re into music, food, art, or books, there’s a festival for every vibe.

• LEVITATION Music Festival (Fall 2025)
  A favorite for music lovers, LEVITATION brings psychedelic rock, indie, and experimental beats to venues all across downtown. It’s a chance to discover both legendary acts and cutting-edge up-and-comers in a city that’s obsessed with live music.

• Moody Center Live Events
  The Moody Center is Austin’s newest concert and event hotspot, hosting major touring artists, comedy shows, and family entertainment year-round. Keep an eye on their schedule—big names are always just around the corner.

• Texas Book Festival (Fall 2025)
  Bibliophiles unite! Book signings, author readings, and family-friendly activities take over downtown. Expect everything from bestselling novelists to emerging writers and panels that spark new ideas.

• Honorable Mentions:

  • Austin City Limits Music Festival: Iconic autumn vibe, local food stalls, and legendary performances
  • SXSW: Tech, film, and music collide in a whirlwind of innovation every spring
  • Trail of Lights (December): Zilker Park’s holiday glow is a can’t-miss tradition for all ages

Whether you’re planning weeks ahead or looking for a last-minute thrill, Austin’s festival scene means you’ll never run out of ways to soak in the city’s creative energy.

Where to Stay in the Loop: Upcoming Events & Festival Buzz

Curious about what's next on Austin’s lively calendar? Discover the freshest happenings around the city with these top picks for event news and festival updates:

• Check out the latest buzz at sites like Do512, Eventbrite, and Austinites’ favorite, CultureMap Austin—all packed with up-to-date listings.
• Keep an eye on annual staples like LEVITATION Music Festival, the Texas Book Festival, and can't-miss concerts at the Moody Center.
• Sports fans: Get the lowdown on upcoming Austin FC matches and Q2 Stadium events.
• For an insider’s look at what’s hot this weekend, local blogs and social feeds (think @365ThingsAustin) highlight everything from quirky pop-ups to art walks.

No matter your vibe—music, books, sports, or culinary adventures—there’s always something new to discover in the Live Music Capital of the World.

Where Can I Find an Events Calendar for Austin?

Looking for an easy way to explore what's happening around Austin this weekend or plan ahead for upcoming festivals, concerts, or unique experiences? There are several comprehensive, visitor-friendly event calendars to help you stay in the know.

• Do512 and Eventbrite both feature regularly updated listings—perfect for finding live music shows, foodie festivals, art exhibitions, and family-friendly happenings.
• If you're interested in local markets, holiday events, or cultural celebrations, check the calendars at Austin Monthly or The Austin Chronicle for curated highlights.
• Planning on something more niche? Websites like Time Out Austin and Bandsintown let you filter events by type, location, and date.

These resources make it simple to browse, search, and fill your calendar with memorable Austin experiences.

How to Filter Events by Date or Category

Looking to curate your perfect Austin experience? Filtering events is a breeze, whether you want to zero in on a specific date or discover activities that match your vibe.

Filtering by Date:

• Choose whether you want to see what's happening today, this week, over the weekend, or all month long.
• For something more precise, set a custom date range—perfect for planning around out-of-town visitors or a special celebration.

Filtering by Category:

• Dive into categories that fit your interests. Craving live music? Interested in food and drink experiences? Need something family-friendly or totally free? Just select the category that speaks to you.
• Whether you’re drawn to comedy shows, art exhibits, outdoor adventures, or annual festivals, you’ll find options to match your mood.

It’s all about making your search effortless, so you’re never more than a few clicks away from your next adventure in Austin.

1. Tulip Festival & Baby Animal Days

Make your spring unforgettable by attending the 2025 Austin Tulip Festival with over 300,000 Tulips.

What's Included

• 4.5 Acres of 225k Planted Tulips For Photos
• Full Access to Baby Animal Petting Zoo
• Daily Pig Races
• Unlimited Pony Rides

Spend the afternoon wandering through vibrant rows of tulips, snapping that perfect Instagram shot, and getting up close with adorable baby animals. Don’t forget to catch the pig races—guaranteed to make you smile.

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2. Austin Live Music Crawl

Throughout the course of the Live Music Crawl, you’ll hear about Austin's live music history, get the latest scoop on the current music scene and see iconic venues and new clubs, all while getting an overview of the city.

What's Included

• Driver/guide
• Live entertainment
• Transport by private vehicle
• Skip cover bands and jam out to authentic music with us all over the city
• Bottled water
• Entry/Admission - Austin Visitor Center
• Entry/Admission - Austin Detours

This is the ultimate way to get up close and personal with Austin’s legendary music culture—no planning required. Just hop on and let the good times (and tunes) roll.

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3. The Downtown Austin Music History Walking Tour

Discover Austin's vibrant musical heritage with the Downtown Austin Music History Walking Tour.

What to Expect:

• Explore Austin’s famous live music venues and learn about the city's rise to being the 'Music Capital of the World'
• Hear stories of legendary musicians and the iconic performances that shaped Austin’s music scene
• Walk through historic neighborhoods and discover the cultural tapestry that supports Austin’s diverse music genres
• Capture memorable moments with your camera or smartphone as you visit each landmark and story-rich location

Let the rhythm of the city guide your steps as you learn the stories behind the stages and the legends who made them famous.

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With so much happening all over the city—from festivals and live music, to outdoor theatre and cultural exhibitions—you’ll never have to wonder what to do in Austin this weekend.

Austin's Salt Lick and Winery Shuttle

Searching for an affordable and fun way to get out to Salt Lick and Texas wineries? Look no further.

What to Expect:

• A great way to get out to Salt Lick and Texas wineries
• Enjoy wine and a BBQ
• The perfect day in Hill Country for solo travelers, couples and small groups

What's Included:

• Driver/guide
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• A BBQ and Wine shuttle, great for solo travelers, couples, and small groups
• Bottled water

Experience Categories

This excursion checks all the boxes for an unforgettable day out:

• Food & Drink: Savor legendary Texas BBQ and sip your way through local wineries.
• Outdoors: Soak in the stunning Hill Country scenery as you ride in comfort between stops.
• Community: Whether you're flying solo or gathering your favorite people, it's an ideal way to connect.
• Live Music: Depending on the day, you may even catch some authentic Texas tunes along the way.
• Family Friendly: While the focus is on wine and BBQ, the shuttle is suitable for adults of all ages—just check with the operator for age guidelines if traveling with younger guests.

If you're looking to combine delicious eats, top-notch local wine, and the iconic Texas countryside, this shuttle is your ticket to a classic Hill Country adventure.

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Are these activities family-friendly?

Yes! Many of the options listed—like the Tulip Festival, Aquarium visits, and kayaking tours—are great for families. Be sure to check the details of each experience to see age recommendations or restrictions.

If you’re planning something with kids in tow, you’ll find plenty of family-friendly categories to explore. Many events are designed with little ones and teens in mind, such as live music in the park, outdoor movie nights, and interactive exhibits at local museums. Options also include food & drink festivals with kid-friendly fare, performing arts shows suitable for all ages, and hands-on arts education workshops. For a breath of fresh air, check out community gatherings, outdoor adventures, and even the occasional comedy or improv show that welcomes younger audiences.

Look for activities tagged as "Family Friendly," "Community," or "Outdoors" to easily spot what works best for your group. And if you have specific interests—like arts, sports, or festivals—there’s something for everyone, young and old alike.